Psilocybe cubensis, also known as magic mushrooms, has captured the fascination of many seeking to explore its intriguing properties. Renowned for its potential in various fields such as mental health and spiritualism, this species stands out with a rich history and cultural significance that continue to be subjects of study and discussion. As enthusiasts delve into cultivation techniques or researchers investigate therapeutic uses, psilocybe cubensis remains at the forefront of psychedelic research. This listicle peels back the layers on this remarkable fungus, offering insights into why it’s become such a focal point for both scientific inquiry and personal discovery. For an in-depth look at our top picks that shed light on the multifaceted aspects of psilocybe cubensis, read on. 1. Golden Teacher Golden Teacher mushrooms are easily identified by their iconic golden caps with specks of yellow. They stand out in the wild and among other Psilocybe cubensis varieties due to this unique feature. Beginners often choose Golden Teacher for their first experience with psychoactive compounds because they offer a milder potency compared to other strains. This allows newcomers to ease into the world of psychedelics without feeling overwhelmed. The effects of Golden Teachers are renowned for being insightful, providing users with profound revelations and a sense of interconnectedness that can be pivotal for personal growth. It’s these qualities that make them a favorite among those seeking spiritual or shamanic experiences. Despite their lower potency, they still contain significant amounts of psilocybin, the psychoactive compound responsible for their mind-altering effects. As such, while they may be gentler than high-potency strains, caution and respect should always guide their use. In terms of growing conditions, like many Psilocybe cubensis species, Golden Teachers thrive on substrates rich in nutrients found in materials like wood which is often part of their cultivation medium. 2. B+ Strain The B+ strain of Psilocybe cubensis is renowned for its impressive size. Its fruiting bodies grow notably large, making it a visually striking variety among mushroom strains. Adaptability is one of this strain’s key strengths. It thrives in diverse growing conditions, showcasing resilience that makes it a popular choice for cultivators. This adaptability stems from the strain’s broad geographic origins, which contribute to its robustness and stability. When consumed, the B+ delivers effects that are both warm and positive. Users often report a strong sense of friendliness and an uplifted mood. This makes the B+ particularly suitable for social settings where a high can enhance group interactions without overwhelming individuals. Unlike some potent strains known for intense experiences, the B+ offers more than just potency—it ensures an enjoyable experience with accuracy in its effects. The compounds within this type provide consistency in their impact on body and mind. In terms of coloration, while many cubensis varieties exhibit a brown coloration, what sets the B+ apart are not only visual characteristics but also qualitative attributes such as efforts towards quantification and analysis to ensure purpose-driven usage by enthusiasts seeking specific experiences or researchers engaged in scientific studies. 3. Penis Envy Penis Envy is a unique strain of Psilocybe cubensis, well-known for its unusual phallic shape. Its appearance isn’t the only distinctive feature; it’s also recognized for delivering exceptionally potent effects compared to other strains. Those who seek out Penis Envy are often experienced psychonauts chasing intense visual hallucinations. These powerful experiences make it a sought-after variety within the psychedelic community. However, cultivating Penis Envy mushrooms presents more challenges than other Psilocybe cubensis strains. Their growth cycle is finicky and requires precise conditions to thrive, contributing to their rarity. This difficulty in cultivation directly impacts availability and price. As a result, Penis Envy tends to be rarer on the market and may carry a higher cost when found. Despite these hurdles, the demand remains high due to its reputation for providing profound insights and strong euphoria alongside vivid visual effects. 4. Blue Meanie The Blue Meanie strain is distinguished by its unique reaction to being touched; where fingers meet the mushroom, a bluish hue appears. This color change is due to bruising, a characteristic that makes it stand out among other psilocybe cubensis varieties. Users seeking an intense psychedelic experience often turn to Blue Meanies for their potent effects. The high is known for delivering powerful visuals and prompting deep introspective thoughts, making it a popular choice for those looking to explore their inner psyche or enhance creative thinking. In cultivation circles, this strain has earned recognition for its rapid colonization times. Its mycelial growth proves more aggressive than many of its counterparts, which can be advantageous for cultivators eager to see quick results from their efforts. For enthusiasts interested in the cultivation and experiential aspects of psilocybe cubensis, the Blue Meanie offers both practical growing advantages and profound psychoactive experiences. Its distinctive may also contribute to easier identification and appeal amongst connoisseurs within the community. 5. Amazonian The Amazonian variety of Psilocybe cubensis is a potent strain that thrives in the lush, tropical regions of the Amazon rainforest. It’s celebrated for cultivating robust and dense mushrooms, which are as visually impressive as they are powerful. These mushrooms stand out for delivering an intense cerebral high. Users often report experiencing profound philosophical insights during their journeys with Amazonians, making them a favorite among psychonauts seeking more than just visual stimulation. Under optimal conditions, the Amazonian can produce very large mushrooms. This characteristic has made it popular among cultivators who aim to maximize yield while exploring the depths of their consciousness. Here’s what sets the Amazonian apart: 6. Cambodian The Cambodian strain of Psilocybe cubensis was discovered near the majestic Angkor Wat temple complex. This historical backdrop hints at its mystical nature, but it’s also a practical choice for cultivators due to its love for hot, humid climates. Growers appreciate the Cambodian variety for its quick colonization times. This means that from spore to harvest, you’ll find this particular strain is less of a wait compared to others. The ease of cultivation makes it popular among beginners and those using

Like the psychedelic experiences it induces, psilocybin’s history has been a long and complicated one. From its employment in religious rites in prehistoric societies through its rise to fame in the counterculture revolution. The story of psychedelic mushrooms in many ways reflects the history of humanity, from ground-breaking discoveries in science to the gloomy days of magic mushrooms. This comprehensive article includes psilocybin’s whole historical development, which has been described as both wonderful, sad, and inspirational. A Introductory History of Psilocybin Mushrooms – From Ancient Eras to the Modern Age The main “ingredient” responsible for the hallucinogenic effects of the magic mushroom is psilocybin. It has been utilized for ceremonial, religious, medical, and recreational purposes for thousands of years. The Prehistoric Era and the Magic Mushroom Since the beginning of human civilization approximately 12,000 years ago, psychoactive mushrooms have been utilized, and they may have even been used earlier. The first proof of psychedelic mushroom use is artwork that was discovered in what is now Northern Australia and features psychedelic images of mushrooms. It has been traced back to roughly 10,000 BCE by archaeologists and modern dating techniques. Magic mushrooms may have been available to and consumed by prehistoric humans in Europe about 4,000 BCE, according to cave paintings in what is now considered Spain. According to some experts, humans have been ingesting psilocybin since our brains evolved and we became evolutionarily unique. This is due in part to the fact that other animals besides humans seek out and ingest hallucinogenic substances. For starters, many other animals actively pursue and eat psychoactive substances, including dolphins that take pufferfish venom, reindeer who consume Amanita Muscaria mushrooms (a form of magic mushroom), and jaguars that devour the vine, root, and leaf of the psychedelic Caapi plant more commonly known as ayahuasca. Psilocybe mushrooms are ubiquitous on every continent except Antarctica currently, therefore early hominids migrating out of the rainforest and into the savanna and beyond must have seen and presumably ingested hallucinogenic mushrooms, unintentionally gaining an evolutionary advantage due to the fungi’s effects leading to a heightened state of self-awareness. The Stoned Ape Hypothesis and Magic Mushrooms Terence McKenna, an ethnobotanist and psychonaut, even hypothesized that the magic mushroom may have accelerated human development by causing hyperconnectivity across brain networks, increasing the mass of human brains, facilitating technical advancements, and inspiring concepts like language and belief systems including religion. Expedited human evolution if you will. While this idea is not proven it does have some claims that are scientifically viable in theory but has no concrete evidence to support the hypothesis. Ancient Central America (Mesoamerica) and Mind Altering Mushrooms Psilocybe mushrooms were most notably employed by ancient cultures in Central America, mainly the Mayan and Aztec people. In Central America, indigenous artwork depicting mushrooms as a method of communication with the gods has been documented. Magic mushrooms were known as Teonanácatl in the Nahuatl language of the Mayans and Aztecs, which translates to “flesh of the gods.” Mushrooms are mentioned extensively in Aztec, Mayan, and Toltec religious traditions, as being given to their ancestors by the serpent deity who created all life, Quetzalcoatl. As a result, psilocybin has been utilized in religious and spiritual rites for divination, healing, anesthesia, and celebrations. Their usage can be traced back to 1,500 BCE. But it wasn’t simply psychedelic mushrooms that Central Americans utilized in their ceremonies. For holy rites, they also employed mescaline, morning glory seeds, and Salvia divinorum also known as Sage of the Diviners. When the Spanish forcibly subjugated indigenous Americans, they prohibited hallucinogenic ceremonies, branding them savage and opposed to the Catholic church. As a result, religious ceremonies involving psilocybe mushrooms had to become a clandestine activity. Magic Mushrooms and Ancient Civilizations Psilocybin wasn’t simply limited to Central America during antiquity; it was global and many ancient civilizations consumed psychotropic substances. Ancient Greece, Rome, Siberia, and even Egypt are examples of such areas and cultures. Magic Mushrooms in Ancient Greece In Ancient Greece, the Eleusinian Mysteries, notorious religious rites that were dedicated to the goddesses Demeter and Persephone,  involved ingesting a hallucinogenic beverage that was said to contain psychedelic mushrooms. The beverage was known as Kykeon. Magic Mushrooms in Ancient Egypt  Numerous works of art depicting psychoactive mushrooms were made by the ancient Egyptians. They named the fungi “food of the gods” and thought they were brought to earth by the god Osiris who was the god of fertility, agriculture, the afterlife, the dead, resurrection, life, and vegetation. It has has even been proposed that the ancient Egyptians use barley grain to support mushroom cultivation, demonstrating how culturally and spiritually essential their use was. Because of their value, they were almost exclusively consumed for religious purposes by priests and the upper classes. Magic Mushrooms and Siberia  And last but not least, Siberia. Brrrr… Indigenous cultures in Siberia employed hallucinogenic magic mushrooms called Amanita Muscaria, which reindeer eat as well. Through the psychedelic effects of these mushrooms, Siberians pushed themselves physically, braving very cold conditions. These communities are still known to gather and consume the hallucinogenic urine of the reindeers. Modern History of Mushroom Consumption The first reliable documentation of psychedelic mushroom usage in the Western World occurred in 1799, and involved a British family who unknowingly collected a few Psilocybe Semilanceata (Liberty Caps) from the Thames river, consumed a meal with them, and soon after felt the typical effects of pupil dilation, hysteria, and euphoria. This prompted the formal designation of a new species in 1803—first designated Agaricus Semilanceatus, and subsequently renamed to Psilocybe Semilanceata in 1871. Nearly 100 years later, in a 1957 Life Magazine an article named “Seeking the Magic Mushroom,” the term “magic mushrooms” was coined. R. Gordon Wasson, a banker and hobby mycologist, wrote the essay after he and his wife Valeria were among the first “westerners” allowed to take part in an indigenous mushroom rite led by shaman Maria Sabina in 1955. Their participation occurred in the little community of Huautla de Jiménez in Oaxaca, Mexico, and had a tremendous impact on Gordon, who went to considerable efforts to publicize it. The news immediately spread, attracting

Magic mushrooms are being discussed more and more as an effective treatment for mental health including anxiety disorders. Research suggests that psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in psychedelic mushrooms, has long-lasting benefits when it comes to reducing the severity of anxiety and paranoia. Psilocybin’s chemical structure is similar to serotonin, an essential chemical for mood regulation in the brain. Imbalanced or low levels of serotonin cause a potential threat of depression, anxiety, and panic attacks. Psilocybin mushrooms act on the body’s serotonergic system, therefore they help to restore the balance of serotonin and improve mental health long-term. Mushrooms and Anxiety: A Brief Overview Recent research has focused on new treatment options to treat anxiety. Those involve a variety of natural medicines including a number of varieties of medicinal and magic mushrooms. One of the areas studied is psilocybin, the active ingredient found in magical mushrooms. Medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi, Lion’s Mane, or Cordyceps can relieve anxiety as well. These mushrooms have been traditionally used for therapeutic purposes and are an important part of many East Asian medical practices. Learn More: The Beginner’s Guide to Magic Mushrooms How Does Psilocybin Work? Magic mushrooms across the world have an active compound called psilocybin. This substance is a classic psychedelic, which enters the brain by binding to the same receptors as serotonin, a chemical in the brain that controls body functions such as feelings of well-being, happiness, sexual desire, and sleep. Low levels of serotonin are often linked to people who are suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, cluster headaches, anorexia, tobacco addiction, alcohol use disorder, and substance abuse. Psilocybin mushrooms among other psychedelic drugs such as LSD, Mescaline, and Ketamine are being researched for their potential to treat mental health conditions. Many clinical trials were conducted in recent years all suggesting one thing, psychedelic treatment is beneficial for many mental health conditions even when all other controlled substances and medications seem to fail. This is also true for anxiety disorders that affect many individuals. Magic Mushrooms – Anxiety and Depression Treatment As psilocybin shows potential for helping people overcome mental health problems such as anxiety or treatment-resistant depression, its medicinal properties are slowly recognized, and its use is gaining traction in more clinics across the United States. The whole idea is to use it alongside psychotherapy rather than as a standalone treatment. Originally, psilocybin was studied for its ability to ease anxiety and fear among patients with terminal illnesses, such as life threatening cancer. Recently researchers have been exploring its potential health benefits for people who have depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and emotional trauma. The Ultimate Magic Mushroom Strain Guide Unlock the secrets of the magical world of mushrooms with ‘The Ultimate Magic Mushroom Strain Guide’. Learn all about the different psilocybin mushroom strains nature has to offer. Visit our Strain Guide Studies conducted in 2016 found that psilocybin, quickly and significantly reduces anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness in patients diagnosed with cancer. Another study in 2020 showed that people who are diagnosed with treatment-resistant major depressive disorders also benefit from taking psilocybin. Its ability to alter perception and mind is one of the reasons psilocybin may be beneficial in the treatment of mental illnesses. Psilocybin-containing mushrooms can act as a catalyst for the therapeutic process, as they cause the patient to become more suggestive, and when combined with professional psychotherapy it is a one two knockout punch. A single dose of psychedelic-assisted therapy can be equal to attending multiple sessions of traditional psychotherapy alone, as psilocybin mushrooms can bring up intense memories and emotions that can lead to profound insights in patients. Is Psilocybin Safe To Use? Researchers, who performed a systematic review and analyzed recent psychedelic-therapy studies, have concluded that psilocybin is relatively safe overall. However, some people can experience unpleasant side effects, which are most of the time mild. Most commonly these side effects are: However, many of these side effects can be avoided. At this point, taking psilocybin with the help of a therapist can be beneficial. The therapist can aid you with the preparation for the psychedelic experience, he could help you better understand the side effects and how to respond to them if they occur. Assistant professor at the UW School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Dr. Nathan Sackett stated that for someone to get the full benefits from their psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy, they may need to experience and work through some forms of distress and anxiety, which can be unpleasant at the time, but it wouldn’t be harmful if everything is done in a safe and controlled environment. The whole point is to look at the bigger picture and cure day-to-day anxiety long term. Mental Health Benefits of Microdosing Psilocybin You probably have heard about microdosing, many people use a variety of psychedelic substances like LSD, Psilocybin, Ketamine, and other psychedelics to microdose. Microdosing is a practice that involves taking very tiny amounts of the psychoactive compound, to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as, help people become more productive and creative. These doses are typically so small that they do not cause hallucinogenic effects. As opposed to the 25-milligram pill of psilocybin that produces a full-blown psychedelic experience, a typical microdose of dried mushrooms is between 0.1 and 0.3 grams. There is also a practice in microdosing called “stacking”, mycologist Paul Stamets developed this method in which the microdose of mushrooms is taken with additional substances that are believed to boost the health benefits of the fungi, according to him. A well-known “Stamets Stack” included vitamin B3, Niacin, and the mycelium of a specific mushroom called Lion’s Mane. People who are microdosing, often report reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, improved mood, increase in creativity, and overall improvement in mental health. “Macrodosing” Psilocybin Therapy More and more research has come to the same conclusion, a large dose of hallucinogenic mushrooms may have major benefits when it comes to treating anxiety. The good news is it also helps seniors

Introduction to Magic Mushrooms and Psilocybin What are Magic Mushrooms? Magic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms, are a class of fungi that contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin. These mushrooms have been used for centuries in various cultures for their mind-altering effects and spiritual significance. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in magic mushrooms due to their potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in the field of mental health. Ingesting psilocybin mushrooms can produce a range of positive and negative consequences, depending on various factors such as dosage, set and setting, and individual physiology. While some people report experiencing profound insights, increased creativity, and a sense of interconnectedness, others may experience anxiety, paranoia, or other adverse effects. A Brief History of Magic Mushrooms The use of psilocybin mushrooms dates back thousands of years, with evidence of their usage in ancient cultures such as the Aztecs and Maya in Central America. These cultures revered the mushrooms for their ability to induce altered states of consciousness and facilitate spiritual experiences. In the 1950s and 1960s, psilocybin mushrooms gained popularity in the counterculture movement, leading to their eventual criminalization in many countries. However, the past few decades have seen a renewed interest in the therapeutic potential of these psychedelic drugs, with clinical trials exploring their use in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, and addiction. Potential Benefits of Psilocybin Numerous studies have shown that psilocybin produces substantial and long-lasting improvements in various mental health conditions. For example, research has demonstrated the effectiveness of psilocybin pharmacotherapy in treating major depressive disorder, including cases of treatment-resistant depression. In addition to its potential therapeutic applications, psilocybin has also been associated with positive subjective effects, such as increased creativity, enhanced emotional intelligence, and a sense of connection with nature and the universe. Understanding Psilocybin Chemistry Psilocybin, the primary psychoactive compound found in magic mushrooms, is a tryptamine alkaloid that is structurally similar to the neurotransmitter serotonin. When ingested, psilocybin is metabolized into psilocin, which is the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects. Difference Between Psilocybin and Psilocin While both psilocybin and psilocin are present in psychedelic mushrooms, psilocybin is the more stable compound and is converted into psilocin through dephosphorylation in the body. Psilocin is the active compound that interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, producing the characteristic psychedelic effects. How Psilocybin Interacts with the Brain Psilocybin, or more specifically, psilocin, binds to serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor subtype. This interaction leads to a cascade of neurochemical and neurophysiological changes that ultimately result in the altered perception of reality and consciousness associated with psilocybin therapy. Factors Affecting Potency The potency of psilocybin in magic mushrooms can vary greatly depending on several factors. The specific strain of mushroom, growing conditions, drying methods, and storage conditions can all influence the concentration of the active compounds. Additionally, the part of the mushroom ingested (cap or stem) can also affect the potency, as the distribution of psilocybin and psilocin may differ between these components. Magic mushrooms and the psychoactive compound psilocybin have a rich history and a promising future in the realm of mental health and personal growth. By understanding the chemistry and mechanisms of action behind psilocybin, researchers and practitioners can better harness its potential benefits while mitigating potential risks. Dosage Levels and Effects When it comes to magic mushrooms, the dosage level is a crucial factor that determines the nature and intensity of the experience. The amount of psilocybin ingested can lead to vastly different effects, ranging from subtle mood enhancement to profound mystical experiences. Understanding the various dosage levels and their associated effects is essential for responsible and intentional exploration with psilocybin. Microdosing (0.1 – 0.5 grams) Microdosing refers to the practice of consuming very small, sub-perceptual doses of psilocybin, typically between 0.1 and 0.5 grams of dried magic mushrooms. The goal of microdosing is not to induce a full-blown psychedelic experience but rather to enhance cognitive functions, creativity, and overall well-being. Potential Benefits of Microdosing Common Microdosing Protocols Microdosing is often done on a scheduled regimen, with the most common protocols being: Low Dose (0.5 – 2 grams) A low dose of psilocybin, typically ranging from 0.5 to 2 grams of dried magic mushrooms, can produce mild psychoactive effects without inducing a full-blown psychedelic experience. Effects of a Low Dose Recommended Setting and Preparation While a low dose may not seem overwhelming, it’s still essential to prepare a comfortable and safe environment. Engaging in outdoor activities or creative pursuits can be enjoyable, but it’s crucial to have a designated trip sitter or trusted companion present. Duration of Effects The effects of a low dose can last anywhere from 3 to 6 hours, depending on individual factors and the specific dosage. Medium Dose (2 – 3 grams) A medium dose of psilocybin, typically ranging from 2 to 3 grams of dried magic mushrooms, can induce a more significant psychedelic experience with mild to moderate hallucinations. Effects of a Medium Dose Potential for Mild Hallucinations At this dosage level, users may experience mild hallucinations, such as seeing objects morph or patterns come to life. However, these hallucinations are generally not as intense as those experienced with higher doses. Recommended Setting and Preparation A medium dose requires a more controlled and comfortable environment, preferably in a familiar and safe space. It is highly advisable to have a reliable trip sitter or guide present to offer emotional support and guidance during the experience. High Dose (3 – 5 grams) A high dose of psilocybin, typically ranging from 3 to 5 grams of dried magic mushrooms, can induce a powerful and intense psychedelic experience with significant hallucinations and sensory distortions. Effects of a High Dose Hallucinations and Sensory Distortions At this dosage level, users can expect to experience vivid and immersive hallucinations, where reality may be completely transformed. Sensory distortions, such as synesthesia and altered spatial perception, are common. Recommended Setting and Preparation A high dose of psilocybin requires a carefully controlled and safe

Magic mushrooms are natural psychedelic sunstance that has been used for medical and spiritual purposes for centuries. In most parts of the U.S, magic mushrooms are still illegal, because they contain Schedule 1 controlled substances psilocybin and psilocin. However recent scientific reports show that taking magic mushrooms may potentially have medical value when it comes to treating depression. Thus recently The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the active compound psilocybin for use in drug trials so that the effects on patients with depression can thoroughly be studied. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria are used to diagnose major depressive disorder in these studies. What are magic mushrooms? The term magic mushrooms refer to certain species of fungus that produce psilocybin and psilocin. All these compounds occur naturally in these types of fungi, that grow throughout the world. At larger doses, they are hallucinogenic, which means that they will alter your vision, produce auditory hallucinations, and distort one’s sense of time. History of healing mushrooms Mara Sabina, an Indigenous Mazatec shaman who used hallucinogenic mushrooms in healing ceremonies, brought magic mushrooms to westerners’ attention in the ’50s and ’60s. Since that point, American scientists have been studying magic mushrooms and their healing properties, how to treat depression and mental illness, and even how to help people struggling with drug abuse. Decriminalization of psilocybin doesn’t mean the drug is legal, it just means that it isn’t a law enforcement priority. The legality of this substance is solely to determine the therapeutic potential in clinical use. Magic mushrooms for depression and anxiety? Dr. Nathan Sackett, assistant professor in the UW School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences stated that psilocybin has shown potential for helping patients who struggle with anxiety symptoms or depression, and possibly other mental health conditions. His idea is to utilize psilocybin along with other therapies rather than as a standalone treatment for the treatment resistant depression, with the goal of improving patients well being, and giving them long-lasting relief. Learn More: Tips for Selecting the Right Psychedelic Therapist A 2016 study of hallucinogenic mushrooms for terminal illnesses In 2016 a study was conducted, that found that psilocybin can significantly and rapidly reduce feelings of hopelessness, depression, and anxiety in patients diagnosed with a terminal illness such as cancer. A 2020 study of hallucinogenic mushrooms for mental health disorders In 2020 study found that it can aid patients who have a treatment-resistant major depressive disorder. From these studies, psilocybin seems to be a uniquely useful new treatment for anxiety and depression. Dr. Sackett also stated that it’s possible that the drug can act as a catalyst during the therapeutic process. Psychotherapy with psychedelics such as psilocybin-assisted therapy, with only a single dose of psilocybin administered with psychological support, can often be as effective as multiple sessions of traditional supportive psychotherapy, and this type of therapy can reveal intense things and lead to profound insights. However, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Department will need to conduct more studies to research and better understand these claims, so that they can be published in JAMA Psychiatry medical journals. Psychedelic and consciousness research The psychedelic compound psilocybin, found in magic mushrooms, alleviates major depression for up to a year, according to new clinical trials. In a study of adults with a long-term history of depression, a combination of supportive talk therapy and two doses of psilocybin led to depressive symptoms being suppressed and stabilized through a year of follow-up. The psilocybin group showed statistically and clinically significant reductions in depressive symptoms. This indicates that the psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms may be an effective treatment for depression. Psychedelic and consciousness research was conducted for 12 months in a controlled environment at the Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore. Three-quarters of the study participants responded to antidepressants, and more than half are in remission. Roland Griffiths Ph.D., founding director of the center and a study investigator, said in a statement “Psilocybin not only produces significant and immediate effects, but it also has a prolonged duration, which implicates that it may be a surprisingly useful new treatment for depression,” He also stated that one or two treatments with this compound are capable of enduringly relieving depression symptoms, unlike standard antidepressant medications, which must be taken for long periods of time. “The results of an experiment conducted at Johns Hopkins University School were in research settings. Structured support and preparation support from therapists and trained clinicians were required, therefore people should not attempt to try psilocybin therapy on their own,” stated Natalie Gukasyan, MD, who also worked on the study regarding psilocybin’s effectiveness. Recent study One more recent study, published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, included 5 men and 19 women with moderate to severe depression. Over half of the respondents reported using antidepressants during their current depression episodes, and the majority had previously been treated with antidepressant medication in order to relieve depression and improve their mental health. Study participants were required to attend six to eight hours of “preparatory” meetings with two people trained in psilocybin therapy to provide psychological support before beginning psilocybin treatment. A controlled environment was then used to administer two doses of psilocybin about two weeks apart. Depressed patients returned for follow-up 1 day and 1-week father every session, and from then at 1-3-6 and 12 months after the second session. Research shows that taking psilocybin led to a large decrease in depression in participants. It may have the potential to be an effective treatment for depression and anxiety since patients reported that current depressive episodes remained less severe up to 12 months after. No serious side effects related to taking psilocybin mushrooms have been noted in the long-term follow-up period. Mental health professionals and researchers say that further research is needed so that psilocybin’s antidepressant properties can be thoroughly examined. In this particular research setting, there are implications that psilocybin antidepressant effects may last

Welcome to the Complete Microdosing Guide to Magic Mushrooms, where we will share everything you need to know about microdosing. Whether you’re interested in microdosing psilocybin mushrooms for therapeutic purposes, such as to treat depression, or for more casual reasons (such as improving your focus or to increase creativity), it’s important to get a good understanding of what microdosing is exactly and how it works. Introduction to Microdosing Mushrooms It should come as no surprise that psychedelic mushrooms are greatly misunderstood by the general public. The legacy of prohibition and misguided regulations have kept them out of the public eye and almost inaccessible to researchers whom today are seeing great potential in their use. This isn’t something just promoted by people in the alternative communities or psychonauts. Researchers at top-rated schools like Harvard, UC Berkeley, Stanford, UC Davis, and many more are engaging in clinical trials dealing with psilocybin mushrooms and microdosing in general. Researchers now have much more than anecdotal evidence to rely on and in some areas, you can enroll legally in clinical trials. While microdosing is pretty straightforward it is important to take the correct steps needed to have a fulfilling experience. That is why we have put together the complete microdosing guide to mushrooms for you to enjoy! Basics of Psychedelic Mushrooms Psychedelic mushrooms are unique natural wonders that are shown to have huge therapeutic potential, regardless of the negative criticisms and historic prohibition. While they are often perceived as having potent hallucinogenic effects, they can also be used in ways that do not cause inebriation while offering many health benefits. This latter concept is called microdosing (tiny amounts) and is what this microdosing mushrooms guide is focused on. Yet before we get into microdosing, let’s get a bit of background on what psychedelic mushrooms really are. Learn More: Guide to Psilocybe Cubensis Magic Mushrooms Meaning Magic Mushrooms also known as Shrooms is a colloquial term that usually refers to hallucinogenic mushrooms in the genus Psilocybe. While the term can technically be used for any type of mushroom, this term has largely been coined in the context of psychedelic mushrooms which are often synonymous with psilocybin mushrooms. The Ultimate Magic Mushroom Strain Guide Learn all about the different psilocybin mushroom strains nature has to offer. Visit our Ultimate Guide What do Psychedelic Mushrooms Look Like? Psychedelic mushrooms can vary in shape, size, and even color depending on the species and specific variety. The most common is the species scientifically known as Psilocybe cubensis, of which there are many varieties. Aside from differences in the reported feeling, they can also greatly differ in the way they look depending on if they are dry or fresh. ●     Fresh mushrooms often have sturdy white stems that can be as wide as your pinky finger and may bruise blue within 5-10 minutes after damage. The caps are brown and may also bruise. ●     Dried mushrooms look shriveled and typically have much thinner and fragile structures. They may have blueing from damages that occurred before drying, but they will no longer bruise after being disturbed. ●     Some varieties can be completely white or vary greatly in stem/cap size and shape. Some may look more like “truffles” or in other shapes that don’t look like mushrooms at all! What do Magic Mushrooms Do to Your Brain? Shrooms have effects due to a chemical compound known as psilocybin that has intimate interactions with your brain. When you ingest psilocybin, it’s metabolized into psilocin, which binds to serotonin receptors (5-HT2A) in the brain. This receptor is responsible for regulating emotional responses, mood, and sensory perception. When consumed in small quantities as is the case with microdosing the effects are mild and arguably less mind-altering than a cup of coffee, but they can still have potent therapeutic effects. Consumed in large quantities they can have the potent mind-altering effects that magic mushrooms are most known for. While this is a microdosing guide, it is also worth mentioning that users find larger doses of mushrooms have also been shown to have diverse therapeutic effects. Magic Mushrooms for Treating Anxiety Learn about how magic mushrooms may be used to treat anxiety. Learn More Microdosing Psilocybin Mushrooms Microdosing Definition Microdosing is the act of taking a sub-perceptual dose (a very small dose vs a “normal dose”) of a psychedelic substance. Most people report feeling subtle shifts in mood and well being that are much different than what people associate with hallucinogens. At this level you’re still conscious enough to fully engage in everyday activities without feeling impaired or incapacitated; just generally more “aware” and productive while remaining completely sober. If you feel inebriated from consuming microdoses then your dose does not fall under the microdosing definition!  Microdosing psilocybin provides many benefits, including improved focus and productivity, heightened creativity, better emotional balance, more energy and drive, relief from mental health issues such as anxiety and depression symptoms, increased mindfulness or “present-state awareness,” and enhanced relational skills. Microdosers report that it also has helped them get through challenging times—either personal or professional—more easily than if they hadn’t used the substance at all. Microdosing is not about getting high; it’s about getting these benefits with none of the psychedelic side effects. For many people who microdose it’s also about avoiding expensive and often times addictive pharmaceutical drugs while still maintaining cognitive function while for others, it’s just about improved mood. Microdosing isn’t just something that happens on its own either; there are specific steps that must be followed to ensure success with this practice (see below). We will discuss these steps and more in this microdosing mushrooms guide. If done correctly though, the results can be profound and even life-changing for many people! The How-To Guide to Microdosing Psilocybin What Dosage Should I Take When Microdosing Psilocybin? A microdose is a small dose, a microdose is about 1/10th the dose of a typical mind-altering mushroom dose, or about 0.15-0.3 grams of mushrooms. If you are making doses from bulk dried mushrooms