Emily Johnson
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin. Psilocybin content varies between species, but it also differs from sample to sample within the same species. The psilocybin content of Psilocybe cubensis, the most common species for psychedelic users, is estimated to be around 0.5–1.0% per gram, with an average of 0.7% by weight. This means that a 25 mg psilocybin dose is approximately 2.5 grams of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms. It is important to note that the effects of psilocybin mushrooms can be unpredictable and vary depending on factors such as body weight and individual physiology.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average psilocybin content | 1% psilocybin per one gram of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushroom |
| Average initial dose | 3.1g |
| Regular dose | 3.5g |
| Microdose | 0.1-0.5g/70kg (per 70kg body weight) |
| Low dose | ≤ 0.1g |
| Medium dose | 0.1-0.3g |
| High dose | ≥ 0.3g |
| Fixed psilocybin dose | 25mg |
| Average psilocybin content in an eighth-ounce (3.5g) of dried mushrooms | 35mg |
| Average psilocybin content in 2.5g of dried mushrooms | 25mg |
| Average psilocybin content in 2g of dried mushrooms | 20mg |
| Average psilocybin content in 1g of dried mushrooms | 10mg |
| Average psilocybin content in 0.5g of dried mushrooms | 5mg |
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What You'll Learn
- A 25 mg dose of psilocybin is approximately 2.5 grams of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms
- Psilocybin content varies between species and strains, ranging from 0.5% to 2% per gram
- A full eighth-ounce (3.5 grams) of dried mushrooms will contain around 35 mg of psilocybin
- A heroic dose is 5 grams of dried mushrooms, containing about 50 mg of psilocybin
- Psilocybe cubensis is the most common species for psychedelic users
A 25 mg dose of psilocybin is approximately 2.5 grams of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms
Psilocybin is the main psychedelic ingredient in "magic" mushrooms. It is a tryptamine/indolamine hallucinogen, structurally related to serotonin. Psilocybin content varies between species and strains of mushrooms, ranging from 0.5% to 2% per gram. On average, dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms contain approximately 1% psilocybin per gram. This equates to around 25 mg of psilocybin in 2.5 grams of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms.
The fixed 25 mg dose of psilocybin has been validated in recent studies, which found no significant differences in psychedelic effects when compared to weight-based doses of 0.29 mg/kg and 0.43 mg/kg. This suggests that patients with mild-to-moderate renal impairment do not require a dose reduction. However, it is important to note that psilocybin levels can vary between different species of mushrooms, with some strains known to be 1.5 to 2 times stronger than others. Therefore, when determining the dosage, it is crucial to consider the specific mushroom species and strain.
The effects of a psilocybin dose are influenced by various factors beyond the weight of the consumed mushrooms. The freshness of the fungi, an individual's mental state, and their body's unique response all play a role in the overall experience. Additionally, set and setting are crucial considerations. A comfortable, familiar, and safe environment can positively impact the experience, while a negative or stressful mindset may lead to an unpleasant journey.
When it comes to dosing, it is generally recommended to start low and slow, especially for those new to psilocybin. A low dose of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms is typically considered to be up to 1 gram, which can provide a mild psychedelic experience while allowing the individual to maintain a sense of self. A medium dose of 2 to 3 grams can induce stronger psychedelic effects, and a high dose of 3.5 grams is likely to result in a full-blown psychedelic experience with heavy perceptual and cognitive distortions. Terrence McKenna, a renowned advocate of psilocybin, described the "heroic dose" as 5 grams of dried mushrooms, which often leads to a complete loss of the sense of self, also known as "ego dissolution" or "ego death".
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Psilocybin content varies between species and strains, ranging from 0.5% to 2% per gram
Psilocybin content varies between species and strains of mushrooms, ranging from 0.5% to 2% per gram of dried mushrooms. The Psilocybe cubensis species, also known as "cubes", is one of the most popular mushroom species containing psilocybin. The average psilocybin content in dried cubes is around 1% per gram, but this can vary from 0.5% to 1.35% depending on various factors.
The concentration of psilocybin in cubes can differ based on the part of the mushroom, with higher concentrations typically found in the cap and lower amounts in the stem. Additionally, the growing and storage conditions, time since harvest, and individual biochemistry can all influence the psilocybin content in each mushroom. For example, the potency of cultivated specimens can vary per flush (harvest), with psilocybin levels fluctuating unpredictably and psilocin content peaking by the fourth flush.
When ingesting cubes, the recommended starting dose for a psychedelic experience is one gram of dried mushrooms, containing approximately 10 mg of psilocybin. This amount is considered safe for most individuals, but it's important to remember that the effects can vary based on body composition, brain chemistry, and psychological predisposition. Terrence McKenna, a renowned advocate of psilocybin, described his preferred method as ingesting five grams of dried mushrooms, known as the "heroic dose," which is expected to induce an overwhelming experience.
The interest in psilocybin as a therapeutic approach has grown significantly, yet practical guidance for healthcare professionals remains scarce. This lack of standardized information is a concern, given the potential risks associated with the use of psilocybin mushrooms. It is always advisable to exercise caution and start with lower doses to ensure a safe experience.
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A full eighth-ounce (3.5 grams) of dried mushrooms will contain around 35 mg of psilocybin
An eighth-ounce, or 3.5 grams, of dried mushrooms will contain around 35 mg of psilocybin. This is considered a high dose and will induce a full-blown psychedelic experience, including heavy perceptual and cognitive distortions. During the experience, you may or may not be able to hold a conversation or accurately perceive your surroundings, especially at the peaks, which often come in waves. No two trips are exactly alike, but you’re likely to look back on this as a stand-out experience of your life.
It is not advisable to take a high dose unless you have a safe, supervised setting to take them in. The mantra for trying a new psychoactive drug is: “Start low, go slow”. It is recommended that you start with no more than one gram of dried mushrooms, or 10 mg of psilocybin. Only experiment with higher doses once you feel comfortable at a low dose.
The effects of psilocybin are very sensitive to your mental and physical state, and environment. A light dose of psychedelic mushrooms usually contains between one and two grams. This dose will induce noticeable changes in your perception and thought patterns. Generally speaking, consuming two to 3.5 grams of mushrooms is considered a standard dose. Ingesting this amount of psilocybin mushrooms generally brings on hallucinations and a suite of psychedelic effects, such as colourful visual imagery and an altered perception of time.
A dose greater than 3.5 grams of psychedelic mushrooms can result in an extremely intense experience, especially at doses above five grams. These experiences are not necessarily positive and may carry a higher risk of negative long-term effects. When it comes to shrooms, more is not necessarily better. The same dose of the same mushroom can affect people differently. A person’s experience can be influenced by the species of mushroom, their body composition and chemistry, their emotional state, and their environment.
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A heroic dose is 5 grams of dried mushrooms, containing about 50 mg of psilocybin
A "heroic dose", a term coined by Terence McKenna, refers to a dose of five grams of dried magic mushrooms. This is considered a high dose, with an average macrodose sitting at around one to 3.5 grams. At this dosage, there is little one can do but lie down and let the experience wash over them.
The effects of a heroic dose are described as "life-changing". Users often experience four to eight hours of full-blown psychedelia, which includes visual hallucinations, euphoria, hilarity, ego dissolution, and feelings of love or oneness with nature. However, bad trips can occur and are harder to handle on larger doses as the trip is longer and more intense. Therefore, it is recommended to work your way up to a heroic dose, starting with smaller doses, then moving on to standard and strong doses.
The Psilocybe cubensis species of mushrooms typically contain about 1% psilocybin per gram of dried mushrooms. This means that five grams of dried mushrooms will contain about 50 mg of psilocybin. However, it is important to note that psilocybin levels in dried mushrooms can vary between 0.5% to 2% of dry weight, depending on the species.
For example, an eighth-ounce (3.5 grams) of dried mushrooms will have around 35 mg of psilocybin content, which is considered a high dose and will induce a full-blown psychedelic experience. At this dosage, an individual may or may not be able to hold a conversation or accurately perceive their surroundings, especially at the peaks, which often come in waves.
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Psilocybe cubensis is the most common species for psychedelic users
Psilocybe cubensis, also known as P. cubensis, is a species of hallucinogenic mushroom that falls under the genus Psilocybe, which contains some of the most potent psilocybin-containing mushrooms. Psilocybin is a prodrug that transforms into the psychedelic compound psilocin upon ingestion. Psilocybin content in mushrooms typically ranges from 0.5% to 1% of the dried weight, with P. cubensis containing around 0.63% psilocybin and 0.6% psilocin, or about 1.2% combined.
Psilocybe cubensis is native to tropical and subtropical regions of South America, Mexico, and the United States, and has been used by humans for centuries. It is one of the most well-known and commonly used hallucinogenic mushrooms due to its ease of growth and accessibility. The species has a small stature, with a height range of 2.5-10 cm, long and thin fibrous stalks, and caps measuring between 1 and 3 cm across.
The psychedelic effects of P. cubensis are sought after by individuals looking for a transformative experience. Recreational doses typically range from 1.0 to 3.5–5.0 grams of dried mushrooms, with a "heroic dose" being approximately 5.0 grams. A 25 mg fixed dose of psilocybin, which is commonly used in therapeutic settings, corresponds to approximately 2.5 grams of dried P. cubensis. It's important to note that the mantra for trying psychoactive substances like P. cubensis is to "start low and go slow," typically starting with no more than one gram of dried mushrooms.
The popularity of P. cubensis has led to the publication of books and online discussions on methods for cultivating this species. While the cultivation, possession, and sale of hallucinogenic mushrooms are often prohibited, the sale of fresh magic mushrooms was legal in several countries until recent years. The interest in psilocybin as a therapeutic approach has grown exponentially, but there remains a lack of practical guidance for health care professionals.
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Frequently asked questions
On average, there is 1% psilocybin per 1 gram of dried cudes mushrooms, which is approximately 10 milligrams (mg) of psilocybin.
A low dose of dried cudes mushrooms is considered to be 1 gram or 10 mg of psilocybin. This dose does not induce full-blown psychedelic effects but may cause euphoria and an enhancement of the senses.
A "heroic dose", as coined by Terrence McKenna, is approximately 5 grams of dried cudes mushrooms, or roughly 50 mg of psilocybin. This high dose may cause a complete loss of the sense of self and the ability to think or make decisions, so careful preparation and supervision are necessary.
