Caps or Stems: Psilocybin Content in Magic Mushrooms

The “caps vs. stems” debate has been raging within the magic mushroom community for years. The answer often depends on who you ask. Either way you slice it, magic mushrooms are bound to have some psilocybin content. Nothing needs to be thrown away! But determining the potency of caps vs. stems is a bit more important than a simple debate among mushroom lovers. Knowing the content of stems versus caps can help users pinpoint more accurate dosages. Precise dosing can mean the difference between a good trip and a bad one.

Measuring Potency

For the uninitiated, “potency” generally refers to the amount of psilocybin present in a mushroom. Or, in this case, researchers trying to answer our question would be referring to the amount of psilocybin present in a specific part of a mushroom. Psilocybin is the main chemical that creates the high that magic mushrooms are known for. The chemical can create feelings of euphoria, hallucinations, and even complete ego death at higher dosages.

Caps or Stems?

Nick Jikomes is a Ph.D. in the cannabis research discipline. He’s done extensive work as a journalist within the psychonaut community and he also serves as the “Director of Science and Innovation” at leading cannabis company Leafly.

In a recent tweet, Dr. Jikomes demonstrated that magic mushroom caps seem to have the edge over stems when it comes to potency and psilocybin content. However, even the wording of his tweet and the accompanying diagram seem to suggest that both stems and caps still have a substantial amount of psilocybin content.

Our final ruling? Both stems and caps have enough psilocybin to generate a high. Fans of magic mushrooms don’t need to throw away any part of their medicinal mushrooms. However, the most potent part of the mushroom is the cap.

This should be factored into dosing decisions to ensure a safe and educated trip.