Emma Wilson
Magic mushrooms, or shrooms, are mushrooms that contain the psychedelic psychoactive compounds psilocybin or psilocin. The effects of magic mushrooms usually kick in 15–60 minutes after dosing and can last 4–6 hours, or longer for heavier doses. The recommended dose of magic mushrooms varies depending on the type of mushroom and the desired effect. A common dose is between 1 and 2 grams of dried mushrooms, but some people take smaller doses, known as microdoses, of around 0.1 to 0.9 grams. At the other end of the scale is the heroic dose, coined by Terence McKenna, which refers to a dose of 5 grams of dried mushrooms. It is important to note that the use of magic mushrooms carries risks and it is illegal in many places.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common dose | Between 1 and 2 grams of dried mushrooms |
| Micro-dose | 0.1 grams of dried mushrooms |
| Average macrodose | 1 to 3.5 grams |
| Heroic dose | 5 grams of dried mushrooms |
| Effects kick in | 15-60 minutes after dosing |
| Effects last | 4-6 hours |
| After-effects | Up to 24 hours |
| Effects | Visual hallucinations, euphoria, hilarity, ego dissolution, feelings of love or oneness with nature |
| Bad trips | Feeling anxious, controlling breathing, walking, listening to peaceful music |
| Harm reduction practices | Trip sitter, someone who isn't tripping and can look out for you |
| Safety | Start with a low dose, increase the dose once the effects from the original dose are known |
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Caps have higher psilocybin levels
When it comes to magic mushrooms, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to understand that all drug use carries risks, and this information is provided solely for educational purposes and not as medical advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your drug use, it's always best to speak to a healthcare professional.
With that in mind, let's delve into the topic of magic mushroom dosage and the role of caps in delivering higher psilocybin levels. Magic mushrooms, or psychedelic mushrooms, contain the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin. Psilocybin, a prodrug, is biologically inactive on its own but is converted by the body into psilocin, the compound responsible for the psychedelic effects.
Now, when it comes to dosage, the common advice is to "start low and go slow." This means beginning with a small amount, such as 1 gram of dried mushrooms or 10 mg of psilocybin, and gradually increasing the dose over time as you become comfortable with the effects. This gradual approach is important because the effects of magic mushrooms can be highly variable and dependent on individual factors such as mental state, physical health, and environment.
This brings us to the role of mushroom caps. While there is some variation among samples, studies have shown that the caps of P. cubensis mushrooms tend to have higher psilocin content than the stems. This means that consuming the caps of magic mushrooms may lead to a more potent experience. However, it's important to remember that there is significant overlap between caps and stems, and more research is needed to definitively conclude the relative potency of each. Nonetheless, this knowledge can be valuable in understanding and managing your dosage.
When considering dosage, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Magic mushrooms can induce a range of effects, from perceptual and cognitive distortions to feelings of euphoria, enhanced senses, and altered time perception. While these experiences can be intriguing, they can also be intense and overwhelming. Therefore, it is recommended to have a "trip sitter," a sober companion who can provide support and assistance if needed. Additionally, it's important to be mindful of your mental state and environment, choosing a comfortable and safe setting to enhance your experience.
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Microdosing
There is no single, clearly recognized definition of microdosing for any psychedelic drug, which complicates attempts to perform consistent research. One definition is approximately 1/5 to 1/20 of a recreational dose. This would mean a medium-strength dose of psilocybin is 2 to 3 grams of dried mushrooms, and a microdose is typically around 0.3 grams. However, the potency of mushrooms can vary greatly, as they are not regulated outside of clinical trials, so this isn't an exact science.
Some people believe that microdosing can enhance their mood, creativity, concentration, productivity, and ability to empathize with others. However, there is mixed evidence from studies on the effectiveness of microdosing. Some studies have shown intriguing subjective effects, such as people feeling happier and more creative, and even some changes in brain waves. However, there is no objective evidence of improvements in creativity, well-being, and cognitive function. Other studies have shown that microdosing can lead to increased anxiety, impaired focus, and impaired energy.
It is important to note that the purchase, possession, and use of psychedelics carry potential legal consequences, as they are illegal in some places. It is also important to be cautious when buying psychedelics from unregulated sources, as you cannot be sure of the contents, contaminants, or potency.
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Macrodosing
When macrodosing with magic mushrooms, it is crucial to prioritize safety and start with a low dose, especially if it is your first time. The recommended starting dose for magic mushrooms is no more than one gram of dried mushrooms or 10 mg of psilocybin. You can gradually increase the dose every 25 minutes or so once you feel comfortable with the effects of the initial dose. It is also important to have a trip sitter, someone who isn't tripping themselves but can accompany and look after you during the experience.
Magic mushrooms are typically eaten raw or dried or mixed into food or drinks. The effects usually kick in anywhere between 15 to 60 minutes after dosing and can last for 4 to 8 hours or more, depending on the dose. The effects include enhanced sensations, such as touch, temperature, and reaction to light, as well as euphoria, relaxation, creative thinking, altered perception of time, dizziness, lightheadedness, and confusion. Some people may also experience nausea or "stomach churning." It is important to be mindful that magic mushrooms are illegal in many places, and their use carries certain risks and potential negative effects.
It is worth noting that the caps of magic mushrooms tend to have higher psilocybin levels than the stems, but there is significant variability among samples. Therefore, it is not a very reliable rule for determining the potency of a specific batch of mushrooms. Additionally, psilocybin content degrades over time, with higher rates of degradation occurring at very cold temperatures. As a result, it is essential to store magic mushrooms properly to maintain their potency.
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Heroic doses
The term "heroic dose" was coined by Terence McKenna, a famous proponent of magic mushrooms, to refer to a high dose of five grams of the potent Psilocybe Cubensis species. This dose is meant to be taken in silent darkness and can lead to intense psychedelic experiences. It is important to note that the effects of magic mushrooms are highly subjective and dependent on individual factors such as mood, personality, and setting.
When taking a heroic dose, it is crucial to prioritize safety and harm reduction practices. Magic mushrooms are a psychoactive substance, and high doses can lead to intense and unpredictable experiences. It is recommended to have a "trip sitter," someone who is sober and can provide support during the experience. This person should be experienced with magic mushrooms and make you feel calm and comfortable. Additionally, it is important to create a safe, comfortable, and familiar environment to reduce the risk of a negative experience.
The physical and mental state of the user plays a significant role in the effects of a heroic dose. It is advised to avoid consuming magic mushrooms if one is experiencing anxiety or negative thoughts, as the mushrooms may intensify these feelings. It is also important to stay away from violent media, news, pornography, and social media for a day or more before consuming magic mushrooms. This can help create a more positive mindset and reduce potential triggers during the trip.
While magic mushrooms are not considered physically addictive, there can be some mild psychological effects or feelings of tiredness after the experience. Additionally, some users may experience "flashbacks," which are visual distortions involving changes in emotions or perception. These flashbacks can occur weeks, months, or even years after the initial experience and can be triggered by stress, tiredness, or exercise. It is important to be aware of these potential long-term effects before considering a heroic dose.
Overall, a heroic dose of magic mushrooms is a high-risk and intense experience that should not be taken lightly. It is important to thoroughly educate oneself on harm reduction practices and potential risks before considering such a high dose. The experience can be life-changing and profound, but it is not without its dangers and potential negative consequences.
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Bad trips
The general dose of dried magic mushrooms is considered to be between 1 and 2 grams. However, the effects of magic mushrooms can vary depending on the strain, dose, and set (the mental and physical state of the user, as well as the environment). It is important to start with a low dose and increase gradually, as the effects of taking magic mushrooms can be intense and unpredictable.
Magic mushrooms can cause a "bad trip", which is an adverse psychological reaction to the effects of psychoactive substances. A bad trip can be frightening and include feelings of anxiety, paranoia, confusion, agitation, psychosis, and ego dissolution. It is important to note that there is no guaranteed way to avoid a bad trip, other than by not taking hallucinogens. However, there are some steps that can be taken to reduce the likelihood and impact of a bad trip:
- Have a "trip sitter": It is recommended to have a sober companion, preferably someone experienced, who can provide reassurance and support during the trip. This can help minimise the negative experiences associated with a bad trip.
- Choose a safe and comfortable setting: The environment can greatly influence the effects of magic mushrooms. It is important to choose a calm, peaceful, and familiar place to reduce the chances of a bad trip.
- Be mindful of your mental state: Magic mushrooms can heighten existing feelings, so it is important to be in the right frame of mind before taking them. Avoid taking magic mushrooms if you are feeling anxious or uncomfortable, as this may increase negative thoughts and feelings.
- Plan ahead: Discuss with your companion beforehand about possible actions to take if you have a bad trip. This can include techniques to help you relax, such as meditation.
- Avoid certain activities: Some activities, such as climbing, looking in mirrors, or having sex with unfamiliar partners, can lead to unpleasant or unexpected outcomes during a trip.
- Avoid mixing substances: Using other substances, such as cannabis or alcohol, in combination with magic mushrooms can alter your experience in unpredictable ways and increase the likelihood of a bad trip.
While bad trips can be frightening, they may also provide valuable insights and be transformed into positive experiences through storytelling and integration into life stories. However, it is important to prioritise harm reduction and take precautions to minimise the potential negative consequences of magic mushroom usage.
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Frequently asked questions
A common dose of dried mushrooms could be between 1 and 2 grams. However, it is important to remember that this dose should not be taken as a recommendation, and the effects can vary depending on the individual and the strain of mushrooms.
The term "heroic dose" was coined by Terence McKenna to refer to a dose of five grams of the more potent Psilocybe Cubensis species. This dose is considered particularly high and will likely result in a full-blown psychedelic experience.
The effects of magic mushrooms typically last between 4 and 6 hours, but they can last longer for heavier doses. After-effects, such as feeling calm and introspective, may be felt for up to 24 hours, and some people may experience flashbacks or "bad trips."
It is important to prioritize safety when taking magic mushrooms. Start with a low dose, such as a microdose of around 0.1 to 0.9 grams, and increase the dose gradually. Have a trip sitter, or someone who isn't tripping, to look out for you during your experience. Educate yourself about harm reduction practices and the potential risks involved.
Magic mushrooms are considered a Class A drug, and possession and supply carry significant legal penalties. Additionally, it is important to distinguish between psychedelic and non-edible mushrooms, as some wild mushrooms can be harmful or poisonous. Taking too high a dose or combining magic mushrooms with other substances can also increase the risks. If you believe you have ingested poisonous mushrooms, seek immediate medical attention.
