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A Beginner’s Guide to Microdosing
T
he primary medicinal mushroom varieties used for therapy contain psilocybin, which is a psychoactive molecule in over 200 species found all around the world. Psilocybin mushrooms, or “magic mushrooms” as they are commonly known, produce a host of psychoactive effects and are used for many therapeutic purposes. While breakthroughs in mental healthcare have not happened for some time, preliminary medical research data on psychedelic therapy indicates promising results that many healthcare professionals are optimistic about.
Today’s general public is largely unaware of the amazing advantages that psilocybin offers us however, the same cannot be said of our ancestors. Historians claim that mushrooms have been utilized by indigenous cultures as far back as 10,000 BCE. For example, runes and artwork discovered at Mayan and Aztek ruins provide us with evidence that mushrooms were used for spiritual enlightenment and physical healing. Our western culture began to develop an interest in the pharmaceutical possibilities of mushrooms after an article was published in Life magazine in the 1950s.
Microdosing Overview
Micro-dosing is defined as the self-administration of psilocybin mushrooms in very small doses below the perceptual threshold. These small doses allow the physical, psychological and spiritual benefits of psilocybin mushrooms while avoiding significant changes in perception.
Micro-dosing allows users to change established and intrinsic thought patterns that are linked to anxiety, depression and addiction. As a result, many people have been able to find a renewed perspective, and break compulsive behaviours and thought patterns, allowing them to lead happier, healthier and more productive lives. Benefits also include an increased ability to identify multiple solutions to problems that were previously unidentifiable, as well as an improved capability for logic and reasoning.
Micro-dosing often improves self-confidence, and self-love, enriching one’s personal life and relationships because of emotional awareness.
Dosage
While micro-dosage varies depending on the person, an average microdose is about 1/20 to 1/10 of a “full” psychedelic dose. This varies depending on several factors, including diet, weight and metabolism. We suggest starting with 50mg or 100mg, reflecting on the experience and increasing from there if needed. Generally, the dosage goes between 50mg to 400mg, but it is important to start small and increase slowly by 50mg to 75mg to find the dosage that works for you specifically.
If you experience an increase in anxiety, we suggest lowering the dose.
When to Dose
We recommend microdosing in the first half of the day to experience the full effect but it can also be done anytime including in the evening.
For beginners, we suggest following a microdosing schedule for a few days and taking a break for a day to reflect on the experience and adjust if needed.
Once you have found the right dosage for you, use the same dosage for a month and stop for a day or two to see if you need to take less or simply microdose when needed, like before a big project or event.
Dosing Schedule & Protocol
The dosing schedule also varies from individual. There are many different microdosing schedules however the two most common are the Fadiman and Stamets protocols. The Fadiman protocol dosing every third day whereas the Stamets protocol of five days on and two days off. You may wish to try a dierent protocol to find what works best for you but keep in mind both Stamets and Fadiman recommend leaving a couple of days between dosing to prevent a build-up of tolerance. They also recommend following the microdosing protocol for several weeks and documenting any effects you notice on mood, behaviour, social interactions, etc.
Benefits of Microdosing
Everyone can gain from mushrooms as the potential benefits are boundless. The following are just a handful of reported benefits — this list by no means covers all reported benefits, but gives you an idea of what one can expect.
- Mood enhancement.
- Decrease anxiety.
- Decrease stress.
- Improve mindfulness.
- Increase levels of glutamate, helping with depression, memory, learning and cognition.
- An increased level of energy and overall well-being.
- Alleviation of depression, anxiety, ADD, PTSD.
- Increase focus, motivation and relaxation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be tripping?
No. A microdose is 1/20th to 1/10th of a full psychedelic dose. The effects are sub-perceptual, meaning you should feel more focused and energized and remain fully cognizant and capable of going about your daily life. It allows you to be more focused and creative but should not negatively impact your ability to effectively meet your usual responsibilities.
What methods of micro-dosing are there?
There are many ways to microdose, however, some of the most popular methods are ingesting capsules or tinctures.
Can psilocybin be detected in a blood test?
Most standardized drug tests do not test for psilocybin. After about 12 hours, psilocybin cannot be detected in the blood. In fact many professional athletes microdose.
Is microdosing safe?
Microdosing has been found to be very beneficial for most people. As more research is being completed and studies released support is growing for the therapeutic use of psilocybin. Death or illness from toxicity is unheard of.
Can I overdose?
A physical overdose is not a danger with psilocybin — you will not die from psilocybin mushrooms. However, if you take large doses there are sometimes undesirable outcomes, which could include varying degrees of fear, anxiety, panic and feeling out of control. There are some things you can do as you ride out the trip, including breathe.
Use your breath as an anchor. Move your body. This can help you get out of your head and start feeling more comfortable. Eat. This will allow you to feel more grounded and in control. Get outside. Being in nature often helps to relax people feeling stressed out from a bad mushroom experience. Listen to music, something soft and instrumental.
In Conclusion...
At Chakra Microdose Co we have benefitted from the amazing properties of magic mushrooms and it’s something we are compelled to share. Our mission is to improve lives, empower mental wellness and elevate your state of mind to achieve your fullest potential.
Whether for therapeutic reasons or recreational purposes, begin your journey to a healthier mind, body, and spirit with Chakra microdose mushroom capsules.
Please note that we are not doctors providing medical advice, you must seek medical advice from a licensed doctor. We recommend seeking medical advice from a Canadian doctor who is familiar with the use of psychedelics.