The Reported Benefits of Psilocybin Microdosing: A Comprehensive Overview
- Vivian Lo
- Apr 13, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: May 1, 2024
Psilocybin, found in certain species of mushrooms, has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic benefits. Research suggests that psilocybin may offer promising avenues for mental health treatment, including alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Microdosing psilocybin has been reported to improve mood, increase feelings of well-being, and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in some individuals.
Microdosing may enhance cognitive function, including focus, concentration, and creative thinking, potentially boosting productivity and problem-solving abilities.
Regular microdosing of psilocybin may help alleviate stress and anxiety, promoting a greater sense of calmness and relaxation without the intensity of a full psychedelic experience.
Microdosing has been associated with better emotional regulation, helping individuals manage their emotions more effectively and respond to stressors with greater resilience.
Microdosing may promote neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to adapt and reorganize, potentially facilitating learning, memory formation, and cognitive flexibility.
Microdosing psilocybin may increase awareness and mindfulness, leading to a deeper appreciation of the present moment and a greater connection to one's surroundings.
Some individuals report that microdosing improves social interaction by reducing social anxiety and increasing empathy and openness to others.
Microdosing can provide subtle shifts in perception and consciousness, allowing for introspection and self-exploration without the overwhelming effects of a full psychedelic trip.
Microdosing schedules typically involve taking small, sub-perceptual doses of psilocybin on a regular basis, allowing individuals to integrate the practice into their daily routine with minimal disruption.
While more research is needed, preliminary studies suggest that microdosing psilocybin could have therapeutic potential for various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD, with fewer side effects than traditional treatments.
Book: The Psychedelic Explorer's Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys
Drawing on his extensive experience in psychedelic research, Fadiman offers valuable insights into the dosing protocols, optimal conditions for microdosing, and the importance of intentionality and integration. Through compelling narratives and case studies, Fadiman illuminates the transformative potential of microdosing as a tool for personal growth, emotional healing, and cognitive enhancement. "The Psychedelic Explorer's Guide" is an indispensable resource for anyone curious about the therapeutic applications of psychedelics and seeking a safe and informed approach to microdosing psilocybin
Microdosing Psychedelics: Small is Big | JOSEPH ROOTMAN | TEDxLimassol
Clinical Scientist, Joseph Rootman, collaborated with an international team of researchers to deploy the largest study of psychedelic microdosing to date. He will guide listeners through the findings of this study and introduce them to the who, what, and why of this new and interesting practice. Joseph Rootman is a PhD candidate in the clinical Psychology program at the University of British Columbia. He works under the supervision of Dr. Zach Walsh as part of the Therapeutic, Recreational, and Problematic Substance use lab with a research focus in the therapeutic potential of cannabis and psychedelics such as psilocybin, LSD and Ketamine. Joseph is lead author on two recent publications in Nature: Scientific Reports which highlight the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelic microdosing on mood, mental health, and cognition. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
The science of psilocybin and its use to relieve suffering
Leading psychopharmacologist Roland Griffiths discloses the ways that psychedelic drugs can be used to create spiritually meaningful, personally transformative experiences for all patients, especially the terminally ill.
Article: The emerging science of microdosing: A systematic review of research on low dose psychedelics (1955–2021) and recommendations for the field
Highlights
This paper represents the most comprehensive systematic review yet on the widespread practice of microdosing psychedelics.
It outlines study characteristics, research findings, quality of evidence, and methodological challenges across 44 studies.
They found good evidence that psychedelic microdoses can influence pain perception, time perception, and subjective awareness.
They found emerging evidence of possible improvements in mental health, substance use disorders, and psychological functioning.
They offer a list of recommendations to address limitations and opportunities in the field.
Polito, Vince, and Paul Liknaitzky. “The Emerging Science of Microdosing: A Systematic Review of Research on Low Dose Psychedelics (1955–2021) and Recommendations for the Field.” Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, Pergamon, 21 May 2022, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0149763422001956.
