There is enough research of both the empirical and anecdotal kinds to indicate the health benefits of consuming psilocybin on a regular basis for micro dosing, and on an occasional basis at the higher dose amounts. Early research into the psychedelics, psilocybin included, showed the potential of this plant-based medicine to improve the lives of those suffering with depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, alcoholism, and end of life emotional distress. This research was suddenly halted in the mid-1960s with no reasons other than the psychedelics did not neatly fit into the existing linear thought paradigms and, importantly, they were considered morally suspect.

In the 1990s, research slowly began again and continues to this day with more sophisticated research methodologies than what existed in the 1950s and 60s. The health benefits evidence is there for all to explore, and Pure Micro encourages you to not simply take our word that this is powerful medicine, but to check it out yourself. On the Pure Micro Research Studies page, we make it easy by identifying relevant scientific studies and other excellent sources of information.

In many ways it is tragic that the establishments of the time destroyed opportunities for safe and effective treatments for suffering people. The following link is a good place to begin your own research: The Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelic Drugs: Past, Present, and Future. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2017;(11):2105-2113. Doi:10.1038/npp.2017.84

If you prefer to read a book instead of a research paper, try How to Change Your Mind. What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence written by journalist Michael Pollan and widely available.

The debate over what is more potent, the cap or stem, has been going on for years. The answer often depends on who you ask. Research suggests that caps are slightly stronger than stems but there are many variables, and each harvest can yield differences. Our customers report that eating the cap is a much more pleasurable experience than chewing on a stem and provides a more consistent dose.

Being in a safe environment is essential when experiencing magic mushrooms of any kind. While indulging, you should always have someone you trust to look after you. This person is known as a "sitter." You should only consume psilocybin mushrooms in a safe environment. Never use other drugs or alcohol while using these, and do not drive or operate machinery. Keep yourself well hydrated by drinking lots of water before and after use. The dosages that are provided are suggested only. Each person will react differently depending on your state of mind, stomach contents, amount you weigh etc. Always start with a low dose and do not increase until you have waited at least an hour after consumption.

Before undergoing a psychedelic experience, experts suggest ensuring that your mood is positive; that is to say, you're generally feeling good, and you aren't stressing out or anxious about anything. Psychedelics can amplify the emotions one already has, so this is very important. Things to consider are setting, or the environment where the "trip" is being experienced. A calm, familiar environment where you feel safe is important.

A bad trip can range from experiencing mild anxiety and paranoia to having a full-scale psychedelic crisis where you go through some deeply disturbing emotions. The reasons for having a bad trip vary from person to person, but they can usually be traced back to the following things

• Taking higher doses of psilocybin mushrooms. 2 to 3 grams of dried mushrooms is considered a full trip dose. Anything higher than this is not recommended if you have limited experience with psychedelics.
• Being in a negative frame of mind before taking mushrooms or during the trip.
• Having a setting where there's excessive stimulation.
• Mixing psilocybin with other drugs or alcohol.
• Taking psychedelic drugs without a trip sitter to sooth you
• Not taking enough water.

If you find yourself experiencing a bad trip here are some suggestions to try. Remember to breath! Slow breaths in and out (some people find it helpful to count their breaths.) Talk to a friend or your trip sitter and let them know how you are feeling. Sometimes a familiar, calming voice can be very soothing. One of the most important things is to change your scenery. Go for a walk out in nature (or somewhere you are comfortable) and avoid noisy environments and traffic.