WHAT IS Microdosing?
Microdosing describes taking small, sub-perceptual (unnoticeable) amounts of psilocybin for therapeutic benefits. Unlike larger doses of psychedelics, which may have a recreational goal, the sole intention of microdosing is personal growth.
Over the last few years, microdosing psychedelics, including magic mushrooms, has become a popular method of boosting creativity, improving focus, facilitating flow, elevating mood, and enhancing performance. The end goal of a microdose of psilocybin mushroom is not a psychedelic experience. It is for health and wellbeing.
How to Microdose SHrooms
A standard microdose of psilocybin is usually between 0.05 to 0.25 grams, depending on the person. As you experiment with your own microdosing protocol, feel free to adjust up or down to reach the ideal dose.
The perfect dose heightens senses and may feel similar to the afterglow of a more standard psychedelic trip. A microdose should never disrupt your daily routine, although it may improve your focus and attention. If you begin to see true visuals or feel ‘high,’ consider lowering the dose for next time.
Microdosing should come with clearly set intentions for the best results. Ask yourself, “What is the end goal of this microdosing protocol?” Are you targeting anxiety, depression, or another mental health issue? Is your primary purpose to improve productivity, flow, and connection? Set an intention, and pay close attention throughout the course of dosing. You may also wish to keep a journal, noting any changes. If you experience heightened anxiety, reset by taking a few days off, and reducing your dose.
Sample Microdosing Protocols
THE STAMETS REGIMEN
- Take one microdose a day, for five consecutive days.
- Take two days off.
- Repeat for several weeks.
THE FADIMAN REGIMEN
- Take one microdose on Day One.
- Take two days off (Day Two, Day Three)
- Repeat for several weeks (dose one day, two days off)
Benefits of Microdosing
Most of the scientifically supported evidence on the benefits of microdosing comes from two recent scientific papers. There are also many well-documented anecdotal reports. At the time of writing, crucial new research was ongoing through The Berkeley Foundation and Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), among other research organizations.
Study 1
Study 2
The second study explored psychedelics more generally, including dose, frequency and objective. As per the analysis, the majority of people surveyed reported they used microdosing to enhance performance.
Additional benefits
Outside of the growing body of scientific literature, microdosing has many more reported benefits. These include elevating creativity, improving focus and flow, boosting mood, and soothing symptoms of mental health conditions. Many people report reductions in the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other disorders, and all without serious side effects.