Emily Johnson
Microdosing is the practice of ingesting very small, sub-perceptual amounts of psychedelic substances like mushrooms, LSD, or MDMA. The goal is to experience the potential benefits of the substance without undergoing a full psychedelic experience. While microdosing has become increasingly popular, with some studies indicating significant benefits, the legality of procuring psychedelics remains uncertain in many places, and the lack of regulation means that products may be fake or harmful. Furthermore, while microdosing is generally considered safe, some individuals may experience adverse side effects, and certain populations, such as those with major mental illnesses, should approach these substances with caution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Microdosing is taking a very small amount of a psychoactive substance to enhance your mood without the mind-altering side effects. |
| Dosage | A microdose is typically 5-10% of a standard psychoactive dose, or 10 to 20% of a full or recreational dose. This is generally estimated to be between 0.1 and 0.3 grams (100 to 300 mg) of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms. |
| Consumption | Mushrooms can be chewed dry, added to hot tea, broth or soup, crushed and mixed with chocolate, or put into gelatin capsules and taken orally. |
| Effects | Most experts consider microdosing to be safe, with few adverse side effects. Positive effects may include heightened focus, creativity, productivity, energy, reduced anxiety, depression, or stress, and reduced menstrual pain. Negative side effects may include fatigue, mild discomfort, and increased anxiety. |
| Legality | Psilocybin is illegal at the federal level in the US, even in states where it has been decriminalized. |
| Precautions | Microdosers should test their psychedelics before consuming them. The lack of regulation means that products may be fake or contain harmful ingredients. |
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What You'll Learn
Microdosing vs. tripping: dosage and effects
Microdosing involves taking a small amount of a psychedelic substance to enhance your mood without the mind-altering side effects of a full dose. The idea is that you take too little of the substance to induce a psychedelic experience, but enough to get a slight "buzz".
A microdose of psilocybin mushrooms is typically between 0.1 and 0.5 grams of dried mushrooms, though some sources suggest doses as low as 0.05 grams or as high as 1 gram. The mushrooms can be chewed dry, added to tea, or ground up and mixed with food or put into capsules. Microdoses are typically taken every 3-4 days, with a break of a few days in between.
Tripping, on the other hand, involves taking a full dose of a psychedelic substance, which will induce a psychedelic experience. A moderate dose of psilocybin mushrooms is considered to be between 1 and 3 grams of dried mushrooms, and the effects typically last 4-6 hours, with after-effects lingering for several additional hours. Higher doses can result in effects lasting 8+ hours, which is why proper dosage is important.
While microdosing is said to bypass the more extreme effects of psychedelics, such as hallucinations and disorientation, some people may still have unwanted experiences, especially if they accidentally take too much. It is important to note that the effects of microdosing are subtle and may not be noticeable to everyone. Additionally, the research on the effectiveness of microdosing is limited and often relies on self-reported data, which can be difficult to validate. Some studies have found that microdosing may offer subtle, short-lived benefits, such as improved mood, focus, and decreased depression symptoms, but more high-quality research is needed.
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Safety and legality
Microdosing with psilocybin mushrooms is a popular trend, with an estimated 8 million people in the US having used it in the past year. While some people report positive mental effects, the safety and legality of this practice are uncertain.
Safety
Although microdosing with psilocybin mushrooms is becoming increasingly popular, there is limited research on its safety. A 2022 double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that while small amounts of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms induced subjective effects, their impact on other domains was negligible or indicated impaired performance. The study also raised concerns about the potential impact of microdosing on human physiology, specifically the chronic stimulation of 5-HT2B receptors and its potential consequences for circulatory health.
Until more comprehensive research is conducted, it is challenging to ascertain the long-term safety and efficacy of microdosing with psilocybin mushrooms.
It is important to note that the unregulated nature of the microdosing industry may lead to the consumption of fake or harmful products. Therefore, it is advisable to exercise caution and obtain substances from reliable sources.
Legality
The legality of microdosing with psilocybin mushrooms varies worldwide. Psilocybin and psilocin are listed as Schedule I drugs under the United Nations 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances, which means they are considered to have a high potential for abuse and no recognized medical uses. However, many countries have amended their national drug laws to reflect the terms of this convention, resulting in varying degrees of regulation or prohibition.
In the United States, psilocybin and psilocin are federally prohibited under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and are classified as Schedule I substances. However, some states, such as Oregon and Colorado, have decriminalized psilocybin, allowing its use for medicinal or therapeutic purposes under specific conditions. In other states, cities, and towns, measures have been passed to decriminalize psychedelics, particularly those that occur naturally, such as mushrooms.
Similarly, in Canada, Australia, and Denmark, psilocybin is legal for medicinal use, while other countries like Germany, California, Georgia, and Idaho have specifically criminalized the possession of psilocybin mushroom spores.
The legal status of microdosing with psilocybin mushrooms is complex and ever-changing, with ongoing research and shifting public sentiment influencing legislation. It is essential to stay informed about the specific laws and regulations in your jurisdiction to ensure compliance and make informed decisions.
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Methods of consumption
Magic Mushrooms
Magic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms, have been used for centuries and are often ingested in dried form. A standard microdose of psilocybin is typically between 0.1 and 0.3 grams (100 to 300 mg) of dried mushrooms, although the specific amount may vary depending on the species of mushroom and individual preferences. It is important to note that the potency of magic mushrooms can vary, so users should be cautious and start with a lower dose to assess their tolerance.
LSD
LSD is a powerful psychedelic substance that can be consumed in various forms. One common method of microdosing LSD is by dividing a square of LSD blotter paper into nine equal microdoses, as this substance is often powerful even in small amounts. LSD can also come in liquid form or embedded in a piece of paper that is slipped under the tongue. Due to its potency and the lack of regulation, it is crucial to be cautious and well-informed about the source when consuming LSD.
Other Substances
In addition to magic mushrooms and LSD, other substances that are sometimes used for microdosing include MDMA, prescription drugs like Ritalin, cannabis (in jurisdictions where it is legal), and ketamine (when administered by a licensed clinician). Each of these substances has its own unique effects and legal considerations, so it is important to research and understand the local laws and potential risks before consuming them.
It is worth noting that the legality of microdosing varies depending on the location, and it is essential to comply with local laws and regulations. While some jurisdictions have decriminalized certain substances or allowed their use for therapeutic purposes, others maintain stricter regulations. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any microdosing regimen.
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History of microdosing
The history of microdosing is a long and complex one, dating back centuries to the use of psychedelic plants by traditional cultures. Anthropological reports indicate that indigenous peoples incorporated psilocybin-containing mushrooms, peyote, and morning glory seeds into various aspects of daily life. These substances were used in religious rituals and at lower doses for therapeutic benefits, such as reducing hunger, enhancing courage, and treating ailments.
In the 1960s, microdosing expanded to include LSD, as individuals sought to enhance cognitive functions and creativity. However, the War on Drugs in the late 1960s curtailed much of the research into psychedelics. Albert Hofmann, the discoverer of LSD, mentioned very low doses of LSD (25 micrograms) in a 1976 interview, but there are limited records of his work in this area.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in microdosing, with renewed research into the potential benefits of psychedelic drugs. The term "microdosing" was introduced by psychologist and psychedelics researcher James Fadiman, who also devised a widely followed protocol for the practice. Dr. Fadiman is considered a leading authority on the topic, and his work has focused extensively on LSD and magic mushrooms.
Today, the practice of microdosing has evolved to include a range of substances, such as MDMA, Ritalin, cannabis, and ketamine. While the majority of hallucinogenic substances are illegal for personal use, the legal landscape is evolving, with some states legalizing marijuana for recreational use and ketamine being administered by licensed clinicians. The popularity of microdosing has grown exponentially, with individuals reporting a range of potential health and wellness benefits. However, there remains a lack of empirical studies and consistent research on the effects of microdosing due to the legal status and challenges in regulating the potency of substances.
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Research and studies
Microdosing involves the regular self-administration of psychedelic substances in doses small enough to not impair normal cognitive functioning. The most widely reported substances used for microdosing are psilocybin mushrooms and LSD, and to a lesser degree, other psychedelic substances such as mescaline and 2-CB.
A recent study observed 953 psilocybin microdosers compared with 180 non-dosing participants for 30 days and found small to medium-sized improvements in mood and mental health that were generally consistent across gender, age, and presence of mental health concerns. Improvements in mood, emotional well-being, and cognition have been reported among the top motivations for microdosing, and several cross-sectional studies have identified associations between microdosing and perceived improvements in mood, cognitive functioning, reductions in stress, depression, and anxiety.
However, another study concluded that low-dose psilocybin mushrooms did not show evidence to support enhanced well-being, creativity, and cognitive function. The authors of this study concluded that the expectation underlies at least some of the anecdotal benefits attributed to microdosing with psilocybin mushrooms.
Another study of adults with major depression found that two doses of the psychedelic substance psilocybin, given with supportive psychotherapy, produced rapid and large reductions in depressive symptoms, with most participants showing improvement and half of the study participants achieving remission through the four-week follow-up.
In an evaluation of the safety and abuse research on the drug in hallucinogenic mushrooms, Johns Hopkins researchers suggest that if psilocybin clears phase III clinical trials, it should be re-categorized from a schedule I drug—one with no known medical potential—to a schedule IV drug such as prescription sleep aids, but with tighter control.
While microdosing has gained popularity, there is limited scientific research on its effects due to the legal and ethical implications of this practice. This lack of research has led to a need for more robust studies to understand the potential benefits and risks of microdosing with both therapeutic and recreational intent.
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Frequently asked questions
Microdosing involves taking a small amount of a hallucinogenic substance to seek positive effects on the mind without experiencing a psychedelic episode.
Some people report that microdosing mushrooms can enhance their mood, creativity, focus, and emotional resilience. Other potential benefits include reduced anxiety, depression, or stress, and less social anxiety.
A microdose is typically between 5-10% of a standard psychoactive dose, which equates to around 0.1-0.3 grams of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms. However, some people take as little as 1-2% of a standard dose to achieve a completely sub-perceptual experience.
Most experts consider microdosing to be safe, with few adverse side effects. However, some individuals may experience increased anxiety, fatigue, or mild discomfort. It is important to note that the long-term effects of microdosing are still unknown, and the use of all psychedelic drugs should be undertaken with caution, especially for those with major mental illnesses.
The legality of microdosing mushrooms varies depending on your location. While some cities and states in the US have decriminalized the use of psilocybin mushrooms, it is still illegal at the federal level. It is essential to understand the legal ramifications before consuming any psychedelic substance.
