Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, have been used for centuries by various cultures for spiritual and healing purposes. More recently, they have also attracted the attention of scientists and researchers who are exploring their potential to treat various mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
But what if you could reap some of the benefits of psilocybin mushrooms without having a full-blown psychedelic trip? That’s the idea behind microdosing, a practice that involves taking a very small dose of a psychedelic substance, usually 1/20 to 1/10 of a normal dose, with the intention of improving one’s quality of life.
According to anecdotal reports and some preliminary studies, microdosing psilocybin mushrooms may enhance creativity, mood, focus, productivity, and cognitive function, as well as reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. However, the scientific evidence for these claims is still limited and more research is needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of microdosing.
One of the leading advocates of microdosing psilocybin mushrooms is Paul Stamets, a world-renowned mycologist and author who has dedicated his life to uncovering the potential of mushrooms and fungi for healing both humans and the environment. Stamets has developed a microdosing protocol that he calls the Stamets Stack, which combines psilocybin mushrooms with two other ingredients: Lion’s Mane mushroom and niacin (vitamin B3).
Lion’s Mane mushroom is a medicinal mushroom that has been shown to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that promotes the growth and survival of neurons in the brain. Niacin is a vasodilator that increases blood flow and helps deliver the psilocybin and Lion’s Mane to the brain more effectively.
Stamets believes that this combination can create new neurons and neural pathways in the brain, as well as repair existing neurological damage. He claims that this can improve brain health and function in various ways, such as enhancing memory, learning, creativity, problem-solving, and neurogenesis (the creation of new brain cells).
Stamets recommends taking a microdose to a low dose of psilocybin mushrooms (0.1 to 1 gram) along with 5 to 20 grams of Lion’s Mane mushroom and 100 to 200 milligrams of niacin every day for several weeks or months. He suggests taking a break every few days to avoid tolerance and allow the brain to integrate the effects.
While some people may be curious or tempted to try microdosing psilocybin mushrooms for themselves, it is important to note that this practice is not without risks or challenges. While Psilocybin mushrooms are lawful in Colorado, they are still illegal in most of the United States of America, and obtaining them may involve legal or ethical dilemmas. Moreover, the quality and potency of psilocybin mushrooms may vary depending on the source and preparation method, making it difficult to measure an accurate dose.
Furthermore, microdosing psilocybin mushrooms may not be suitable or safe for everyone. People who have a personal or family history of psychosis, schizophrenia, or epilepsy should avoid microdosing as it may trigger or worsen their symptoms. People who are taking lithium or SSRIs should consult their doctor before microdosing as it may interact with their treatment or cause adverse effects.
Microdosing psilocybin mushrooms is not a magic bullet or a substitute for professional help. It may not work for everyone or address the underlying causes of one’s problems. It may also have unpredictable or undesirable consequences that may outweigh its benefits. Therefore, anyone who is interested in microdosing psilocybin mushrooms should do their own research, weigh the pros and cons carefully, and proceed with caution and responsibility.
References
(1) The Stamets Stack: Microdosing for Brain Health | DoubleBlind Mag. https://doubleblindmag.com/stamets-stack/.
(2) Adults who microdose psychedelics report health related … – Nature. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-01811-4.
(3) Paul Stamets Stack: Microdosing Psilocybin and Lion’s Mane. https://microdosinginstitute.com/microdosing-101/substances/lions-mane-stacking/.
(4) THE PAUL STAMETS STACK METHOD: HOW TO TAKE MICRODOSING TO … – LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/paul-stamets-stack-method-how-take-microdosing-next-level-santiago.
Ashley Ryan, M.S. 