Two New Species of Psychedelic Mushrooms Discovered by Researchers

Researchers from Stellenbosch University and citizen mycologists have identified two new species of psychoactive mushrooms in the genus Psilocybe in southern Africa.

The findings introduce Psilocybe ingeli and Psilocybe maluti to the world of mycology, bringing the total number of known Psilocybe species indigenous to Africa to six.¹

Psilocybe ingeli & Psilocybe maluti

The discovery of Psilocybe ingeli and Psilocybe maluti in southern Africa marks a significant milestone in the field of mycology. Psilocybe ingeli was first found in 2023 by Talan Moult, growing in pastureland in KwaZulu-Natal.

The mushroom’s distinctive features include a convex to broadly convex, sometimes umbonate pileus with a surface that is smooth, glabrous, and sticky when wet. The pileus color ranges from light brown to dark reddish-brown, often with a slight olive tinge.

Psilocybe maluti, on the other hand, was initially discovered on a Free State small holding in 2021 by Daniella Mulder.

This species is characterized by a convex to broadly convex pileus with a surface that is smooth, glabrous, and sticky when wet. The pileus color is variable, ranging from yellowish-brown to orange-brown or reddish-brown, sometimes with a slight greenish tinge.

The identification of these new species was made possible through the collaboration of researchers from Stellenbosch University and citizen mycologists.

Breyten van der Merwe, a trained mycologist and first author of the paper, emphasizes the importance of this collaborative effort, stating, “These two species were sent to me by citizen scientists. It would be impossible for a single researcher to cover a fraction of an area these mushroom enthusiasts have access to. This is the only way we will be able to further studies in African mycology.” ^(ref)

Potential Medical Benefits

Psilocybin, the primary psychoactive compound in “magic mushrooms,” has shown potential in treating various psychiatric conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and addiction. Research suggests that psilocybin may help rewire the brain, promoting neuroplasticity and potentially alleviating symptoms of mental health disorders.

While more research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential of psilocybin, the discovery of new Psilocybe species could lead to further investigations into their medical applications.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted “breakthrough therapy” designation to psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for both major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression.^(ref)

Traditional Healing Practices

The paper also sheds light on the traditional use of P. maluti by Basotho traditional healers from Lesotho. Cullen Taylor Clark, a citizen mycologist and co-author, collaborated with Mamosebetsi Sethathi, a Mosotho traditional healer, to document the use of P. maluti (locally known as koae-ea-lekhoaba) in traditional healing practices. This marks the only recorded first-hand report of hallucinogenic mushrooms being used traditionally in Africa.

The use of magic mushrooms for spiritual healing purposes by indigenous diviners and curers in Lesotho highlights the cultural significance of these fungi and the importance of preserving traditional knowledge.

Basotho shamans, called linohe, use the mushrooms to “foresee the future,” while other healers, known as ngaka-chitja, occasionally use them in association with their knowledge of herbs and remedies to treat others.

The mushrooms are steeped in a strong tea known as koae-ea-lekhoaba, sometimes used in traditional medicine or hunting poison, along with the psychoactive plant Boophone disticha.

The Future of African Mycology

Prof. Karin Jacobs, from SU’s Department of Microbiology, acknowledges the challenges faced by mycologists in Africa, stating, “There are only a handful of mycologists in Africa documenting local biodiversity. Considering the vast mycological diversity on the continent, it is a daunting task”.

As research continues, it is highly likely that more Psilocybe species will be discovered in southern Africa, further expanding our knowledge of these fascinating fungi and their potential applications in traditional healing and beyond.

Source:

1. Taylor and Francis Online