Magic mushrooms may be illegal in the UK, but did you know that magic mushroom spores and grow kits are completely legal and available to purchase?

That’s right. Because they contain no psilocybin (which is the psychedelic compound in shrooms), magic mushroom spores can be legally bought online for “research purposes”. 

Just be careful, because you’ll be breaking the law if those spores happen to germinate and grow. 

Many online shops that sell grow kits also sell spores on separate websites. Once you’ve ordered both, all you need to do is inoculate the growing substrate with the spores and wait (there’s slightly more to it than this, but not much). 

What are magic mushrooms?

Magic mushrooms are a type of mushroom that contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin, which can produce a psychedelic experience when consumed. 

These mushrooms are used recreationally and have a long history of use in traditional spiritual or religious rituals. Some of the most well-known species of magic mushrooms belong to the genus Psilocybe.

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of species of magic mushroom. The genus psilocybe is one of the most common subsets of psilocybin mushrooms, and includes psilocybe cubensis – arguably the most well-known species of magic mushroom – as well as psilocybe semilanceata, also known as liberty caps, which are common in the UK. 

A number of other magic mushroom species grow wild in the UK sprouting out of cow pats, forest floors and in damp grassy fields, usually around September/October time.  

What are magic mushroom grow kits?

What are magic mushroom spores?

Spores are tiny reproductive cells of nonflowering plants, such as bacteria, algae and fungi (mushrooms are part of the fungi kingdom). 

Put simply, mushroom spores are the single-celled seed that are dispensed by mushrooms, allowing them to reproduce. They are approximately only 1/2500-inch long and are released from the underside of the mushroom cap, in the gills, teeth or pores of the mushroom. 

Why are magic mushroom spores legal in the UK?

Microscopic magic mushroom spores contain no psilocybin (or psilocybin), so they are not outlawed under the Drugs Act 2005 which made “fungi containing psilocybin” a Class A drug.

Therefore, while you can legally buy and possess magic mushroom spores, you can’t allow them to grow. You will then be in possession of a Class A drug – the most restrictive category, home to cocaine, heroin and MDMA and methamphetamine. 

Being caught with psilocybin mushrooms (or truffles) can result in a maximum penalty of seven years imprisonment and a fine. For supply, one could theoretically receive a life sentence and an unlimited fine. In practice, however, maximum penalties are rarely used.

Where to buy magic mushroom spores in the UK

If you're a passionate mycology enthusiast seeking top-quality magic musrooms spores for, erm, research, then look no further than Mycotown.

Mycotown is a UK-based store with a wide range of spores, including an array of sought-after varieties like Golden Teachers and Amazonians - ideal for experiences mycologists or those just beginning their mycology journey.

These liquid cultures provide a convenient and efficient way to cultivate and study specific strains.

Mycotown also offer a range of supplies, including micropore tape and Parafilm, to help you create the ideal environment for successful experiments and cultivation.

Effects of magic mushrooms

Generally, when consuming magic mushrooms, people report effects including euphoria, an alteration of perception, hallucinations and a distorted sense of time. At higher doses, it’s not uncommon for users to have meaningful spiritual experiences. 

In fact, a recent study found that a large percentage ranked their experience with psilocybin as one of the most spiritually significant experiences of their life. 

Benefits of psilocybin 

Psilocybin has recently been gaining the attention of scientists and researchers thanks to its potential to treat a range of mental health issues. 

One remarkable study from late last year found psilocybin, when used alongside psychotherapy, produces long-term antidepressant effects that are up to four-times more effective than commonly prescribed SSRI antidepressants. It may do this by promoting the formation of new brain cells.  

Psilocybin is also being researched as a treatment for cluster headaches and even weight loss. 

3 best magic mushroom grow kits in the UK

1. Martian Mushrooms – 

The guys at Martian Mushrooms know their stuff and have created a very easy-to-use range of grow kits. Our favourite grow kit is this one. It offers a fast and easy to learn way to grow mushrooms at home. They also sell a variety of magic mushrooms spores on their sister site here. 

With these two purchases, you have all you need to produce a healthy supply of shrooms. Read through their free guides to make sure you don’t make any mistakes. 

2. Spore Buddies – Use code ‘cannado10%‘ for 10% off!

Spore Buddies have the easiest to use grow kit in the UK – this unassuming inject and forget bag that can produce a harvest up to 200g and costs just £14.99!  It’s the worlds only mushroom grow bag that is auto-fruiting and stays fully sealed from start to finish.

The owner of Spore Buddies tells me there’s almost no chance of contamination and it’s perfect for beginners and people with busy lives. “No fanning and no spraying to make it fruit, just add light,” he says. They also sell spores. 

3. Cylocybe

If you’re looking for a trustworthy company with reliable grow kits, check out Cyclocybe. Their Mycobox grow kit has everything you need to grow a good amount of mushrooms, and they too sell a range of spores separately. 

Using Lion's Mane alongside psilocybin 

Lion's mane and psilocybin (magic mushrooms) are often used together as complementary substances, as they both have potential benefits for the brain and mental health.

Lion's mane is a type of edible mushroom that is known for its cognitive-enhancing properties and has been shown to support nerve growth factor (NGF) production, which is essential for the growth and maintenance of neurons.

When taken together, lion's mane and psilocybin may work together to enhance the benefits of each substance and provide a more holistic and well-rounded experience.

Microdosing and Lion's Mane

If you have looked into microdosing, you may have come across something known as the Stamets’ Stack, which is a protocol for microdosing psilocybin devised by renowned mycologist Paul Stamets.

The basic structure of the Stamets’ stack is psilocybin (from mushroom or truffle), lion’s mane, and niacin. 

The regular consumption of these three substances is theorised to not only protect and repair brain cells, but to also generate new ones while forging new neural pathways. 

You can read more about the Stamets' Stack here, and more about microdosing here. Buy our high strength lions mane capsules or tincture.