Tripping On Mushrooms: How Many To Take?

The right amount of magic mushrooms to consume depends on several factors, including the type of mushroom, the individual's body weight, and their intention for the experience. Magic mushrooms, or psychedelic mushrooms, contain the compound psilocybin, which is metabolized into psilocin—the active compound responsible for inducing hallucinations, euphoria, and other mystical-type experiences. The typical range for a strong trip is one to two grams of dried mushrooms per 50 pounds of body weight, with two to three grams usually covering most people. However, it's important to prioritize safety and start with a low dose, gradually increasing the amount after understanding how magic mushrooms affect you.

Microdosing and macrodosing

When it comes to consuming psychedelic mushrooms, it's important to understand the concept of microdosing and macrodosing. Microdosing involves consuming small, non-perceptual amounts of psilocybin-containing mushrooms. In other words, you won't experience any mind-altering effects, but you may feel subtle improvements in your mood or energy levels. Typically, a microdose consists of 100 to 250 mg of dried magic mushrooms, which equates to 5-10% of a standard dose. This usually translates to around 0.3 grams, though some studies have used 0.5 grams of dried mushrooms.

It's important to note that the potency of mushrooms can vary greatly, and without regulation, it's challenging to determine the exact dosage. Additionally, different species of psilocybin-containing mushrooms vary in strength and effects, further complicating dosage precision. Therefore, it's recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase if desired, always ensuring you're ingesting the right amount to generate the desired effect.

Macrodosing, on the other hand, refers to consuming significantly larger doses of psychedelic mushrooms, often referred to as a "heroic dose." Terence McKenna, a well-known advocate for psychedelic exploration, defined a heroic dose as five grams of dried magic mushrooms. However, this amount can vary depending on the species of mushroom and an individual's body weight. Dr. Newcombe suggests an "average rule of thumb" of one to two grams of dried mushrooms per 50 pounds of body weight.

Consuming a heroic dose in a dark, silent room can lead to what users describe as a life-changing experience, including breakthroughs, ego death, and dissociation from present reality. Most people experience full-blown psychedelia, with visual hallucinations, euphoria, hilarity, ego dissolution, and a sense of oneness with nature. However, it's crucial to weigh the risks before taking such a large dose, as high doses can also lead to what is known as a bad trip, which can be challenging to handle due to the longer duration and heightened intensity.

While some studies suggest that macrodosing may lead to reduced anxiety and a more positive outlook on life, there is limited research on the psychological impact of such high doses. It's important to prioritize safety and always start with lower doses to understand how magic mushrooms affect you before considering larger doses.

Safety and harm reduction

Magic mushrooms are hallucinogenic and can cause a person to see or hear things that are not real or are distorted. They can also affect a person's thinking, sense of time, mood, and emotions. The effects of magic mushrooms can be unpredictable, and users may experience disturbing hallucinations, anxiety, and panic. Therefore, it is important to prioritize safety and harm reduction when consuming magic mushrooms.

• Start with a low dose: The mantra for trying a new psychoactive drug is "start low, go slow." If you are new to magic mushrooms, start with a low dose, such as one gram of dried mushrooms or 10 mg of psilocybin. You can increase the dose gradually once you know how the original dose affects you.
• Use a micro digital scale: Unless you are using pre-made, pre-measured psilocybin products, use a micro digital scale to accurately weigh your dose. This will help you ensure you are ingesting the right amount to generate your desired effect.
• Do not mix with other substances: Magic mushrooms should not be combined with other substances without proper knowledge of potential interactions. Mixing magic mushrooms with other drugs can increase the risks and make it harder to handle a bad trip.
• Check your drugs: Whenever possible, use test strips or a drug-checking service to determine the composition, strength, and potential contaminants of your drugs. This can provide harm reduction information about drug effects.
• Have a trip buddy: Do not trip alone. Using magic mushrooms alone can mean coping by yourself if you get injured or have a bad trip. Tripping with a buddy who is sober can help ensure your safety and provide support if needed.
• Choose a safe, peaceful place: Plan your trip by choosing a safe, peaceful environment to hang out. Most trips last 8-12 hours, so make sure you are in a comfortable and secure location.
• Be in the right frame of mind: Using hallucinogens can be scary, especially if you try to control the experience rather than embracing it. Surrender to the experience, meditate, relax, and play calming music.
• Seek medical help if needed: If you or someone else experiences a negative physical or psychological reaction, seek medical help. Call emergency services if someone has collapsed, stopped breathing, is having a seizure, or is suffering an anaphylactic reaction.

Remember, the only way to eliminate the risk of a bad trip is to avoid taking magic mushrooms altogether. Always prioritize your safety and well-being when considering the use of any substance.

'Heroic dose'

A "heroic dose" of magic mushrooms refers to a dose of five grams of dried magic mushrooms, or roughly 50 mg of psilocybin. This term was coined by Terence McKenna, a famous proponent of magic mushrooms. A heroic dose can induce a full-blown psychedelic experience, including visual hallucinations, euphoria, hilarity, ego dissolution, and feelings of love or oneness with nature.

The effects of a heroic dose can be extremely intense, and users often describe the experience as life-changing. It is important to note that the effects of magic mushrooms are highly subjective and depend on various factors such as the individual's mood, personality, and experience. Additionally, different species of magic mushrooms vary in strength and effects, so it is crucial to be aware of the specific type of mushroom being consumed.

When considering a heroic dose, it is essential to prioritize safety and harm reduction practices. It is recommended to work your way up from smaller doses to understand how magic mushrooms affect you and lessen the chances of having a bad trip. It is also crucial not to mix magic mushrooms with other substances without proper knowledge of potential interactions.

If you are new to magic mushrooms, it is advisable to start with a lower dose to gauge your reaction and gradually increase the amount if desired. A "microdose" or "medium dose" of magic mushrooms can also induce psychedelic effects without the intensity of a heroic dose. A microdose typically involves consuming small, non-perceptual amounts of psilocybin-containing mushrooms, resulting in subtle effects such as a boost in mood or energy. A medium dose of 2.0 to 3.0 grams can induce psychedelic effects while still allowing the individual to maintain a sense of self and walk around.

While a heroic dose of magic mushrooms can induce profound and transformative experiences, it is not without its risks. It is essential to approach dosing with caution and to prioritize safety at all times.

Set and setting

The concept of "set and setting" is crucial when preparing for a psychedelic mushroom trip. It refers to the mindset or mental state (set) and the physical and social environment (setting) in which the user has the experience. Here are some detailed instructions for managing your set and setting to ensure a safe and positive trip:

Set (Mindset and Mental State):

• Mood: It is not advisable to take mushrooms when you are in a bad mood or feeling anxious. A relaxed, curious, and open-minded attitude is more conducive to a positive trip.
• Personality and Experience: Your personality structure, previous experiences with psychedelics, and expectations will influence your trip. If you are new to psychedelics, start with a small dose and consider having a sober friend with you for guidance and support.
• Intentions and Expectations: Reflect on your intentions for the trip and set realistic expectations. Are you seeking a transformative experience, ego dissolution, or a boost in creativity? Understanding your intentions can help guide your trip.
• Harm Reduction: Educate yourself about harm reduction practices before taking mushrooms. Understand the potential risks and how to manage them. Start with a low dose and gradually increase if needed.

Setting (Physical and Social Environment):

• Safe and Comfortable Space: Ensure you are in a safe, comfortable, and familiar place where you feel at ease. This can be indoors, in nature, or a combination of both. Avoid isolated areas where you might get lost.
• Social Company: Consider whether you prefer to trip alone or with others. If you choose to have company, select a trusted friend who makes you feel safe and comfortable. Ensure they are aware of your intentions and how to support you.
• Sensory Stimulation: Prepare sensory stimuli that you find enjoyable, such as music, art, nature, or a movie. A curated music playlist can enhance your trip and guide your emotions.
• Basic Needs: Take care of your physical needs by having access to water, a restroom, and any other essentials that contribute to your comfort.
• Preparation: Plan your trip, including the timing, duration, and any necessary supplies. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the dosage and effects before consuming mushrooms.

Remember, the key principles of set and setting are safety, comfort, and preparation. By creating a positive and supportive environment, both internally and externally, you can enhance your mushroom trip and reduce potential risks.

Weight of mushrooms

The weight of a magic mushroom dose depends on various factors, including the desired effects, species of mushroom, and individual body weight. Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, are fungi that contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin, which the body metabolizes into psilocin—the active compound responsible for inducing hallucinations and other psychedelic effects.

When considering dosage, it is crucial to prioritize safety and harm reduction practices. The recommended starting point for ingesting dried mushrooms is no more than one gram or 10 mg of psilocybin. Microdosing involves consuming small amounts of mushrooms without experiencing mind-altering effects, typically ranging from 100 mg to 250 mg of dried mushrooms, or 5-10% of a standard dose. However, the weight of the dose also depends on whether the mushrooms are fresh (wet) or dried, as wet mushrooms have a higher water content, affecting the overall weight.

The term "heroic dose" refers to a higher dosage of magic mushrooms, typically ranging from three to seven grams of dried mushrooms. Some users associate heroic doses with breakthroughs, ego death, and a distorted perception of reality. However, it is important to note that the effects of a heroic dose can be unpredictable and context-dependent, varying from person to person. While some individuals may experience positive outcomes, such as reduced anxiety and a more optimistic outlook, the high dosage also carries risks and potential negative consequences. Therefore, it is generally recommended to start with lower doses and gradually increase, allowing oneself to understand how magic mushrooms affect the body and mind.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the species of mushroom can significantly impact the strength and effects of the dose. Different species of psilocybin-containing mushrooms vary in potency, and dried mushrooms can contain anywhere from 0.5% to 1% of psychoactive ingredients. As a result, the weight of the dose required to achieve the desired effects will depend on the specific species of mushroom being consumed.

Frequently asked questions