The Magic and Chemistry Behind Psychedelic Mushrooms

The revival of research into psychedelics as medicine has given rise to increased interest in psilocybin containing fungi. Psilocybin and its active metabolite psilocin are currently undergoing numerous clinical trials for various maladies such as depression, PTSD, addiction recovery, and smoking cessation among others. Given this renewed interest it is important to consider the chemistry behind these tryptamines as well as appropriate sample preparation, storage, and preferred handling conditions. Listen as Danielle St. Germaine, a scientist from Cayman’s Forensic Chemistry Division, discusses the biosynthesis, analytical considerations and challenges, and handling and preparation recommendations for psilocybin and psilocin.
Presented during Analytical Cannabis’s Advances in Psilocybin Research webinar.