The use of psilocybe spore – a form of fungus, that gives rise to psychoactive effects – is still somewhat illegal. However, some people do use them to research, microscopically examine, and cultivate Psilocybe species. As long as they follow the rules and adhere to the law, spores are legal. There are, however, some ways to tell if you are dealing with a genuine vendor.
The first step to legalizing the import of psilocybe spores is ensuring that you follow the law in your state. In California, you cannot import psilocybin spores and should only purchase them from a bona fide researcher. The same rules apply to Georgia and Idaho. Purchasing psilocybe spores from an online store is a safer option but still carries risks.
You can find Psilocybe spores throughout the world, including high deserts. In the United States alone, there are more than 60 species, of which about 25 are hallucinogenic. Neotropical areas contain the highest concentration of species of bluing Psilocybe, which is the form responsible for creating the psychedelic effect. The most common types of Psilocybe spores grow on wood chips, dung, and compost.
While most mushroom cultivation focuses on the fruiting body, psilocybe fungi also produce the elusive “truffle”. This fungus is not the actual truffle, but instead a dense mass of mycelium called a sclerotium. The spores are ejected from the fruiting body when conditions are right. They seek other spores and connect to form a website mycelium.
Known for its hallucinogenic properties, the teonanacatl group of Psilocybe mushrooms have long been used in Mesoamerica for religious communion, divination, and healing. Known as teonanacatl by the Mexicans, this hallucinogenic mushroom was even served at Moctezuma II’s coronation in 1502! However, the Spanish conquest forced the suppression of these ancient customs.
Although psilocybe spores differ in appearance, it is not illegal to collect, sell, or cultivate psilocybin mushrooms in Canada. However, it is not legal to purchase dried mushrooms or fresh psilocybin spores. This is only allowed when buying spores for research purposes. Most mushroom spores are sold over the Internet in spore syringes or spore prints.