Sarah Brown
Microdosing is the regular ingestion of very small quantities of psychedelic substances. It has gained popularity in recent years, with psilocybin mushrooms being the most commonly used substance. Microdosing is believed to provide various benefits, including improved mood, reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, enhanced cognitive function, and increased creativity. While the exact parameters of microdosing are not yet firmly established, a common schedule is to microdose every three days, with a typical regimen lasting for 6-8 weeks followed by a break for self-assessment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Microdose substances | Psilocybin, LSD, Lion's Mane mushrooms, chocolate, cacao, niacin |
| Frequency | Several times a week with various patterns of alternating days; common schedules are every three days |
| Duration | 6-8 weeks, followed by a break of a month or two |
| Dosage | 0.1 to 0.3 g of dried mushrooms; 5 to 20 μg of LSD |
| Benefits | Improved mood, reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, enhanced cognitive function, improved emotional well-being, increased energy levels, improved social ability, enhanced creativity, improved productivity |
| Legality | Illegal in the UK and many US states; decriminalized in Denver, Oakland, Santa Cruz, and Oregon; legal for mental health treatment in supervised settings in Oregon |
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What You'll Learn
Microdosing frequency and effects
Microdosing involves the regular ingestion of very small quantities of psychedelic substances. The exact parameters of what constitutes a microdose are yet to be firmly established. However, it is generally agreed that a microdose is a quantity of a substance that does not impair normal functioning. Microdoses are typically taken several times a week with various patterns of alternating days. One common schedule is to microdose every three days. This is based on the idea that there may be residual effects from each microdose that last one to two days afterward.
The most widely reported substances used for microdosing are psilocybin mushrooms and LSD. Psilocybin is the psychoactive compound found in certain species of mushrooms. Microdoses of psilocybin mushrooms typically range from 0.1 to 0.3 grams of dried mushrooms.
Microdosers report a wide variety of psychological and social benefits from regular microdosing, including increases in vitality, creativity, productivity, social ability, focus, analytic thinking, positive mood, memory, mindfulness, and general well-being. A recent study found that microdosers exhibited lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress compared to non-microdosers.
A typical microdosing regimen often lasts for 6–8 weeks, followed by a break of a month or two to allow time for self-assessment and to determine the effectiveness of the regimen.
It is important to note that the effects of microdosing are still being studied, and there is a lack of consensus on the precise definition of a microdose. Additionally, psilocybin mushrooms are currently illegal in many places, including the UK and many U.S. states.
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The legality of microdosing mushrooms
Microdosing involves the ingestion of very small amounts of psychedelic substances, such as psilocybin ("magic mushrooms"), LSD, and other substances. While microdosing has gained popularity as a way to enhance mental health, boost creativity, and improve overall well-being, the practice comes with legal considerations, especially regarding psilocybin mushrooms.
However, the legal landscape is evolving, and there are nuances to consider. While psilocybin remains illegal under federal law, some states and jurisdictions have taken steps to decriminalize or deprioritize its possession. For example, Oregon has legalized psilocybin, although the program is not yet operational. Additionally, cities like Detroit have decriminalized psychedelics, reducing penalties and directing law enforcement to focus on other priorities. These decriminalization efforts provide some protection from local prosecution for individuals who microdose psilocybin in those areas.
It is important to note that federal and state authorities may still prosecute individuals for possessing or using psilocybin mushrooms, even in areas where it has been decriminalized. The legality of microdosing mushrooms is a complex and dynamic issue, and it is essential to stay informed about the specific laws and regulations in your location. While the potential benefits of microdosing mushrooms are being explored, it is crucial to approach this topic with caution and be aware of the legal implications.
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The ideal weight of a microdose
Microdosing involves the regular ingestion of very small quantities of psychedelic substances. The exact parameters of what constitutes a microdose have yet to be firmly articulated. However, microdoses are generally considered to be small enough to not impair normal cognitive functioning.
Microdosing regimens typically last for 6 to 8 weeks, followed by a break of one or two months. During this break, individuals can assess the effectiveness of the regimen and decide whether to continue or adjust their approach. The most common microdosing schedule is to take a microdose every three days, as it is believed that the effects of each microdose can last for one to two days afterward.
It is worth noting that the relationship between the overall quantity of microdoses and the degree of subjective effects is not well understood. While some individuals may experience benefits from a single dose, others may find that more frequent dosing is necessary to achieve the desired effects. Additionally, the effects of microdosing can vary depending on individual biology, set and setting, and the specific type of mushroom used.
In summary, while the ideal weight of a microdose of psilocybin mushrooms typically ranges from 0.1 to 0.3 grams, it is important to approach microdosing with caution and to start with smaller doses to assess tolerance. It is also crucial to follow local laws and regulations regarding the use of psychedelic substances.
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Stacking mushrooms with other substances
Microdosing involves the regular ingestion of very small quantities of psychedelic substances. One common practice associated with microdosing is "stacking", which involves combining microdoses of psychedelics with other substances.
The Stamets Stack
The most famous stack, patented by Paul Stamets, combines a psilocybin microdose with two other components believed to enhance its neurogenerative potential: Lion's Mane Mushroom and Niacin (Vitamin B3).
Other Mushroom Stacks
Different adaptogenic mushrooms target different areas of the body, mind, and spirit. Stacking adaptogenic mushrooms can create a synergistic effect, amplifying the benefits of each mushroom. For example, Reishi is used for stress support and sleep, Chaga is a do-it-all mushroom that also calms the gut, and Lion's Mane is known as the "smart mushroom".
Historical Examples of Stacking
The practice of stacking has a long history. The Aztecs combined cacao with psilocybin mushrooms in a practice called "cacahua-xochitl", which means "chocolate-mushrooms". Similarly, psilocybin admixtures composed of honey, flowers, and herbs have been noted in historical records among Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples.
Other Substances
In addition to mushrooms, microdosers may combine psilocybin with other substances such as chocolate, Syrian rue (Peganum harmala), and niacin. These combinations are believed to accentuate the salutary effects of the microdose.
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The future of microdosing
As of 2025, the global psychedelic drugs market size is projected to reach $10.75 billion by 2027, more than doubling its 2020 value. This surge in interest has been fuelled by groundbreaking research, shifting cultural attitudes, and bipartisan political support in some regions. The therapeutic potential of microdosing is particularly intriguing, with studies indicating improvements in mood, mental health, and cognitive function.
However, the future of microdosing also faces challenges. Despite the growing acceptance and decriminalization of psilocybin mushrooms in some parts of the US, they remain illegal in many other jurisdictions, including the UK and several US states. This legal ambiguity may hinder further research and accessibility. Additionally, the long-term effects of microdosing are still not fully understood, and more comprehensive studies are needed to establish the safety and efficacy of this practice.
Moving forward, it is essential to address these legal and scientific uncertainties to harness the potential benefits of microdosing effectively and safely. As research evolves, the future of microdosing may involve the development of standardized protocols for dosage, frequency, and stacking (combining psychedelics with non-psychedelic substances). This could lead to more consistent outcomes and a better understanding of the optimal ways to incorporate microdosing into therapeutic and recreational settings.
In conclusion, the future of microdosing holds both opportunities and obstacles. While the popularity of microdosing mushrooms continues to rise, addressing legal barriers and advancing scientific knowledge will be crucial to unlocking the full potential of this practice and ensuring safe and responsible use.
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Frequently asked questions
Microdosing is the regular ingestion of very small quantities of psychedelic substances. It has gained popularity in recent years, with psilocybin being the most commonly used substance.
Microdoses are typically taken several times a week with various patterns of alternating days. One common schedule is to microdose every three days, with the idea that there may be a residual effect from each microdose that lasts one to two days afterward. A typical regimen often lasts for 6-8 weeks, followed by a break of a month or two.
Microdosing mushrooms have been associated with improved mood, reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, enhanced cognitive function, and increased overall energy levels. Microdosers have also reported greater emotional balance, improved social abilities, and enhanced creativity.
Psilocybin mushrooms are considered non-addictive and relatively non-toxic when compared to other substances. However, they are illegal in many places, including the UK and some U.S. states. It is important to note that the exact parameters of what constitutes a microdose are still being defined, and there are uncertainties regarding the long-term effects.
