Emily Johnson
Magic mushrooms, or shrooms, are mushrooms that contain the psychedelic psychoactive compound psilocybin or psilocin. When ingested, psilocybin converts into psilocin in the body, which is chemically similar to serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to happiness. This leads to hallucinations and euphoria. The effects of magic mushrooms usually kick in between 15 to 60 minutes after dosing and can last 4 to 6 hours, or longer for heavier doses. As a beginner, it is recommended to start with a low dose of around 1 gram of dried mushrooms or 10 mg of psilocybin and increase the dosage gradually. It is also important to prioritize safety and take mushrooms in a safe, comfortable setting, preferably with someone experienced to guide and support you.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mantra for dosing a new psychoactive drug | Start low, go slow |
| Starting dose | No more than 1 gram of dried mushrooms or 10 mg of psilocybin |
| Increase in dose | Every 25 minutes |
| Magic mushroom species | Psilocybe cubensis |
| Psilocybin content in Psilocybe mushrooms | 0.5–1.0% total psilocin, averaging 0.7% by weight |
| Psilocybin content in terms of weight | 1% psilocybin |
| Common dose | 1–2 grams of dried mushrooms |
| Microdose | 0.1 grams of dried mushrooms |
| Preparation for the experience | Centering yourself, practicing yoga, meditating, doing breathing exercises, spending time in nature, pre-journaling, etc. |
| Psilocybin per 70 kg body weight | 1–3 mg (very low dose), 22–30 mg (high dose) |
| Side effects | Nausea, dizziness, mood swings, anxiety, confusion, paranoia, etc. |
| Effects | Distorted sense of reality, mixing up senses, altered sense of time, euphoria, relaxation, creative thinking, etc. |
| Duration of effects | 4–6 hours or more for heavier doses |
| After-effects | Calmness, introspection, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
- Start with a low dose: no more than 1 gram of dried mushrooms or 10mg of psilocybin
- Effects can vary from person to person
- Magic mushrooms are illegal, so potency testing is hard to come by
- Fresh mushrooms are more potent than dried ones
- Set and setting are important: ensure you're in a safe, comfortable environment
Start with a low dose: no more than 1 gram of dried mushrooms or 10mg of psilocybin
When it comes to consuming magic mushrooms, it's important to remember that they are a psychoactive drug and, as with any new substance, it's best to "start low, go slow". This is especially true when it comes to psilocybin mushrooms, as different species can vary in strength and effects, and even mushrooms of the same species can have different psilocybin levels.
So, if you're a beginner, it's recommended to start with no more than 1 gram of dried mushrooms or 10mg of psilocybin. This is considered a very low dose, and you can always increase your dosage incrementally every 25 minutes or so until you reach your desired effect. It's also important to keep in mind that the effects of magic mushrooms can last for 4-6 hours or more for heavier doses, and you may feel the after-effects for up to 24 hours.
The concentration of psilocybin in dried mushrooms varies, and it's difficult to know the exact amount in each mushroom. Growing conditions, species, and even individual mushrooms can impact the psilocybin content. Published research has shown that Psilocybe mushrooms can contain anywhere from 0.1 to 2.0 percent psilocybin and psilocin. The most common species, Psilocybe cubensis, has been found to contain roughly 0.5–1.0% total psilocin, averaging around 0.7% by weight. This equates to about 1% psilocybin.
If you're consuming fresh mushrooms, remember that they are more potent than dried mushrooms. As a rule of thumb, multiply the gram recommendations by 10 to account for the water weight in fresh mushrooms.
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Effects can vary from person to person
The effects of magic mushrooms can vary significantly from person to person. This is due to the many different strains and other variables that determine the effects. For example, the chemical content of magic mushrooms varies, and two randomly selected Psilocybe mushrooms, even from the same species and harvest, can have different psilocybin levels.
The effects of magic mushrooms are also influenced by individual factors such as one's mental and physical state, and environment. For instance, Tom, a UBC student, described his first trip on a beach at night as one of his best experiences. However, he also shared that he had a bad trip when he was stressed from school and was not in the right environment or mental state.
Additionally, the potency of magic mushrooms can vary depending on the species and growing conditions, making it challenging to decide on a specific dosage. The most common species, Psilocybe cubensis, can contain roughly 0.5-1.0% total psilocin, averaging around 0.7%. This equates to about 1% psilocybin. However, the concentration of psilocybin in dried mushrooms can range from 0.1 to 2.0%, and fresh mushrooms are more potent than dried ones.
When it comes to dosage, it is generally recommended to "start low and go slow." For beginners, it is advised to start with no more than one gram of dried mushrooms or 10 mg of psilocybin. Microdoses, which do not produce the full psychedelic experience, can be around 0.1 grams of dried mushrooms. It is important to take mushrooms in a safe and comfortable setting and be mindful that the effects can vary based on individual factors and the specific type of mushroom consumed.
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Magic mushrooms are illegal, so potency testing is hard to come by
Magic mushrooms, which contain the psychedelic compounds psilocybin and psilocin, are illegal in many places. In the US, for example, the federal government designates them as a Schedule 1 controlled substance, meaning they are considered to have no medicinal value and are illegal to possess or handle without authorisation from the DEA.
This classification presents a challenge when it comes to potency testing. While some companies can apply for federal psilocybin registration, which allows them to conduct activities like research and manufacturing, the illegal status of magic mushrooms means that widespread, standardised testing is difficult to implement.
Psilocybin potency testing is crucial for ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of psilocybin products. Potency can vary between species of mushrooms, different parts of the same mushroom, and even different harvests of the same species. Without proper testing, consumers may be at risk of inconsistent effects, leading to potential safety issues or unreliable research data.
Several analytical methods are commonly used for potency testing, including High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), and Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC). These techniques allow for accurate quantification of psilocybin and psilocin, ensuring consistent dosing and consumer safety.
As interest in the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin grows, the development of regulatory standards and accurate potency testing becomes increasingly important. While the legal status of psilocybin is changing in some areas, with a move towards decriminalisation or regulation, its current illegal status in many places continues to present challenges for widespread potency testing.
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Fresh mushrooms are more potent than dried ones
If you're new to magic mushrooms, it's important to remember that different species of psilocybin-containing mushrooms vary in strength and effects. The mantra for trying a new psychoactive drug is to "start low, go slow". It is recommended that you start with no more than one gram of dried mushrooms or 10 mg of psilocybin. You can then increase your dose gradually once you are comfortable with the effects.
When it comes to fresh versus dried magic mushrooms, there are some key differences to consider. Fresh mushrooms are more potent than dried ones, containing higher levels of psilocin, which is a faster-acting and more potent compound compared to psilocybin. As a result, the effects of fresh mushrooms tend to come on faster and can be more intense. However, it is important to note that the recommended dosage for fresh mushrooms is generally around 10 times that of dried mushrooms due to their water content. For example, 10 grams of dried mushrooms would be a high dose, while 10 grams of fresh mushrooms is considered a low dose.
Dried mushrooms, on the other hand, have a longer shelf life and are easier to store than fresh mushrooms, which spoil within a few days. The effects of dried mushrooms tend to come on more gradually, and some people find them to be more mental and less sensory. However, the specific variety of mushroom also plays a role in the overall effects.
It's worth noting that the potency of magic mushrooms can vary significantly, even within the same species. Lab testing is the only way to know exactly how potent a given mushroom is. The freshness of the fungi, your mental state, and your body's preparedness can all impact your dosing considerations.
While both fresh and dried mushrooms can deliver a similar psychedelic experience, the differences in potency, flavour, texture, and dosage are important factors to consider when choosing between the two. Ultimately, the choice between fresh and dried magic mushrooms depends on individual preferences and the specific effects desired.
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Set and setting are important: ensure you're in a safe, comfortable environment
When it comes to trying a new psychoactive drug like magic mushrooms, the general rule of thumb is to "start low, go slow". It is recommended that beginners start with no more than one gram of dried mushrooms or 10 mg of psilocybin. It is also important to be mindful that different species of psilocybin-containing magic mushrooms vary in strength and effects.
To ensure a positive experience, it is crucial to pay attention to both your "set" and "setting". "Set" refers to your mindset, disposition, attitudes, and beliefs, while "setting" refers to the physical, social, and cultural environments that shape your experience. Here are some ways to create a safe and comfortable environment for your first psychedelic mushroom trip:
Set
- Be aware of your current emotional state, personal beliefs, and history.
- Cultivate a positive mindset and intention for your trip, but also maintain an open mind. Challenging experiences can occur when there is resistance to the direction the trip is taking.
- Clear your mind of distracting thoughts or feelings before beginning. This can be achieved through various practices such as meditation, yoga, journaling, or spending time in nature.
- Consider having a "trip sitter", a trusted friend or guide who can provide support and watch over you, especially if they have prior experience with psychedelics.
Setting
- Choose a safe and comfortable physical location, whether it's indoors or outdoors.
- Ensure you are in a familiar place where you won't get lost and have access to basic necessities like water, food, and a restroom.
- Opt for mellow and calm instrumental music over music with lyrics, as they can subconsciously influence your thoughts.
- Prepare any items that may enhance your experience, such as art supplies, notebooks, or markers.
- If outdoors, use common sense and be mindful of the extended duration of the trip. Plan accordingly and bring essential items like water and snacks.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that beginners follow the "start low, go slow" mantra. If you are a beginner, you should start with no more than one gram of dried mushrooms or 10 mg of psilocybin. You can increase your dose every 25 minutes or so.
Before taking mushrooms, it is important to distinguish psychedelic mushrooms from non-edible mushrooms, as the latter can be harmful. It is also important to take mushrooms in a safe, comfortable setting, preferably with someone to watch over you or even professional human support in case of any difficulties.
The effects of mushrooms usually kick in anywhere between 15 and 60 minutes after dosing and can last 4 to 6 hours, or more for heavier doses. After-effects may be felt for up to 24 hours.
The effects of mushrooms can include a distorted sense of reality, an altered sense of time, dizziness, lightheadedness, confusion, nausea, and enhanced overall sensations such as touch, temperature, and reaction to light. People may also feel more connected to nature and the people around them.
Before taking mushrooms, it is helpful to take some time to center yourself mentally. This can include practicing yoga, meditating, doing breathing exercises, and spending time in nature. Many people also choose to pre-journal before their trip, exploring questions such as "Why do I feel called to this experience right now?" and "What answers am I seeking from this experience?".
