Emily Johnson
The potency of magic mushrooms varies depending on the species and growing environment. Generally, a gram of magic mushrooms is considered a low dose, and a 'heroic dose' is described as over 5 grams of dried mushrooms or 50 mg of psilocybin. The average initial dose of dried, whole psilocybin mushrooms is reported to be 3.1g, and a microdose is typically between one-tenth and one-twentieth of a typical recreational dose.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Weight of a gram of dried shrooms | About the same as a paperclip |
| Cost of a gram of magic mushrooms | $5 |
| Cost of a pound of magic mushrooms | $2,400 |
| Effects of a low dose (0.1-1 gram) of magic mushrooms | Enhanced senses, euphoria, mood elevation, improved cognition, altered perception |
| Effects of a light dose (1-2 grams) of magic mushrooms | Noticeable changes in perception and thought patterns |
| Effects of a standard dose (2-3.5 grams) of magic mushrooms | Hallucinations, colourful visual imagery, altered perception of time |
| Effects of a high dose (3.5+ grams) of magic mushrooms | Full-blown psychedelic experience, heavy perceptual and cognitive distortions, mystical-type experience, ego dissolution, loss of reality |
| Microdose | 0.5 grams or less |
| Heroic dose | 5 grams |
| Average psilocybin content in 1 gram of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushroom | 1% psilocybin (10 mg) |
| Average psilocybin content in 3.5 grams of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushroom | 35 mg |
| Average psilocybin content in 5 grams of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushroom | 50 mg |
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What You'll Learn
A low dose of mushrooms
When consuming a low dose of mushrooms, it is important to prioritize safety and follow the principle of “start low, go slow." This involves beginning with a lower amount, such as 0.5 grams, and gradually increasing the dose over time as one becomes comfortable with the effects. It is also recommended to have a trusted person or professional support during the experience, especially when experimenting with higher doses.
The effects of a low dose of mushrooms can vary depending on individual factors such as personal metabolism and susceptibility to mind-altering substances. Additionally, the specific mushroom strain and growing environment can influence the potency and psilocybin content, which further impacts the effects. As a result, it is crucial to test a sample from the mushrooms to determine their potency accurately.
While a low dose of mushrooms may not induce the same intense psychedelic experiences as higher doses, it can still offer benefits such as enhanced mood, creativity, and social anxiety relief. These effects have been reported in self-reports and anecdotal experiences, but more rigorous scientific research is needed to confirm these findings. Some studies on microdosing have suggested that the positive effects may be due to an "expectancy effect," where individuals expect the drug to benefit them, regardless of its actual contents.
It is important to note that consuming magic mushrooms carries certain risks, and they should be avoided by individuals in a negative or stressful mindset. Combining mushrooms with other substances can also be dangerous without proper knowledge of potential interactions. Additionally, it is easy to mistake poisonous mushrooms for edible ones, which can lead to severe illness or even death. Therefore, it is crucial to obtain mushrooms from a trusted source and prioritize safety when experimenting with any dose.
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A medium dose of mushrooms
It is important to note that the effects of a medium dose may vary depending on several factors. Firstly, different species of psilocybin-containing mushrooms have varying strengths and effects. The strain of the mushroom, the form of consumption (fresh or dried), and your desired outcome will all influence your experience. For example, a medium dose of 2.5 to 5 grams of dried mushrooms will induce classic psychedelic experiences with kaleidoscope visuals, sensory and perceptual changes, and synesthesia.
Additionally, your mental state and body's preparedness can also impact your experience. The mantra for trying a new psychoactive drug, such as mushrooms, is to "start low and go slow." It is recommended to start with no more than one gram of dried mushrooms, which is commonly considered a low dose, and gradually increase the dosage to manage the intensity of the effects.
The psilocybin content in mushrooms can vary, with an average of approximately 1% psilocybin per gram of dried mushrooms. This means that a 25 mg psilocybin fixed dose is roughly equivalent to 2.5 grams of dried mushrooms. However, it is important to note that there can be intra- and inter-species variability in psilocybin content, ranging from 0.5% to 2% dried mushroom weight.
To ensure accurate dosing, it is recommended to use a micro digital scale to weigh your dose. It is also crucial to only consume mushroom products offered by credible companies, organizations, or individuals with professional and medical credibility.
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A high dose of mushrooms
The term "heroic dose" was popularised by Terence McKenna, a renowned advocate of magic mushrooms. A heroic dose typically involves ingesting 5 grams of the potent Psilocybe Cubensis species. This is significantly higher than the average macrodose, which usually falls between 1 and 3.5 grams.
It is important to note that the effects of a high dose of mushrooms can be intense and vary from person to person. Most people experience full-blown psychedelia, including visual hallucinations, euphoria, ego dissolution, and a heightened sense of oneness with nature. The duration of these effects typically ranges from four to eight hours.
To ensure a positive experience, it is recommended to start with smaller doses and gradually work up to a heroic dose. This approach helps individuals understand how their bodies and minds respond to magic mushrooms and reduces the risk of a negative experience. Additionally, it is crucial to consume magic mushrooms in a comfortable, familiar, and safe environment, avoiding any negative or stressful influences.
While some studies suggest that high doses of psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, can lead to positive subjective effects, it is important to approach these substances with caution. The potential risks associated with high doses include bad trips, psychological distress, and, in rare cases, psychosis. Therefore, it is always advisable to have a sober and trusted companion when experimenting with high doses of magic mushrooms.
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Microdosing mushrooms
A gram is generally considered a low dose of magic mushrooms, which can produce noticeable effects. However, this is not the same as a microdose. Microdosing involves taking a fraction of a regular dose, or a "sub-perceptual" amount, with the intention of achieving subtle enhancements in mood, creativity, focus, and emotional resilience while maintaining the ability to engage in daily activities.
The modern concept of microdosing likely originated with Albert Hofmann, the Swiss chemist who first synthesized lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in 1938. While the use of psychedelic mushrooms in ceremonial and spiritual contexts dates back millennia, the practice of microdosing has more recent scientific origins.
Psilocybin is generally thought to be safe in low dosages and has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples. However, it is very easy to poison oneself with the wrong type of mushroom, as many types of mushrooms in nature can look quite similar to each other, but some are poisonous and can cause severe illness or even death. Therefore, it is important to obtain mushrooms from a trusted source.
A microdose is typically defined as 5-10% of a standard psychoactive dose, which for psilocybin is generally estimated to be between 0.1 and 0.3 grams (100 to 300 mg) of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms. However, it is important to note that the concentration of psilocybin can differ significantly from one mushroom to another, even within the same batch and between different strains, making it difficult to achieve a precise and consistent sub-perceptual dose outside of a controlled, clinical environment.
Some studies on microdosing have found intriguing subjective effects, such as increased happiness and creativity, as well as changes in brain waves recorded on an EEG machine. However, other studies have concluded that low-dose psilocybin mushrooms did not show objective evidence of improvements in creativity, well-being, and cognitive function. The lack of placebo-controlled studies currently limits our knowledge of microdosing and its effects.
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Dried mushrooms vs. undried mushrooms
A gram is 1000 milligrams.
Dried mushrooms are a common source of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound. Dried mushrooms are typically preferred over fresh ones because they have a longer shelf life and can be used year-round, regardless of the season. Additionally, drying mushrooms is a great way to preserve them before they spoil.
However, when it comes to dosing, it's important to note that dried mushrooms are more potent by weight than undried mushrooms. This means that the same weight of dried mushrooms will have a stronger effect than undried mushrooms. For example, a 25 mg dose of psilocybin is approximately 2.5 grams of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms. On the other hand, undried or fresh mushrooms are about 90% water, so they lose most of their weight when dried, making them less potent by weight.
Despite this, it's important to remember that the potency of mushrooms can vary depending on the species and the growing environment. Therefore, it's always a good idea to start with a low dose when trying a new batch of mushrooms, whether dried or undried, to assess their potency.
Furthermore, the effects of fresh mushrooms are often described as trippier and more sensory than dried mushrooms, although this is not based on scientific fact. Ultimately, the choice between dried and undried mushrooms depends on personal preference, availability, and the desired effects.
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Frequently asked questions
On average, there is 1% psilocybin per 1 gram of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms. This equates to 10 milligrams of psilocybin. However, it is important to note that there is intra- and inter-species variability in psilocybin content.
A microdose involves consuming non-perceptual amounts of psilocybin-containing mushrooms. This means that you do not feel or perceive any of the mind-altering effects of the mushroom, but you may feel subtle effects like a boost in mood or energy. A microdose is typically between 100 mg to 250 mg of dried mushrooms, or 10 mg of psilocybin.
A low dose of mushrooms is typically considered to be 0.5 to 1 gram of dried mushrooms. At this dose, you may experience enhanced senses and euphoria, but not a full-blown psychedelic experience.
A medium dose of mushrooms is typically considered to be 2 to 3 grams of dried mushrooms. At this dose, you are likely to experience psychedelic effects but may still be able to walk around and maintain a sense of self.
A high dose of mushrooms is typically considered to be greater than 0.3 grams of dried mushrooms per 70 kg of body weight. A dose of 20 mg or more of psilocybin is likely to induce mystical-type experiences, and a “heroic dose” of 5 grams of dried mushrooms (or 50 mg of psilocybin) may cause a complete loss of the sense of self.
