A microdose is a sub-perceptual dose1 of mushrooms, meaning its effects are below the threshold of perception. Harvard University researchers2 loosely define a “sub-perceptual” dose as one-fifth or one-twentieth of the quantity consumed for a psychedelic journey. While this framework applies to microdosing any substance, the dosage that yields a full journey, a moderate trip, or that remains sub-perceptual, will vary from person to person.
People sometimes turn to microdosing regimens to increase focus, reduce anxiety, and achieve an overall improved sense of wellbeing.
Microdosing Psilocybin Mushrooms
Things to Know
- A microdose is sub-perceptual dose, meaning you shouldn’t feel it as an altered state
- A typical psilocybin microdose is .05 to .3 grams taken with at least a day in between each dose
- Anecdotal reports suggest microdosing psilocybin may reduce anxiety, depression, increase focus, and improve overall well-being
- Some people report that microdosing psilocybin can increase anxiety and difficult emotions
How Much Is a Microdose?
In general, a microdose of mushrooms generally ranges between .05 to .3 grams. Using a scale and documenting the size of your doses will help you figure out what works for you and what doesn’t significantly more quickly than going off of intuition. Making your own capsules can also help you dose precisely. You can buy empty capsules online or at your local vitamin shop.
Popular Microdosing Protocols
There are many ways to microdose, and two increasingly popular regimens. The first method is known as the Fadiman Protocol. It’s named after Dr. James Fadiman, who introduced the term “microdosing” in his 2011 book, The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide. This regimen suggests taking a microdose of mushrooms every three days, or one day on and two days off. For example, if you eat a microdose on a Monday at 10 am, you’ll take Tuesday and Wednesday off. Fadiman recommends following this dosing schedule for four to eight weeks.
Another popular method is the Stamets Protocol, or the “Stamets Stack.” It’s named after mycologist and author Paul Stamets. This protocol combines .05g to 1g of psilocybin mushrooms; 500mg to 1000mg of Lion’s Mane (a non-psychoactive mushroom that supports brain health and may help in the fight against Alzheimer’s Disease3); and 100 to 200mg of niacin4 (Vitamin B3) in a single microdose.
People using this combination report that the recommended amount of niacin can make your skin flush and feel itchy or tingly. People often use less niacin as a result. Stamets believes this blend of ingredients can trigger neurogenesis and enhance cognitive function, although it has yet to be tested in clinical trials.
The Stamets Protocol suggests to “stack” four days in a row, followed by three days off. For example, Monday to Thursday would be “stacking days,” and Friday to Sunday would be “transition days,” or days you don’t take a microdose. Stamets says to follow this regimen for four weeks, then reset your system for two to four weeks.
The Nightcap Protocol is a regimen designed around taking a sub-perceptual dose of mushrooms before bed. This microdosing schedule is ideal for people who experience fatigue while microdosing during the day, allowing people to use the drowsiness to get a good night’s sleep. This protocol says you can either microdose every other day or every two days. However, it’s not recommended to use Stamets’ “stacking” formula before bed, as it may increase energy and alertness.
There’s also the Every Other Day Protocol. If you dose on Monday, you skip Tuesday, pick up again on Wednesday, take off Thursday, and so on.
In a Two Fixed Days a Week Protocol, you choose two days—Monday and Thursday or Wednesday and Friday, for instance—to take doses. Microdosing is a very personal decision and those exploring this type of regime should adjust to what produces the best effects for them.
The Benefits and Challenges of Microdosing
Taking small doses of mushrooms is said to reduce anxiety and depression over time and increase creativity, focus, and help people be more present56. It’s said to help reduce symptoms of PTSD, prevent mental aging, and help people lead healthier lives7.
There’s presently a lack of data showing the efficacy of microdosing8. Some neuroscientists even believe the effects of microdosing9 are placebo.
Microdosing Isn't For Everyone
Some studies say microdosing can increase anxiety and difficult emotions for some people. Additionally, psychedelic therapists, psychiatrists, practitioners, and other mental health experts say people diagnosed with conditions such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or other mood imbalances should avoid microdosing and using psychedelics altogether.
