Psychedelic microdosing involves taking very small, sub-perceptual doses of a psychedelic substance, such as LSD, psilocybin, or ketamine to achieve subtle mental and emotional effects without triggering full psychedelic experiences. These small doses are used in a way that seeks to maintain normal functioning, often integrated seamlessly into daily routines.
Popular psychedelics used in microdosing include LSD, MDMA, psilocybin, mescaline, ayahuasca, and DMT. According to a 2022 study by Columbia University, psychedelic microdosing has become increasingly popular, with over 5.5 million people in the United States microdosing in 2019. According to a 2024 report by the RAND Corporation, “Considering Alternatives to Psychedelic Drug Prohibition”, Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as “magic mushrooms,” are the most frequently used psychedelic in the U.S., with about 12% of respondents reporting lifetime use and 3.1% indicating use within the past year.
Some key benefits of microdosing include relaxation, improved mood, enhanced focus, and increased energy and creativity. These benefits are important because they contribute to a more balanced, fulfilling lifestyle by supporting mental resilience, productivity, and quality of life, making microdosing a topic of interest for those seeking alternatives for cognitive and emotional enhancement.
The main risks of microdosing include developing a dependency on psychedelics and exacerbating mental health issues for individuals with a history of psychosis. According to a 2020 study by Cameron, et al. “Chronic, Intermittent Microdoses of the Psychedelic (DMT) Produce Positive Effects on Mood and Anxiety”, some physical side effects of microdosing include nausea, headaches, and gastrointestinal discomfort. This study also found that some health risks of microdosing include cardiovascular strain, because psychedelics can increase heart rate and blood pressure.
Some considerations to keep in mind when microdosing are your intentions for this practice, the set and setting of where you microdose, where and who you source the substance from, and the legality of psychedelics where you live. According to a 2019 study by Fadiman & Korb for Johns Hopkins Medicine, knowing the local laws helps mitigate risks associated with microdosing. Keep in mind that the legal status of psychedelics varies by region, with potential legal repercussions for possession or use in many places.
To microdose safely, work with an experienced psychedelic practitioner who can guide you through the process and create a regimen with a psychedelic that is suitable for your specific needs. MAPS, the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, offers a list of certified therapists and guides trained in safe psychedelic-assisted therapy. Although not all are specific to microdosing, these practitioners are knowledgeable about psychedelic substances.
What is Microdosing?
Microdosing is the practice of consuming very low doses of psychedelic substances to achieve subtle cognitive or emotional benefits rather than experiencing full psychedelic effects. Unlike traditional psychedelic use, which typically involves consuming a full dose to induce a profound hallucinogenic and spiritual experience, microdosing is intended to enhance day-to-day functioning without noticeable intoxication.
According to the 2018 book, How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence by Michael Pollan, the origins of microdosing can be traced back to the 1960s, when scientists like renowned chemist Albert Hofmann, known for discovering LSD, suggested that lower doses could have beneficial applications. Renewed interest has led to more structured studies examining the impact of microdosing on mood, cognition, and mental health. Microdosing began to gain popularity in the early 2010s, driven by reports of enhanced creativity and focus from professionals in Silicon Valley and artistic communities.
What Does Microdosing Feel Like?
Microdosing feels like a subtle, positive shift in perception. Physical sensations include an increase of energy. People who microdose commonly report feelings of enhanced mood, mental clarity, and a general sense of wellbeing and calm. Many experience increased presence, focus, and creativity, alongside improved emotional resilience and social openness.
According to a 2019 study by Polito, V., & Stevenson, R. J., “A systematic study of microdosing psychedelics: Personality, mental health, and creativity differences in microdosers”, some people find it easier to engage in tasks, with a greater sense of motivation and flow. Keep in mind that effects of microdosing vary significantly from person to person, influenced by factors such as individual neurochemistry, the substance used, dosage, and frequency. Some users feel no effects, while others might experience mild discomfort, such as anxiety or headaches.
How Much is a Microdose?
A microdose is a small portion of a full dose of psychedelic drugs. According to the 2011 book, The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys by Dr. James Fadiman, a microdose is generally defined as about 1/10 to 1/20 of a full psychedelic dose. This small amount is meant to produce subtle effects that gently enhance creativity and focus, among other benefits. A standard dose of LSD ranges from 100 to 200 micrograms, while a typical microdose is 5 to 20 micrograms, representing around 5% to 20% of a full dose. A full dose of dried Psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms) ranges from 1 to 3 grams. A common microdose is 0.1 to 0.3 grams, which is about 5% to 10% of a standard dose.
How Many Grams is a Microdose?
The amount of grams in a microdose varies depending on the substance. Here’s a breakdown of the amount of grams in psychedelics commonly used for microdosing, according toThe Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys by Dr. James Fadiman :
- Psilocybin Mushrooms: 0.1 to 0.3 grams (100 to 300 mg) of dried mushrooms.
- LSD: 5 to 20 micrograms (mcg), commonly delivered on blotter paper.
- Mescaline (from Peyote or San Pedro cactus): 10 to 50 mg.
- MDMA (Ecstasy): 5 to 10 mg (not commonly microdosed due to stimulant effects).
- Ibogaine: 20 to 50 mg (typically measured in lower doses due to potency and physical effects).
- DMT: 2 to 5 mg vaporized, though this is less common and difficult to dose consistently.
What are Popular Psychedelics Used in Microdosing?
Some popular psychedelics used in microdosing include LSD, psilocybin, DMT, Mescaline, Iboga, and Ayahuasca. Here’s a list of some key psychedelics used in microdosing:
1. LSD
2. Psilocybin
3. DMT
4. Mescaline
5. Ibogaine
6. Ayahuasca
7. MDMA
8. Ketamine
1. LSD
According to a 2016 study by Nichols, D. E., “Psychedelics”, LSD, or Lysergic Acid Diethylamide, is a synthetic hallucinogen synthesized from ergot, a fungus that grows on rye and other grains. It is known for its ability to produce profound alterations in perception, mood, and thought. LSD was discovered by Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann and gained widespread recognition in the 1960s, where it was studied for its effects on consciousness and used recreationally.
A microdose of LSD typically involves doses between 10 to 20 micrograms (mcg), around 1/10 to 1/20 of a full hallucinogenic dose. At microdose levels, LSD is reported to improve cognitive flexibility, creativity, and focus. Users often experience enhanced emotional stability, mood uplift, and a sense of calm.
2. Psilocybin
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in various species of mushrooms. When ingested, psilocybin is metabolized into psilocin, which interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain to produce altered states of consciousness and perception.
Psilocybin is one of the most commonly used psychedelics for microdosing due to its generally mild effects and accessibility in natural form. Unlike larger doses, which induce intense visual and emotional experiences, microdoses are meant to enhance daily mental functioning and emotional well-being without overt psychedelic effects.
According to a 2018 study by Prochazkova, L., et al, “Exploring the Effect of Microdosing Psychedelics on Creativity in an Open-Label Natural Setting”, microdosing psilocybin commonly leads to subtle mood enhancement, increased focus, improved creativity, and emotional resilience. Some users report a greater sense of connection, openness, and appreciation for nature.
The standard microdose for psilocybin mushrooms is 0.1 to 0.3 grams (100 to 300 mg) of dried mushrooms, which is about 1/10 of a standard dose. This amount allows users to experience mental clarity and positive shifts in mood without pronounced psychedelic effects.
Can You Develop a Tolerance for Psilocybin When Microdosing?
Yes, you can develop a tolerance for psilocybin when microdosing. This tolerance can develop quickly, with repeated use over a few consecutive days. The brain’s serotonin receptors become desensitized to psilocybin’s effects, requiring higher doses to achieve the same impact.
It’s important to space out microdoses to minimize the development of tolerance. Many people follow a regimen that includes microdosing every few days , either dosing every other day or only a few times a week to allow the body and brain to reset. This practice helps maintain the efficacy of microdosing while reducing the risk of diminishing returns.
According to Murphy, R.J. et al’s 2024 study, “Microdosing Psychedelics Review: Current Evidence From Controlled Studies”, tolerance to psychedelics like psilocybin can develop quickly, often within a few days of regular use. After just a few days of exposure, users may require significantly higher doses to achieve similar effects. Therefore, understanding and respecting the potential for tolerance is crucial for those seeking the benefits of microdosing without adverse consequences.
3. DMT
According to the 2001 book, DMT: The Spirit Molecule: A Doctor’s Revolutionary Research into the Biology of Near-Death and Mystical Experiences, by Rick Strassman, DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) is a powerful psychedelic compound known for its intense, short-lived effects. It induces profound alterations in perception and consciousness, often described as mystical or transcendental experiences. The effects typically last from 15 to 60 minutes when smoked or vaporized, making it less suitable for microdosing compared to longer-lasting psychedelics.
4. Mescaline
Mescaline is a naturally occurring psychedelic alkaloid primarily found in the peyote cactus and other cacti. It has significant cultural importance in Indigenous rituals, particularly among Native American communities. Mescaline is known for its vivid visual effects and altered states of consciousness. According to a 2014 study by Halpern, J. H., & Passie, T., “ The Pharmacology of Peyote and Mescaline”, the longer duration of mescaline’s effects (typically lasting 8 to 12 hours) makes it less commonly used in the context of microdosing compared to shorter-acting psychedelics.
5.Ibogaine
Ibogaine is a psychoactive compound derived from the root bark of the African iboga plant. According to a 2017 study by Brown, T. K., & Alper, K. “Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder with Ibogaine: Detoxification and Drug Use Outcomes, ibogaine is primarily used in addiction treatment because of its ability to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Ibogaine induces intense introspective experiences, often lasting over 24 hours. In microdosing, users may take smaller amounts to explore its therapeutic benefits without the full intensity of a standard dose. This approach remains experimental, and more research is needed to understand its efficacy and safety.
6. Ayahuasca
Ayahuasca is a traditional Amazonian tea made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and Psychotria viridis leaves, known for its powerful psychoactive properties. As stated in the 2014 book by Labate, B. C., & Cavnar, C., The Therapeutic Use of Ayahuasca, ayahuasca is often used in ceremonial contexts by Indigenous cultures for healing and spiritual exploration. Ayahuasca is less commonly used in microdosing, as the full ceremonial experience is central to its intended effects.
7. MDMA
MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a synthetic psychoactive substance known for its empathogenic effects, often used recreationally in party settings. In microdosing, users typically take lower doses to enhance emotional regulation, social interaction, and feelings of connectedness without the intense euphoria associated with full doses. According to a 2017 study by Sessa, B., “MDMA and PTSD Treatment: “PTSD: From Novel Pathways to Targeted Therapy”, microdosing MDMA is explored for its therapeutic potential, particularly in treating PTSD and anxiety.
8. Ketamine
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that has gained attention for its rapid antidepressant effects. According to a 2019 study by Krystal, J. H., et al., “Ketamine and Ketamine-like Compounds for the Treatment of Depression”, lower doses of ketamine are used to enhance mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. This approach shows promise in mental health treatment, as even small amounts induce feelings of well-being and emotional clarity without the full dissociative effects experienced at higher doses.
Can You Microdose Weed?
Yes, you can microdose weed. Weed is a plant that contains psychoactive compounds, primarily THC and CBD. Weed is not a psychedelic, but it does alter perception and mood. Microdosing weed, also known as cannabis, involves consuming low doses to induce subtle effects such as relaxation and enhanced focus, without the high associated with larger doses. Microdosing weed is different from psychedelic microdosing, which typically aims for profound cognitive or emotional shifts.
What are the Benefits of Psychedelic Microdosing?
The benefits of psychedelic microdosing include improved focus, mood enhancement, improved social connections, and mood enhancement. According to a 2019 study by Anderson, T., Petranker, R., et al., published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, many microdosers experienced greater emotional stability and openness, contributing to positive social interactions.
- Improved Focus: According to Polito & Stevenson’s 2019 research, participants who microdosed psychedelics reported enhanced focus and attentional control.
- Creativity Boost: According to Prochazkova et al.’s 2018 survey, microdosing may enhance creative problem-solving.
- Mood Enhancement: According to Anderson et al.’s 2019 study, microdosing psychedelics improves mood and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression in users.
- Social Connection: According to Szigeti, B., et al. ‘s 2021 study, “Self-blinding citizen science approach to exploring psychedelic microdosing”, microdosing can improve social interactions, potentially due to enhanced empathy and openness.
Why Do People Microdose?
People microdose psychedelics because it promotes mental clarity and focus, productivity, emotional regulation, and enhances creativity. Microdosing is popular among those seeking to improve work performance, because of the mild stimulatory effects that accompany low-dose psychedelics.
Individuals also microdose to manage anxiety and stress, finding that microdoses promote calmness without heavy psychoactive effects. Research suggests psychedelics may positively affect mood by modulating serotonin, which contributes to emotional resilience. According to Prochazkova, L., et al. 2018 study, “Exploring the Effect of Microdosing Psychedelics on Creativity in an Open-Label Natural Setting”, microdosing is often used by artists and creatives to enhance novel thinking and reduce mental rigidity. Psychedelics, even in low doses, stimulate divergent thinking and openness to new perspectives.
Does Microdosing Help with Pain?
Yes, microdosing helps with pain. Many individuals who microdose report reduced pain sensitivity, especially for conditions like migraines, cluster headaches, and fibromyalgia. For example, according to a 2019 study by Hutten, et.al, “Self-Rated Effectiveness of Microdosing With Psychedelics for Mental and Physical Health Problems Among Microdosers”, published in Frontiers in Psychiatry found that some migraine sufferers experienced fewer attacks with psilocybin microdoses.
According to Dr. Goel from the Department of Anesthesiology at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, psychedelics reduce pain by promoting neural plasticity and reducing emotional reactivity to pain. This could make microdoses useful for chronic pain, where psychological components significantly contribute to pain perception. However, more targeted research is needed to understand how effective microdosing might be for long-term pain relief.
Does Microdosing Help with Sleep?
Yes, microdosing helps with sleep but the results vary depending on the substance and the individual response. Some microdosing users report better sleep, especially with substances that help reduce anxiety and stress.
Psilocybin, for example, has been observed in larger doses to reduce anxiety and increase relaxation, which can indirectly benefit sleep patterns. Research from the 2021 study by Hutten et al. , “Self-Rated Effectiveness of Microdosing With Psychedelics for Mental and Physical Health Problems Among Microdosers” published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, suggests that microdosing psilocybin may reduce anxiety, potentially facilitating easier sleep onset. On the other hand, individuals who are sensitive to stimulants might find that microdosing psychedelics are disruptive to sleep. LSD, for example, has stimulant-like properties which increase energy and can make it more difficult for individuals to fall asleep if taken later in the day.
Can Microdosing Help with Weight Loss?
No, microdosing does not help with weight loss. While microdosing psychedelics might influence appetite and weight indirectly, the evidence on its effectiveness for weight loss is minimal. While some anecdotal reports suggest that microdosing may influence appetite, there is a lack of robust clinical studies to confirm this effect. Microdosing with LSD or psilocybin suppresses appetite because of the impact these psychedelics have on serotonin pathways. One of the biggest ways microdosing inadvertently impacts weight loss is because it leads to increased self awareness and emotional regulation which may contribute to healthier eating habits.
What are the Risks of Psychedelic Microdosing?
The main risks of psychedelic microdosing include mental health concerns, physical side effects, developing tolerance and dependency on psychedelics, and physical health risks. A 2020 study by Cameron, L. P., et al. “Chronic, Intermittent Microdoses of the Psychedelic N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) Produce Positive Effects on Mood and Anxiety in Rodents Without Impacting Cognition” published in Frontiers in Psychology outlines these potential risks of microdosing.
- Mental Health Concerns: Individuals with a history of mental health issues, particularly anxiety or psychosis, may experience exacerbated symptoms.
- Side Effects: Common side effects reported during microdosing include nausea, headaches, fatigue, and anxiety. Users may also experience heightened sensory perceptions, which can be overwhelming .
- Physical Health: Microdosing can pose risks related to cardiovascular health. Stimulant effects from substances like LSD increase heart rate and blood pressure, raising concerns for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions .
- Tolerance and Dependency: Microdosing may lead to increased tolerance, necessitating higher doses to achieve similar effects. This can complicate the microdosing experience and lead to potential dependency on the substance .
- Legal Risks: It’s important to be aware of the legal status of psychedelics in your jurisdiction if you choose to microdose, because psychedelics are not legal everywhere.
- Know Your Source: The unregulated nature of psychedelics can lead to variability in potency and purity, increasing the risk of adverse reactions due to contaminated or incorrectly dosed substances.
Can You Microdose While Pregnant?
No, you cannot microdose while pregnant. There has not yet been enough scientific research conducted on this topic to come to a conclusive answer. Substances like LSD and psilocybin can cross the placental barrier, potentially impacting the developing brain of a fetus. In general, medical professionals advise against the use of any non-essential substances during pregnancy. The potential risks outweigh any perceived benefits, so it’s best for pregnant individuals to be cautious and avoid microdosing altogether .
Can You Microdose While Breastfeeding?
No, you cannot microdose while breastfeeding. Studies indicate that substances can cross the blood-brain barrier and may affect a breastfeeding infant’s developing nervous system. Research is limited on the exact amounts that transfer and their potential impact on infants, leading to uncertainty about safety.
Most research on psychedelics focuses on recreational use and higher doses, not microdosing or breastfeeding contexts. This absence of data creates a knowledge gap regarding the safety of microdosing for nursing mothers. Keep in mind that infants are particularly vulnerable to any substances consumed by the breastfeeding parent. Given the potential risks and lack of evidence supporting the safety of psychedelics during this period, it is prudent for breastfeeding individuals to avoid microdosing.
What Should Be Considered When Using Psychedelic Microdosing?
When psychedelic microdosing, consider the source and purity of the substance you are choosing, your mental and physical health and readiness, your intentions, and the environment where you will microdose, among others. The 2019 book, The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys by Dr. Fadiman outlines the importance of these considerations as they all impact the microdosing experience.
- Safety and Health Assessment: Consult a medical professional if necessary, and a psychedelic facilitator before microdosing, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or take other medications. According to the National Institutes of Health, psychedelics interact with some drugs and conditions adversely, so check to make sure you are clear of any contraindications.
- Source and Purity: Ensure the substance is sourced from a reputable provider to reduce the risk of adulteration, which can lead to unintended effects.
- Mental Preparedness: According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, microdoses affect mood, anxiety levels, and overall perception, so it’s important to check in on your level of mental stability before microdosing.
- Intention Setting: Reflect on your intentions for microdosing, and choose intentions that are in alignment with your personal goals. According to a 2020 study by Anderson, Petranker et al., “Microdosing Psychedelics: Personality, Mental Health, and Creativity Differences in Microdosers,” intention setting may influence microdosing outcomes.
- Environment and Support: Choose a safe, comfortable environment when you microdose, especially in the beginning, to minimize stress. According to Fadiman & Korb’s 2019 study, Microdosing Psychedelics: A Practical Guide to Upgrade Your Life, emphasizes that set and setting are crucial factors that shape the microdosing experience. They suggest choosing a calm, familiar environment that minimizes distractions, which can help individuals ease into microdosing, especially for beginners.
- Effects Monitoring: Keep a journal to track the short-term and long-term effects of your microdosing experience to understand the impact it has on productivity, mood, and mental clarity.
Is Psychedelic Microdosing Legal?
No, psychedelic microdosing is not legal in the United States. LSD, psilocybin, and MDMA are classified as controlled substances. Some states and cities, like Oregon, Colorado, and cities in California (Oakland and Santa Cruz) and Massachusetts (Somerville and Cambridge), have decriminalized psychedelics, reducing penalties but not fully legalizing them. According to a 2022 article published in Time magazine, Colorado passed Proposition 122 in 2022, decriminalizing certain psychedelics and establishing a regulated access program
Psychedelics are receiving increasing interest for therapeutic potential, leading some jurisdictions to consider legal reforms, as can be tracked on Psychedelic Alpha, an online resource that tracks psychedelic laws and clinical trails in the United States. In the U.S., clinical trials and FDA-approved studies are underway, which may influence future legal status. Legal repercussions for possessing psychedlics vary based on location and may be less severe in places that have decriminalized psychedelics.
Where to Buy Microdosing Substances?
You cannot buy microdosing substances in the United States, because psychedelic substances such as LSD and psilocybin are Schedule I drugs. Some jurisdictions, including Oregon, Colorado, and certain cities in California, have decriminalized personal possession, but this does not permit legal sales.
According to Turner, V. M. ‘s 2021 study, “Identifying Contaminants in Illicit Psychedelics: A Review of Chemical Composition and Adulteration”, purity is essential to avoid ingesting unknown or toxic substances that cause adverse reactions. Accurate dosage is especially critical for microdosing, as slight variations can significantly alter effects. Testing kits are recommended to verify substance identity and purity, though these are not foolproof.
How to Start Microdosing Safely?
To start microdosing safely, do your research before choosing a substance, confirm the legal status of psychedelics where you live, find a safe source, and determine the dosage and schedule of your microdosing practice. It’s also important to set an intention for your microdosing practice, choose a safe and comfortable setting, and track your experience in a journal so you can better identify how microdosing affects you. According to the 2019 book, Microdosing Psychedelics: A Practical Guide to Upgrade Your Life by Dr. Fadiman, taking these preparatory steps helps minimize risks and enhances the chances of a positive, effective microdosing experience.
- Research and Choose a Substance: Begin by learning about commonly used substances for microdosing, such as psilocybin, from mushrooms or truffles, and LSD. Understand their effects, potential risks, and legality in your location. It’s best to choose a substance that aligns with your goals, whether for creativity, mood enhancement, or productivity. Psilocybin and LSD are popular for these purposes, though their effects can vary.
- Confirm Legal Status and Prepare for Risks: Verify the legal status of your chosen substance in your area, as psychedelics are illegal in many places.If choosing to proceed despite legal restrictions, be mindful of potential consequences and consider taking precautions such as limiting use to private, secure settings.
- Obtain the Substance from a Trusted Source: Aim to obtain the substance from a reputable source if legally available. If not, consider using a test kit to confirm the purity and avoid potentially harmful contaminants.
- Set an Intention for Microdosing: Reflect on your reasons for microdosing. Setting a clear intention—whether for mental clarity, improved mood, or productivity—helps guide the experience and provides a benchmark for evaluating the effects.
- Determine Dosage and Frequency: Accurate dosage is essential, so use pre-measured doses or accurately weigh the substance using a milligram scale. According to the 2011 book The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys by Dr. Fadiman, it is advisable to begin with a low dose, typically 1/10 to 1/20 of a recreational dose. Follow a dosing schedule, such as microdosing every three days or two days on, one day off. This helps prevent tolerance buildup while allowing time to evaluate effects.
- Prepare a Safe and Comfortable Setting: Begin microdosing in a familiar, comfortable environment where you feel secure, especially for your first few doses. Avoid high-stress or demanding situations on dosing days until you understand how microdosing affects you.
- Track Your Experiences: Maintain a journal to record dosage, timing, and observations on mood, productivity, and physical effects. Include both positive and negative observations to identify patterns. Over time, this helps in understanding how the substance affects you and whether it aligns with your initial goals.
- Adjust as Needed: Based on your experience, adjust the dosage or frequency if the effects are too mild or too strong. Avoid increasing dosage quickly, as even small changes have a noticeable impact. If adverse effects appear, consider lowering the dose or stopping altogether.
How Often Should You Microdose?
It’s recommended to microdose every other day or once every few days. Here are a few microdosing schedules to consider:
- The Fadiman Protocol: Microdose every three days: Dose Day – Rest Day – Rest Day, giving the brain time to reset. This schedule is recommended for beginners and allows for two non-dosing days to reset and reflect on any effects, minimizing tolerance while monitoring shifts in mood, cognition, and energy.
- Stamets Protocol: Microdose four consecutive days, followed by three rest days, balancing buildup with recovery. This protocol is based on the idea of neurogenesis and cognitive enhancement.
- Two Days On, One Day Off: An alternative for those looking for moderate frequency without daily dosing. Many people microdose two to four times per week, using rest days to avoid tolerance and assess subtle, lingering effects.
Alternating schedules allow for effective, sustainable microdosing by minimizing tolerance buildup and promoting stable effects.
Can You Microdose Everyday?
Yes, you can microdose everyday but it is generally not recommended due to several risks and diminishing returns such as tolerance buildup and diminished effects. Daily microdosing leads to rapid tolerance, where the brain adjusts to the substance, requiring higher doses for the same effect.
Psychedelics have a “refractory period” after use, where effects are naturally reduced. Microdosing every day counteracts the subtle benefits and leads to overstimulation, reducing positive effects like improved mood or creativity.
How Long Does a Microdose Last?
The duration of effects from a microdose depends on the substance, with typical effects lasting between 4 to 8 hours. Understanding these timeframes helps determine appropriate dosing schedules. LSD microdosing lasts 6-8 hours, while psilocybin microdosing lasts 4-6 hours.
The timeline of Microdosing is listed below:
- LSD Microdose: The effects from a microdose of LSD typically last 6 to 8 hours due to the long half-life of LSD. Due to its longer-lasting effects, users often find dosing every three days (as per the Fadiman Protocol) effective. This schedule minimizes tolerance and provides sustained effects without daily dosing.
- Psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms or Truffles) Microdose: Psilocybin microdoses typically last 4 to 6 hours with a quicker onset compared to LSD. Because of the shorter duration, some users may prefer microdosing protocols with slightly higher frequency, such as the Stamets Protocol (four days on, three days off), allowing for frequent exposure with adequate rest days.
The duration of a microdose, combined with tolerance considerations, generally supports an every-three-days or two-to-four-times-per-week schedule to maintain benefits and prevent diminishing returns.
When is the Best Time to Microdose?
The best time to microdose depends on your personal goals and circumstances. Some timing approaches backed by expert observations and user experiences. Here are different times to microdose and what they are best utilized for:
- Morning: Microdosing in the morning is best for focus, productivity, and mood enhancement. According to Fadiman & Korb, The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide, morning microdosing is recommended for increased productivity, sustained energy, and mood stability throughout the day.
- Mid-Morning to Early Afternoon Microdosing is best for a midday energy boost and combating fatigue. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2020, Mid-day dosing can help maintain productivity, especially for those who experience an afternoon energy dip. Research suggests that dosing too late in the day can disrupt circadian rhythms, making mid-morning to early afternoon a good balance point.
Late Afternoon or Early Evening Microdosing is best for relaxation and introspection. According to Stamets, Fantastic Fungi, 2019, late afternoon dosing may encourage a reflective, calming experience. However, users are generally advised not to dose too late, as it may affect sleep cycles.