Emma Wilson
Magic mushrooms, or shrooms, are mushrooms that contain the psychedelic psychoactive compound psilocybin or psilocin. The active ingredient in magic mushrooms is psilocin, which is derived from the metabolization of psilocybin in the body. Psilocybe mushrooms, which are the most common type of magic mushrooms, typically contain 1% psilocybin per gram of dried mushrooms. However, the psilocybin content can vary between 0.1% to 2% depending on the species. The typical dose of magic mushrooms is considered to be between 1 and 2 grams of dried mushrooms, while a microdose is usually around 0.1 grams. At the other end of the spectrum, a 'heroic dose', coined by Terence McKenna, refers to a dose of 5 grams of dried magic mushrooms. It's important to note that the effects of magic mushrooms can vary greatly from person to person and are influenced by factors such as the type of mushroom, dosage, and individual factors such as mood, personality, and experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common dose | Between 1 and 2 grams of dried mushrooms |
| Microdose | 0.1 to 0.9 grams |
| Macrodose | 1 to 3.5 grams |
| Heroic dose | 5 grams |
| Average psilocybin content | 1% psilocybin per 1 gram of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms |
| Standard dose | 2 grams of dried mushrooms contain 20 mg of psilocybin |
| High dose | 3.5 grams of dried mushrooms contain 35 mg of psilocybin |
| Medium dose | 20-30 mg |
| Active ingredients | Psilocin and psilocybin |
| Effects | Visual hallucinations, euphoria, hilarity, ego dissolution, oceanic feelings of love or oneness with nature |
| Side effects | Nausea, vomiting, increased heart rate and breathing, heightened anxiety |
| Safety | Identify the correct mushrooms, start with a low dose, weigh the mushrooms properly, avoid re-dosing, prepare your mindset |
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What You'll Learn
A standard dose of 20 mg of psilocybin
Psilocybin is a compound associated with psychedelic effects, produced by mushrooms of the Psilocybe genus, commonly known as magic mushrooms. The potency of magic mushrooms varies across species, with some varieties, like the Enigma strain, known to be 1.5 to 2 times stronger than other cubensis strains. The average psilocybin content is approximately 1% psilocybin per gram of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms. This equates to 2.5 grams of dried mushrooms for a 25 mg psilocybin dose.
The effects of psilocybin are subjective and context-dependent, influenced by factors such as set (mood, personality, experience) and setting. It is crucial to prioritize safety and start with a low dose, gradually increasing the amount once the effects of the initial dose are understood. Microdosing, or consuming small amounts of psilocybin-containing mushrooms without feeling the full mind-altering effects, is an option for those seeking subtle boosts in mood or energy. An eighth-ounce (3.5 grams) of dried mushrooms, containing approximately 35 mg of psilocybin, is considered a high dose and will likely result in a full-blown psychedelic experience.
It is important to note that the weight of the mushroom dose depends on whether the mushrooms are wet or dried, with dried mushrooms having less water weight. Additionally, psilocybin levels can vary between mushroom species, ranging from 0.1% to 2% of dry weight. Therefore, it is recommended to start with a lower dried mushroom weight to account for potential variability in psilocybin content.
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Microdosing
There is no universally agreed-upon definition of a microdose for any psychedelic drug, but it is generally understood to be a fraction of a recreational dose, typically ranging from 1/5 to 1/20 or 5-10% of a standard dose. For psilocybin mushrooms, a medium-strength dose is typically considered to be 2-3 grams of dried mushrooms, so a microdose would be approximately 0.1 to 0.3 grams or 100 to 250 milligrams. However, it is important to note that the potency of mushrooms can vary greatly, even within the same batch and between different strains, making it challenging to achieve a precise and consistent dose outside of a controlled, clinical environment.
When considering microdosing, it is crucial to prioritize safety and start with a low dose. Maintaining at least one or two days between doses is recommended to avoid building a tolerance. Additionally, it is important to use a precise digital scale to accurately measure the dose and ensure a consistent dosing experience. Grinding the mushrooms into a fine powder can also help with even distribution.
While microdosing has gained popularity, the evidence from studies is mixed, and there is limited data on the long-term effects of prolonged use. Some studies have shown intriguing subjective effects, such as improved mood and creativity, but have not found significant objective evidence of improvements in well-being, cognitive function, or physical activity levels. It is also important to consider the potential legal consequences and risks associated with buying, possessing, and using unregulated substances.
If you are curious about how microdosing may benefit you, it is advisable to work with a healthcare professional who has training in psychedelic therapy and to approach microdosing with caution, especially if you are new to the practice.
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Macrodosing
When macrodosing, it is crucial to prioritize safety and be mindful of the potential risks involved. Magic mushrooms are not without their dangers, and it is important to recognize that the effects of macrodosing can be intense and life-changing. It is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase the amount once the effects of the original dose are understood. This cautious approach is particularly important for individuals who are more prone to experiencing anxiety or negative thoughts, as magic mushrooms can amplify these feelings.
The potency of magic mushrooms varies depending on the species, with some strains known to be 1.5 to 2 times stronger than others. Additionally, the freshness of the fungi and individual factors such as mental state and body chemistry can influence the overall experience. Therefore, it is essential to identify the correct mushrooms and ensure they are sourced from a trusted provider.
To ensure a positive macrodosing experience, it is advisable to create a comfortable, familiar, and safe environment. This includes considering one's mindset and avoiding media that may induce negative emotions before consuming magic mushrooms. By being mindful of these factors, individuals can reduce potential harm and increase the likelihood of a meaningful and beneficial experience.
While macrodosing can lead to intense psychedelic effects, it is important to note that the active compound, psilocybin, is not the direct cause of these effects. Psilocybin is a prodrug, which means it is biologically inactive until metabolized by the body into psilocin, the compound responsible for the psychedelic experience. This understanding highlights the importance of researching and accurately weighing magic mushrooms to ensure a safe and intentional experience.
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Heroic dosing
The term 'heroic dose' was coined by Terence McKenna, a famous proponent of magic mushrooms, to refer to a dose of five grams of the more potent Psilocybe Cubensis species. A heroic dose is a particularly high dose, with an average macrodose sitting at around one to 3.5 grams.
A heroic dose of mushrooms will typically result in a full-blown psychedelic experience, including visual hallucinations, euphoria, hilarity, ego dissolution, and a distorted perception of time. Other common effects include heightened emotions, a sense of oneness with nature, and a fair amount of weirdness. Some users describe the experience as life-changing, while others caution that it should not be taken recreationally but rather as a "plant medicine".
The effects of a heroic dose can last anywhere from eight to ten hours. It's important to note that the effects of magic mushrooms are extremely subjective and context-dependent. The experience, often referred to as a "trip", is influenced by the user's mood, personality, and setting. A negative environment or mindset can contribute to a bad trip, while a comfortable and familiar environment can enhance the experience.
It is crucial to prioritize safety when considering a heroic dose of magic mushrooms. While it is difficult to overdose on psilocybin mushrooms, there are still risks involved. Elevated levels of psilocin, the active compound in mushrooms, can cause acute serotonin syndrome. Additionally, the psychological consequences of high doses of psilocybin include hallucinations and an inability to discern fantasy from reality. Panic reactions and psychosis may also occur. Therefore, it is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase if desired, allowing time to understand the effects of the original dose.
When considering a heroic dose, it is essential to take into account the species of mushroom, as potency varies. The Psilocybe cubensis species, for example, typically contains 0.63% psilocybin and 0.6% psilocin, or about 1.2% combined. However, there is variation among strains, with the 'Penis Envy' strain considered more potent than others. Additionally, the freshness of the fungi, your mental state, and your body's preparedness can all impact your experience.
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The effects of psilocybin
At lower doses, users may experience open- and closed-eye visuals, synesthesia, and euphoria. Higher doses can lead to heavy perceptual and cognitive distortions, where individuals may be unable to hold a conversation or accurately perceive their surroundings.
Psilocybin is a classic psychedelic compound that affects the brain's serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor. This leads to altered patterns of brain activity, with some regions increasing in activity and connectivity while others decrease. Psilocybin can temporarily disrupt the default mode network in the brain, which is most active during self-reflection. This reduction in self-focus may lead to increased feelings of openness and connectedness to the world.
Acute effects of psilocybin include reduced negative mood, increased positive mood, and reduced amygdala response to negative affective stimuli. Studies have shown that psilocybin may be effective in treating mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Users have reported feeling a sense of "oceanic self-boundlessness," where they feel one with the universe.
It is important to note that psilocybin use can also lead to unpleasant effects, such as intense emotions ranging from bliss to terror and physical side effects like increased heart rate or nausea. Additionally, the similarity between magic mushrooms and poisonous mushrooms can lead to fatal mix-ups. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize safety and start with a low dose when consuming psilocybin.
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Frequently asked questions
A common dose of magic mushrooms is considered to be between 1 and 2 grams of dried mushrooms. This will vary depending on the strain of mushrooms.
At this dosage, you will likely experience some psychedelic effects, including open- and closed-eye visuals, synesthesia (blending of the senses), and a heavier euphoria. However, you may not experience a complete dissolution of your normal sense of self, or the truly mind-blowing effects people report from higher doses.
The intensity of your psilocybin mushroom experience is dependent on various factors, including the freshness of the fungi, your current mental state, and your body’s preparedness for the fungi. Additionally, the effects of a normal dose will differ from person to person, as trips are extremely context-dependent and subjective.
