Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, contain natural compounds like psilocybin and psilocin, which can cause changes in perception, mood, and thought processes.

Magic mushrooms can be eaten fresh or dried, brewed into tea, or added to food. The effects usually start within 20-40 minutes after ingestion and can last for 4-6 hours.

The effects can include visual and auditory hallucinations, an altered sense of time, euphoria, spiritual experiences, and deep introspection. They can also cause anxiety, paranoia, and nausea.

Research is ongoing, but some studies suggest that magic mushrooms may have potential benefits for treating conditions like depression, PTSD, and anxiety, especially in a controlled, therapeutic setting.