Laura Smith
The right amount of mushrooms depends on the user's intention and what they want to achieve. The most common dose of magic mushrooms is between 1 and 2 grams of dried mushrooms, although this varies depending on the strain of mushrooms. A microdose, which does not produce the full psychedelic experience, is typically between 0.1 and 0.9 grams of dried mushrooms. A standard dose is considered to be between 2 and 3.5 grams, which generally brings on hallucinations and other psychedelic effects. A heroic dose, coined by Terence McKenna, refers to a dose of 5 grams of the more potent Psilocybe Cubensis species. It's important to note that the effects of magic mushrooms vary depending on the species, body composition and chemistry, emotional state, and environment. Additionally, the risks associated with magic mushrooms, such as bad trips and dangerous long-term effects for certain individuals, should be considered when determining the right amount.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Microdose | 0.1 to 0.9 grams of dried mushrooms |
| Microdose (other source) | 100 mg to 250 mg of dried mushrooms |
| Average rule of thumb for a strong trip | 1 to 2 grams of dried mushrooms per 50 pounds of body weight |
| Common dose | 1 to 2 grams of dried mushrooms |
| Heroic dose | 5 grams of dried magic mushrooms (varies depending on species) |
| Average macrodose | 1 to 3.5 grams |
| Standard dose | 2 to 3.5 grams of mushrooms |
| Gram of dried mushrooms is about the same size as | A paperclip |
| Price per gram | $7 to $12 |
| Average price per gram | $10 |
| Average total psilocin content | Caps > Stems |
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What You'll Learn
- Microdosing: Consuming small amounts to feel subtle effects like improved mood or energy
- Species variation: Different types of mushrooms vary in strength and effects
- Trip management: Having a trip sitter to help manage a bad trip
- Set and setting: Mental and physical state, and environment influence the experience
- Cost: Price varies depending on source, with street prices averaging $10 per gram
Microdosing: Consuming small amounts to feel subtle effects like improved mood or energy
Microdosing is the act of consuming a small amount of a hallucinogenic substance to enhance one's mood without experiencing mind-altering side effects. It is important to note that there is no universally recognised definition of a microdose for psychedelic drugs, and the potency of mushrooms can vary. However, a microdose is typically defined as 5-10% of a standard psychoactive dose, which equates to around 0.1 to 0.3 grams of dried mushrooms.
The intention of microdosing is to achieve subtle enhancements in mood, creativity, focus, and emotional resilience, while still being able to carry out daily activities such as work and socialising. Microdosing is not meant to induce hallucinations or a "trip". The desired effects of microdosing can vary for each individual, and feedback suggests that thousands of people believe it has transformed their lives by relieving anxiety and depression, and enhancing mood and energy.
When determining the right amount to microdose, it is crucial to use a precise digital scale capable of measuring small amounts. Grinding the mushrooms into a fine powder can also ensure a more consistent dosing experience. It is recommended to start with a minimal dose and adjust as needed. The Fadiman protocol, one of the most widely used guides for microdosing, suggests a regimen of one day on and two days off to avoid building up a tolerance to the substance.
It is important to prioritise safety when considering microdosing. While psilocybin is generally thought to be safe in low dosages, it is still illegal at the federal level in the United States, and the lack of regulation means that products may be fake or contain harmful ingredients. It is recommended to discuss the benefits and risks of microdosing with a health professional and to ensure you are legally allowed to possess and consume psilocybin in your jurisdiction.
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Species variation: Different types of mushrooms vary in strength and effects
The effects of consuming magic mushrooms vary from person to person and depend on the type of mushroom and the dosage. The active ingredients in magic mushrooms are psilocybin and psilocin. While psilocybin is the principal component, it is not the active drug in magic mushrooms. It is a prodrug, which is metabolized by the body into psilocin, the active compound that causes psychedelic effects.
Different species of psilocybin-containing magic mushrooms vary in strength and effects. For example, the 'Penis Envy' strain of P. cubensis is considered more potent than other strains, and P. cyanescens and/or P. azurescens have higher psilocybin levels. The Panaeolus genus is also known to be highly potent. The effects of pure psilocybin or psilocin may differ from those of psilocybin mushrooms, and the presence of other compounds such as norpsilocin, baeocystin, norbaeocystin, and aeruginascin in magic mushrooms may result in an entourage effect and modify their effects.
The dosage of psilocybin-containing mushrooms depends on the psilocybin and psilocin content, which can vary significantly between and within the same species. The typical recreational dose of psilocybin mushrooms is between 1.0 and 3.5–5.0 g of dried mushrooms, which is considered a strong dose, and above 5.0 g is considered a heavy or "heroic" dose. However, the appropriate dosage also depends on the individual, and Dr Newcombe suggests that the average rule of thumb for a strong trip is one to two grams of dried mushrooms per 50 pounds of body weight.
It is important to note that the cultivation methods and breeding practices of magic mushrooms can significantly impact their potency. New methods have led to the development of fiendishly potent varieties that kick in faster and last longer, even if only a fraction of the typical dose is consumed. The increasing availability of potent strains through marketplaces and the financial incentives to buy stronger strains contribute to the trend towards consuming higher-strength mushrooms.
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Trip management: Having a trip sitter to help manage a bad trip
The "right amount" of mushrooms varies from person to person and depends on factors such as body weight, species of mushroom, and desired effects. The average rule of thumb for a strong trip is 1 to 2 grams of dried mushrooms per 50 pounds of body weight. Typically, 2 to 3 grams is enough to cover most people. However, it's important to note that a heroic dose of 5 grams, as advocated by Terence McKenna, can result in a full-blown psychedelic experience with heavy perceptual and cognitive distortions.
A trip sitter is a sober person who helps look after someone who has taken a psychoactive drug, typically psychedelics like magic mushrooms. They play a crucial role in reducing the risk of a bad trip and ensuring the safety and comfort of the person under the influence. Here are some key considerations for trip sitters:
- Knowledge and Information: It is essential for the trip sitter to be well-informed about the substance being consumed, including its effects, typical dosages, and duration. This knowledge will enable them to better support the user, anticipate their needs, and provide accurate information and reassurance throughout the experience.
- Sobriety: Remaining sober is crucial for the trip sitter. It ensures they are fully present, capable of making sound judgments, and able to respond effectively to any situation that may arise. Their clarity and composure can provide a stable anchor for the person having the psychedelic experience.
- Setting and Environment: The environment and setting can significantly influence the tripping experience. Trip sitters should create a comfortable, safe, and familiar environment for the user. Choose a quiet place where the user feels secure and ensure access to essentials like water and comfortable seating. Additionally, music can play a role in enhancing the experience; relaxing music may help induce feelings of calmness and positivity.
- Supervision and Risk Reduction: As psychedelics can impair judgment and reflexes, the trip sitter should supervise activities that may be risky, such as swimming or crossing the road. It is also important to stay together in the same location to prevent individuals from wandering off and getting lost.
- Mindset and Emotional Support: Understanding the mindset and emotional state of the person tripping is vital. Beforehand, ask questions to gauge their mood, intentions, and previous experiences. During the trip, provide reassurance, help them meditate or relax, and remind them that the experience will pass.
- Preparation and Management: Trip sitters should be prepared to manage a range of situations. Have a plan in place, and discuss with the user beforehand about what to do if a bad trip occurs. It is also beneficial to carry essential information, such as the user's name, the drug taken, and relevant phone numbers, in case of emergencies.
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Set and setting: Mental and physical state, and environment influence the experience
When it comes to consuming magic mushrooms, it's crucial to understand that the experience is influenced by various factors, including your mental and physical state, as well as your environment. This interplay of factors is often referred to as "set and setting."
The "set" refers to your mental and physical state at the time of consumption. It encompasses your current mindset, emotions, expectations, and intentions. Your mental state can significantly impact the intensity and nature of your experience. For example, if you're feeling anxious or stressed, it can amplify those feelings and potentially lead to a challenging experience. On the other hand, if you're in a positive and open-minded state of mind, the experience may be more enjoyable and rewarding.
The "setting" refers to your physical environment and the people you're with. It includes factors such as the safety and comfort of your surroundings, the people you're with, and the atmosphere they create. A supportive and safe setting can enhance your experience, while an uncomfortable or unfamiliar environment may detract from it. Having trusted companions or sitters present can provide a sense of security and guidance during your journey.
It's important to be mindful of your set and setting, especially when consuming medium to high doses of magic mushrooms. At higher doses, the effects can be intense and profound, and a safe and comfortable environment becomes even more critical. Terrence McKenna, a well-known advocate of psychedelic exploration, described what he called the "heroic dose": consuming five dried grams of mushrooms in silent darkness to fully immerse oneself in the mushroom experience. However, it's important to note that such high doses should be approached with caution and only after gaining experience with lower doses.
Before consuming magic mushrooms, it's advisable to educate yourself about harm reduction practices and potential interactions with other substances. Additionally, it's beneficial to work with a licensed practitioner or therapist experienced in psilocybin integration to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. Remember, the effects of magic mushrooms can be unpredictable, and it's always better to start with a lower dose and gradually increase as needed. Keeping a journal of your experiences can help you track what works best for you.
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Cost: Price varies depending on source, with street prices averaging $10 per gram
The cost of magic mushrooms varies depending on the source and type of mushrooms purchased. On the street, magic mushrooms typically cost between $7 and $12 per gram, with an average price of $10 per gram. However, some people estimate that a pound of magic mushrooms should be discounted to about $5 per gram, which would make a pound cost around $2,400. It's important to note that this large quantity of mushrooms may not be readily available due to the legal repercussions of possessing or selling such a large amount of psychedelics.
The price of magic mushrooms also depends on whether they are purchased dried or fresh. Fresh mushrooms are mostly water, so a fresh gram would look larger than a dried gram. Additionally, the species of mushroom can affect the price, as some species are more potent than others. For example, the Psilocybe Cubensis species is considered more potent, and a heroic dose of this species is around five grams.
The dosage of magic mushrooms is an important consideration when purchasing, as taking too high of a dose can be dangerous. A common dose of magic mushrooms is between one and two grams of dried mushrooms, but this can vary depending on the strain and the individual's body weight. Microdosing, or taking a sub-perceptual dose, typically involves consuming around 0.1 to 0.9 grams of dried mushrooms. It's important to start with a low dose and increase gradually, as the same dose of the same mushroom can affect different people differently.
The setting and the individual's mood, personality, and experience can also impact the effects of magic mushrooms. It is recommended to have a trip sitter, someone who isn't tripping but can look out for the individual during their experience. Additionally, it's important to leave enough time between taking magic mushrooms to fully process and recover from the experience, typically around three months.
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Frequently asked questions
Microdosing involves consuming small amounts of psilocybin-containing mushrooms, typically 100 mg to 250 mg of dried magic mushrooms, so you don't experience mind-altering effects. You may feel a subtle boost in mood or energy.
A standard dose of mushrooms is generally considered to be between 1 and 3.5 grams of dried mushrooms, depending on the strain. This range of dosage often brings about hallucinations and other psychedelic effects.
A heroic dose, coined by Terence McKenna, refers to a high dose of 5 grams of the more potent Psilocybe Cubensis species. A heroic dose can result in a life-changing experience, including ego death and dissociation from reality.
A heroic dose is already considered a high dose, and anything above 5 grams can lead to an extremely intense experience with higher risks of negative long-term effects. The same dose of the same mushroom can affect people differently, so it's important to be mindful of this.
The effects of a mushroom trip are influenced by the species of mushroom, body composition and chemistry, emotional state, and environment. It's important to follow harm reduction practices and have a trip sitter when taking higher doses.
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