Microdosing refers to the consumption of psychedelic substances like LSD, mushrooms, and magic truffles in tiny amounts. It has gained popularity in recent times due to its potential benefits and lack of apparent side effects. By consuming sub-perceptual doses, users can avoid the intense hallucinogenic effects associated with these drugs and instead experience therapeutic effects that can enhance creativity, productivity, and overall well-being.
Before you start your journey, it's important for you to select one that aligns with your goals. It is recommended to follow a set schedule that outlines when and for how long you will be microdosing. This schedule is commonly referred to as a microdosing protocol and can help guide you through your microdosing journey.
If you have some knowledge about microdosing's history, you must have heard of Dr. James Fadiman. He is an American psychologist and researcher who has been studying the effects of psychedelics since the 60’s.
The main objective of Dr. Fadiman's protocol is to conduct an experiment where users can observe the effects of microdosing on their body and mind. The protocol lasts for 3 days, during which users take a microdose on the first day and then observe the changes on the following two days, when they are not taking a microdose.
CYCLE: Continue this cycle for four to eight weeks
RESET: Two to four weeks rest
This protocol is developed by the Microdosing Institute in cooperation with James Fadiman and has been proven to be more beneficial for people who microdose for medical purposes to help them ease the effects of conditions such as depression, ADHD, ADD, (social) anxiety, migraines or cluster headaches.
A microdosing study conducted in Norway revealed that a large number of experienced microdosers opt to microdose cyclically over a period of weeks or months to enhance their cognitive abilities and improve their mental well-being.
Many seasoned microdosers choose to follow an every-other-day microdosing schedule for maintenance purposes. This approach, which aligns with Fadiman's findings, allows them to reap the benefits of microdosing for two days while preventing the development of tolerance. While there is no conclusive research on this topic, individuals can make an informed decision based on their unique needs and preferences.
This method is not advisable for everyone and requires thoughtful consideration. The protocol is straightforward:
A challenge of the Fadiman protocol is having continuously changing days of the week as microdosing days. Some people might benefit from a fixed day schedule, where you can choose two fixed weekdays (that are best for your own schedule) to microdose—for example Tuesday and Saturday
CYCLE: continue for 1 to 2 months
RESET: 2 to 4 weeks of rest
Have you ever heard of 'stacking'? It's a term used when you combine multiple substances to enhance their effects. Paul Stamets, a well-known researcher, came up with this protocol that according to his findings can benefit your brain cells and promote neuroplasticity, which is the growth and behaviour of brain cells.
The Stamets Stack involves a combination of psilocybin truffles, a nootropic functional mushroom called lion's mane, and an essential vitamin known as B3 or niacin. Stamets believes that these compounds can create new neural pathways and even repair any damage in existing ones.
The Stamets Stack is said to enhance cognitive function and offer numerous benefits related to neurogenesis, such as reduced anxiety and depression, stabilized mood, increased creativity, regeneration of visual and auditory neurons, and reduced irritability, among others. However, it's worth noting that this hypothesis has not been reviewed by a medical professional and hasn't been tested in rigorous clinical trials, which are considered best-practice in nutrition science and public health.
If you want to give this protocol a try, you'll need to follow a specific cycle for maximum benefits. The formula recommends microdosing for four consecutive days, followed by three days of rest or normal activities. This cycle can be continued for up to a month, followed by a two to four-week break.
Cycle: Continue for up to 1 month
Reset: Break for 2 to 4 weeks
Did you know that you don't have to take psilocybin truffles during the day to reap their benefits? If you're someone who gets tired from microdosing at the start of your day, you can try the Nightcap protocol instead. With this protocol, you can take your dose before bedtime and still enjoy a good night's sleep.
To try the Nightcap protocol, it's recommended to take your dose every other day, at least an hour or a few hours before you hit the hay. When following this protocol, you may experience vivid dreams and wake up feeling well-rested with a clear mind in the morning.
You can combine the Nightcap protocol with the Fadiman protocol or the 'every other day' protocol. It's recommended to continue this protocol for a maximum of 1 to 2 months, followed by a 2 to 4-week break to allow your body and mind to reset.
Cycle: Continue for 1 to 2 months
Reset: Take a 2 to 4-week break with no microdosing.
