Shroom Dosage Chart By Weight: Understanding Psilocybin Doses and Their Varied Effects
Magic mushrooms, sometimes referred to as psilocybin mushrooms, possess the psychoactive substance psilocybin. In moderate to large doses, this can lead to hallucinogenic effects upon consumption. Many individuals are also starting to experiment with non-hallucinogenic doses, or microdoses, to improve their well-being without interfering with their day-to-day obligations.
In this article, you’ll learn what to expect in each dosing range, how different mushroom strains impact the dose, and how to best determine a microdose so that you can make the most informed decision possible when it comes to your own explorations. Ready? Let’s go!
Understanding Psilocybin Doses
Understanding shroom dosage is vital for a positive psychedelic experience.
Psychedelic mushrooms can cause distorted reality and perceptions of time, mood alterations, and enhanced sensory experiences. These changes can be perceived as positive or challenging, especially depending on the mindset and expectations of the person who ingested the mushrooms.
Preparation is one of the best tools for harm reduction and minimizing the potential for risk in a psychedelic journey. Understanding your intention for exploration can help you determine the best dose for your desires and ultimately reduce the risk of an unpleasant experience or “bad trip”.
Factors Influencing Magic Mushroom Dosage
Factors influencing the best mushroom dose vary from individual to individual and include body weight, metabolism, sensitivity, mushroom strain, and intended effects.
- Body Weight: The dosage of psilocybin mushrooms may need to be adjusted based on individual body weight, with heavier individuals potentially requiring a higher dose to achieve comparable effects to lighter individuals.
- Metabolism and Gut Health: The dosage of psilocybin mushrooms can be impacted by individual differences in metabolism, affecting the rate at which the body metabolizes and processes psilocybin. Variations in metabolic rates may result in a faster conversion of psilocybin to its active form, psilocin, influencing the onset and duration of psychedelic effects.
- Sensitivity: The impact of an individual’s sensitivity on the dosage of psilocybin mushrooms is noteworthy, as heightened sensitivity often calls for lower doses to achieve the desired effects. Individuals with increased sensitivity may undergo more intense reactions to the psychoactive compound, influencing the optimal dosage for a balanced and safe psychedelic experience.
- Mushroom Strain: There are over 200 species of mushrooms known to contain psilocybin and they each have their own characteristics. Additionally, the concentration of psilocybin can vary greatly between mushroom strains, making it challenging to standardize doses across strains.
- Intended Effects: The dosage of mushrooms can be influenced by the intended effects, with individuals aiming for mild enhancements in creativity or mood opting for lower quantities, while those seeking intense psychedelic experiences may require higher doses. Tailoring the dosage based on the desired outcome is essential for a personalized and intentional mushroom experience.
What effects will different doses of psilocybin have?
The potential effects of psilocybin from magic mushrooms vary by dose.
A microdose of 0.250 grams of dried psilocybin mushrooms or under is unlikely to produce classic psychedelic effects, but may offer subtle changes in perception such as increased awareness, uplifted mood, and improved focus.
A minidose of 0.5 grams of dried psilocybin mushrooms is likely to produce more bodily sensations such as lightness and enhanced colors. Psychedelic effects such as hallucinations and distorted time are unlikely at this dose.
A low dose of 1 gram of dried psilocybin mushrooms may produce euphoria and enhanced senses without full psychedelic effects.
A medium dose of 1.75 grams can lead to noticeable psychedelic experiences, including visuals and synesthesia, without a complete loss of self.
A high dose of 3.5 grams is likely to result in significant perceptual and cognitive distortions, making it a profound experience that requires a safe setting.
An ultra-high dose of 5 grams, known as a “heroic dose,” will likely lead to an overwhelming experience where one’s sense of self is lost. Recommended only for those with significant experience and a very safe environment.
Here’s a concise table summarizing the effects of different doses of dried psilocybin mushrooms and the estimated psilocybin content in this amount of mushrooms. The estimated concentration of psilocybin assumes the dried mushrooms contain 1% psilocybin.
| Dose Level | Amount (grams) | Psilocybin Content (mg) | Expected Effects |
| Micro | 0.25 | 0.0025 | Subtle changes in perception such as increased awareness, uplifted mood, and improved focus. No traditional psychedelic effects. |
| Mini | 0.5 | 0.005 | Increased bodily sensations such as feeling light or floaty and enhanced colors. Psychedelic effects such as hallucinations and distorted time are unlikely at this dose. |
| Low | 1 | 10 | Euphoria, enhanced senses, vibrant colors, no full-blown psychedelic effects. |
| Medium | 1.75 | 17.5 | Psychedelic effects, open- and closed-eye visuals, synesthesia, heavier euphoria, partial ego dissolution. |
| High | 3.5 | 35 | Euphoria, enhanced senses, vibrant colors, no full-blown psychedelic effects. |
| Ultra-High | 5 | 50 | Overwhelming experience, loss of sense of self, recommended only with significant experience and in a very safe environment. |
Shroom Strain Chart
The shroom strain chart presents the different dosing of specific mushroom strains to produce experiences aligned with a microdose, threshold, light, medium, strong, and heavy experience.
| Types of Shroom | Microdose(Dried and Fresh) | Threshold (Dried and Fresh) | Light (Dried and Fresh) | Medium (Dried and Fresh) | Strong (Dried and Fresh ) | Heavy (Dried and Fresh) |
| Psilocybe Cubensis | 0.1-0.2g and 1-2g | 0.25g and 2.5g | 0.25-1g and 2.5-10g | 1-2.5g and 10-25g | 2.5-5g and 25-30g | 50+g |
| McKenna | 0.075-0.15g and 0.75-1.5g | 0.2g and 2g | 0.2-0.75g and 2-7.5g | 0.75-2g and 7.5-20g | 2-4g and 20-40g | 4+g and 40+g |
| Golden Teachers | 0.1-0.2g and 1-2g | 0.25g and 2g | 0.25-1g and 2.5-10g | 1-2.5g and 10-25g | 2.5-5g and 25-50g | 5+g and 50+g |
| Psilocybe Azurescens | 0.075-0.15g and 0.75-1.5g | 0.2g and 2g | 0.2-0.5g and 2-5g | 0.5-1.75g and 5-17.5g | 1.75-2.5g and 17.5- 25g | 2.5+g and 25+g |
| Psilocybe Mexicana | 0.15-0.25g and 1.5-2.5g | 0.3g and 3g | 0.3-1.25g and 3-12.5g | 1.25-2.75g and 12.5-27.5g | 2.75-5g and 27.5-50g | 5+g and 50+g |
| Psilocybe Cyanescens | 0.075-0.15g and 0.75-1.5g | 0.2g and 2g | 0.2-0.65g and 2-6.5g | 0.65-1.5g and 6.5-15g | 1.5-3.3g and 15-33g | 3.3+g and 33+g |
| Psilocybe Tampanensis | 0.125-0.2g and 1.25g | 0.25g and 2.5g | 0.25-0.75g and 2.5-7.5g | 0.75-2g and 7.5-20g | 2-4.45g and 24-44.5g | 4.5+g and 45+g |
How do you calculate how much psilocybin to microdose?
A microdose is generally considered to be 5-10% of a recreational dose. For most people and mushroom strains, this will mean an appropriate microdose falls in the range of 0.05 – 0.250 grams (50 – 250 mg) of dried psilocybin mushrooms.
A microdose should not interfere with your day-to-day activities or cause traditional psychedelic effects such as synesthesia or distorted time or reality. Instead, most people describe the effect of a microdose as a subtle increase in awareness and overall uplifted mood.
In some instances, doses this small can lead to an increase in anxiety, irritation, or lack of focus. If this occurs, decreasing the dose often eliminates these types of experiences. Most experts recommend starting at the lowest end of a microdose range (50 mg) and slowly increasing over time to find the microdose amount you enjoy the most.
Our mini pack bundles include capsules from each of our microdosing blends and are a great way to explore what dose you enjoy best. Grab your mini pack here.
How do you find the best Microdose for you?
Finding the best microdose for yourself is easy if you follow these five essential steps: work with a high quality supplier, start low, observe your experience, fine tune your dose, and establish a routine.
- Work with a high-quality supplier: Begin by sourcing high-quality psychedelic mushrooms from a trusted and reputable supplier, ensuring they are free from contaminants and accurately identified and have clear and consistent dosing. Related: Learn how to find the best supplier here.
- Start Low: If you’re new to microdosing, start with the lowest dose possible, usually around 50 mg of dried psilocybin mushrooms. Consume the microdose on a day in which you have minimal responsibilities to reduce the risk of potential side effects impacting your day.
- Observing and Relaxing During the Experience: Set up a serene and comfortable environment to enhance self-awareness during the microdosing experience. Maintain a personal journal to document mood changes, energy levels, and any noticeable cognitive enhancements or challenges throughout the day.
- Fine-tuning the Dose If Necessary: Gradually increase the dose in subsequent sessions by 25-50 mg. These small increases allow you to comfortably explore multiple doses to find the one that supports you best. If you notice unpleasant effects such as anxiety or loss of focus, then you’re likely taking a dose that is too high for your current state.
- Establishing a Sustainable Microdosing Routine: Set a consistent dosing schedule, typically every 2-4 days, to maintain benefits while minimizing the development of tolerance. Regularly reassess your microdosing practice and consider breaks to prevent potential long-term effects, ensuring continued efficacy without compromising well-being.
Find your perfect microdose in the Microdosify Shop.
What Happens When You Take Overdose Shrooms?
When you take an overdose of shrooms or psilocybin-containing mushrooms, it can result in heightened hallucinations, severe anxiety, confusion, paranoia, and even episodes of psychosis.
In more critical situations, individuals may face elevated risks such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and elevated body temperature, potentially leading to organ failure and life-threatening complications.
These types of critical overdose situations are rare and mindful preparation and careful dosing can greatly minimize these risks.
FAQs
How should a first-time microdoser start taking magic mushrooms?
The first-time microdoser should start taking magic mushrooms by starting with a low dose (our Calm capsules have a soft 50 mg of Golden Teachers per dose), observing the effect over time, and work with a microdosing protocol.
How can you determine your sensitivity to psilocybin mushrooms?
You can determine your sensitivity to psilocybin mushrooms by beginning with a small dose, and progressively adjusting based on how you respond. This can help to minimize potential risks and optimize your psychedelic experiences over time
How long does it typically take for magic mushrooms to take effect?
It typically takes 20 – 40 minutes for magic mushrooms to take effect after ingestion.
What is the best microdosing protocol?
The best microdosing protocol for beginners is the James Fadiman protocol, although each protocol offers unique pros and cons. Read more about microdosing protocols for psilocybin here.
Final Thoughts
The dose can have a significant impact on a psychedelic experience. Understanding your intentions and being mindful while you explore different doses is vital in minimizing potential risks and preparing yourself for the best experience possible.
When it comes to microdosing magic mushrooms, specifically, starting at a very low dose, observing your experience over time, and working with a protocol is the best way to enhance your cognitive function, improve focus, and boost creativity.
If you’re still not sure what dose is best for you, our expert coaches can help you make the most informed decision possible. Book your 1 hour coaching call here.
References:
- The Therapeutic Potential of Psilocybin. Molecules by (2021) Lowe, H., Toyang, N., Steele, B., Valentine, H., Grant, J., Ali, A., Ngwa, W., & Gordon, L. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8156539/
- Magic Mushroom Dosing Guide: Finding Your Ideal Dose. (2023, October 23). https://psychedelic.support/resources/magic-mushroom-dosing-how-to/
- Psilocybin – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics. (n.d.). https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-95974-2.00014-1
- Garcia‐Romeu, A., Barrett, F. S., Carbonaro, T. M., Johnson, M. W., & Griffiths, R. R. (2021, February 20). Optimal dosing for psilocybin pharmacotherapy: Considering weight-adjusted and fixed dosing approaches. Journal of Psychopharmacology. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881121991822
By Rachel Grey
I’m Rachel Grey, a Ph.D. psychologist specializing in psychedelic therapy with psilocybin and natural plant medicines. I obtained my doctorate from the University of Toronto, where I immersed myself in the study of these transformative therapies. With over 10 years of experience, let’s embark on transformative journeys of healing, growth, and self-discovery as we explore the power of psychedelic therapy together.
