Magic mushroom doses can be confusing, especially if you’re a beginner in the world of psychedelics. As little as half a gram of dried shrooms can be the difference between an intense psychedelic trip and no experience at all…

By Connor McElroy Last Updated: October 31, 2023

If you’re curious about trying magic mushrooms, there are probably quite a few questions running through your mind.

One question that pops up a lot is, “How do you work out magic mushroom doses?”

While the optimal dose depends on a few factors (which we’ll cover below), the general range is between 0.1 and 0.2 grams for a microdose or 2–4 grams for a psychoactive dose.

The species of magic mushroom, strain selection, and form of administration can all affect the potency of the mushrooms you’re consuming.

Psilocybin & Psilocin: The Active Ingredients in Magic Mushrooms

One of the main compounds that makes magic mushrooms “magic” is called psilocybin. When consumed, this alkaloid is metabolized to psilocin in the liver. This compound then acts on the serotonin receptors in the brain. This compound’s interaction with the brain is what produces the psychedelic effects.

Psilocybin is the primary psychedelic component in magic mushrooms, but they also contain other compounds, like baeocystin, which may contribute to the overall psychedelic experience.

How To Dose Magic Mushrooms

The dose of magic mushrooms taken determines the effects. It goes without saying, but higher doses produce stronger psychedelic effects, and lower doses produce fewer visuals and other hallucinatory effects. 

Here’s a rundown on the five main stages of a psilocybin “trip” based on dose:

1. Sub-Perceptual Dose (Microdose)

1 to 5 milligrams of psilocybin (0.1 to 0.3 grams of dried Psilocybe cubensis).

A microdose is too low to produce noticeable psychedelic effects but high enough to benefit from its psychological action. Many people microdose psilocybin by consuming a small amount of magic mushrooms to alleviate certain psychological conditions.

Some people with ADHD have reported improved focus and concentration from microdosing, and others with depression or anxiety claim that it helps alleviate symptoms. It’s important to note that although some people benefit from microdosing shrooms, results aren’t consistent for everyone, and studies into the practice are lacking. 

2. Light Dose (Threshold Dose)

5 to 15 milligrams of psilocybin (0.5 to 1.5 grams of dried Psilocybe cubensis). 

A light psychedelic dose is slightly higher than a microdose and won’t cause a strong psychedelic trip but can alter perception. 

After consuming a light dose of magic mushrooms, you can expect to experience light visual stimulation, heightened sensory awareness, and an overall sense of calm.

3. Standard Dose

15 to 25 milligrams of psilocybin (1.5 to 2.5 grams of dried Psilocybe cubensis).

A standard psychedelic dose is what most people consume when they want to experience the true psychedelic effects of magic mushrooms. 

You may experience altered perception, changes in mood, enhanced creativity, and a sense of connection with your surroundings. Although light visuals may occur, vivid hallucinations are unlikely.

4. Strong Dose

25 to 40 milligrams of psilocybin (2.5 to 4 grams of dried Psilocybe cubensis).

Although only marginally more potent, a heroic dose is worlds apart from a “standard” dose. Consuming this much can send you spiraling into an intense psychedelic trip that can open your mind and expand the walls of consciousness.

At this level, the psychedelic effects become more pronounced, including strong visual hallucinations, profound alterations in thought patterns, and a deep sense of introspection. Individuals may encounter challenging and emotionally intense experiences. 

5. Heroic Dose

50 milligrams or more of psilocybin (5 grams or more of dried Psilocybe cubensis).

A heroic dose of psilocybin is not for the faint-hearted — these amounts are challenging and recommended only for experienced users who are well-prepared and in a supportive environment.

Doses this high are known for producing extremely intense and immersive psychedelic experiences. Visual hallucinations are vivid, and you may feel a profound connection to the universe. It’s common to undergo ego dissolution (ego death) during an experience of this level — losing one’s sense of self, ego, and/or identity.

How Potency Varies in Different Psilocybin Mushrooms

Magic mushroom is a term given to a variety of species that produce psilocybin. Although all “magic mushrooms” — when talking about true psychedelic fungi — contain psilocybin, the amount varies from species to species and shroom to shroom. Some species produce as little as 2 milligrams of psilocybin per gram of dried mushrooms; others have levels as high as 30 milligrams.

The most common psilocybin-producing species, and the shrooms you’re most likely to get your hands on, is called Psilocybe cubensis. 

P. cubensis is the most prevalent species of magic mushroom on the planet. It grows naturally across the globe, and it’s a favorite among mushroom cultivators. This species has over 100 different genetic variants known as “strains.” 

These strains vary in appearance, growth characteristics, and potency. Some strains, such as Golden Teacher, produce average psilocybin levels of 0.60%. Other strains, such as Penis Envy, can produce psilocybin levels as high as 2.90%.

As you can see, the potency of magic mushrooms can vary greatly, even within the same species. To work out dosages as accurately as possible, you must know what type of mushrooms you can access. A single gram of one shroom can have the same potency as five grams of another.