Psilocybin is a psychoactive alkaloid found in several species of magic mushrooms, primarily of the genus Psilocybe. This compound is metabolized in the body into psilocin, which is responsible for the psychedelic effects by binding to serotonin receptors in the brain, especially the 5-HT2A receptor. The effects of psilocybin include changes in sensory perception, altered consciousness, visual distortions, emotional changes, and an expansion of thought, often described as mystical or transcendental experiences.
Depending on the dosage, users can experience anything from mild sensory effects to profound insights and a loss of the sense of self, otherwise known as ego dissolution. The effects typically occur within 20-60 minutes of ingestion, peak within 2-3 hours, and last for 4-6 hours. All of this is great information, but you’re probably wondering – especially if you’re a beginner – how much psilocybin I should take. How much of these mushrooms exactly? Well, today we’ll answer these questions and many more!
Magic mushrooms and psilocybin varieties
One very important first thing to note is that psilocybin concentrations in magic mushrooms vary greatly between different species and strains. The most common ones, such as Psilocybe cubensis, typically contain between 0.5% and 1.5% psilocybin by dry weight. However, growing conditions, drying methods, and the part of the mushroom used can all influence psilocybin levels. For example, Psilocybe azurescens is known for its high concentration of psilocybin, reaching levels of up to 1.8%.
Within the Psilocybe cubensis species, different strains, such as Golden Teacher or B+, are popular among growers and consumers for their mild, beginner-friendly psychoactive effects. In contrast, more potent strains, such as Penis Envy or Tidal Wave Ape, are preferred by experienced users looking for more intense experiences due to their higher psilocybin levels. The quantity and variety of magic mushrooms play a crucial role in the psychedelic experience, and knowing the differences in potency can help plan an appropriate dosage.
Ultimately, your experience will be determined by the amount of psilocybin you ingest, so you can get a potent effect by consuming many low-concentration mushrooms, or just a few high-concentration mushrooms. It all depends on your preferences, your goals, and the strain(s) you have available.
How to start taking magic mushrooms: Microdosing and beginner dosage
For those new to magic mushrooms, starting with microdosing psilocybin is a great way to safely explore the effects of this substance. A typical microdose ranges from 0.1 to 0.3 grams of dried mushrooms and does not typically produce noticeable psychoactive effects, but can improve mood, creativity, focus, and reduce anxiety. Many people report that microdosing helps them with their daily productivity, without experiencing the classic psychedelic effects that would likely prevent them from performing their daily tasks.
For those who want a more obvious experience, a low dose of between 1 and 2 grams of dried mushrooms is ideal for beginners. This dose usually produces mild effects, such as more vivid colors, feelings of euphoria, and slight changes in the perception of time and space, without being overwhelming or completely disconnecting from reality. It is always recommended to start with a low dose in a safe and relaxed environment to gauge individual response before venturing into higher doses. Don’t underestimate issues such as set & setting, which can greatly determine the type of trip you will experience; indeed, both the substance you will take and your mood and the environment you will be in will have a great influence on your trip, don’t forget that!
Some moderately potent strains that we recommend for you to start getting in touch with psilocybin are: Mexican, the already mentioned Golden Teacher, or B+.
Things to know before trying magic mushrooms for the first time
Do you want to try magic mushrooms, but you’re not sure if you should? Maybe we can help you decide. After a long period of time, more and more places are relaxing their grip on psilocybin mushrooms. Why? Because human clinical trials suggest that psilocybin may be beneficial in many, many different ways. Not only because of its recreational effects that delight the body and the spirit, but also because we may be facing one of the entheogens capable of revolutionising the field of medicine as we know it.
High doses of psilocybin
As the dose of psilocybin is increased, the effects become more pronounced, intense, and long-lasting. A moderate dose, between 2 and 3.5 grams of dried mushrooms, typically offers a full psychedelic experience, with visual hallucinations, intense emotions, and likely a greater degree of insight. However, for those seeking a deeper experience, high doses (3.5 to 5 grams or more) can lead to an experience known as “ego dissolution,” where the individual temporarily loses the sense of self and may experience feelings of oneness with the universe or access altered states of consciousness.
This type of dosage is often described as mystical or spiritual but can be emotionally challenging if not handled properly. So-called heroic doses, exceeding 5 grams, should be approached with extreme caution as the effects can be overwhelming, and a safe environment, a “careful trip,” and a proper mindset and prior experience are essential. Let’s sum it up by taking a moderately potent strain like Tatandi’s Brazil as an example:
- Microdosing: between 0.1 and 0.3g of dried mushrooms per dose. No perceptible psychedelic effects.
- Low dose: between 1 and 2g of dried mushrooms per dose. Moderate psychedelic effects.
- Moderate dosage: between 2 and 3.5g of dried mushrooms per dose. Obvious psychedelic effects.
- High dose: between 3.5 and 5g of dried mushrooms per dose. Powerful psychedelic effects, the duration of the trip increases.
- Very high dose: more than 5g of dried mushrooms per dose. Very powerful and long-lasting psychedelic effects.
Again, remember that with certain varieties you may need more than 5g to get a really potent effect, while with another variety you may only need 2g to get the same effect. We will never tire of repeating it: start with low-potency varieties and low doses, and gradually increase the dose in subsequent doses until you get the effect you are looking for and gain the necessary experience to continue investigating these types of effects with new varieties and dosages. A bad trip on magic mushrooms is an experience we do not recommend to anyone!
Varieties of mushrooms rich in psilocybin
As you may already know, some magic mushroom strains are particularly high in psilocybin, making them more potent and suitable for experienced users. One of the most well-known is Penis Envy, which is famous for its high concentration of psilocybin, offering a much stronger experience than other Psilocybe cubensis strains. This strain tends to produce intense visuals and a greater immersion in the psychedelic trip.
Other strains such as White Rabbit and Whitebilly are also known for their potency and long-lasting effects. These stronger strains are ideal for those looking to deepen their magic mushroom experience and explore psychoactive effects beyond common levels, as well as for those advanced users who want to grow and consume less to achieve the same effect. Since – as we have already said – psilocybin concentrations vary between strains, it is important for users to adjust their dosage depending on the strain they use, thus avoiding unpleasant surprises.
As always, we invite you to leave your thoughts, ideas, or questions in the comments section, it’s a great way for us all to share knowledge and experiences!
