The use of low sub-perceptual doses of psychedelics, known as “microdosing”, has gained significant popularity in recent years. Anecdotal reports suggest that microdosing with psilocybin mushrooms (Psilocybe cubensis) may offer multiple benefits, including improved mood, cognitive function, and creativity1. However, the lack of placebo-controlled studies has limited our understanding of the true effects of this practice. This article aims to explore the potential benefits, the science behind microdosing mushrooms, and the personal experiences of microdosers, as well as the safety and legal considerations in Canada.
What is Microdosing?
Microdosing is the practice of regularly consuming small, sub-perceptual doses of psychedelic substances, such as psilocybin mushrooms and LSD. Microdosers typically take 0.1 to 0.5 grams of dried psilocybin mushrooms or a fraction of a typical recreational dose of LSD, 3 to 5 times per week2. This approach aims to obtain potential benefits for mood, cognitive function, and creativity, without experiencing the profound alterations in consciousness associated with higher doses of psychedelics2.
Understanding the Practice of Microdosing Mushrooms
Microdosing involves a carefully calibrated dosing schedule to achieve the desired effects. Roughly 10% of a therapeutic or full dose is considered as a microdose for psychedelics3. However, it’s important to note that many psychedelics used in microdosing, including psilocybin mushrooms, are classified as Schedule I drugs by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, meaning they are considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use3.
While some areas have decriminalized the use of psilocybin, it’s essential to be aware of the legal status and potential risks associated with microdosing psychedelics3. Common negative effects can include headaches, stomach issues, increased anxiety, and worsening mood. In some cases, microdosing can even lead to serious harm3.
“At least 12 people became severely ill and 10 were hospitalized after using a product line containing a proprietary blend of mushrooms intended for microdosing, per the FDA warning.”2
It’s crucial to approach microdosing with caution and to seek professional guidance, as the effects can vary significantly from person to person. Psychedelic-assisted therapy shows promise for certain mental health conditions, but it should be conducted under medical supervision with larger doses of psychedelics23.
The Potential Benefits of Microdosing Mushrooms
Microdosing psilocybin mushrooms has gained significant interest due to the reported potential benefits for mental health, mood, creativity, and cognitive function4. A large study showed individuals who microdosed psilocybin experienced improved mood and greater decline in anxiety, depression, and stress over one month compared to non-microdosers4. This study involved 953 microdosers using psilocybin and 180 non-microdosers, with microdosers showing greater improvements in mood and larger reductions in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress over the study period4.
Interestingly, the study also found that female microdosers showed larger reductions in depressive symptoms compared to males, and older microdosers, especially those over the age of 55, demonstrated larger improvements in psychomotor ability when using a combination of psilocybin, lion’s mane, and niacin4. Overall, microdosing psilocybin resulted in similar levels of improvements in mental health and mood across age groups and genders4.
While these findings are promising, it’s important to note that the study used a naturalistic design, and placebo effects in the microdosing group cannot be ruled out4. Large-scale, placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to further validate the potential benefits of microdosing psilocybin4.
In contrast, a study on the effects of LSD microdosing found minimal benefits in mood, cognition, and feelings of well-being, with no significant improvement in depression or anxiety scores5. Another study on microdosing psychedelic truffles, however, indicated enhanced creative problem-solving tasks and cognitive flexibility in participants who took small doses5.
Microdosing is considered more manageable than psychedelic therapy, as it involves subhallucinogenic doses that allow individuals to function normally throughout the day5. Reported subjective effects vary among users, with some experiencing stimulation while others feel no noticeable difference5.
While the current research on the potential benefits of microdosing mushrooms is promising, more rigorous studies are needed to fully understand its therapeutic applications and long-term effects. The growing interest in this practice highlights the need for continued exploration and a better understanding of the complex interplay between psilocybin, mental health, and cognitive function45.
The Science Behind Microdosing Mushrooms
Researchers have begun to explore the underlying mechanisms and effects of microdosing psilocybin mushrooms through various studies. Electroencephalography (EEG) has revealed changes in brain activity associated with low doses of psilocybin, such as reduced power in the theta frequency band6.
However, the evidence on the impacts of microdosing on mood, mental health, creativity, and cognitive function remains mixed. While some studies have reported positive effects, others have found little to no significant improvements, highlighting the need for more rigorous, placebo-controlled research to determine the true efficacy of this practice6.
Examining the Effects on Mood and Mental Health
The potential benefits of microdosing mushrooms on mood and mental health have been a topic of interest. Some individuals have reported experiencing improvements in their overall well-being, including enhanced mood, decreased anxiety, and increased focus67.
Nevertheless, the scientific evidence is not conclusive. While a few studies have suggested positive outcomes, others have found little to no significant changes in mood or mental health parameters6. This highlights the need for more comprehensive research to fully understand the effects of microdosing on an individual’s psychological and emotional state6.
“The science behind microdosing mushrooms is an area of active research, with both promising and inconclusive findings. More rigorous studies are needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of this practice.”
As the scientific community continues to explore the effects of microdosing psilocybin, it is essential to approach the topic with an open and unbiased mindset. The complex interplay between brain activity, mood, and mental health requires further investigation to determine the true impact of this emerging trend67.
Microdosing Mushrooms and Creativity
One of the intriguing aspects of microdosing psilocybin mushrooms is its potential to enhance creativity and problem-solving abilities. Emerging research suggests that low doses of psilocybin may promote cognitive flexibility and divergent thinking – key components of creative cognition8. Studies have found that microdosing psychedelic truffles can improve both convergent and divergent thinking performance, although fluid intelligence remains unaffected8.
The mechanisms behind this connection between microdosing and creativity are still being explored. Psychedelics like psilocybin have been shown to induce aberrant prediction error processing and alter sensory and higher-order cognitive processing, potentially leading to enhanced creative thinking9. Additionally, the anxiolytic, anti-depressant, and anti-addictive properties of psychedelics may contribute to a mental state more conducive to divergent and creative thought8.
“Psychedelics have been shown to increase subjective sense of wellbeing, optimism, and openness in humans, all of which are important factors in the creative process.”8
However, the direct impact of microdosing on creativity remains an area that requires further research. While the existing evidence is promising, more controlled studies are needed to fully understand the specific mechanisms and potential benefits of using psilocybin in a microdosing context to enhance creative thinking and problem-solving abilities.
The Safety and Legal Considerations of Microdosing Mushrooms
While psilocybin-containing mushrooms are generally considered relatively non-toxic and non-addictive, there are important safety and legal considerations to be aware of when it comes to microdosing10. In Canada, the possession and use of these mushrooms is currently illegal under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), though there have been some recent developments in the legal landscape, such as the approval of clinical trials for the therapeutic use of psilocybin10. Individuals interested in microdosing should carefully research the potential risks and ensure they are familiar with the legal status of psilocybin in their area.
The short-term effects of magic mushrooms include altered perception, hallucinations, changes in mood, anxiety, and physical effects like increased heart rate and muscle twitches10. While there is little evidence of physical or psychological dependence, regular use can lead to tolerance10. Potential “bad trips” at high doses, impaired judgment, and increased risks when combined with other substances are also important safety considerations10.
Fortunately, the therapeutic potential of psilocybin is under investigation, and Health Canada allows access through clinical trials, the Special Access Program, and individual exemptions from the CDSA10. A regulated healthcare practitioner’s support is needed for legal access, and clinical trials are emphasized as the most appropriate and effective way to advance research while safeguarding patient health and safety10.
“The legal landscape around psilocybin is evolving, and it’s crucial for individuals to stay informed and proceed with caution when it comes to microdosing.”
As the cultural and medical acceptance of microdosing grows, businesses and employers are urged to reconsider their policies to accommodate this changing landscape11. However, it’s important to note that the legal status of microdosing remains controversial and unresolved, even in areas where psilocybin has been decriminalized or legalized11.
In conclusion, while the potential benefits of microdosing mushrooms are being explored, it’s crucial to stay informed about the safety and legal implications, particularly in Canada where the possession and use of psilocybin-containing mushrooms is currently illegal10. Individuals should exercise caution, consult with healthcare professionals, and be aware of the evolving legal landscape surrounding this practice10.
Microdosing Mushrooms: A Personal Journey
Exploring the Experiences of Microdosers
As the interest in microdosing psilocybin mushrooms continues to grow, many individuals have shared their personal experiences with this practice. These anecdotal reports have provided valuable insights into the potential benefits of microdosing, including improved mood, enhanced creativity, and increased focus and productivity12. However, it’s important to note that individual experiences can vary significantly, and the subjective nature of these accounts highlights the need for more systematic, controlled research to fully understand the true impacts of microdosing.
One study involving over 950 individuals who microdosed psilocybin reported small-to-medium enhancements in anxiety, stress, and depression symptoms compared to a control group13. Another study showed that individuals who microdosed scored higher in happiness, focus, creativity, productivity, and mindfulness on those days13. While these findings are promising, researchers caution that placebo effects might influence the reported benefits, and further investigation is necessary to explore the neurological impact of microdosing on conditions like anxiety, depression, and ADHD13.
Beyond the potential mental health benefits, microdosing has also been explored for its potential to enhance cognitive abilities and creative thinking14. Some individuals have reported that microdosing psilocybin can help them feel more focused, productive, and in touch with their inner creativity14. These experiences align with the growing body of research suggesting that psilocybin, in both microdoses and full psychedelic doses, can have lasting positive effects on mental health, behavior, and personality13.
As the landscape of psilocybin research and policy continues to evolve, the personal journeys of microdosers provide valuable insights into the potential of this practice. While more robust scientific exploration is needed, the anecdotal reports of improved mood, enhanced creativity, and increased focus offer a glimpse into the transformative power of microdosing mushrooms.
Microdosing Mushrooms
The practice of microdosing psilocybin mushrooms has gained significant attention in recent years, with many individuals reporting a variety of potential benefits, such as improved mood, cognitive function, and creativity15. In a study involving 953 individuals who microdosed psilocybin and 180 individuals who did not microdose, participants were asked to complete various assessments related to mental health symptomology, mood, and cognition over a 30-day period15. The study found that microdosers showed greater improvements in mood, mental health, and psychomotor ability compared to non-microdosers during the study15.
Microdoses for psilocybin mushrooms range from 0.1 to 0.3 grams of dried mushrooms, taken three to five times a week15. Psilocybin mushrooms are considered non-addictive and relatively non-toxic in comparison to tobacco, opioids, and alcohol15. Furthermore, analyses indicated that microdosers showed a more positive change in performance on the finger tap test compared to non-microdosers, especially in individuals over the age of 5515.
However, the legal status of psilocybin-containing mushrooms in Canada and other countries remains a complex and evolving issue16. Psilocybin-containing mushrooms are reported as the most popular choice of consumption, and there has been a staggering 1,250% increase in internet searches related to microdosing since 201516. Psilocybin started to outpace LSD in internet searches in 2019, and about 3% of the American adult population, roughly 8 million adults, have used psilocybin in the past year, making it the most popular hallucinogen16. While some progress has been made in exploring the therapeutic potential of psilocybin, the possession and use of these substances is generally still prohibited, and individuals interested in microdosing should carefully research the legal landscape in their area.
“Microdosing is a different model from high-dose clinical trials, with emerging evidence suggesting potential mood and cognitive benefits from microdosing.”
The psilocybin market is smaller compared to cannabis, mainly driven by infrequent users, with potential growth mirroring the early stages of the legalized cannabis market16. Approximately half of psilocybin users in the past year have opted for microdosing, and an estimated 5.5 million adults used hallucinogens in 201916. Psilocybin is noted to have increased in availability, with mushroom-related drug busts on the rise, and LSD use in all age groups has risen from 1% to 4% since 200216.
Combining Microdosing with Other Substances
Some microdosers have explored combining psilocybin mushrooms with other supplements, such as lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) and niacin (vitamin B3), in a practice known as “stacking.”17 The rationale behind this approach is the belief that the combination of these substances may enhance the potential benefits of Microdosing, such as improved mood, mental health, and cognitive function17.
Exploring the Effects of Stacking Mushrooms with Other Supplements
While some microdosers have reported positive experiences with stacking psilocybin and other supplements, the empirical evidence on the effects of this practice is limited17. A recent study involving over 8,500 participants from 75 countries found that individuals who microdosed psychedelics, including psilocybin, reported fewer symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress compared to non-microdosers17. This study was the first to systematically explore the practice of combining microdoses of psychedelics with other substances like niacin, lion’s mane mushrooms, and cacao17.
However, it’s important to note that the safety and potential interactions of combining psilocybin with other supplements are not yet fully understood18. For example, research suggests that stimulants, when combined with psilocybin, can lead to dangerous hypertension and tachycardia, while combining serotonergic drugs like psilocybin and other hallucinogens might cause serotonin syndrome18.
As the research on Microdosing and the combination of psilocybin with other substances continues to evolve, it’s crucial for individuals to approach this practice with caution and to consult with healthcare professionals before attempting any new combinations18. The potential therapeutic applications of these approaches are promising, but more research is needed to fully understand the risks and benefits18.
Future Research and Potential Therapeutic Applications
As the interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, including psilocybin mushrooms, continues to grow, there is a significant need for more rigorous, placebo-controlled research on the effects of microdosing19. While anecdotal reports and some preliminary studies have suggested potential benefits, such as improved mood, mental health, and cognitive function, the field is still in its early stages20. Microdosers exhibited lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress compared to non-microdosing controls, especially among individuals with mental health concerns20.
Future research should focus on better understanding the underlying mechanisms, the consistency of effects across different populations, and the potential therapeutic applications of microdosing, particularly for mental health conditions where current treatments may be limited19. Psilocybin has shown potential therapeutic effects, with studies indicating substantial and sustained decreases in depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer19. Research also suggests that psilocybin-assisted treatment may be effective in addressing alcohol dependence and tobacco addiction19.
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy has been explored in the context of end-of-life care, with reports of rapid and sustained symptom reduction in patients with cancer-related distress19. Additionally, psilocybin treatment has been linked to increased nature relatedness and decreased authoritarian political views for individuals with treatment-resistant depression19.
As the research continues to evolve, the potential therapeutic applications of microdosing psilocybin mushrooms may expand, offering new hope for individuals struggling with mental health challenges21. Psilocybin therapy has shown significant reductions in depression and anxiety compared to a placebo, with some trials showing no significant difference to commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)21.
Ultimately, the future of microdosing psilocybin mushrooms for therapeutic applications remains promising, but more comprehensive research is needed to fully understand its potential and guide its responsible use192120.
Conclusion
The practice of microdosing mushrooms has undoubtedly generated significant interest and attention in recent years, with promising anecdotal reports suggesting a range of potential benefits, including improved mood, mental health, creativity, and cognitive function22. However, the scientific evidence on the true efficacy of microdosing remains limited, with mixed results from the few controlled studies conducted to date23.
As the interest in the therapeutic applications of psychedelics continues to grow, it is clear that more rigorous research is needed to better understand the impacts of microdosing, the underlying mechanisms, and the potential therapeutic uses, particularly for mental health conditions24. While the anecdotal reports are promising, it is crucial that individuals interested in microdosing carefully consider the legal and safety implications, and engage in this practice with caution and under the guidance of healthcare professionals, as the field continues to evolve24.
Overall, the conclusion is that the potential of microdosing mushrooms is intriguing, but the limitations and risks must be carefully weighed against the reported benefits. As the scientific community continues to explore this domain, the future research and its findings will be crucial in determining the true therapeutic value and appropriate applications of this practice2223.,
