Microdosing
What is a Microdose?
A microdose with Psilocybin mushrooms is about 0.1 - 0.4 gram (dry) once every 3 days.
This is supposed to be a non perceptual low dose without psychedelic interference during daily proceedings. Microdosing works as a mood enhancer due to a subtle stimulation of the mind, by increasing its connectivity and by the activation of benefits of the 5HT receptor. Currently much research is being done into microdosing and its beneficial processes for human health. Therefore we advise to always also conduct own research into the available scientific literature and to check with your physician.
Why does Microdosing work?
Various studies on microdosing of psychedelics* suggest the positive effects experienced by users most likely relates to Psilocybin effecting the 5HT serotonin receptor. This hormone regulations important functions such as regulating our mood, appetite, sexual desire and sleep. The most important factors research is suggesting are an increased sense of interconnectivity, a greater sense of presence, a greater sense of being able to direct attention and a generally more vivid experience of life. Going from sometimes psychologically critical low points people report life has become more bearable and experienced with more flow.
*Bron Imperial college London
Research and anecdotal evidence show improvements of medical conditions related to:
Conclusion
Even-though limited information is available on microdosing done by clinical research there is much interdisciplinary interest in the psychedelic health field. The clinical research processes have been slowed due to legal/bureaucratic obstacles but inevitable due to its truly interesting potentials. Research into taking higher doses psychedelics shows limited risks for the majority of the research subjects. This is why psychedelics such as Psilocybin are seen as an interesting alternative or addition to anti-depressants. Research by PhD Dr. James Fadiman has shown that the element of expectations may still play a major role considered psychedelics like Psilocybin increases the ability to experience. It is therefore likely that measured negative effects seem influenced by external and internal emotional factors. It is also important to note that people report they have become better at managing and processing these negative experiences due to microdosing. It is important to know about the reports on negative and sometimes long-term side effects like increasing anxiety and psychotic symptoms which seems to show a biological predisposition.
In microdosing, it is important to note that there may be risks associated that are still unknown, as only relatively recently double blind placebo studies have been conducted in 12 countries. This has been for educational purposes.
Other sources
CAM Report risk analysis magic mushroom ban 2007
microdosing.nl
microdosingpsychedelics.com