What is Microdosing?
Would you care for a drop of LSD in your morning coffee?
Microdosing is the latest trend in the psychedelic world. It involves taking very low doses of a psychedelic substance, such as LSD or psilocybin mushrooms on a regular basis. Such a technique allows a user to achieve a better state of equilibrium, as opposed to the intense trip that is often synonymous with a psychedelic experience.
It first emerged in San Francisco, less than a decade ago, when workers in Silicon Valley discovered that taking small amounts of LSD and psilocybin mushrooms every few days made them more focused, creative, and productive. Microdosing has now become the hot topic in the field of alternative medicine.
How do I microdose?
A lot of people tend to ask, “How much is a microdose, how often are microdoses taken?” These are important questions to consider. Firstly, as a general rule, a typical microdose is anywhere between 5-10 percent of a ‘normal’ dose. For example, a typical dose of psilocybin mushrooms is 1.5 grams. Therefore, when microdosing psilocybin mushrooms, users should typically take anywhere between 50-150 milligrams. For DMT, the microdose is closer to 5-10 micrograms. Lastly, most participants take on average a dose every three days.
What are the benefits of Microdosing?
The latest research concludes that psychedelics can help treat mood disorders and treatment-resistant depression. Case in point: The Beckley Foundation. The former are strong advocates for the legalization of psilocybin mushrooms. Their research shows that psilocybin has long-term positive effects for patients who have had little to no success with conventional treatment methods.
Moreover, psilocybin is also effective at treating addiction. Researchers from the John Hopkins University discovered that 80% of smokers who took psilocybin alongside cognitive behavioral therapy, were able to quit tobacco completely.
And yet, the fact remains: psychedelics can be very intensive; there are lots of people who don’t like to ‘trip’. For those who prefer a more subtle approach, microdosing has become the favored technique. It tends to be used by those looking for a balance between the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics, but without the psychedelic experience.
Several case studies have shown the effectiveness of microdosing in treating anxiety and depression. One user, Rosie had given up on anti-depressants and decided to try something different. She realized that microdosing small amounts of psilocybin mushrooms every three or four days took the edge off her anxiety:
You don’t feel high, just… better.
– (The Guardian)
In another such study, Erika, microdosed on LSD for eight months to tackle her mental health. She was finding it hard to function and turned to psychedelics for support:
It definitely had the effect I wanted. It lifted me out of a pretty deep depression.
– (The Guardian)
Much in the same vein, Anna tried microdosing both with LSD and psilocybin mushrooms. The results were plain to see. On the days she microdosed, she felt a significant improvement in productivity:
It’s just like having a slightly better quality of life
– (BBC)
Lastly, a recent microdosing study by cognitive scientist Vince Polito monitored 98 participants who were using LSD and mushrooms. The results showed a decrease in stress and depression after just six weeks. In another study, adults reported lower levels of anxiety and depression compared to non-microdosers.
What do I need to consider before microdosing?
- Psychedelics can be powerful, and there is a risk of taking a dose too high. Microdosing is not tripping…you won’t get high. If you take too much, the results can be both unexpected and even at times, scary.
- The effects of microdosing are intensified on an empty stomach. Bear this in mind when you are considering the dosage.
- Mixing psychedelics with alcohol/drugs can result in adverse reactions. Prescription users should seek medical advice before microdosing. Some experts even recommend staying away from all types of stimulants, including coffee.
- Microdosing is a tool. It is not an exact science. It can take time before you start to experience results. it’s important to go into the process without expectations. Be patient. Ideally, psychedelics should be used in conjunction with a broader recovery plan, not in isolation. Other areas to focus on include diet, exercise, and mindfulness.
- The key is integration – incorporate psychedelic insights into your daily life. Practice meditation to increase self-awareness or implement a major life change such as ending (or starting) a relationship or changing careers. Adequate integration is the key for best results. At Being True To You, our certified coaches help you by providing tailor-made coaching throughout the microdosing process.
If you decide to embark on your very own microdosing journey, then support is crucial. Our team for example, includes experts in both addiction recovery and psychedelic integration. Click here to see how we can help.
Disclaimer: The views in this blog and of the blog writer do not necessarily represent Being True To You LLC. The writer of this blog is an independent contractor, and Being True To You does not necessarily endorse the content written within this blog. Being True To You does not advocate, suggest, approve or disapprove of the use of psychedelic medicines such as Ibogaine. The content written in this blog is not medical advice and is for entertainment purposes only. Being True To You provides transformational recovery and integration “coaching” to individuals and families through the addiction recovery and psychospiritual healing process. Coaching is not a medical service and is not regulated by any governmental authority. It is an emerging profession not accredited by any institution or organization. Being True To You coaching is not counseling or psychotherapy and does not use professional assessments or diagnose mental illness. Being True To You coaches are independent contractors who provide recovery coaching to Being True To You assigned clients on a case-by-case basis.