Magic mushrooms, shrooms, mushies…whatever you call them, psilocybin mushrooms are gaining popularity. While recreational use is still the main driver, there’s also increasing interest in their potential therapeutic applications. This has led to decriminalization efforts in some areas, opening up new conversations around their use.
So, naturally, people want to know: how much is a gram of mushrooms? The answer isn’t straightforward. The cost of psilocybin mushrooms can vary dramatically depending on several factors, including location, availability, and quality.
This article will explore the factors influencing the price of shrooms, the potential risks and legal consequences associated with their use, and some guidelines for responsible use. We’ll give you a better idea of what to expect when purchasing psilocybin mushrooms, while emphasizing the importance of safety and legality.
What are psilocybin mushrooms?
Psilocybin mushrooms contain the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin, which cause changes in perception, mood, and thought. Because of these effects, people sometimes call them “shrooms” or “magic mushrooms.”
Dried psilocybin mushrooms are often gray, brown, or yellowish-tan. A gram of dried mushrooms, enough for a mild experience, may look like one or two medium-sized mushroom caps with stems, plus a small amount of broken pieces and dust. It’s about the size of a quarter.
Magic mushroom dosages and effects
If you’re considering taking psilocybin mushrooms, it’s important to know that the effects can vary widely depending on the dose, your individual physiology, and the setting in which you take them. Here’s a general guide to the different dosage levels and the effects you might expect.
- Microdose: A microdose is a sub-perceptual dose, meaning you shouldn’t feel any strong psychoactive effects. The goal is to enhance focus and creativity without experiencing a full-blown trip.
- Light dose: A light dose may produce mild perceptual changes, such as brighter colors or slight distortions. You may also experience an enhanced mood and increased sociability.
- Standard dose: A standard dose typically leads to clear perceptual changes, such as visual and auditory hallucinations. Your thinking may be altered, and you may experience emotional shifts.
- Heavy dose: A heavy dose can result in intense visual and auditory hallucinations, as well as profound shifts in consciousness. This level of dosage is not recommended for beginners.
How much does a gram of shrooms cost?
If you’re interested in microdosing or macrodosing, the cost is probably one of your first concerns.
Price per gram
The average cost of a gram of psilocybin mushrooms is generally between $7 and $12. You can expect to pay around $10 per gram, but the price can vary a lot depending on where you live, the quality of the mushrooms, and the specific type you’re buying.
Also, like any other commodity, shroom prices tend to move up and down depending on how plentiful they are and how many people want to buy them.
Cost for different quantities
Here are some cost estimates for various quantities of shrooms:
- Eighth of an ounce (3.5 grams): $30 to $40
- Quarter of an ounce (7 grams): $60
- Half of an ounce (14 grams): $100
- Full ounce (28 grams): $200
- Pound (454 grams): $2,400 to $2,500
As with most products, the more you buy at once, the less you’ll pay per gram.
Factors affecting the price of psilocybin mushrooms
The price of psilocybin mushrooms can vary wildly, based on several factors. Here’s what influences the cost:
Legal status and location
The legal status of psilocybin has a huge impact on the price. In areas where magic mushrooms have been decriminalized, you’ll typically see lower prices. In fact, the cost can be 10% to 30% lower than in areas where they’re still illegal. That’s because the risk of obtaining and selling them is lower.
Here are a few examples of how prices vary by region:
- Canada: 30-50 CAD per eighth of an ounce
- Portugal: 3.41-9.95 EUR per gram
- Romania: 8.76-15.32 EUR per gram
Supply and demand
Like anything else, the law of supply and demand plays a big role. At events like music festivals, for example, the demand for mushrooms goes up, but the supply often stays the same. So, prices increase. Shortages of any kind can also drive up prices.
Mushroom species and potency
Some species of psilocybin mushrooms are more expensive than others. For example, Penis Envy mushrooms are generally pricier because they’re more potent and trickier to grow. You might also see price differences between strains like Golden Teachers and Psilocybe cubensis.
Purity and source
The purity and source of the mushrooms matter, too. If you’re buying from a reputable source, you’ll probably pay more. Higher-quality mushrooms with consistent potency will also command a premium.
Popular Types of Magic Mushrooms
If you’re trying to figure out how much a gram of mushrooms costs, it helps to know what kind you’re looking for.
- Psilocybe cubensis: This is probably the most common type. They’re easy to grow, so they’re not usually very expensive.
- Golden Teachers: Golden Teachers are known for their golden caps and predictable effects. They’re a good choice if you’re just starting out.
- Penis Envy: These are very potent and have a distinctive look. They’re harder to grow, so they usually cost more because they have more psilocybin.
How to consume magic mushrooms
Most people eat them dried. Drying preserves the mushrooms and makes them easier to store. It’s worth remembering that drying affects the weight and potency of the mushrooms. A dried mushroom will weigh less than a fresh one, but the psilocybin content is concentrated.
Psilocybin edibles are increasingly available, especially where regulations are becoming more relaxed. These are typically more expensive because of the added production costs involved in creating a palatable and accurately dosed product.
Risks and legal consequences
Before exploring psilocybin mushrooms, it’s important to understand the health risks and legal consequences associated with their use.
Health risks
Psilocybin mushrooms can cause panic attacks, anxiety, and nausea. “Bad trips” are possible, and psychotic episodes can occur in people who are susceptible to them. Wild mushrooms can be easily misidentified, so there’s a risk of accidental poisoning.
These risks highlight the importance of using these mushrooms responsibly and taking the proper dosage.
Legal repercussions
In the United States, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) classifies psilocybin mushrooms as a Schedule I substance. That means that possessing them can lead to severe legal consequences, including imprisonment and steep fines.
Although some areas have decriminalized psilocybin, it’s important to be aware of the laws in your area.
Psilocybin Therapy
Psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, is being studied as a potential treatment for mental health conditions. Early research indicates that it may help people struggling with depression, anxiety, and even PTSD.
However, it’s important to remember that psilocybin therapy is still very new. It’s not yet available to the public outside of clinical trials and research settings. If you’re interested in exploring this option, talk to your doctor about the current research landscape and any potential risks.
Tips for Purchasing and Using Mushrooms Responsibly
Before you buy any mushrooms, keep these tips in mind:
- Only buy mushrooms in places where they are legal.
- Buy from trusted dealers who sell real, safe products.
- Understand the risks.
- Learn about dosage before you buy.
- Consider your mindset and environment (“set and setting”).
- Get your mushrooms from trusted sources.
- Use a spotter.
Final Thoughts
The price of psilocybin mushrooms varies quite a bit depending on where you live, the legal status where you are, the availability of the specific mushroom you want, and how much you’re buying.
Before purchasing or using psilocybin mushrooms, it’s essential to understand the legal consequences and potential health risks. Using psilocybin mushrooms can be dangerous, and it’s illegal in many places.
If you choose to use psilocybin mushrooms, do so responsibly and buy them from a reputable source in a location where it’s legal.