Magic Mushrooms
Magic mushrooms contain psilocybin, which converts to psilocin in the body and acts on serotonin receptors. They are physiologically very safe — no recorded human lethal dose — but require psychological preparation and respect.
dosage — dried mushrooms
| level | grams (dried) | what to expect |
|---|
| microdose | 0.05–0.15g | Sub-perceptual. No trip, subtle mood or focus shift. |
| low | 0.5–1g | Mild effects. Good for first timers. |
| moderate | 1–2.5g | Clear psychedelic experience, visual effects. |
| high | 2.5–4g | Intense. Ego softening, significant perceptual change. |
| very high | 4g+ | Possible ego dissolution. Experienced users only. |
⚠ Potency varies between strains. Golden Teacher, Penis Envy, and other strains differ significantly. Same weight = different experience with different strains. Always start low with any new batch.
unit confusion — mg vs g
- Mushrooms are dosed in grams (g) — not milligrams (mg) or micrograms (µg)
- 1 gram = 1000mg. A 0.1g dose = 100mg — about the size of a raisin
- Use a scale accurate to 0.01g minimum. Kitchen scales are not precise enough for microdosing
- Mushroom extract products (oils, chocolates) may list doses differently — check if it's dry weight equivalent
first time guide
- Start with 1–1.5g maximum. You can always take more next time — you can't take less once it's in
- Safe, comfortable, familiar setting — your own home or a trusted friend's
- Have a sober, trusted person present — not required at low doses but strongly recommended above 2g
- No obligations for the entire day and the day after
- Eat lightly 4 hours beforehand, stay hydrated
- Prepare music — it shapes the experience significantly
- If it gets difficult: change position, change music, go outside, breathe — surrender rather than fight
- Difficult experiences are often the most meaningful in retrospect
harm reduction
- Test with a fentanyl strip if using any processed product (chocolates, capsules) — contamination has occurred
- Don't mix with lithium — seizure risk, combination has caused deaths
- Cannabis significantly amplifies effects — avoid or use very sparingly
- If on SSRIs, effects will likely be blunted — don't stop medication to "reset"
- Allow 4–6 weeks minimum between experiences for integration
- Personal or family history of psychosis is a contraindication — seek professional advice first
microdosing
- Typical range: 0.05–0.15g dried. Below the threshold of noticeable effects
- Fadiman protocol: dose every 3 days (day 1: dose, day 2: rest, day 3: rest, repeat)
- Stamets protocol: 5 days on, 2 days off
- Track mood, sleep, focus, and creativity in a journal — effects are subtle
- Run for 4–8 weeks then take a break to assess
- Evidence base is mostly community reports — approach with open but critical mind
Ask Psychnosis anything — dosage, combinations, microdosing protocols, first time advice, or harm reduction for your specific situation.
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related guides
harm reduction reference only · not medical advice · individual responses vary · always cross-reference · psychnosis.org