The Magic in Magic Mushrooms
With over 200 species of Magic (or psilocybin) mushrooms in the world, there are several different potencies. Buying magic mushrooms online, in Canada is the safest and most consistent source
Psilocybin mushrooms contain the naturally occurring psychedelic compound called psilocybin that, when ingested, turns into psilocin. Psilocybin is actually a prodrug, which means that it is inactive until it is metabolized by our stomach acids during the digestive process to produce psilocin, which is the compound that delivers the psychoactive effect.
The Top 10 Strongest Magic Mushroom Species
- Psilocybe azurescens: This one is at the top of the list because it is most likely the world’s most potent mushroom. It grows in the deciduous forests around the Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest. Although 1.8% psilocybin, 0.5% psilocin, and 0.4% baeocystin may not sound like much, it’s quite substantial, and certainly one powerful shroom.
- Panaeolus cyanescens: This species is one of the most potent in the world. They’re said to be 5 times stronger than P. cubensis and are easy to grow and pre-colonized grow kits are purchasable. They are a dung-loving species found all over the world. The combined psilocybin and psilocin content is about 2.95%. A very potent mushroom.
- Psilocybe semilanceata: Considered by many to be the quintessential magic mushroom, its nipple-topped bell-shaped cap gives it its popular name “liberty cap.” This is the most widespread of the magic mushrooms, growing in 17 countries in northern Europe. It is also one of the hardiest species. Although representing some of the highest levels of psilocybin ever measured, it usually stays at around 0.2% to 2.37% in potency.
- Psilocybe cyanescens: Commonly known as “wavy caps,” it is another potent magic mushroom. They are becoming more widespread due to the increased use of mulch to suppress weed growth. Its large numbers are only surpassed by its incredible potency. When all three compounds are measured in a dried specimen, they can reach up to 1.96%.
- Psilocybe bohemica: A central European species, specifically the Czech Republic, Psilocybe bohemica is very similar to Psilocybe serbica. Be warned, this is a Galerina look-alike and grows in the same region. Galerina is highly toxic and dangerous. The dried content of Psilocybe bohemica goes around 0.11% to 1.34%.
- Psilocybe cubensis: This is the most popular and commonly sourced species of magic mushroom because it is the most easily cultivated. Many subspecies have been bred. It grows across the world in tropical climates and dried, the psilocin is between 0.14% and 0.42% and the psilocybin is between 0.37% and 1.30%.
- Conocybe cyanopus: This is a lesser-known species and is very similar to a couple of deadly species growing in the same area. We suggest you stay away from this species, as it just isn’t worth the risk.
- Psilocybe samuiensis: Another tropical species, this one in Thailand, it grows quite thickly. It’s ratios of psilocybin, psilocin, and baeocystin in dried specimens are 0.023 to 0.90%, 0.05% to 0.81%, and 0.01% to 0.05%.
- Psilocybe tampanensis: Magic truffles are often derived from this species. Truffles (or sclerotia) form underground in case of fire. This part of the organism is not illegal in Europe and so is a popular choice. Dried, this mushroom contains up to 1% psilocybin and psilocin.
- Panaeolus camodginiensis: An Asian and Hawaiian strain, it loves to grow in buffalo dung in Cambodia. This is a pretty white and brown mushroom with a long stem. This strain is known to turn very blue, very easily (as this indicates the presence of psilocybin, you’ll know you have found it). Its psilocybin is around 0.55% and its psilocin is around 0.6%. Check out shrooms online for more info.
There are two significant factors to keep in mind. First, as an organic source potency will not only vary between species but also between batches. Second, just because one species is more potent than another, your dose is also a factor for the magnitude and duration of your trip.
