Psilocybin, a psychoactive compound found in magic mushrooms, is often used recreationally for its euphoric and hallucinatory effects.
The compound is also under investigation for potential benefits in providing relief from chronic pain.
This article explores a case study on the potential of mushroom microdosing in managing chronic pain.
Key Takeaways:
- Microdosing mushrooms might offer both immediate and prolonged pain relief.
- When administered in small doses, psilocybin microdosing tends to have fewer side effects compared to traditional pain medications.
- Psilocybin interacts with the serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptors, potentially easing pain and other conditions.
The Study
The research, “Microdosing Psilocybin for Chronic Pain: A Case Series“, was led by Dr. Matthew Lyes and his team from the Division of Pain Medicine in the Department of Anesthesiology at the University of California, San Diego. They centered their study on three patients who used small doses of psilocybin to manage their chronic pain symptoms.
Three Patients, One Result – Reduction of Chronic Pain
Patient # 1
| AGE/ GENDER: | 37 Male |
| NATURE OF PAIN: | Neuropathic pain occurring below the site of a spinal cord injury. |
| INTENSITY OF PAIN: | Initially 4 to 5/ 10, increasing to 8/ 10 later in the day |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSE: | 250 mg of ground mushroom for under 6 months |
| OUTCOME: | Discontinuation of prescribed pain medication, decrease in muscle spasms, and improved bowel movement efficiency. No signs of rebound pain or withdrawal symptoms. |
| The patient noted that unlike his regular medications that merely dulled the pain, psilocybin effectively eliminated it, reducing his average pain level from 5 to | |
Case Study: Second Patient
| AGE/GENDER: | 69-year-old female |
| TYPE OF PAIN: | Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) |
| PAIN INTENSITY: | Typically 5 to 7 out of 10, increasing with physical activity and during pain spikes |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSAGE: | 500 mg daily for 7 to 10 days, with 2 to 3 day rest intervals throughout the year. During pain spikes, dosage is increased to 750 mg to 1 gram |
| EFFECT: | Pain decreases by 80% for 3-4 hours, slowly reverting back to original levels after 12 hours. Complete pain relief (90%-100%) persists for 6-8 hours, then returns to initial levels after 18 hours. |
| The patient notes a decrease in hunger without accompanying nausea. When the dosage is raised (750 to 1000mg), disorientation or difficulty in walking is observed. | |
Case Study: Third Patient
| AGE/GENDER: | 40-year-old female |
| TYPE OF PAIN: | Lumbar radiculopathy and neuropathic pain |
| PAIN INTENSITY: | 8 out of 10, surging to a full 10 during physical activities |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSAGE: | 1000 mg in the form of a mushroom chocolate bar bi-monthly. |
| EFFECT: | Significant alleviation of pain without mind-altering effects. Increased flexibility and functionality are noted. Pain slowly returns to initial levels over a span of 2-4 weeks. Repeated doses help manage pain better. |
| The patient does not experience any significant physical, cognitive, or behavioural side effects. Her mood remains stable for the most part. She continues her routine dosage of SSRI for depression management throughout the psilocybin treatment. | |
Exploring Pain Management with Psilocybin
Continuous bodily and visceral pain signals reinforce specific neural pathways due to peripheral and central sensitization, causing chronic physical and emotional pain. Psychedelics like psilocybin activate 5-HT2A receptors, potentially resetting the brain regions associated with neuropathic disorders.
A patient reported experiencing pain relief lasting for weeks. This suggests that the direct stimulation of 5-HT2A receptors might lead to a central regulation of pain perception and
Adaptability of synapses.
Possible Side Effects of Psilocybin versus Traditional Pain Relievers
| PSILOCYBIN (Based on Studies) | TRADITIONAL PAIN RELIEVERS |
| Muscle spasms | Nausea |
| Decreased appetite | Stomach discomfort |
| Mental disorientation | Headaches |
| Unsteady gait | Dependency |
| No mood changes | Drowsiness |
Potential Areas for Future Psilocybin Research
After studying the experiences of three individuals, the research team identified several promising areas for further investigation due to their potential benefits.
- Small amounts of psilocybin may provide immediate and potentially long-lasting relief from neuropathic pain, without the risk of physical tolerance or addiction.
- Look into the effects of incorporating various treatment methods with psilocybin. For instance, patient #3 reported an increased pain-relieving effect when psilocybin was combined with physical therapy.
- Small doses of psilocybin may still provide pain relief even without psychotherapy, as demonstrated in this case study. The researchers propose that adding therapeutic guidance could potentially enhance or prolong the therapeutic outcomes.
Study Limitations
Despite the encouraging outcomes seen in the patients, it’s important to acknowledge the limitations identified in the study.
- The small number of subjects may not provide a comprehensive representation of all individuals experiencing neuropathic pain.
- The study did not include any participants who didn’t respond to psilocybin.
- No assessments were conducted before and after treatment to evaluate the impact of psilocybin on mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
- Most of the data was based on self-reports from the subjects.
- The interviewer’s presence and potential bias associated with psilocybin could have influenced the participants’ responses.
- The study did not investigate the potential influence of the placebo effect.
- The study didn’t establish the quantity of psilocybin present in each mushroom.
The Practice of Microdosing Mushrooms
In this research, participant Patients #1 and #2 consumed a microdose of powdered psilocybin derived from dried mushrooms. On the other hand, patient #3 blended it with chocolate. There are a myriad of products designed for psilocybin microdosing. We have curated a list of some of them below.
Dried Mushrooms
Although the study did not detail the specific strain used, the following strain is a recommended starting point for beginners.
- Golden Teacher: This is one of the most prevalent and frequently encountered strains of magic mushrooms.
- Amazonian Cubensis: This strain is known for its user-friendliness and potential cognitive enhancements.
- Cambodian: Microdosing with Cambodian cubensis mushrooms can boost concentration, social awareness, and mood.
Microdose Capsules
- Euphoria Psychedelics – Micro Calm Capsules: This concoction contains Ashwagandha, Reishi, CBD, Valerian root, and Psilocybin Mushrooms, all of which have been scientifically demonstrated to alleviate anxiety and stress.
- Ground Sounds – Microdose Capsules – Champion Lover: This enticing blend offers three dosage choices: 50mg, 100mg, or 250mg of pure psilocybin combined with reishi, cacao, cordyceps, and maca.
- Kind Stranger – Brighten Capsules 250mg: These capsules contain the Golden Teacher strain, recognized for promoting clarity, boosted creativity, and increased focus.
Pain Relief through Psilocybin
Research about the analgesic properties of mushrooms is still in the nascent stages. However, anecdotal reports and small-scale case studies are showing promising results.
Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If the desired effects are not achieved, incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you reach your ideal level.
People with a history of using psychotropic drugs may need to increase the dose to 0.5 grams to obtain the desired effects.
What precautions should be taken before consuming mushrooms?
- Set aside some time to understand the reason for your microdosing on a particular day.
- Take a moment for self-reflection and to connect with your current emotional or mental state. Identify the feelings or mindset you believe will be advantageous for you that day.
- When your goals are clearly defined, write them down. Constructing your objectives as affirmations can be an effective strategy for supporting your continuous growth.
- Direct your attention towards the experience you want to have, rather than what you want to avoid.
- Take it on an empty stomach, preferably one hour before your first meal of the day.
What is the suggested frequency for taking microdoses of mushrooms?
Several well-recognized protocols suggest organized microdosing schedules for psychedelics. The main distinction between these protocols is the number of “off” days they include, which are the days you should not microdose.
The most popular protocols recommend having 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s natural tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols under discussion here are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.
In November 2022, COMPASS Pathways, a mental health company, unveiled the findings of their extensive phase 2b trial, which was a randomized and double-blind study. Their research indicated that a single dose of psilocybin significantly reduced depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. Participants who received a higher dose of 25 milligrams showed a sustained antidepressant response at the twelve-week follow-up.
A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal stated that psilocybin is more effective than traditional antidepressant treatments.
How can you determine your dosage?
Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If the desired effects are not achieved, incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you reach your ideal level.
People with a history of using psychotropic drugs may need to increase the dose to 0.5 grams to obtain the desired effects.
What precautions should be taken before consuming mushrooms?
- Set aside some time to understand the reason for your microdosing on a particular day.
- Take a moment for self-reflection and to connect with your current emotional or mental state. Identify the feelings or mindset you believe will be advantageous for you that day.
- When your goals are clearly defined, write them down. Constructing your objectives as affirmations can be an effective strategy for supporting your continuous growth.
- Direct your attention towards the experience you want to have, rather than what you want to avoid.
- Take it on an empty stomach, preferably one hour before your first meal of the day.
What is the suggested frequency for taking microdoses of mushrooms?
Several well-recognized protocols suggest organized microdosing schedules for psychedelics. The main distinction between these protocols is the number of “off” days they include, which are the days you should not microdose.
The most popular protocols recommend having 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s natural tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols under discussion here are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.
Microdosing can potentially enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and concentration. Its most extensively researched benefit is its influence on mental health.
In November 2022, COMPASS Pathways, a mental health company, unveiled the findings of their extensive phase 2b trial, which was a randomized and double-blind study. Their research indicated that a single dose of psilocybin significantly reduced depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. Participants who received a higher dose of 25 milligrams showed a sustained antidepressant response at the twelve-week follow-up.
A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal stated that psilocybin is more effective than traditional antidepressant treatments.
How can you determine your dosage?
Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If the desired effects are not achieved, incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you reach your ideal level.
People with a history of using psychotropic drugs may need to increase the dose to 0.5 grams to obtain the desired effects.
What precautions should be taken before consuming mushrooms?
- Set aside some time to understand the reason for your microdosing on a particular day.
- Take a moment for self-reflection and to connect with your current emotional or mental state. Identify the feelings or mindset you believe will be advantageous for you that day.
- When your goals are clearly defined, write them down. Constructing your objectives as affirmations can be an effective strategy for supporting your continuous growth.
- Direct your attention towards the experience you want to have, rather than what you want to avoid.
- Take it on an empty stomach, preferably one hour before your first meal of the day.
What is the suggested frequency for taking microdoses of mushrooms?
Several well-recognized protocols suggest organized microdosing schedules for psychedelics. The main distinction between these protocols is the number of “off” days they include, which are the days you should not microdose.
The most popular protocols recommend having 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s natural tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols under discussion here are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.
Microdosing can potentially enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and concentration. Its most extensively researched benefit is its influence on mental health.
In November 2022, COMPASS Pathways, a mental health company, unveiled the findings of their extensive phase 2b trial, which was a randomized and double-blind study. Their research indicated that a single dose of psilocybin significantly reduced depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. Participants who received a higher dose of 25 milligrams showed a sustained antidepressant response at the twelve-week follow-up.
A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal stated that psilocybin is more effective than traditional antidepressant treatments.
How can you determine your dosage?
Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If the desired effects are not achieved, incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you reach your ideal level.
People with a history of using psychotropic drugs may need to increase the dose to 0.5 grams to obtain the desired effects.
What precautions should be taken before consuming mushrooms?
- Set aside some time to understand the reason for your microdosing on a particular day.
- Take a moment for self-reflection and to connect with your current emotional or mental state. Identify the feelings or mindset you believe will be advantageous for you that day.
- When your goals are clearly defined, write them down. Constructing your objectives as affirmations can be an effective strategy for supporting your continuous growth.
- Direct your attention towards the experience you want to have, rather than what you want to avoid.
- Take it on an empty stomach, preferably one hour before your first meal of the day.
What is the suggested frequency for taking microdoses of mushrooms?
Several well-recognized protocols suggest organized microdosing schedules for psychedelics. The main distinction between these protocols is the number of “off” days they include, which are the days you should not microdose.
The most popular protocols recommend having 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s natural tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols under discussion here are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.
Moreover, psychedelics promote communication between brain regions that usually interact less. This unique connectivity is a result of psychedelics’ ability to decrease the activity of the “Default Mode Network” (DMN), which is associated with various cognitive functions such as daydreaming, introspection, and reflecting on the past and future.
What is the most recognized benefit of microdosing mushrooms?
Microdosing can potentially enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and concentration. Its most extensively researched benefit is its influence on mental health.
In November 2022, COMPASS Pathways, a mental health company, unveiled the findings of their extensive phase 2b trial, which was a randomized and double-blind study. Their research indicated that a single dose of psilocybin significantly reduced depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. Participants who received a higher dose of 25 milligrams showed a sustained antidepressant response at the twelve-week follow-up.
A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal stated that psilocybin is more effective than traditional antidepressant treatments.
How can you determine your dosage?
Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If the desired effects are not achieved, incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you reach your ideal level.
People with a history of using psychotropic drugs may need to increase the dose to 0.5 grams to obtain the desired effects.
What precautions should be taken before consuming mushrooms?
- Set aside some time to understand the reason for your microdosing on a particular day.
- Take a moment for self-reflection and to connect with your current emotional or mental state. Identify the feelings or mindset you believe will be advantageous for you that day.
- When your goals are clearly defined, write them down. Constructing your objectives as affirmations can be an effective strategy for supporting your continuous growth.
- Direct your attention towards the experience you want to have, rather than what you want to avoid.
- Take it on an empty stomach, preferably one hour before your first meal of the day.
What is the suggested frequency for taking microdoses of mushrooms?
Several well-recognized protocols suggest organized microdosing schedules for psychedelics. The main distinction between these protocols is the number of “off” days they include, which are the days you should not microdose.
The most popular protocols recommend having 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s natural tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols under discussion here are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.
Psilocybin primarily stimulates a serotonin receptor known as “5-HT2A” in the prefrontal cortex, which leads to two significant outcomes:
- Generation of “Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor” (BDNF)
- Enhanced “Glutamate” transmission
Moreover, psychedelics promote communication between brain regions that usually interact less. This unique connectivity is a result of psychedelics’ ability to decrease the activity of the “Default Mode Network” (DMN), which is associated with various cognitive functions such as daydreaming, introspection, and reflecting on the past and future.
What is the most recognized benefit of microdosing mushrooms?
Microdosing can potentially enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and concentration. Its most extensively researched benefit is its influence on mental health.
In November 2022, COMPASS Pathways, a mental health company, unveiled the findings of their extensive phase 2b trial, which was a randomized and double-blind study. Their research indicated that a single dose of psilocybin significantly reduced depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. Participants who received a higher dose of 25 milligrams showed a sustained antidepressant response at the twelve-week follow-up.
A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal stated that psilocybin is more effective than traditional antidepressant treatments.
How can you determine your dosage?
Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If the desired effects are not achieved, incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you reach your ideal level.
People with a history of using psychotropic drugs may need to increase the dose to 0.5 grams to obtain the desired effects.
What precautions should be taken before consuming mushrooms?
- Set aside some time to understand the reason for your microdosing on a particular day.
- Take a moment for self-reflection and to connect with your current emotional or mental state. Identify the feelings or mindset you believe will be advantageous for you that day.
- When your goals are clearly defined, write them down. Constructing your objectives as affirmations can be an effective strategy for supporting your continuous growth.
- Direct your attention towards the experience you want to have, rather than what you want to avoid.
- Take it on an empty stomach, preferably one hour before your first meal of the day.
What is the suggested frequency for taking microdoses of mushrooms?
Several well-recognized protocols suggest organized microdosing schedules for psychedelics. The main distinction between these protocols is the number of “off” days they include, which are the days you should not microdose.
The most popular protocols recommend having 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s natural tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols under discussion here are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.
Psilocybin primarily stimulates a serotonin receptor known as “5-HT2A” in the prefrontal cortex, which leads to two significant outcomes:
- Generation of “Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor” (BDNF)
- Enhanced “Glutamate” transmission
Moreover, psychedelics promote communication between brain regions that usually interact less. This unique connectivity is a result of psychedelics’ ability to decrease the activity of the “Default Mode Network” (DMN), which is associated with various cognitive functions such as daydreaming, introspection, and reflecting on the past and future.
What is the most recognized benefit of microdosing mushrooms?
Microdosing can potentially enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and concentration. Its most extensively researched benefit is its influence on mental health.
In November 2022, COMPASS Pathways, a mental health company, unveiled the findings of their extensive phase 2b trial, which was a randomized and double-blind study. Their research indicated that a single dose of psilocybin significantly reduced depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. Participants who received a higher dose of 25 milligrams showed a sustained antidepressant response at the twelve-week follow-up.
A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal stated that psilocybin is more effective than traditional antidepressant treatments.
How can you determine your dosage?
Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If the desired effects are not achieved, incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you reach your ideal level.
People with a history of using psychotropic drugs may need to increase the dose to 0.5 grams to obtain the desired effects.
What precautions should be taken before consuming mushrooms?
- Set aside some time to understand the reason for your microdosing on a particular day.
- Take a moment for self-reflection and to connect with your current emotional or mental state. Identify the feelings or mindset you believe will be advantageous for you that day.
- When your goals are clearly defined, write them down. Constructing your objectives as affirmations can be an effective strategy for supporting your continuous growth.
- Direct your attention towards the experience you want to have, rather than what you want to avoid.
- Take it on an empty stomach, preferably one hour before your first meal of the day.
What is the suggested frequency for taking microdoses of mushrooms?
Several well-recognized protocols suggest organized microdosing schedules for psychedelics. The main distinction between these protocols is the number of “off” days they include, which are the days you should not microdose.
The most popular protocols recommend having 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s natural tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols under discussion here are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.
Especially in the field of chronic pain management, psilocybin holds promise.
Before the general acceptance of psilocybin as a potential solution for pain relief, promising stories from case studies have already started to give hope to those living with chronic pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What effects does microdosing psilocybin produce?
Psilocybin primarily stimulates a serotonin receptor known as “5-HT2A” in the prefrontal cortex, which leads to two significant outcomes:
- Generation of “Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor” (BDNF)
- Enhanced “Glutamate” transmission
Moreover, psychedelics promote communication between brain regions that usually interact less. This unique connectivity is a result of psychedelics’ ability to decrease the activity of the “Default Mode Network” (DMN), which is associated with various cognitive functions such as daydreaming, introspection, and reflecting on the past and future.
What is the most recognized benefit of microdosing mushrooms?
Microdosing can potentially enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and concentration. Its most extensively researched benefit is its influence on mental health.
In November 2022, COMPASS Pathways, a mental health company, unveiled the findings of their extensive phase 2b trial, which was a randomized and double-blind study. Their research indicated that a single dose of psilocybin significantly reduced depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. Participants who received a higher dose of 25 milligrams showed a sustained antidepressant response at the twelve-week follow-up.
A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal stated that psilocybin is more effective than traditional antidepressant treatments.
How can you determine your dosage?
Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If the desired effects are not achieved, incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you reach your ideal level.
People with a history of using psychotropic drugs may need to increase the dose to 0.5 grams to obtain the desired effects.
What precautions should be taken before consuming mushrooms?
- Set aside some time to understand the reason for your microdosing on a particular day.
- Take a moment for self-reflection and to connect with your current emotional or mental state. Identify the feelings or mindset you believe will be advantageous for you that day.
- When your goals are clearly defined, write them down. Constructing your objectives as affirmations can be an effective strategy for supporting your continuous growth.
- Direct your attention towards the experience you want to have, rather than what you want to avoid.
- Take it on an empty stomach, preferably one hour before your first meal of the day.
What is the suggested frequency for taking microdoses of mushrooms?
Several well-recognized protocols suggest organized microdosing schedules for psychedelics. The main distinction between these protocols is the number of “off” days they include, which are the days you should not microdose.
The most popular protocols recommend having 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s natural tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols under discussion here are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.
Especially in the field of chronic pain management, psilocybin holds promise.
Before the general acceptance of psilocybin as a potential solution for pain relief, promising stories from case studies have already started to give hope to those living with chronic pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What effects does microdosing psilocybin produce?
Psilocybin primarily stimulates a serotonin receptor known as “5-HT2A” in the prefrontal cortex, which leads to two significant outcomes:
- Generation of “Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor” (BDNF)
- Enhanced “Glutamate” transmission
Moreover, psychedelics promote communication between brain regions that usually interact less. This unique connectivity is a result of psychedelics’ ability to decrease the activity of the “Default Mode Network” (DMN), which is associated with various cognitive functions such as daydreaming, introspection, and reflecting on the past and future.
What is the most recognized benefit of microdosing mushrooms?
Microdosing can potentially enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and concentration. Its most extensively researched benefit is its influence on mental health.
In November 2022, COMPASS Pathways, a mental health company, unveiled the findings of their extensive phase 2b trial, which was a randomized and double-blind study. Their research indicated that a single dose of psilocybin significantly reduced depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. Participants who received a higher dose of 25 milligrams showed a sustained antidepressant response at the twelve-week follow-up.
A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal stated that psilocybin is more effective than traditional antidepressant treatments.
How can you determine your dosage?
Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If the desired effects are not achieved, incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you reach your ideal level.
People with a history of using psychotropic drugs may need to increase the dose to 0.5 grams to obtain the desired effects.
What precautions should be taken before consuming mushrooms?
- Set aside some time to understand the reason for your microdosing on a particular day.
- Take a moment for self-reflection and to connect with your current emotional or mental state. Identify the feelings or mindset you believe will be advantageous for you that day.
- When your goals are clearly defined, write them down. Constructing your objectives as affirmations can be an effective strategy for supporting your continuous growth.
- Direct your attention towards the experience you want to have, rather than what you want to avoid.
- Take it on an empty stomach, preferably one hour before your first meal of the day.
What is the suggested frequency for taking microdoses of mushrooms?
Several well-recognized protocols suggest organized microdosing schedules for psychedelics. The main distinction between these protocols is the number of “off” days they include, which are the days you should not microdose.
The most popular protocols recommend having 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s natural tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols under discussion here are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.
These instances underscore the necessity for more extensive research into the potential benefits of psilocybin, class=”wp-block-list”>
Especially in the field of chronic pain management, psilocybin holds promise.
Before the general acceptance of psilocybin as a potential solution for pain relief, promising stories from case studies have already started to give hope to those living with chronic pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What effects does microdosing psilocybin produce?
Psilocybin primarily stimulates a serotonin receptor known as “5-HT2A” in the prefrontal cortex, which leads to two significant outcomes:
- Generation of “Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor” (BDNF)
- Enhanced “Glutamate” transmission
Moreover, psychedelics promote communication between brain regions that usually interact less. This unique connectivity is a result of psychedelics’ ability to decrease the activity of the “Default Mode Network” (DMN), which is associated with various cognitive functions such as daydreaming, introspection, and reflecting on the past and future.
What is the most recognized benefit of microdosing mushrooms?
Microdosing can potentially enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and concentration. Its most extensively researched benefit is its influence on mental health.
In November 2022, COMPASS Pathways, a mental health company, unveiled the findings of their extensive phase 2b trial, which was a randomized and double-blind study. Their research indicated that a single dose of psilocybin significantly reduced depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. Participants who received a higher dose of 25 milligrams showed a sustained antidepressant response at the twelve-week follow-up.
A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal stated that psilocybin is more effective than traditional antidepressant treatments.
How can you determine your dosage?
Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If the desired effects are not achieved, incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you reach your ideal level.
People with a history of using psychotropic drugs may need to increase the dose to 0.5 grams to obtain the desired effects.
What precautions should be taken before consuming mushrooms?
- Set aside some time to understand the reason for your microdosing on a particular day.
- Take a moment for self-reflection and to connect with your current emotional or mental state. Identify the feelings or mindset you believe will be advantageous for you that day.
- When your goals are clearly defined, write them down. Constructing your objectives as affirmations can be an effective strategy for supporting your continuous growth.
- Direct your attention towards the experience you want to have, rather than what you want to avoid.
- Take it on an empty stomach, preferably one hour before your first meal of the day.
What is the suggested frequency for taking microdoses of mushrooms?
Several well-recognized protocols suggest organized microdosing schedules for psychedelics. The main distinction between these protocols is the number of “off” days they include, which are the days you should not microdose.
The most popular protocols recommend having 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s natural tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols under discussion here are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.
