Microdosing mushrooms, specifically psychedelic mushrooms containing psilocybin, is gaining recognition as a potential method for managing stress and anxiety. This practice involves taking sub-perceptual doses of these mushrooms to harness their therapeutic benefits without experiencing full-blown hallucinations or altered states of consciousness. With growing research and anecdotal evidence, many individuals are exploring this approach to improve mental health and well-being.

Exploring Microdosing Mushrooms

Microdosing involves consuming very small amounts of a substance, in this case, psychedelic mushrooms, to achieve subtle therapeutic effects without the intense psychedelic experience. Typically, a microdose is about one-tenth to one-twentieth of a recreational dose. For psilocybin mushrooms, this usually translates to about 0.1 to 0.3 grams. These small doses enhance cognitive function, creativity, and emotional balance.

The Science Behind Psilocybin

Psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, anxiety, and stress. By binding to these receptors, psilocybin can induce changes in perception, cognition, and emotional regulation. However, in microdoses, these effects are significantly subdued, allowing users to experience benefits without profound psychedelic experiences.

Magic Mushrooms Benefits for Stress and Anxiety

Reducing Anxiety

One of the primary benefits of magic mushrooms benefits is their potential to reduce anxiety. Studies have shown that psilocybin can lead to a significant decrease in anxiety levels. By altering neural pathways and promoting neuroplasticity, psilocybin helps individuals break free from negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety. It can result in a more relaxed and calm state of mind.

Alleviating Depression

Using psychedelic mushrooms for depression has shown promising results. Microdosing can help alleviate symptoms of depression by enhancing mood and promoting emotional stability. The compound’s ability to reset neural circuits associated with depression allows individuals to gain a new perspective on their mental health challenges, leading to improved overall well-being.

Enhancing Emotional Resilience

Microdosing mushrooms can enhance emotional resilience, making it easier to cope with stress and challenging situations. Psilocybin’s interaction with serotonin receptors fosters a sense of emotional balance and well-being. It makes individuals more capable of handling stressors without becoming overwhelmed, thus improving their ability to manage everyday stress and anxiety.

Improving Cognitive Function

Another benefit of microdosing mushrooms is the potential improvement in cognitive function. Users often report enhanced creativity, focus, and problem-solving abilities. These cognitive enhancements can improve stress management by enabling individuals to think more clearly and effectively in stressful situations.

Recommended Mushroom Dosage for Microdosing

Finding the right mushroom dosage for microdosing is crucial. It is generally recommended to start with a low dose, around 0.1 grams, and gradually increase it if needed. It helps individuals assess their sensitivity to psilocybin and find the optimal dose that provides benefits without adverse effects.

Consistency and Schedule

Consistency is key when it comes to microdosing mushrooms. A common approach is the “one day on, two days off” schedule, where individuals take a microdose on one day and then abstain for the next two days. It prevents tolerance build-up and ensures sustained benefits over time. Alternatively, some users prefer a “one day on, one day off” schedule or microdosing two to three times a week.

Monitoring and Adjusting

It is important to monitor the effects of microdosing and make adjustments as necessary. Keeping a journal to track mood, anxiety levels, and overall well-being can help individuals understand how microdosing impacts them. If needed, doses can be adjusted to achieve the desired effects.

The Process of Microdosing

Choosing the right type of mushrooms is essential for effective microdosing. Psilocybe cubensis is one of the most common and widely available species used for this purpose. When purchasing mushrooms, it is important to source them from a reputable supplier to ensure quality and safety.

Preparing Mushroom Pills for Anxiety

Some individuals prefer to take their microdoses in the form of mushroom pills for anxiety. This method ensures precise dosing and convenience. For mushroom pills preparation, dried mushrooms can be ground into a fine powder and encapsulated in empty capsules. It makes it easy to take consistent doses without needing to weigh and measure each time.

Consuming Microdoses

Microdoses can be consumed in various ways, including directly eating the dried mushrooms, mixing the powder into food or drinks, or taking encapsulated doses. The method of consumption depends on personal preference and convenience. It’s important to avoid taking microdoses on an empty stomach to minimize any potential gastrointestinal discomfort.

Conclusion

Microdosing mushrooms presents a promising natural remedy for managing stress and anxiety. By harnessing the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin in sub-perceptual doses, individuals can experience enhanced emotional resilience, reduced anxiety, and improved overall well-being. As research and anecdotal evidence continue to support the benefits of this practice, microdosing mushrooms may become an increasingly accepted and effective approach to mental health management. With careful consideration of dosage and consistency, individuals can explore the potential of this innovative approach to enhance their quality of life.

FAQs

What is microdosing mushrooms?

Microdosing mushrooms involves consuming very small amounts of psychedelic mushrooms, typically containing psilocybin, to achieve subtle therapeutic effects without experiencing intense psychedelic effects. This practice enhances cognitive function, emotional well-being, and stress management.

What is the recommended mushroom dosage for microdosing?

The recommended mushroom dosage for microdosing is generally between 0.1 to 0.3 grams. It’s advisable to start with a low dose and gradually increase it to find the optimal amount that provides benefits without adverse effects. Consistency in dosing schedules, such as “one day on, two days off,” can help maintain sustained benefits.

Can microdosing mushrooms help with anxiety and stress?

Yes, microdosing mushrooms can help reduce anxiety and stress. Psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, promoting emotional balance and resilience. It can lead to a calmer state of mind and an improved ability to manage stress and anxiety.

What are the benefits of using psychedelic mushrooms for depression?

Psychedelic mushrooms for depression can offer significant benefits by resetting neural circuits associated with depressive symptoms. Microdosing can enhance mood, promote emotional stability, and provide a new perspective on mental health challenges, improving overall well-being.

In the realm of alternative therapies and wellness practices, the concept of microdosing has emerged as a fascinating and innovative approach to unlocking the potential benefits of various substances, including psychedelics and cannabis. While the term may conjure images of intense trips and mind-altering experiences, microdosing is a practice that involves consuming minute, sub-perceptual doses of these compounds with the aim of enhancing various aspects of one’s life, from mental clarity and creativity to overall well-being.

Navigating Microdosing: A Guide to its Understanding

Microdosing is the practice of consuming tiny, carefully measured doses of psychoactive substances, typically in the range of one-tenth to one-twentieth of a standard dose. This practice provides subtle yet potentially beneficial effects without inducing the intense psychoactive experiences associated with total doses.

The origins of microdosing can be traced back to the early 20th century, when researchers and individuals began experimenting with minute doses of substances like LSD and psilocybin mushrooms. However, it wasn’t until recent years that the practice gained significant attention and momentum, fueled by a growing interest in alternative wellness practices and a desire for natural, non-pharmaceutical approaches to personal growth and development.

Microdosing for Anxiety

One of the most widely reported potential benefits of microdosing is its ability to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and promote a sense of calm and well-being. Many individuals have turned to microdosing as a way to manage their anxiety and stress levels, often reporting positive results without the side effects commonly associated with traditional anxiety medications. While the exact mechanisms behind this potential benefit are still being explored, it is believed that the minute doses of certain compounds, such as psilocybin or LSD, may interact with the serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to a reduction in anxiety and an overall improvement in mood.

Enhancing Creativity and Focus

Another area where microdosing has garnered significant interest is in its potential to enhance creativity and cognitive function. Many individuals, particularly those in creative or intellectually demanding fields, have reported experiencing improved focus, increased productivity, and a heightened sense of creativity and problem-solving abilities after incorporating microdosing into their routines.

This potential benefit may be attributable to the way certain compounds interact with the brain’s neurotransmitter systems, potentially increasing neuroplasticity and facilitating new neural connections. However, it’s important to note that individual responses may vary, and further research is needed to understand the mechanisms at playfully.

Exploring Microdosing Protocols

As with any alternative therapy or wellness practice, it’s crucial to approach microdosing with a structured and responsible protocol. Proponents of microdosing often recommend following a specific regimen, such as the “Fadiman Protocol,” which involves taking a microdose every three days, alternating with two days of rest in between doses.

This protocol is designed to allow the body and mind to fully integrate the potential benefits of the microdose while minimizing the risk of tolerance or adverse effects. Additionally, many microdosing enthusiasts recommend keeping detailed journals or logs to track their experiences, noting any changes in mood, energy levels, or cognitive function.

Responsible micro dosing Canada

Individuals have the opportunity to explore microdosing in a regulated and responsible manner. However, it’s essential to ensure that any substances used for microdosing are obtained from reputable and legal sources and that all applicable laws and regulations are strictly followed. It’s necessary to consult with healthcare professionals or experienced practitioners before embarking on a microdosing journey, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications that may interact with the substances being used.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving landscape of wellness practices and personal growth, microdosing has emerged as a fascinating and potentially transformative approach. By harnessing the power of minute doses of various substances, individuals may be able to unlock a range of benefits, from enhanced creativity and cognitive function to reduced anxiety and improved overall well-being. However, it is crucial to approach microdosing with caution, responsibility, and a commitment to following established protocols and guidelines. By embracing education, open dialogue, and respect for individual differences, we can collectively explore the potential of this innovative practice while prioritizing safety and responsible use

FAQs

What is microdosing, and how does it differ from traditional dosing?

Microdosing involves consuming minute, sub-perceptual doses of psychoactive substances, typically one-tenth to one-twentieth of a standard dose. It aims to provide potential benefits without inducing intense psychoactive experiences.

What are some potential microdosing benefits?

Reported benefits include reduced anxiety, improved mood, enhanced creativity and cognitive function, and overall well-being. However, individual responses may vary, and further research is needed.

How can microdosing be incorporated into a responsible protocol?

Many proponents recommend following structured protocols, such as the “Fadiman Protocol,” which involves taking a microdose every three days with two days of rest in between. Keeping detailed journals or logs is also recommended.

Can microdosing help with depression?

While more research is needed, some anecdotal reports suggest that microdosing may help alleviate symptoms of depression. The potential mood-boosting effects of certain compounds, such as psilocybin, may play a role in improving overall emotional well-being and reducing feelings of depression.

How long does it take to experience the microdosing benefits?

The benefits of microdosing can vary among individuals. While some people may notice subtle improvements in mood and cognition within a few days or weeks, others may require more time to experience noticeable effects. It’s essential to approach microdosing with patience and consistency to gauge its full potential benefits.

Microdosing psychedelics has gained notable attention in recent years as a potential treatment for mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depressive disorders. 

According to Harvard Health, microdosing has not been definitively proven as a clinically effective treatment for any condition, yet the Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research has published numerous studies demonstrating positive correlations between psilocybin as a moderator for major depressive disorder, anxiety, substance abuse, and more.

Those who are interested in exploring alternative therapies for mental illness, particularly those that have been disappointed by conventional pharmaceutical intervention, may find this article on microdosing a helpful tool.

What is microdosing? 

Microdosing is the act of taking small amounts of a psychedelic substance, most commonly psilocybin, for mental health benefits that don’t include typical hallucinogenic effects. 

Recreationally, people take psychedelics for the euphoric high it produces, one that is typically marked by feelings of depersonalization and derealization. 

Depersonalization refers to feeling disconnected from oneself, as though you’re drifting or floating beyond your own body. Many people who take psychedelics relate this feeling to achieving a higher state of consciousness.

Derealization is feeling as though the physical world is no longer real and that reality is distant or foggy.

The goal of microdosing is to get all the benefits of psychedelics without becoming intoxicated. Rather than seeking an altered state of consciousness, people who microdose seek advantages like less stress, anxiety and depression, enhanced creativity, greater energy levels, and more peace of mind.

How Microdosing Works

There is no exact quantity approved for microdosing, but it is generally seen as taking a fraction of a typical recreational dose. In the case of magic mushrooms, this would be approximately 0.1 to 0.3 mg.

Most microdosing protocols require someone to take a small amount of a psychedelic two to four times per week. Other protocols follow an on-off model that requires microdosing for several days in a row, then taking several days off.

No one is entirely sure precisely how psychedelics achieve all of their benefits, but the answer likely lies in their ability to improve the brain’s communication. By activating the serotonin receptor 5-HT2AR, psychedelics can cause rapid growth of dendrites, the branches that are able to receive neural input from other cells.

By stimulating this growth, the brain becomes more flexible, ultimately allowing the individual to release unhealthy patterns and embrace newer, positive ways of thinking and being. 

Conditions that Can Be Treated with Microdosing 

Microdosing has been explored across a variety of applications, including substance use disorders, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, treatment-resistant depression, and even in pain management. 

Using psychedelics to target symptoms may prove more effective than pharmaceuticals and other conventional treatments. 

Because of its widespread potential, psychedelic research is a broad field that is gaining popularity across the country. There are numerous clinical studies underway exploring the possible benefits and uses of psychedelics. 

At the Yale School of Medicine, researchers are actively investigating the use of psilocybin to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and headaches, as well as its neurological impacts on the brian. 

With greater understanding of how psychedelics affect the brain, more applications for treatment will emerge. The rapidly expanding body of knowledge shows promising potential in both physical and mental health treatments. 

Microdosing and Psychotherapy 

Microdosing may be beneficial for those looking to improve their mental health by working with a therapist. Psilocybin-assisted therapy can be beneficial for patients that struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and substance abuse.

It may also benefit those interested in the possible benefits of microdosing who want to set clear intentions and align their psychedelic use with their goals.

Trained psychedelic therapists can help guide patients through their experience with psilocybin, LSD, ketamine, and other psychedelic substances. By working with a therapist, it is easier to adjust a microdosing protocol to target specific symptoms and, hopefully, achieve desired results. 

In Alberta, Canada, therapists licensed under the Mental Health Services Act can prescribe and oversee all of a patient’s microdosing for the duration of treatment. In the United States, only ketamine has been given clearance for applications in therapy; however, the growing field of psychedelic psychotherapy and certification programs show promise for more accessibility in the future.

How to Microdose for Therapy

Dosage guidelines will vary greatly from patient to patient depending on the substance they choose and what their desired results are. 

By definition, a microdose must be a sub-hallucinogenic dose, meaning it is not strong enough to cause any psychoactive effects that would lead to altered states of consciousness. Most microdoses are 1/10 to 1/20 of a standard dose of a substance.

A typical dose of magic mushrooms is 2.5g, so a microdose would be between 0.2 and .05g. No microdose should go above 0.5 for any psychedelic to avoid unwanted results. 

Working with a psychedelic therapist is the best way to tailor your protocol to your unique needs and goals. These therapists understand how microdosing works, and they can adjust doses and treatment plans as needed.

Before microdosing, your therapist can also help you set positive intentions that can improve your results. Because psychedelics can increase the potential for new, positive neural pathways, setting positive intentions can help you achieve desired outcomes.

While microdosing for therapy, you may also engage in activities that support your intention, such as meditating, journaling, and reciting positive affirmations. These exercises can help you take greater advantage of the effects of microdosing on the brian, and ultimately shape your experience to be more fulfilling.

You should also consider which substances may be right for your intended purposes. A psychedelic integration coach can help you explore your options. 

Microdosing and Self-Care Management

While microdosing can be an effective way to improve your overall mental health, it should only be done in conjunction with other self-care exercises. Self-care includes eating a healthy diet rich in nutritious foods, exercising regularly to strengthen and stretch your body, and engaging in hobbies that make life feel worthwhile to you.

Microdosing can help give people the energy and focus they need to be more productive, which means it can support greater self-care as well. Many people who struggle with mental health disorders often put themselves last, so developing a good self-care plan should be a part of any microdosing protocol.

Working with a psychedelic integration therapist can be an effective way to identify which self-care activities could be most helpful for you while you microdose. Engaging in talk therapy, integration circles (support groups), and even practicing self-reflection more frequently might help you achieve the greatest results. 

Potential Benefits of Microdosing

There are many purported positive benefits of microdosing, including the following:

• Less anxiety and worry
• Lower stress levels
• Reduced depression symptoms
• Greater energy
• More creativity
• Improved cognitive function 
• Enhanced mental well-being

In a 2021 article published in Nature Journal, researchers asked adults who microdose psychedelics what their motivations were and how microdosing improved their lives. They found that microdosers were largely motivated by health factors, namely, a desire to reduce anxiety, lower depression, and improve well-being. 

The microdosing group were more likely than a non-dosing group to report mental health concerns, and among the 4,050 microdosers, 85% took psilocybin. They reported that microdosing positively affected their depression and anxiety symptoms.

Researchers also found it interesting that although the microdosers reported higher substance use over the last year, they showed lower signs of substance use disorder, less anxiety, and fewer negative emotions.

Mood enhancement and anxiety reduction are two of the greatest potential benefits of microdosing, especially among people who struggle with their mental health. 

However, it is important to note that no amount of psychedelics is recommended for anyone that has a history or risk of hallucinations, delusions, psychosis, or schizophrenia.

Currently, anecdotal evidence for microdosing as a depression and anxiety treatment is much greater than clinical evidence. There are many people who report that taking psychedelics in small doses helped raise their energy levels, balance their moods, and reduce distressing symptoms that often left them feeling hopeless and powerless in their daily lives. 

From a neurological level, microdosing may be able to improve mood by stimulating greater production of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Just as many antidepressants target this chemical messenger, small doses of psychedelics may activate its receptors, too.

The difference lies in the way antidepressants vs. psychedelics target serotonin. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) prevent other neurons from being able to absorb serotonin, meaning it stays in your system for longer at a higher quantity than usual. 

Psychedelics, on the other hand, lower how much energy the brain needs to switch between mental states; this allows the brain to perform more fluidly, which can alter its neuroplasticity, or ability to form new connections. 

The neural plasticity theory of depression states that the condition may arise as a result of disruptions and dysregulation in the brain. Rumination, a common depression symptom, may also create strong synaptic connections (neural pathways) that perpetuate the negative thinking cycles and self-defeating beliefs among people experiencing depression.

Theoretically, it is possible that psychedelic microdosing could disrupt these negative pathways, making it easier for someone to form more positive connections and, essentially, develop the ability and scope to see beyond the lens of depression.

Potential Downsides to Microdosing

Just like one has to weigh the pros and cons of a prescription medication, alternative therapies are no different; while they may pose less risks than some pharmaceuticals, there are still some risks to psychedelics and microdosing to be aware of.

First, it’s important to note that subjective experience plays a large factor in a person’s experience with psychedelics, and what we know as the placebo effect may also largely influence how much a person feels microdosing improves their symptoms.

There are two other key risks that anyone considering microdosing has to be mindful of: dosage and quality. Product sourcing can be difficult because psilocybin and LSD are not legal in the United States or Canada. 

The legality factor ultimately affects regulations. While there are many microdosing brands sprouting up around the web, they are not governed by any authoritative body. Therefore, the responsibility falls entirely on the consumer to make sure that the psychedelics they take are not contaminated with any potentially harmful substances. 

Additionally, it’s equally important to know your state’s rules and regulations before purchasing or using microdosing psychedelics. 

You should take psychedelics with caution, and only under the guidance of an experienced medical expert.

As for dosing, there is no exact science. Microdosing can be personalized to suit a person’s needs, but a balance is necessary. Because recreational and microdosing psychedelics are made from the same substance, increasing a dose can eventually lead to undesired psychoactive effects.

Practical Tips Before Trying

Make sure that you speak with your doctor if you are currently on any prescription medications or have underlying health conditions. Microdosing could cause serious interactions and effects, so medical clearance is necessary before safely trying psychedelics. 

You should also speak with your doctor about the possible pros and cons of microdosing and whether they feel you’re a good candidate overall. 

Microdosing is not a proven cure for depression or anxiety. While current research reveals some therapeutic potential, it does not replace self-care and seeking mental health support when it is warranted. It’s particularly important to seek support prior to microdosing if you have suicidal thoughts. 

You should always consider trying microdosing with a sober person around to act as your supervisor. In case you experience any negative effects, they can help you seek medical attention quickly. Most importantly, never try microdosing alone.

Conclusion

To recap, microdosing is taking a small amount of a substance to achieve potential benefits while reducing your risk of complications, or eliminating unwanted effects. When it comes to the world of psychedelics, microdosing is an emergent trend that shows promising potential in the treatment of mental health disorders and a number of physical conditions as well.

The therapeutic potential of microdosing can be a beneficial alternative to conventional drugs, such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications. Those who have previously tried traditional therapy to no avail might find microdosing to be a powerful alternative that finally helps break down the barriers holding them back from living their fullest lives.

In the future, more research on microdosing will reveal the underlying mechanisms of psychedelics on the brain, as well as how different dosages and substances may benefit people with a variety of mental health disorders.

What makes some of us more creative than others? Genetics may have an influence on our creative output as well as our upbringing. But what if there was a way of unlocking (more of) your artistic potential? Emerging scientific evidence suggests that microdosing of psychedelics may hold the key to unlocking artistic minds even further. Here is everything you need to know. 

What is Microdosing?

Microdosing describes the practice of taking a tiny dose of a drug to benefit from some of its effects while avoiding stronger or unfavorable side effects. Microdosing is commonly used in drug development and pharmacology to study the pharmacokinetics of a certain drug. In this context, microdosing has been thoroughly studied and researchers follow standards established by bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Medicines Agency (EMEA), and the Japanese Health, Labor, and Welfare Ministery (MHLW). Since 2009, there is an international guideline that defines a microdose as 1% of the pharmacologically active dose. 

When it comes to the use of psychedelics, microdoses are not as clearly defined or regulated. Psychedelic and pharmacological microdoses have some things in common, including the fact that the dose is a so-called sub-threshold dose, meaning it is not strong enough to produce hallucinogenic effects. 

Microdosers of psychedelics currently seem to be using between 5% and 10% of what would be considered an active dose. This is higher than pharmacological microdoses but still low enough to avoid tripping. The two most common substances used for microdosing are lysergic acid diethylamide – better known as LSD – and psilocybin, the psychoactive substance in magic mushrooms. 

Psychedelics and Creativity

Humans have been using small doses of psychedelics for centuries. Historians found evidence of psychedelic use in the ancient Aztec civilization. The Aztec people used sacred mushrooms to treat rheumatism and fever. Aside from medicinal use, creativity and psychedelics also have a long-standing connection.

Historical Use of Psychedelics for Creative Purposes

The Aztecs’ records describe the hallucinatory effects of the mushrooms, but to the best of our knowledge, they made no connection to creativity. Early in the 20th century, interest in psychedelics grew with the discovery of LSD by Albert Hofmann. Hofmann was the first to ingest LSD in the 1940s, setting in motion a period of cultural and scientific exploration that lasted nearly three decades. 

Effects of Microdosing on Creativity

Throughout the 1950s and 60s, anecdotal evidence of the beneficial effects of LSD on creativity continued to grow. The use of psychedelics is said to have allowed some of the leading artists of the time to expand their work. Bands like The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, and The Beatles used psychedelics to create unforgettable songs. 

Writer Aldous Huxley’s works show a clear influence of experiments with psychedelic substances. But the effects were not limited to artists. Entrepreneurs like Apple’s Steve Jobs found them to be beneficial, too. Jobs has been quoted acknowledging that taking psychedelics was among the most important things he has done in his life.

Scientific Studies on the Effects of Microdosing and Creativity

Scientific research into the use of psychedelics all but stopped during the 1970s and 80s as governmental regulation limited their use. Over the past few years, this trend has been reversed, producing a growing body of research that suggests microdosing has wide benefits for creativity without virtually any downsides. 

To study the effects of microdosing, researchers had to look at what happens in human brains when our creative output increases. There is no true creativity center in the brain, but humans use two main types of thinking – convergent and divergent. Convergent thinking is a largely linear process focused on finding one solution for one problem. Divergent thinking, on the other hand, tends to be associated with thinking outside of the box and increased creativity. 

Some scientific studies are now showing that psychedelics enhance divergent thinking while limiting convergent brain activity. One way of thinking about these results is to assume that microdosing takes the brakes off human imagination and allows artists to explore ideas they may not otherwise have had. 

A recent study supported by the Dutch Psychedelic Society found that both convergent and divergent thinking were enhanced by microdosing. The scientists concluded that psychedelic substances optimized the balance between “cognitive persistence and flexibility.” This is not necessarily contradictory to enhanced creativity as convergent thinking supported focus and concentration.

Two other Dutch studies looked into the phenomenon of unlocking a person’s creativity or artistic potential with psychedelics. They concluded that while creative thinking overall retained similar levels, certain constructs of creative thinking changed in test subjects over time. 

Immediately after taking psychedelics, participants had more spontaneous creative thoughts, but their deliberate creative thinking was reduced. One week after their microdose, users came up with more novel ideas – a measure for increased creativity. The initial conclusion is that psychedelics may “temporarily disrupt” the balance between deliberate and spontaneous creative thinking. Over time, however, this disruption may create new pathways in the brain, leading to enhanced creativity.

More research is still needed to back up anecdotal findings with comprehensive scientific evidence of the potential of psychedelics.

Benefits of Microdosing for Creatives

Stepping away from science, let’s take a closer look at the benefits of microdosing for creatives that we know about, both anecdotally and thanks to scientific evidence. 

The main benefits of microdosing for creatives include: 

• Increased focus and productivity: with microdosing, distractions are less likely to interrupt the work of creatives, helping them stay focused for longer periods and resulting in better outcomes.  
• Heightened senses and perception: seeing or hearing more than you previously did helps inspire new ideas and truly different creations. Microdosing allows artists and others to experience their thoughts and the objects in front of them in a different light. 
• Enhanced imagination and creative flow: imagine being able to arrange musical instruments in an innovative way that no one had thought of before. Microdosing allows artists to expand what they thought of as the boundaries of their imagination and removes blocks to creativity. 

Microdosing and Artistic Forms

Let’s take a closer look at different forms of creativity and how microdosing can support those. 

Writing and Storytelling

According to anecdotal evidence, microdosing can be a powerful tool for overcoming writer’s block and achieving a state of flow more regularly. Some writers also reported that psychedelics allowed them to stay focused for longer and develop the small details of a text to a higher level. 

Visual Art and Design

Visual artists could benefit from both enhanced convergent and divergent thinking. 

Increased divergent thinking opens the door to truly new, out-of-the-box ideas, while convergent thinking supports the finishing touches of small details of a painting or an intricate design. Some reports also suggested that microdosing helped visual artists go easy on themselves and develop their work rather than allowing their inner critic to curtail it. 

Music and Sound Production

Some of the biggest names in music are known to have experimented with psychedelics. We may not be able to prove that psychedelics were the driving force behind the distinctive sound of The Beatles, but it is probably safe to say that these substances helped draw out new ideas that may otherwise have been lost. 

Sound production is a combination of big ideas and extreme attention to detail, also known as divergent and convergent thinking. Microdosing can support and enhance creativity in both of these areas. 

Microdosing for Creativity: Guidelines and Best Practices

Microdosing is generally considered to be safe, but there are still a few guidelines and best practices for artists to follow to enhance their creativity without any detrimental side effects. 

1. Dosage guidelines: begin with the lowest possible dose because humans react differently to medications and other substances. Psychedelics are no different. A dosage that may show no effect in one person could already be too much for another. Take a small dose and wait for its effects to develop. Avoid rushing into larger doses which may have significant side effects. 
2. Choose the right substance for you: different substances can have different effects, making it important to research psychedelics before using them. Try to learn as much as you can to ensure your goals align with the known effects of your chosen substance. 
3. Best practices for microdosing: Find a trusted source for your microdoses. Nearly 200 species of mushrooms produce psilocybin, but some of them are poisonous. They may look like harmless species, so it is critical to be sure of the species you’re taking. Otherwise, you could be risking liver damage, severe illness, and even death. It also helps to start with a specific goal in mind. Whether you are looking to increase creativity or reduce anxiety, a clear objective makes it easier to measure progress. 

Integration practices

Microdosing and psychedelics don’t exist in a vacuum. Instead, microdosing can be integrated seamlessly with other transformational practices like mindfulness, somatic breathing, and other breathwork practices, as well as yoga and plant medicine. 

So how can you start developing a microdosing practice as a creative? One of the most popular microdosing protocols is known as the Fadiman Protocol after researcher and author James Fadiman. Fadiman suggests using a schedule of one day on, and one day off to allow microdosing beginners to distinguish between days when they are using psychedelics and days when they don’t. 

Starting slow is one of the best ways of establishing a new habit and integrating it into your daily routine. Small changes are easier to make and therefore more likely to develop into lasting habits. Plus, remember that microdosing isn’t a sprint. Instead, the practice is about embracing a creative transformation, long-term personal growth, and the expansion of your artistic potential. 

Microdosing and Self-Care for Creatives

Microdosing can also contribute to an artist’s self-care routine – or help establish healthier, more beneficial habits. 

Managing Mental Health with Microdosing 

Current research suggests that microdosing psilocybin and other psychedelics may help control mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. In some of those studies, psilocybin was found to enhance participants’ mood not only momentarily but that those improvements were sustained over a period of time. 

Research into psychedelics is flourishing, with scientists exploring contexts of mental health, creativity, and other areas. Some believe that these substances have the potential to revolutionize mental health care once they are understood better. 

Balancing Microdosing with Other Self-Care Practices 

If you’re following the Fadiman protocol of microdosing one day on, one day off, it’s a great idea to turn your microdosing days into self-care days. 

Many microdosing enthusiasts find that psychedelics increase their energy. Channeling some of that energy into exercise could help establish a fitness routine alongside your microdosing regime. In this context, exercise could be anything from high-intensity runs to gentle yin yoga. 

Meditation is another self-care practice that balances well with microdosing and supports creative output. The mental clarity derived from meditation gels well with the energy and stimulation delivered by microdosing, opening new opportunities for creative thought.  

Minimizing Potential Downsides to Microdosing

Microdosing is generally considered to be safe, both according to anecdotal and existing scientific evidence. 

Start slow and follow our guidelines above for the best possible experience. Take the time to get to know your reaction to various psychedelics and don’t be afraid to try different protocols. You might be surprised by the wide range of effects different substances have on your creative output. 

Final Thoughts

Microdosing has the potential to enhance overall creativity, remove creative obstacles like writers’ block, and it could unlock a person’s entire artistic potential. Taking psychedelics in small doses can also help reduce anxiety and benefit overall well-being. While there is limited scientific research available, microdosing is generally considered to be safe for creative minds if users follow established best practices and allow their creativity to unfold gradually.

Living with migraines is torturous, and it’s natural to look anywhere and everywhere for relief. You may have tried over-the-counter medications, prescription treatments, acupuncture, or injections, only to find your symptoms persist. There are also those who prefer natural and alternative therapies to traditional medical approaches, and for them, this guide may prove especially useful. In this article, we will look into microdosing for migraines and how taking small doses of psychedelics may be able to finally bring you the relief you deserve.

What is microdosing? 

Microdosing is taking a small amount of a substance in order to achieve its benefits without experiencing undesirable effects. In the case of psychedelics, the goal of microdosing is to achieve their mental and physical benefits while avoiding any psychoactive symptoms (e.g. a blissful high or psychedelic trip). Taking psilocybin, the main psychoactive component in the Psilocybe cubensis mushroom, may be able to help alleviate migraines in some people. 

Microdosing and migraines

The American Migraine Foundation reports that people have taken psilocybin for over 20 years to manage cluster headaches—pain that is shorter than a migraine and only occurs on one side of the head. Their research finds that users report microdosing helps lower both the frequency and intensity of their headaches. A 2022 double-blind placebo trial found that psilocybin microdosing did help reduce cluster headache symptoms in some patients; the researchers also noted that among all the participants who microsed tolerated psilocybin well and experienced no negative side effects or reactions. While that may be only one small, exploratory study, it highlights the emerging trend in medicine to explore psychedelics as a potential treatment for migraines. Microdosing in and of itself is not exclusive to psychedelics. In “Microdosing: Concept, Application and Relevance,” Dr.  Tushar Tewari and Dr. Shoibal Mukherjee examine the underlying mechanisms of microdosing and explain how it can be useful to people. They define microdosing as taking “1/100th of the expected pharmacological dose.” While their article refers to microdosing in pharmaceutical testing, the same logic can be applied to microdosing psychedelics as well. 

The goal is for someone to take the least amount of a substance as possible to achieve positive effects. The benefits of microdosing are reported to range from improved mood and enhanced concentration to less physical pain and reduced symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. In recent years, psychedelic pain management has begun to garner attention in the medical world. In 2021, Johns Hopkins Medicine received its first federal grant for psychedelic research in 50 years. Renewed interest is sparked by the striking similarities between many psychedelic drugs and pharmaceuticals; Dr. Emmanuelle Schindler, Medical Director of Headache Center of Excellence in West Haven, CT, revealed to the American Migraine Association that psychedelic substances are “chemically and pharmacologically very similar to existing conventional headache medications.” The exact neurological and physiological pain relief mechanisms of psychedelics are not fully known; the working theory is that they can reduce pain by enhancing brain connectivity.

The ability for your nerve cells (neurons) to communicate better may ultimately improve how you experience pain. In “The Psychedelic Science of Pain,” the University of San Diego offers insights from associate professor of anesthesiology and pain medicine, Timony Furnish, who helped publish a review in Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine that explores the history of psychedelics in pain management and puts forth a suggested theory on how it works.  According to Furnish, psychedelics may “reorganize the pain pathways of the brain,” which can lead to greater relief than traditional medical interventions. People living with migraines can likely understand the struggle so many patients face trying to uncover the secret combination of treatments that will finally end their headaches. While nothing definitive has been proven yet, it’s highly possible that psilocybin could be the best psychedelic for reducing pain and restoring freedom in the lives of people battling migraines.

Research studies on microdosing for migraines

Psychedelics are ancient plant medicine, used by indigenous tribes around the globe for thousands of years. However, they are currently illegal in the United States, which can make research and clinical trials more difficult to definitively prove how effective microdosing is for migraines. As with most research surrounding psilocybin and psychedelic treatments, results thus far show mixed results. For example, in 2011, researchers found that psilocybin could cause headaches in healthy volunteers. The results were dose-dependent, with higher doses correlating with more intense headaches, though no participant rated their headache as severe.

In a 2020 randomized control trial, researchers administered a single dose of 0.143 mg/kg of psilocybin to 10 participants who suffer from migraines and found that microdosing helped reduce the frequency of their headaches after two weeks, and there were no negative effects. More recently, a 2022 narrative review of the effects of cannabinoids, psilocybin, and ketamine found that magic mushrooms can be an effective migraine treatment while also calling for greater exploration into the potential benefits of these alternative therapies. So far, the medical and scientific worlds need greater proof that psychedelics can treat migraines before psilocybin could be recommended as a proven treatment. That being said, the research we have available so far indicates favorable results.

Practical tips for microdosing

Before you try microdosing as a migraine treatment, there are important things to consider and understand about the potential benefits and risks. First, although the current body of research paints psilocybin for migraine relief in a favorable light, there is no conclusive evidence that it works or any guarantee that it will have positive effects. Some patients even experienced headaches after taking psilocybin, and this side effect was dose-dependent. That means the more you take, the greater risk you’ll likely have of experiencing a headache (or possibly worsening your current symptoms.” Remember, microdosing is not a perfected science yet. Everybody is unique, and each person has a different amount they may respond well to. However, the same substance that induces psychoactive highs is the same one you take when you microdose. The only factor that prevents a person from experiencing psychedelic mental alternation is the low dose. Therefore, sticking with a recommended microdose is key, and you should always start with the lowest dose possible. Rather than taking it each day, you might see benefits if you take psilocybin two or three times per week. You should also look for a producer of psychedelic microdosing products. Because psychedelics are illegal in Canada, they can be difficult to find, and there is no regulatory body to ensure the quality and safety of any product. This means there can also be legal risks associated with acquiring them.

The only exception to the law is Alberta, where clinicians licensed under the Mental Health Services Act may provide psychedelic-assisted therapy to patients with an appointed psychiatric medical director. However, beyond this application, magic mushrooms and other psychedelic substances are not able to be legally bought in Canada. Anyone who wants to explore them must do extensive research before ever consuming a product. Microdosing should also be given clearance by your doctor, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or take any prescription medications. Lastly, anyone who has a risk or history of schizophrenia, psychotic symptoms, or delusional disorders should not take any form of psychedelics in any quantity. Doing so can trigger the onset of psychosis or symptoms such as hallucinations, paranoia, and delusional thinking.

Case studies and personal experiences

Limited case studies exist online at the moment, but some internet research can reveal personal experiences of people who have tried psychedelics for migraine relief and shared their thoughts online. In 2015, Refinery29 published an article by an author under the name A. Khan. Khan revealed that they have taken magic mushrooms for several months to help with their focus and do anything about their “debilitating migraines.” Khan had tried many treatments in the past, ranging from beta blockers to Botox, but nothing had successfully alleviated their symptoms—until they tried psilocybin. They noticed a pattern in how the psychedelics impact both their headaches and emotional state, often feeling their best on day one, good on day two, and returning to their baseline by day three.  They cite that one of their favorite features of microdosing is its lack of habit-formation. They can skip a week if they want without any detox or withdrawal symptoms to worry about. Aside from LSD, psychedelics are generally not addictive, making them a highly flexible form of alternative therapy for migraines.

Conclusion

Research surrounding psychedelics microdosing as a treatment for migraines is promising, though further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and identify any potential risks it may present. So far, the literature suggests that microdosing for migraines can be a valuable alternative therapy to conventional measures. Rather than relying on prescription painkillers that are known to be habit-forming, people may explore using psychedelic substances that could ease their pain without the risk of addiction. That being said, microdosing should only be done under the guidance of a medical expert, and you should always fact-check and research extensively before trying any psychedelic substances for your headache.