5 Surprising Ways Microdosing Magic Mushrooms Might Boost Your Mental Health
Flawless mental wellness would be perfect, but let’s face it, for most of us, that’s just not a thing. In the search for improvement you’ve likely explored a spectrum of options, and one that’s gaining a massive precense in Canada is microdosing magic mushrooms.
It’s a technique that has a recent history of working wonders for a variety of ailments, some of the most common being anxiety and depression. This approach involves taking minimal, sub-therapeutic doses of shrooms, aiming to enhance cognitive function, creativity, and emotional balance without inducing the full-blown psychoactive effects traditionally associated with these substances.
This is a guide that breaks down 5 common reasons people are microdosing in 2024, We will help you learn what microdosing is, how it works, and its possible benefits for various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression,, PTSD, drug addictions and lack of motivation. Hopefully in a few minutes you’ll be equipped with a well-rounded understanding of how microdosing could fit into your life or the modern day mental health care system.
Understanding Microdosing
Microdosing involves taking sub-threshold doses of psychedelic substances like LSD and psilocybin mushrooms. These doses, typically 1/20 to 1/10 of a recreational dose, are too low to cause the full psychedelic effects but are believed to potentially enhance creativity, energy, emotional balance, and problem-solving abilities [1][2].
Origins and Development
The practice of microdosing has gained popularity in the 21st century [3]. A June 2024 report by the RAND Corporation suggests that among adults in the United States who reported using psilocybin in the past year, nearly half engaged in microdosing the last time they used it [4].
Popular Microdosing Substances
LSD and psilocybin are the most commonly used substances for microdosing [1][5]. Precise measurement is important, especially with LSD, and volumetric liquid dosing is often employed to accurately measure the small doses required [1].
Prevalence of microdosing is influenced by factors like gender and education. An online survey of 2,437 respondents found that 13% had microdosed, with 4% currently microdosing [6]. Microdosers tend to have lower incomes and education levels, but no specific employment type is associated [6].
Another survey of Reddit users found microdosers were more likely to:
- Be male and less religious compared to non-microdosers.
- They also reported lower rates of anxiety and substance use disorders.
A common microdosing schedule is one day on followed by two days off, using either LSD or psilocybin [7].
The Benefits of Microdosing
Recent studies suggest that psychedelic drugs like LSD and psilocybin work by activating serotonin receptors in the brain, reducing the energy needed for the brain to switch between different activity states [8]. This unique mechanism of action may explain the reported benefits of microdosing for mental health.
Psychedelics appear to promote neuroplasticity, the formation of new neural connections or synapses in the brain [9]. In animal studies, very low doses of the psychedelic DMT produced antidepressant-like effects and helped rats forget fearful memories more quickly [9]. Researchers believe these effects stem from the ability of psychedelics to increase neuroplasticity.
How Microdosing Works
Microdosing involves taking sub-threshold doses of psychedelic substances, typically 1/20 to 1/10 of a recreational dose [8]. At these low doses, users don’t experience the full psychedelic effects but may notice enhancements in creativity, energy, emotional balance, and problem-solving abilities [8].
The practice has gained popularity in recent years, with a 2024 report suggesting nearly half of U.S. adults who used psilocybin in the past year engaged in microdosing [8]. LSD and psilocybin are the most commonly microdosed substances, with precise measurement being crucial to achieve the desired sub-perceptual effects [8].
Interaction with Brain Chemistry
While LSD and psilocybin affect multiple receptor types in the brain, their main targets are thought to be serotonin 2a receptors [8]. Activation of these receptors appears to lower the normal energy barriers between different brain activity states, allowing for easier transitions [8].
Mapping the distribution of serotonin 2a receptors in the brain reveals a spatial arrangement that seems optimized for lowering the energies required to shift between states [8]. This drug-enhanced receptor activity likely underlies the “flattening” of energy landscapes observed in the brains of individuals under the influence of psychedelics compared to placebo [8].
By promoting neuroplasticity and easing transitions between brain states, microdosing may enhance mental flexibility and adaptability [9]. Researchers are eager to explore whether this increased plasticity can help individuals break out of rigid patterns of thinking and behavior, potentially alleviating symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions [9].
Microdosing for Anxiety
Microdosing psilocybin has shown promise in alleviating symptoms of anxiety, as evidenced by both research findings and personal accounts [10]. A large longitudinal study found that individuals who microdosed psilocybin experienced greater reductions in anxiety symptoms over a one-month period compared to those who did not microdose [4]. Notably, these improvements were observed across age groups, genders, and among individuals with pre-existing mental health concerns [4].
Reported Benefits
Observational studies and anecdotal reports suggest that microdosing psychedelics can reduce anxiety and improve emotional well-being [7][3][11][9]. In a study of 1,116 microdosers, 21% reported that decreasing anxiety was their primary motivation for microdosing [9]. Another survey found that microdosers were more likely to report lower levels of anxiety compared to non-microdosers .
Personal Accounts
Many individuals have shared their experiences of using psilocybin microdoses to manage anxiety. One mother described how microdosing helped alleviate the crippling anxiety and intrusive thoughts that plagued her after the birth of her first child [12]. Another plant medicine guide reported that psilocybin microdoses act as a “heart medicine” that can help people process trauma and “clean out the pain [their] mind has been holding onto” in a loving, supportive environment [10].
While these findings are promising, it is important to note that most studies on microdosing and anxiety have relied on self-reported data and observational designs. Placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to more confidently determine the efficacy and safety of microdosing psilocybin for anxiety [4]. As research in this area grows, it may help clarify the potential of microdosing as a therapeutic tool for managing anxiety symptoms.
Microdosing for Depression
Emerging research suggests that microdosing psilocybin may offer potential benefits for individuals struggling with depression. A large longitudinal study found that microdosing psilocybin was associated with greater reductions in depressive symptoms over a one-month period compared to non-microdosing [4]. Notably, these improvements were observed across age groups, genders, and among those with pre-existing mental health concerns [4].
Reported Benefits
Observational studies and anecdotal reports indicate that microdosing psychedelics can improve mood and emotional well-being [7][3][11][9]. In a study of 1,116 microdosers, 21% reported that their primary motivation for microdosing was to decrease depression [9]. Another survey found that microdosers were more likely to report lower levels of depression compared to non-microdosers .
Personal Accounts
Many individuals have shared their experiences of using psilocybin microdoses to manage symptoms of depression. For example, one mother described how microdosing helped alleviate the crippling depression and intrusive thoughts that plagued her after the birth of her first child [12]. A plant medicine guide reported that psilocybin microdoses act as a “heart medicine” that can help people process trauma and “clean out the pain [their] mind has been holding onto” in a loving, supportive environment [10].
While these findings are promising, most studies on microdosing and depression have relied on self-reported data and observational designs. Placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to more confidently determine the efficacy and safety of microdosing psilocybin for depression [4]. As research in this area grows, it may help clarify the potential of microdosing as a therapeutic tool for managing depressive symptoms.
Microdosing for PTSD
Emerging research suggests that microdosing psilocybin may offer potential benefits for individuals struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A study analyzing data from the National Comorbidity Survey showed that out of six anxiety diagnoses, PTSD was significantly associated with suicide attempts [13].
Reported Benefits
Observational studies and anecdotal reports indicate that microdosing psychedelics can improve mood and emotional well-being [7][3][11][9]. In a study of 1,116 microdosers, 21% reported that their primary motivation for microdosing was to decrease depression [9]. Another survey found that microdosers were more likely to report lower levels of depression compared to non-microdosers .
There is some evidence in animal studies to show that psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in “magic mushrooms,” may act by stimulating nerve cell regrowth in parts of the brain responsible for emotion and memory. A 2013 study from the University of South Florida found that psilocybin stimulates neurogenesis—the growth and repair of brain cells in the hippocampus, which is the brain’s center for emotion and memory [13]. In the study, mice that were given psilocybin overcame fear conditioning far better than mice that were given a placebo [13].
Personal Accounts
Many individuals have shared their experiences of using psilocybin microdoses to manage symptoms of PTSD:
- One mother described how microdosing helped alleviate the crippling anxiety and intrusive thoughts that plagued her after the birth of her first child [13].
- A plant medicine guide reported that psilocybin microdoses act as a “heart medicine” that can help people process trauma and “clean out the pain [their] mind has been holding onto” in a loving, supportive environment [10].
While these findings are promising, most studies on microdosing and PTSD have relied on self-reported data and observational designs. Placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to more confidently determine the efficacy and safety of microdosing psilocybin for PTSD [4]. As research in this area grows, it may help clarify the potential of microdosing as a therapeutic tool for managing PTSD symptoms.
Microdosing for Addictions
Emerging research suggests that microdosing psilocybin may offer potential benefits for individuals struggling with substance use disorders and addictions. A study analyzing data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) found an association between past use of psilocybin and a reduced risk of opioid use disorder [14]. The study looked at 11 criteria used to diagnose opioid use disorder and found that past psilocybin use was significantly correlated with lowered odds of seven of these criteria [14].
Reported Benefits
Several studies have investigated the potential of psilocybin as a treatment for substance use disorders:
- A 2017 Johns Hopkins University pilot study found that the majority of participants were able to quit smoking for at least 16 months after receiving moderate to high-level doses of psilocybin [14].
- A 2015 proof-of-concept study led by Michael Bogenschutz found that abstinence among alcohol addicts increased significantly following the use of psilocybin [14].
- Observational studies have found that psilocybin is associated with a reduced risk of using substances like cocaine, marijuana, and opioids [14].
Researchers believe that psilocybin’s ability to boost neuroplasticity and reduce inflammation may contribute to its potential in treating addiction [14]. The meaningful and insightful experiences often reported by individuals who use psilocybin may also play a role in facilitating behavioral changes and better choices [14].
Personal Accounts
While clinical trials involving psilocybin as a treatment for substance use disorders have been limited, anecdotal reports suggest promising potential:
- In a small randomized clinical trial, psilocybin-assisted therapy caused a rapid reduction in symptoms of major depression, with effects remaining significant at least four weeks later [14].
- Another study found that among participants with depression who received two doses of psilocybin with supportive therapy, 75% still had some response to the treatment, and 58% were in complete remission from depression [14].
Psilocybin’s low addictive potential and long-lasting effects make it an attractive candidate for treating substance use disorders, as individuals would only need to take it intermittently, reducing the risk of side effects compared to daily medications [14]. As research in this area continues to grow, scientists are eager to further explore psilocybin’s potential as a therapeutic tool for managing addiction and supporting long-term recovery.
Microdosing for Motivation
Recent studies suggest that microdosing psilocybin can enhance motivation and drive, with many individuals reporting increased energy, focus, and productivity [4].
Reported Benefits
Observational studies and anecdotal reports indicate that microdosing psychedelics can improve mood, emotional well-being, and motivation [7][3][11][9]. In a study of 1,116 microdosers, a significant proportion reported that their primary motivation for microdosing was to enhance mindfulness, improve mood, boost creativity, and facilitate learning [9].
| Motive for Microdosing | Percentage of Respondents |
|---|---|
| Enhancing Mindfulness | Highly endorsed |
| Improving Mood | Highly endorsed |
| Enhancing Creativity | Highly endorsed |
| Enhancing Learning | Highly endorsed |
Respondents without mental health concerns were more likely to microdose to enhance learning, while those with mental health issues aimed to reduce anxiety, decrease substance use, and elevate mood [9].
Personal Accounts
Many microdosers have shared positive experiences of increased drive and motivation:
- One individual described how microdosing helped alleviate fatigue and boosted their energy levels, allowing them to engage in creative pursuits with renewed enthusiasm [4].
- Another reported that regular psilocybin microdoses acted as a “motivational medicine” that inspired them to make positive life changes and pursue personal growth [4].
While these findings are promising, more rigorous placebo-controlled trials are needed to confidently determine the effects of microdosing psilocybin on motivation [4]. As research in this area expands, it may shed light on the potential of microdosing as a tool for enhancing drive, focus, and personal development.
Our Final Thoughts
Throughout the exploration of microdosing’s potential in mental health care, we’ve navigated through the benefits and considerations of using sub-threshold doses of psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin. The discussions on how these substances can aid in managing conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addictions, alongside enhancing motivation, provide a broader understanding of microdosing’s multifaceted impact. This insight emphasizes the importance of continued research and underscores the need for placebo-controlled clinical trials to validate anecdotal evidence and preliminary studies. Such efforts will play a crucial role in integrating microdosing into conventional therapeutic frameworks, offering hope for innovative approaches to mental wellness.
Reflecting on the significance of these findings, it becomes clear that the implications extend far beyond individual health benefits, suggesting potential societal and healthcare advancements. The personal accounts and observational studies cited offer a fascinating glimpse into the transformative experiences individuals have undergone, painting a picture of potential that demands further investigation. However, it remains essential to approach microdosing with caution, adhering to legal and medical guidelines. As the body of evidence grows, so too will our understanding of how microdosing can be harnessed as a tool for enhancing mental health, marking a promising frontier in the ongoing search for effective mental health solutions.
References
[1] – https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/substance-use/controlled-illegal-drugs/magic-mushrooms.html
[2] – https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Psilocybin-2020.pdf
[3] – https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/psilocybin-magic-mushrooms
[4] – https://www.healthline.com/health-news/benefits-of-medical-mushrooms
[5] – https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/what-are-shrooms
[6] – https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/308850
[7] – https://deserthopetreatment.com/hallucinogens/psychedelic-mushroom-addiction/long-term-side-effects/
[8] – https://www.healthline.com/health/beginners-guide-to-microdosing
[9] – https://www.leafly.ca/news/lifestyle/how-to-make-shroom-tea
[10] – https://senchateabar.com/blogs/blog/how-to-make-mushroom-tea
[11] – https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1654/psilocybin
[12] – https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0269881121991822
Tommy Lee
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