Microdosing psilocybin is gaining popularity as a potential way to improve mood, creativity, and productivity.

My first experience with microdosing was pretty uneventful, and for many years after I did not try it again. Upon reflection, I think that perhaps the time was just not right for me. I was going through a massive shift in my life, and coming up for air from a very long unconscious sleep. The mega and therapeutic doses seemed to be what I needed at the time. Today I have seen the light and am finding microdosing incredibly helpful for creative thinking, reducing anxiety and opening my heart to a more compassionate state of being.

So, what exactly is microdosing psilocybin?

Microdosing psilocybin is a natural way to improve mood, creativity, and productivity by consuming very low, sub-hallucinogenic doses of psychoactive mushrooms. The practice involves taking small, sub-perceptual amounts of the psychedelic compound over an extended period. Advocates claim that microdosing can enhance focus, boost energy, and reduce anxiety and depression symptoms. Some research suggests that psilocybin can promote neuroplasticity and stimulate the growth of new brain cells, leading to improved cognitive function.

How does microdosing work?

The exact mechanisms by which microdosing psilocybin works are not yet fully understood, as research in this area is still in its early stages. However, some studies and anecdotal reports suggest that microdosing psilocybin may work by modulating the activity of serotonin receptors in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, cognition, and behaviour. Psilocybin is a structural analogue of serotonin and can bind to serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to altered activity in certain regions and neural pathways.

Microdosing psilocybin is thought to work by enhancing the availability of serotonin in the brain, which may lead to changes in mood, perception, and cognition. Additionally, psilocybin has been shown to increase neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new connections and adapt to changing environments. This could lead to improved cognitive function and mental flexibility, which may explain some of the reported benefits of microdosing, such as increased creativity and productivity. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which microdosing psilocybin works and its potential therapeutic applications.

I believe that microdosing psilocybin can be a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation. It can help us to break out of old patterns of thought and behaviour, and to see ourselves and the world in a new light. ~ Paul Stamets

What is a typical microdose?

In general, a microdose of psilocybin is usually around 5 to 10 percent of a regular dose. To illustrate, a standard dose of mushrooms ranges from one to one and a half grams, while a microdose would be between 50 to 150 milligrams.

How often should I microdose psilocybin?

To begin a microdosing regimen, it is essential to determine the schedule that best suits your needs. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to microdosing, several popular options exist. For instance, taking a dose every third day is believed to prevent tolerance and yield the most long-term effects. Alternatively, some proponents of microdosing suggest taking a daily dose for 30 days and taking a break for 30 days.

It is a personal decision that should be made on an individual basis. Personally, I prefer a one-month on, one-month off protocol. There are several reasons, firstly, I’m not great at tracking even and odd days, so I prefer to know that for 30 days I wake up to a microdose and for the next 30 none. I also find that there is a slight adjustment period when I start the regime, so interrupting this does not work for me. However, we are all different, so trust your intuition and choose the best course of action for yourself. It may be helpful to keep a journal of your schedule and track your progress over time.

What are the benefits of microdosing psilocybin?

Early research by organizations such as the John Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research and the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) suggests that psilocybin may offer a promising option for patients with treatment-resistant depression, as well as veterans and others with post-traumatic stress disorder. However, there are also other benefits of microdosing psilocybin that can improve daily life. Many people report experiencing relief from stress and anxiety, better sleep, and improved problem-solving skills due to enhanced creativity and divergent thinking. Read more about the various doses’ benefits and risks here »

Overall, anecdotal evidence suggests that microdosing psilocybin can significantly improve mood and outlook, with continued use leading to improvements in various areas of life. While psilocybin cultivation is currently illegal, the future of microdosing with this substance seems promising, with the potential for it to become more widely available and the stigma surrounding it gradually fading away.

Are there risks to micordosing?

Psychedelics are potent substances, and it is advisable not to combine them with alcohol or any other drugs, including prescription medications while microdosing. Some experts even suggest avoiding stimulants such as coffee. If you are currently taking prescription medication, it is recommended that you wait for three to four hours before microdosing. For individuals who are new to microdosing, it is crucial to do so in a comfortable and safe environment while maintaining a positive mindset. Your intentions and state of mind can significantly influence your experience.

In conclusion, studies have found that microdosing may be great for individuals suffering from depression and anxiety, as well as those needing creative inspiration and it’s a wonderful way to connect to the heart space.

NOTE: As always, speak to your physician or healer and do the research before making any decisions about consuming any medicine, may it be psychedelics or prescription drugs.