Ultimate Guide to Magic Mushrooms (Shrooms)
Discover everything you need to know about psilocybin mushrooms – from what they are and how they work, to tips for safe psychedelic journeys, mushroom varieties like Golden Teacher and Penis Envy, how to grow your own, and more. Let’s dive into the magic of shrooms!
What Are Magic Mushrooms?
Magic mushrooms are naturally-occurring fungi that contain psilocybin, a psychedelic compound. In plain terms, they are mushrooms that can induce hallucinations and profound shifts in perception. There are over 180 species of psilocybin mushrooms (the most common is Psilocybe cubensis). Known affectionately as "shrooms," these mushrooms have been used for thousands of years in ceremonies and healing practices. What makes them “magic” is the way psilocybin affects the human mind – often producing euphoria, visual distortions, and spiritual insights.
To the naked eye, magic mushrooms can look like ordinary small brown mushrooms – which is why proper identification is important (some toxic mushrooms look similar!). A signature feature is that many psilocybin mushrooms bruise blue when handled due to oxidization of psilocin. They typically have slender stems and brownish caps, but appearance varies by species.
Scientific Classification
Magic mushrooms are part of the larger kingdom of Fungi, which includes everything from edible mushrooms like Agaricus bisporus (button mushrooms) to molds and yeasts. Within this kingdom, psilocybin-containing mushrooms primarily belong to the following taxonomic groups:
- Kingdom: Fungi
- Phylum: Basidiomycota (club fungi)
- Class: Agaricomycetes
- Order: Agaricales
- Family: Hymenogastraceae (for Psilocybe species)
The most well-known species is Psilocybe cubensis, often referred to as the “gold standard” of magic mushrooms due to its widespread availability and moderate potency. Other notable species include Psilocybe semilanceata (Liberty Cap), Psilocybe azurescens (one of the most potent species), and Panaeolus cyanescens (Blue Meanies).
How Do Magic Mushrooms Differ from Non-Psychedelic Fungi?
While magic mushrooms share many characteristics with other fungi, they are distinguished by their unique biochemistry. Here’s how they differ:
- Psilocybin Content: Magic mushrooms contain psilocybin and psilocin, which are absent in non-psychedelic mushrooms. These compounds interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, producing psychedelic effects.
- Blue Bruising: Many psilocybin-containing mushrooms bruise blue when handled, a reaction caused by the oxidation of psilocin. This is a key identifying feature, though not all blue-bruising mushrooms are psychedelic.
- Ecological Role: Like other fungi, magic mushrooms play a role in decomposing organic matter and recycling nutrients in ecosystems. However, they are often found in specific habitats, such as dung-rich pastures (e.g., P. cubensis) or woody debris (e.g., P. azurescens).
- Toxicity: Unlike some non-psychedelic mushrooms (e.g., Amanita phalloides, the death cap), magic mushrooms are not inherently toxic. However, misidentification can be dangerous, as some toxic mushrooms resemble psilocybin species.
History and Cultural Significance
Ancient and Indigenous Uses
Magic mushrooms have a storied past deeply intertwined with human spirituality and healing. For thousands of years, indigenous cultures in regions like Central and South America have used these fungi in sacred rituals. They were seen as a gateway to the divine—a tool for healing, divination, and connecting with the natural world. Archaeological evidence, including cave paintings and ritual artifacts, supports their long-standing role in spiritual practices and communal ceremonies.
Modern Revival
The modern resurgence of magic mushrooms began in the mid-20th century, fueled by the counterculture movement that embraced alternative spiritual practices and psychedelic exploration. This renewed interest not only popularized recreational use but also paved the way for groundbreaking scientific research. Today, contemporary studies are investigating the therapeutic potential of psilocybin in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD, contributing to a growing field of psychedelic therapy. This blend of ancient wisdom and modern science continues to reshape how we understand and value magic mushrooms, making them a focal point in both cultural discussions and mental health innovation.
How Do Magic Mushrooms Work?
Magic mushrooms owe their effects to psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound. When ingested, psilocybin is rapidly converted into psilocin, the active molecule responsible for the mushrooms’ mind-altering effects. Psilocin interacts primarily with serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor, which plays a key role in regulating mood, perception, and cognition. This interaction leads to a cascade of neural changes, including increased connectivity between brain regions and altered patterns of activity.
The Science Behind Psilocybin’s Effects
Psilocybin to Psilocin Conversion:
- After ingestion, psilocybin is broken down in the liver into psilocin, which is chemically similar to serotonin.
- Psilocin then crosses the blood-brain barrier and binds to serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor.
Serotonin Receptor Activation:
- The 5-HT2A receptor is heavily concentrated in the brain’s cerebral cortex, the region responsible for higher-order thinking, perception, and self-awareness.
- Activation of these receptors leads to increased neural plasticity (the brain’s ability to reorganize itself) and enhanced communication between brain regions that don’t normally interact.
Altered Brain Connectivity:
- Studies using functional MRI (fMRI) have shown that psilocybin reduces activity in the default mode network (DMN), a brain network associated with self-referential thinking and the ego.
- At the same time, psilocybin increases connectivity between regions involved in sensory processing, emotion, and memory, leading to the vivid hallucinations and profound emotional experiences often reported during a trip.
Neuroplasticity and Long-Term Effects:
- Psilocybin has been shown to promote neurogenesis (the growth of new neurons) and synaptogenesis (the formation of new synaptic connections).
- These changes may explain why psilocybin can produce lasting improvements in mood and cognition, even after a single dose.
Effects and Experience
The effects of magic mushrooms vary significantly depending on the dosage, set (mindset), and setting (environment). Below, we’ll break down the typical experiences at different dosage levels—from microdosing to high doses—and explore how psilocybin is being studied for its therapeutic potential.
Effects by Dosage Level
| Dosage Level |
Amount (Dried P. cubensis) |
Duration |
| Microdose |
0.1–0.5 grams |
4–6 hours |
| Low Dose |
0.5–1.5 grams |
4–6 hours |
| Moderate Dose |
1.5–3.5 grams |
5–7 hours |
| High Dose |
3.5–5+ grams |
6–8 hours |
- Microdose: Subtle mood enhancement, increased creativity, improved focus. No hallucinations.
- Low Dose: Mild euphoria, enhanced colors, slight visual distortions, relaxed mood.
- Moderate Dose: Strong visual and auditory hallucinations, emotional introspection, time distortion.
- High Dose: Intense hallucinations, ego dissolution, profound spiritual or mystical experiences.
Therapeutic Effects of Psilocybin
Recent clinical trials have shown that psilocybin can have profound therapeutic effects, particularly for mental health conditions. Here are some key findings:
- Depression: A 2021 study by Johns Hopkins University found that a single dose of psilocybin, combined with psychotherapy, produced rapid and sustained reductions in depression symptoms. Many participants reported improvements lasting for months.
- PTSD: Research from Imperial College London suggests that psilocybin may help individuals with PTSD by promoting emotional processing and reducing fear responses.
- End-of-Life Anxiety: Studies have shown that psilocybin can alleviate anxiety and depression in patients with terminal illnesses, helping them come to terms with their mortality and improving their quality of life.
What to Expect During a Trip
A psilocybin trip typically unfolds in three phases:
- Onset (20–60 minutes): You may feel a sense of anticipation, mild euphoria, or slight nausea as the effects begin.
- Peak (2–3 hours): This is the most intense phase, characterized by vivid hallucinations, emotional breakthroughs, and altered perceptions of time and space.
- Comedown (2–3 hours): The intensity gradually fades, leaving you in a reflective and often euphoric state.
Benefits & Risks
Magic mushrooms have been used for centuries for their mind-expanding properties, but modern science is now uncovering their potential therapeutic benefits. However, like any substance, they come with risks that must be carefully managed.
Potential Therapeutic Benefits
Mental Health Treatment:
- Depression: Psilocybin has shown promise in treating treatment-resistant depression. A 2020 study by Johns Hopkins found that two doses of psilocybin, combined with therapy, led to significant improvements in 71% of participants.
- Anxiety: Research has demonstrated that psilocybin can reduce anxiety in patients with terminal illnesses, helping them face end-of-life challenges with greater peace and acceptance.
- PTSD: Early studies suggest that psilocybin may help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce symptoms of PTSD.
Addiction Treatment:
- Psilocybin has been studied for its ability to break patterns of addiction, particularly in cases of smoking and alcohol dependence. A 2014 study by Johns Hopkins found that 80% of participants who received psilocybin-assisted therapy quit smoking, with many remaining abstinent for over a year.
End-of-Life Care:
- Psilocybin has been shown to reduce existential distress and improve quality of life in patients with terminal illnesses. A 2016 study by NYU Langone Medical Center found that a single dose of psilocybin significantly reduced anxiety and depression in cancer patients.
Risks and Safety Considerations
Psychological Risks:
- Bad Trips: High doses or unfavorable settings can lead to intense anxiety, paranoia, or disturbing hallucinations.
- Emotional Vulnerability: Psilocybin can bring unresolved emotions to the surface, which may be challenging for some individuals.
Physical Risks:
- Nausea: Many users experience mild nausea during the onset of a trip.
- Dizziness or Headaches: These are rare but possible side effects.
Legal Risks:
- Psilocybin remains illegal in most countries, and possession or use can lead to legal consequences.
Safety Tips
- Set and Setting: Your mindset and environment play a huge role in your experience. Always use magic mushrooms in a safe, comfortable environment with trusted individuals.
- Start Low, Go Slow: Begin with a low dose to gauge your sensitivity.
- Avoid Mixing Substances: Do not combine psilocybin with alcohol or other drugs.
How to Dose Magic Mushrooms?
Dosing magic mushrooms correctly is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. The potency of mushrooms can vary significantly depending on the species and strain, so it’s important to understand these differences before consuming. Below, we’ll provide a detailed guide to dosing—including a dosage chart for different strains—and explain how to use this information responsibly.
Fresh vs. Dried Mushrooms
Fresh mushrooms are about 90% water, so 10 grams of fresh mushrooms are roughly equivalent to 1 gram of dried mushrooms.
How much shrooms should you take?
Here’s a general guide to dosing based on experience level:
Magic mushrooms beginner dosage
Beginner dose: 1-2 grams of dried Magic Mushrooms or 10-20 grams of fresh Magic Mushrooms.
For beginner users it is generally advised to start with a lower dose to gauge sensitivity. A moderate dose can help ease into the experience while minimizing the risk of overwhelming effects.
Magic mushrooms Average dosage
Intermediate dose: 2-3.5 grams of dried Magic Mushrooms or 20-35 grams of fresh Magic Mushrooms.
Intermediate users with prior experience might opt for a slightly higher dose to deepen their understanding while maintaining control.
Magic mushrooms high dosage
High dose: 3.5-5 grams of dried Magic Mushrooms or 35-50 grams of fresh Magic Mushrooms (experts only).
Advanced users, the true experienced psychonauts, can sometimes take higher doses with the understanding of their limits.
The correct personalised dosage of Magic Mushrooms is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Key Considerations for Dosing
Potency Variations:
Keep in mind, potency varies by mushroom type and even individual batch. A particularly strong strain like Penis Envy can be 2-3x more potent than standard, so 1g of Penis Envy might feel like 2g of ordinary cubensis. When in doubt, start with a smaller amount and wait 1-2 hours before deciding to take more. Because tolerance builds quickly, you generally can’t increase intensity by a lot after the first dose in one session – better to save it for another day.
Strains like the Psilocybe azurescens are significantly more potent than standard P. cubensis strains like Golden Teacher. Always start with a lower dose if you’re trying a new strain.
Tolerance:
Psilocybin tolerance builds quickly. If you take mushrooms multiple days in a row, you’ll need a higher dose to achieve the same effects. It’s best to wait at least 1–2 weeks between trips to reset your tolerance.
Tip: For precise dosing, especially if making teas or edibles, weigh your dried mushrooms with a scale. If you’re not sure about potency, doing an online dosage calculator or referencing an experience report can help calibrate your expectations. Remember, you can always take more next time, but you can’t un-take a dose – so err on the side of caution.
How to Microdose Magic Mushrooms
Microdosing involves taking a sub-perceptual dose of magic mushrooms—enough to enhance creativity, focus, and mood without inducing a full psychedelic experience. Below, we’ll explore how to microdose effectively.
What Are the Different Methods for Microdosing Magic Mushrooms?
Capsules
Grind dried mushrooms into a fine powder and fill gelatin capsules with a measured dose (e.g., 0.1–0.3 grams).
Pros: Precise dosing, tasteless, and easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
Cons: Requires preparation and a capsule-filling kit.
Tea
Brew a small amount of dried mushrooms (0.1–0.5 grams) into tea. This method can reduce nausea and make the dose easier to consume.
Pros: Gentle on the stomach, fast absorption.
Cons: Slight preparation time.
Edibles
Mix powdered mushrooms into food or drinks, such as smoothies or chocolate.
Pros: Discreet and enjoyable to consume.
Cons: Slower onset due to digestion.
Tinctures
Psilocybin tinctures (liquid extracts) allow for precise dosing and easy absorption.
Pros: Highly customizable and easy to use.
Cons: Less common and may require preparation.
For more detailed information, check out our In-Depth Guide on Microdosing Psilocybin.
Microdosing vs. Full Dose:
Microdosing involves consuming a minimal, sub-perceptual amount of mushrooms to achieve subtle cognitive or mood enhancements without inducing an entire psychedelic state. A full-dose experience is intended to produce noticeable and often transformative psychedelic effects.
Microdose: ~0.1 – 0.5 gram (100-500 mg) – sub-perceptual, no hallucinations, used for creativity/mood.
How to Take Shrooms – Consumption Methods
Magic mushrooms can be consumed in several forms. Here are popular methods, with their pros and cons:
Eating Them Raw or Dried
The simplest way: just chew and swallow. Fresh mushrooms can be eaten as is (though their taste is earthy and not pleasant to everyone). Dried shrooms are more commonly consumed; you can chew them or toss them into food. Chewing thoroughly helps release the psilocybin. Expect onset in 30-60 minutes.
Pros: Easiest method, nothing to prepare.
Cons: Some get nausea (eating something light beforehand can help), taste is bitter.
Tip: Many users recommend fasting for 2–3 hours before consuming mushrooms to reduce nausea.
Shroom Tea
Brewing mushrooms into a tea is a popular method that can ease digestion issues, reduce nausea and make the whole experience smoother. To make mushroom tea, grind your dose of dried shrooms, steep in hot (not boiling) water with a bit of lemon (optional), for 10-15 minutes. You can add actual tea bags or ginger/honey to improve flavor. Drink the tea (and you can eat the mushroom bits too for full effect). Onset is often faster – as quick as 15-20 minutes – and the come-up smoother.
Pros: Gentler on the stomach (many report less nausea), faster onset, easy to ingest.
Cons: Slight prep time; need to be careful with water temperature (boiling water can degrade psilocybin).
Tip: Adding ginger to shroom tea can help settle the stomach.
Lemon Tek
Lemon tekking is a method where you soak ground mushrooms in lemon or lime juice for 20 minutes before consuming. The acidic juice partially converts psilocybin to psilocin (similar to how our stomach does), potentially making the come-up faster and the trip a bit more intense but shorter-lived. After soaking, you drink the whole mixture (mushroom bits and lemon juice). Many users swear this produces a stronger, cleaner experience.
Pros: Rapid onset (15-20 min), possibly stronger peak, less gut discomfort as the citric acid does pre-digestion.
Cons: Trip might be shorter overall; intensity can surprise those expecting a normal come-up.
Tip: For lemon tek, some users suggest using a coffee grinder to achieve a fine powder for better absorption.
Capsules or Edibles
Some people grind dried shrooms into a powder and put them in gelatin capsules (“microdose caps” or “hallucinogenic caps”). This can mask the taste completely. Edibles like mushroom chocolates or gummies are also options – these are basically powdered shroom material embedived in food.
Pros: Tastiest way to consume, very discreet (a chocolate could be mistaken for regular candy).
Cons:Onset is on the slower side (since your body must break down the capsule or chocolate); also one must be careful to evenly distribute the dose in edibles.
Regardless of method, always label your shroom preparations clearly and keep them out of reach of unintended consumers (especially children or roommates who might mistake them for regular snacks!). And hydrate – have water or a gentle drink like lemonade on hand during the trip.
Popular Magic Mushroom Strains & Varieties
Magic mushrooms come in many species and strains, each with its own unique characteristics and effects. At Azarius, we specialize in Psilocybe cubensis, the most widely cultivated and studied psychedelic mushroom species. Below, we’ll explore the sub-varieties of P. cubensis that we offer, along with their potency, effects, and recommended use.
Psilocybe cubensis (Classic Shrooms)
P. cubensis is the most common psychedelic mushroom species, widely cultivated and distributed. Many strains (sub-varieties) belong to this species. Effects are the “standard” shroom experience – a balance of visual, auditory, and emotional effects. Potency is moderate (around 0.6% psilocybin by weight dried), but can vary slightly between strains. If you buy a grow kit or dried shrooms, chances are they’re P. cubensis.
Amazonian
Users report cheerful and positive trips, enhanced sensory perception, and creative ideas. PES Amazonian are ideal for those seeking a mild yet euphoric psychedelic journey that enhances colours, laughter, and overall mood.
Background: The PES Amazonian psilocybin mushroom, also known as PESA, hails from the rich biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest. Developed by Pacifica Spora, this strain thrives in tropical conditions and is well-known for its vigorous growth and large, fleshy mushrooms.
B+ Mushrooms
Users report cheerful and positive trips, enhanced sensory perception, and creative ideas. B+ Mushrooms are ideal for those seeking a mild yet euphoric psychedelic journey that enhances colours, laughter, and overall mood.
Background: B+ magic mushrooms are celebrated for their large, robust fruits and adaptability. Originating from an unknown source, known for their caramel-coloured caps and thick stems.
Cambodia
Users report cheerful and positive trips, enhanced sensory perception, and creative ideas. Cambodia are ideal for those seeking a mild yet euphoric psychedelic journey that enhances colours, laughter, and overall mood.
Background: Originating from Southeast Asia, these mushrooms are characterised by their large fruits and uniform caps. Cambodia magic mushrooms are well-known for their fast colonisation and high yield.
Golden Teacher
Users report cheerful and positive trips, enhanced sensory perception, and creative ideas. Golden Teacher are ideal for those seeking a mild yet euphoric psychedelic journey that enhances colours, laughter, and overall mood.
Background: Golden Teacher magic mushrooms are one of the most popular and well-known strains of Psilocybe cubensis. Recognisable by their distinct golden caps with specks of yellow, these mushrooms are celebrated for their profound effects on the mind and spirit.
Mazatapec
Users report cheerful and positive trips, enhanced sensory perception, and creative ideas. Mazatapec are ideal for those seeking a mild yet euphoric psychedelic journey that enhances colours, laughter, and overall mood.
Background: Originating from Mexico, Mazatapec mushrooms are known for their robust fruits and large caps, these mushrooms are popular among cultivators for their reliable growth and strong effects.
McKennaii
Users report cheerful and positive trips, enhanced sensory perception, and creative ideas. McKennaii are ideal for those seeking a strong euphoric psychedelic journey that enhances colours, laughter, and overall mood.
Background: The McKennaii magic mushroom strain is named after the famous psychonaut Terence McKenna. Known for its potency and unique appearance, this strain produces robust mushrooms with thick stems and distinctive caps.
Mexican
Users report cheerful and positive trips, enhanced sensory perception, and creative ideas. Mexican are ideal for those seeking a mild yet euphoric psychedelic journey that enhances colours, laughter, and overall mood.
Background: The Mexican magic mushroom strain is native to Mexico and has a long history of use in indigenous ceremonies. Known for its resilience and ease of cultivation, this strain produces small to medium-sized mushrooms with golden brown caps.
Treasure Coast
Users report cheerful and positive trips, enhanced sensory perception, and creative ideas. Treasure Coast are ideal for those seeking a mild yet euphoric psychedelic journey that enhances colours, laughter, and overall mood.
Background: Originating from the Florida coast, Treasure Coast mushrooms are known for their dense clusters and large fruits.
Other Notable Mushroom Species
While P. cubensis is the most common species, there are other fascinating magic mushrooms worth mentioning:
Liberty Caps (Psilocybe semilanceata)
P. semilanceata, nicknamed Liberty Cap, is a small mushroom common in the wild, often found in grassy meadows in Europe and North America. They have a conical, bell-shaped cap with a little pointy tip. Liberty Caps are quite potent for their size and can produce very spiritual experiences. However, they look similar to some toxic species, so never consume wild mushrooms unless you are 100% certain of their identification.
Psilocybe azurescens
Often cited as the world’s strongest mushroom, P. azurescens contains significantly more psilocybin than P. cubensis. Native to the Pacific Northwest USA, this wood-loving mushroom produces intense trips with vivid visuals and a heavy body load. Due to its potency, it’s recommended only for very experienced users.
How To Grow Your Own Magic Mushrooms
Many psychonauts turn to home cultivation to ensure a steady, safe supply of mushrooms. The good news: growing shrooms is quite accessible now, thanks to ready-made kits and online tutorials. These kits are perfect for beginners and experienced growers alike, as they come pre-inoculated with mushroom mycelium, eliminating the need for complex sterile techniques. Below, we’ll walk you through the basics of using grow kits, including what you’ll need and how to avoid common mistakes.
What are Magic Mushroom Grow Kits
If you’re new, a magic mushroom grow kit is the easiest route to grow your own Shrooms. These kits come with a container already inoculated with mushroom mycelium (often a strain of P. cubensis) – basically, the hard work is done. You typically just add water and keep the kit in the right conditions (around ~22-25°C and out of direct light). Within a few weeks, you’ll see mushrooms sprouting! One kit can yield multiple “flushes” of mushrooms, often totaling anywhere from 30 to 100 grams dried over its life.
Why Choose a Magic Mushroom Grow Kit?
Grow kits are the simplest and most reliable way to cultivate magic mushrooms at home. Here’s why they’re so popular:
- Beginner-Friendly: No prior experience or special equipment is required.
- All-in-One Solution: The kits come with everything you need to get started, including substrate and mycelium.
- High Success Rate: Grow kits are designed for optimal conditions, ensuring a high yield with minimal effort.
What’s Included in a Magic Mushroom Grow Kit?
A typical grow kit includes:
- Pre-Colonized Substrate: The substrate is already inoculated with mycelium, so you don’t need to worry about spores or contamination.
- Growing Container: A sterile environment for the mushrooms to grow.
- Instructions: Step-by-step guidance to help you through the process.
Supplies You’ll Need to Handle Your Mushroom Grow Kits
While the grow kit includes most of what you need, here are a few additional items to make the process smoother:
- Spray Bottle: When growing mushrooms, moisture control is key to success.
- Gloves: To handle the kit and mushrooms hygienically.
- Heating Mat: If your room is too cold, a heating mat can help maintain the ideal temperature.
- Thermometer: To monitor the temperature.
- Light Source: Indirect light is needed during the fruiting stage.
Spray Bottle
When growing mushrooms, moisture control is key to success. The goal is to create a fine mist that ensures your mushroom grow kit stays moist, not wet. By providing the right amount of humidity without soaking the substrate, a misting bottle helps create the ideal environment for healthy mycelium growth and abundant mushroom fruiting.
Background: The Ultra-Fine Misting Bottle creates a light, even mist that adds humidity to your mushroom grow kit without leaving behind water droplets. Unlike traditional spray bottles, which can leave the surface too wet, this bottle’s ultra-fine mist gently hydrates the air inside the grow kit, helping to maintain the perfect moisture level for mushroom growth.
Sterile Latex Gloves
When growing magic mushrooms in grow kits, latex gloves are often used to keep the environment sterile and clean. It's important to avoid contamination, as fungi are very sensitive to bacteria, spores from other fungi, or contaminants that may be floating in the air.
Sterile Latex Gloves: Handle your mushroom grow kits with confidence and precision using Pre-Powdered Sterile Latex Gloves. Perfect for mushroom cultivation, these gloves provide the cleanliness and dexterity needed to maintain a sterile environment.
Mushroom Heat Mat
For optimal growth, mushrooms generally need a temperature between 21°C to 24°C (70°F to 75°F), depending on the species. For many types of mushrooms, especially popular strains of Psilocybe cubensis, maintaining this temperature range helps speed up the colonisation of the substrate and ensures healthy fruiting bodies.
Infrared Mushroom Heat Mat: By providing a consistent heat source, your mushrooms are more likely to grow uniformly, leading to larger, more reliable harvests. The heat mat creates a stable environment that encourages rapid mushroom development, cutting down growth time by days or even weeks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with grow kits, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overwatering: Too much water can drown the mycelium. Follow the instructions carefully.
- Poor Ventilation: While mushrooms need humidity, they also require fresh air. Make sure the kit has some airflow.
- Contamination: Always handle the kit with clean hands or gloves to avoid introducing bacteria or mold.
- Incorrect Temperature: Keep the kit in a stable environment (20–25°C). Too cold, and growth will slow; too hot, and the mycelium may die.
Tips from the Community
Here are some additional tips:
- Use a Heating Mat: If your room is too cold, a heating mat can help maintain the ideal temperature.
- Rotate the Kit: Turning the kit occasionally can promote even growth.
- Be Patient: Mushrooms grow at their own pace. Avoid the temptation to over-handle the kit.
Ready to start your mushroom-growing journey? Check out our Magic Mushroom Grow Guide for a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced grower, our guide will help you get the most out of your grow kit.
Legal Status of Magic Mushrooms
The legal status of magic mushrooms varies wildly around the world. In most countries, psilocybin (the active compound) is a controlled substance, making the mushrooms illegal to possess, cultivate, or sell. However, there are nuances:
- Netherlands: Dried mushrooms are illegal, but psilocybin truffles (sclerotia) are legal and sold in smartshops. Azarius itself started in Amsterdam selling these truffles. So while “mushrooms” are banned, a loophole allows truffles – which produce similar effects – to be enjoyed legally.
- USA: At the federal level, psilocybin is Schedule I (illegal). However, cities like Denver, Oakland, Seattle and the state of Oregon have decriminalized personal use, meaning it’s lowest law enforcement priority. Oregon in 2023 legalized supervised psilocybin therapy, and Colorado is implementing something similar. Outside these areas, getting caught with mushrooms can lead to criminal charges.
- Europe: Mixed. Many countries ban psilocybin outright. Some (like Portugal) decriminalize personal quantities of all drugs. In Czech Republic and Spain, personal cultivation for private use has been somewhat tolerated (gray area). Always research your local laws.
- Rest of World: Latin American countries like Brazil surprisingly have legal gray areas where mushrooms aren’t scheduled. Jamaica and the Bahamas legally allow psychedelic mushroom retreats (it’s a tourism draw). On the other hand, places like Japan are very strict against psilocybin.
Bottom line: Before picking, growing, or tripping on shrooms, know your local laws. Penalties range from fines to jail time in strict jurisdictions. Many enthusiasts decide to travel to places like Amsterdam or retreat centers in Jamaica to have a legal experience. The landscape is changing rapidly with the “psychedelic renaissance” – so what’s illegal today might become legal for therapy in a few years. Always stay updated.
Ready to Explore? If you’re feeling prepared to embark on your own magic mushroom journey, visit the Azarius Shroomshop for everything you need. From easy grow kits to magic truffles, we’ve got you covered (for the places where it’s legal). And if you still have questions, don’t hesitate to explore our other psychedelic guides or reach out to our community. Stay curious, stay safe, and enjoy the trip!
Magic Mushroom FAQ
How long do shrooms take to kick in?
On average, 30-60 minutes if eaten or in tea. It can be shorter (15-20 min) with lemon tek or on an empty stomach. If after 1 hour you feel nothing, you might have a higher tolerance or a weaker batch – but always wait a full 2 hours before considering taking more, to avoid accidental overdosage.
How long does a shroom trip last?
Typically 4-6 hours of active effects for a moderate dose. The peak is usually in the midivle 2-3 hours. Afterglow effects (feeling happy, thoughtful, or just drained) can linger through the day. Higher doses can push experiences to 7-8 hours. Some shorter-acting species (or tea method) might wrap up in ~4 hours.
Can I microdose daily?
It’s not recommended to microdose every single day because tolerance builds. A common microdosing schedule is one day on, one or two days off (e.g., Monday, Wednesday, Friday dosing, other days off). This prevents tolerance and keeps the effect subtle. Always listen to your body and take breaks – some do a few weeks on, then a week off.
Are shrooms addictive?
No, psilocybin mushrooms are not physically addictiveThey don’t create chemical dependency, and actually after a strong trip people often need a break to integrate the experience. There’s also a natural limit: if you take shrooms too often, they stop working well due to tolerance. That said, any activity can become a habit – a small number of people could misuse them as an escape. But it’s far less common than with alcohol or opioids, for example.
What’s the difference between mushrooms and truffles?
Magic truffles are the underground sclerotia produced by certain mushroom species (like Psilocybe tampanensis). They contain psilocybin too. Effect-wise, there’s no big difference; 15g of fresh truffles from a smartshop can induce a trip similar to an average mushroom dose. The main difference is legal: in some places (like NL) only truffles are legal. Truffles are often slightly milder by weight than the most potent dried mushrooms, but they are absolutely psychoactive. Taste is different too – truffles are crunchy and nutty, mushrooms are more fleshy.
Can I mix shrooms with other substances?
Approach combinations with extreme caution. Do NOT mix with alcohol– it can dull the experience at best and make you nauseous or mentally uneasy at worst. Cannabis is one combo some use to either ease anxiety (a puff on the comedown) or enhance visuals, but it affects everyone differently and can increase confusion. Combining with other psychedelics (LSD, etc.) is not for the faint of heart – it can create a very intense, uncontrollable trip. MDMA with shrooms (“hippie flipping”) is reportedly euphoric for some, but again, these are advanced combinations and carry additional risks (like higher body load). If you’re not very experienced, enjoy the pure mushroom experience on its own. It’s usually quite sufficient!
Are fresh mushrooms more potent than dried ones?
Contrary to popular belief, fresh mushrooms are known to be a little bit more potent than dried ones and have the potential to offer a slightly more intense trip. This is due to the psilocybin in the mushrooms being more stable when fresh than when dried.
How do I store magic mushrooms?
If they are fresh, you must refrigerate and consume within 1-3 days or they will rot. For longer keeping, you need to dry them completely (cracker dry). Dried mushrooms should be stored in an airtight container (a glass jar with silica gel packs is ideal) kept in a cool, dark place. This way, they can stay potent for many months, even a year or more. Avoid humidity – any moisture can invite mold. For truffles: keep them in the fridge in their sealed pack; they last a couple of months refrigerated.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes. Azarius does not encourage illegal activities. Wherever you are, act responsibly and within the law.
References to Mycology Studies
For those interested in diving deeper into the science of magic mushrooms, here are some key references:
- Stamets, P. (1996). Psilocybin Mushrooms of the World: A comprehensive guide to identifying psilocybin-containing species, written by renowned mycologist Paul Stamets.
- Guzmán, G. (2005). Species Diversity of the Genus Psilocybe: A detailed taxonomic study of psilocybin mushrooms, including their distribution and ecology. Link to ResearchGate
- Nichols, D. E. (2016). Psychedelics: A review of the pharmacological effects of psilocybin and other psychedelics: Published in Pharmacological Reviews, this review examines the effects of psilocybin and related compounds. Link to Pubmed
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