Utah Scientists Reveal Hallucinogenic Mushroom Lanmaoa asiatica

Scientists at the Natural History Museum of Utah announced the formal description of Lanmaoa asiatica, an otherwise unknown fungal species. ¹

Laboratory work revealed that L. asiatica contains psychoactive compounds structurally similar to psilocybin, the well‑known hallucinogen found in many psychedelic mushrooms. When ingested, these substances can induce vivid visual and auditory experiences described as “fairy‑tale like” by the research team. This effect mirrors those reported with other psilocybin‑bearing fungi, suggesting comparable neurochemical pathways involving serotonin receptors. ¹

The discovery highlights possible future research into using these substances therapeutically, such as treating depression and anxiety.

Citizen scientists have played a significant role in discovering new mushroom species through foraging activities across various regions worldwide. ²

This announcement underscores how little we know about fungi and their effects on humans.