Finding the Right Dosage of Psilocybin Mushrooms

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the transformative potential of psychedelics, with psilocybin mushrooms taking centre stage. As people explore the realms of consciousness and self-discovery, it becomes crucial to approach the use of psilocybin with respect, caution, and a well-informed understanding of dosage. This blog aims to shed light on the importance of finding the right dosage when using psilocybin mushrooms for various purposes, mainly for spiritual exploration and personal growth, because there lies our field of work. In the Nature Temple, where various psilocybin mushroom ceremonies and retreats are held for many years, we’ve learned that the dosage is very personal. Therefor the way to go is to take things step by step. If you are a first-timer, you always begin with a light or mild dosage, to get to know the substance. When getting more experienced, you can step by step increase your dosage. We organize several types of psilocybin mushroom retreats, with different maximum dosages. The more extended our guidance and service, the higher your maximum dosage gets.

At this moment we offer our psilocybin mushroom retreats as follows (please always check our FAQ for the latest updates, this info can change in time):

Maximum dosage per psilocybin mushroom ceremony in the Nature Temple:

-        2 or 3 day retreat: 15 grams for first timers and 25 grams for experienced people

-        5 day retreat: 25 grams for first timers and 30 grams for experienced people

-        private psilocybin mushroom ceremony: 25/30 grams

-        private psilocybin mushroom ceremony, heroic dosage: 35/40 grams

What is psilocybin?

Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain species of mushrooms, most notably those belonging to the genus psilocybe. When ingested, psilocybin is converted into psilocin in the body, which interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to altered perceptions, heightened sensory experiences, and a range of psychological effects. Here you can read more about the effects of having a psilocybin mushroom trip.

Why is the right dosage of psilocybin mushrooms so important?

Dosage plays a pivotal role in determining the nature and intensity of the psychedelic experience. Too little may result in subtle effects, while too much can lead to overwhelming and potentially distressing experiences. Finding the right balance is key to reaping the benefits of psilocybin without jeopardizing mental well-being. In the Nature Temple we have been organizing these psilocybin mushroom ceremonies for 15+ years. Several thousands of people have been to our ceremonies over the years, therefor we’ve developed a feeling for finding the so called ‘sweet spot’. Body weight, experience level, personal intention, metabolism, state of mind and body at that moment, ..all of these aspects are of influence. That’s why it will always be complicated to know exactly how much to take. It takes trust, that however it turns out, you are capable to cope with it. Being with a guide can be of great value when the dosage you took has taken you further and deeper than you were expecting. In these moments a person you trust by your side can make the difference between having ‘a bad trip’ and having a challenging experience where you came out stronger (we wrote a blog about this topic too)…

Which factors are influencing the effects of the psilocybin mushroom trip?

Like mentioned above, there are several things that are of influence in how strong feel for you. Let’s take a closer look. But, be careful, it is impossible to pinpoint the effects the psilocybin mushrooms can have on you. What we write here may be true in 60% of the cases, but that still leaves a rough 40% open for guessing.

Body Weight

Individuals with higher body weights may require a slightly higher dosage to experience the desired effects. However, caution is advised, as sensitivity to psilocybin can vary widely among individuals.

Tolerance

Regular use of psilocybin mushrooms can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. It is advisable to space out usage to prevent tolerance buildup. In our psilocybin mushroom ceremonies in the Nature Temple we always give you the possibility to split your dosage in two. This way you can see how sensitive you are today, before taking the full amount. As we all have personal metabolite systems, it can happen that it takes eighter longer or shorter for a person before the effects start to begin. There can be a difference from 5 minutes after ingesting to 1 or 1.5 hours, before the effects of the psilocybin mushrooms can be felt.

Mental State

One's mental state plays a crucial role in determining the impact of psilocybin. Those dealing with mental health issues should approach psychedelics with caution and preferably under the guidance of a trained professional. In the Nature Temple we do not provide psilocybin mushroom retreats for people who have mental health issues in the first place. But also mentally healthy people have their ups and downs, think about relationship breakup’s, becoming a parent, the death of a dear one, trouble at work, worries about children, and so on. If you signed up for a psilocybin mushroom retreat and unexpectedly you enter harsh weather, you should always contact your guides to check if it still is in your best interest to do this retreat at that moment. Sometimes postponing is better.

Psilocybin mushroom dosage guidelines:

1. Microdosing

   - Microdosing involves taking a very small, sub-perceptual dose of psilocybin on a regular schedule. This practice is associated with enhanced creativity, improved mood, and increased focus without the intense psychedelic experience. Microdosing means something between 0.2 and 0.6 grams fresh psilocybin truffles.

2. Threshold Dose

   - A threshold dose is the minimum amount of psilocybin required to produce mild perceptual changes. It is a good starting point for those new to psychedelics. The threshold dosage lies somewhere between 3 and 7 grams of fresh psilocybin truffles.

3. Moderate Dose

   - A moderate dose can induce more profound effects, including altered perception of time, enhanced introspection, and increased creativity. It is suitable for those seeking a balance between exploration and control. For most people the moderate dosage is somewhere between 7 and 15 grams of fresh psilocybin truffles. Click here for more information on this type of ceremony.

4. High dosage

- A high dose is the same as the moderate dosage, but then more intense, far less controllable and it takes a bit more time to come down from the effects. A high dosage, lies for most people somewhere between 15 and 30 grams. Click here for more information on this type of ceremony.

4. Heroic Dose

   - Reserved for experienced users, a heroic dose can lead to intense and potentially transformative experiences. Caution is paramount, and having a trusted guide or sitter is advisable. In our heroic dose private ceremony we serve a maximum of 40 grams. Click here for more information on this type of ceremony.

Make sure you are well informed before starting

Navigating the psychedelic realm with psilocybin mushrooms requires a nuanced understanding of dosage. Whether pursuing personal growth, therapeutic benefits, or spiritual exploration, individuals should approach these substances with respect, mindfulness, and a commitment to safety. Always be aware of your own mental state, consult professionals when necessary, and remember that the psychedelic journey is deeply personal—finding the right dosage is an essential step toward a meaningful and transformative experience. When you are interested in joining one of our psilocybin mushroom retreats in the Nature Temple, but you are unsure which what to choose, you can always contact us by email to ask for our advice (free of charge).

FAQ

What can I expect from the effects of magic mushrooms?

On an empty stomach the truffles will usually start to work within half an hour. Initially your body can feel a bit restless, this is when the medicine, which is what we call the little mushrooms, are scanning your body. This feeling generally fades as soon as you have surrendered to the experience. The intensity of the experience comes and goes in waves and continues to do so for about 4 to 6 hours. Some people can experience some nausea in which case deep belly breathing, movement or relaxing tend to ease the feeling of nausea. Further you can experience visions, emotions and insights. Don’t be surprised if radical shifts start occurring in your life.

The psychedelic experience can make you feel all ‘four seasons in one day’, with moments of pure consciousness, intense sadness or fear, gratefulness and absolute bliss. From personal experience we know that it can become quite challenging for a person as fears may arise, but often this is where the self-healing takes off. Our team encourages people to surrender to, or work with the energy that moves through you. We will be there for meeting your needs, before, after and during the ceremony.

Why do people generally attend a magic mushroom retreat?

To liberate themselves from past issues, anxiety, gilt or sorrow. To live their full potential, attract guidance, clarity and vision. To reconnect with their inner spirit from where creativity is born. To improve self-care and gain understanding about their relationships and the interconnectedness of all things. To reconnect with other people, to lay down the masks, to be open and honest, to feel save and supported. To release and reload or to mark an important personal moment.

Are you using truffles or mushrooms in the retreat?

We use truffles. Truffles are sclerotica (mycelium thickenings) which grow underground and are a part of the fungi, just like the fruit bodies (called mushrooms) that grow above the ground. The part that grows underground consists of the same active compounds as the ones that grow above the ground. We use truffles instead of mushrooms because truffles are legal in the Netherlands and mushrooms are not. In our texts we mainly speak about mushrooms and less about truffles, because people outside of the Netherlands are not so familiar with the name truffles.

Can you compare magic mushrooms with ayahuasca?

At our centre we only use the mushrooms, we never use ayahuasca or other plant medicines. Because ayahuasca has gotten a lot of media attention in the last 10 years, many people ask us what is the difference or similarity with mushrooms. Well, the DMT (in ayahuasca) and psilocin (in truffles) are similar molecules. Both are closely related to our bodies own serotonin and function similarly. There are a lot of similarities, but every mind expanding substance has its own character. mushrooms/truffles are, in contrast to ayahuasca, very mild for the body, the physical detox (vomiting/diarrhea) is lesser with mushrooms than with ayahuasca. The mushrooms generally have a more playful and extravert nature, as for ayahuasca you can expect a more introvert journey.

How can I prepare for a magic mushroom retreat?

To get most out of the experience a good personal preparation is necessary. If you are not in the possibility to prepare yourself with care, please do not book a ceremony or retreat at our centre. Make sure you’ve had enough rest, feel relaxed and have a clear mind. Just go with what works for you, also when it comes down to food. It is recommended a week before attending the ceremony to avoid alcohol, drugs, (red) meat, very sweet or fat foods and sexual interaction.

Take time to feel and explore attentively where you stand and wonder what this ceremony can mean for you. Your own attention is what creates the experience. So basically the ceremony has already started the moment you signed up. If you make a reservation and you’ve passed the intake procedure we will send you detailed information on how to prepare best.

What are the contra-indications for joining a mushroom retreat?

Our ceremonies and retreats are meant for people in good mental and physical health. It is not offered as a substitute for medical or psycho-therapeutic care.

Magic mushrooms cannot be taken in combination with anti-depressive or anti-psychotic medication. If you are under these or other kind of medication or doctor treatments you are required to consult your doctor to ask if you can participate in ceremonies where psilocybin is used.

You always need to inform us about your medical or psychological treatment.

Although a life does not always feel perfect and nobody’s life is without challenges, we draw a line where it comes to people who are heavy traumatized, have a tendency to be suicidal or psychotic.

It is important you answer our intake questionnaire with honesty. Sometimes it is best not to use psychedelics, for your own and others safety. If we have questions or doubts about your participation for further questions or ask you to speak to a doctor first.

In general, Contraindications:

– Pregnancy – Schizophrenia – Borderline – Psychosis sensitivity – Severe Blood Pressure/Heart Problems – Brain haemorrhages

Furthermore, the following drugs cannot be combined with psychedelics:

– SSRI, SNRI, TCA and MAO inhibitors (serotonergic drugs) – Lithium – Benzodiazepines (Valium, Oxazepam, XANAX, etc.) – Heart and blood pressure medication – Opoids (tramadol, morphine and codeine)

How can I integrate the experience best?

A psychedelic experience takes time to integrate, therefore we highly recommend to continue to avoid alcohol, drugs, (red) meat and sexual interaction for a while after the ceremony has taken place. Make sure that you don´t have much planned till even a few days after the ceremony, keep life as relaxed as possible. Connect to nature and take good care of yourself. The effects of the ceremony can last for another few days or even weeks. To process the whole experience even can take years. Know, that if you booked a ceremony or retreat, you will receive a detailed info mail about a good integration. If you have doubts concerning your health or well-being afterward, always feel free to contact us.

Our ceremonial facilitator Judith Sudholter has written a blog about the integration process. She organizes online integration circles as well. How to integrate a magic mushroom cermony in your daily life? (magicmushroomceremony.com)