Microdosing is mainstream
by the Seed SistAs
The world and their mother know the word microdosing – somehow it has made drug taking’ palatable’ and acceptable…But do people even really know what is microdosing anyway? And what it means? Or is it used as an excuse to make ‘dosing’ seem socially acceptable?
I am wishing that my grandmothers were still alive to witness this moment, as I clearly remember having arguments (they called them discussions with differences of opinions) with them when I was in my early 20s. Discussion about how certain illegal substances that I was happily partaking in were not ‘evil’ or mind destroying, or whatever notions my two granny’s had in their heads…
We discussed how LSD had once been a promising drug in the psychiatric community and how MDMA actually worked to help people break down barriers and feel loving towards one another – an empathy drug.
Skip forward nearly three decades and we have national newspapers carrying articles about how micro dosing is big in Silicon Valley, or how magic mushrooms can heal anxiety…what this translates to in day to day society is countless people sources their mushrooms on the internet in a variety of differing preparations –
There is a perception of microdosing that is pervasive, it is good for everything from generalised anxiety to increasing libido or headaches and joint pains… a general panacea that is able to improve virtually all aspects of life.
What actually is microdosing?
A micro-dose is a dose of a substance that is considered sub-perceptual. There are subtle neurological, endocrine shifts occurring but almost more importantly, spiritual adjustments as we become attuned to the substance, plant or fungi that we take. Microdosing has garnered considerable attention both in popular culture and scientific research. Microdoses are typically around 1/10th to 1/20th of a standard recreational dose and are not intended to produce full-blown psychedelic effects. Instead, the goal is to achieve subtle improvements in mood, creativity, focus, and overall well-being. Microdosing involves taking very small doses of psychedelic substances such as LSD, MDMA, ketamine or psilocybin, one of the active compounds in magic mushrooms.
History and Origins of Microdosing
Microdosing has evolved from the broader historical context of psychedelic use, emerging as a distinct practice in the early 21st century. Pioneered by figures like James Fadiman and propelled by anecdotal evidence and media attention, it has garnered significant interest from both the public and scientific communities.
However, ingestion of psychedelics is nothing new. Indigenous cultures have used psychedelics like psilocybin genus mushrooms, ergot, peyote, mandrake, ayahuasca in religious and healing rituals for thousands of years. These practices are often recorded as harnessing spiritual powers, for dreaming, for healing practices or visioning. And often involving full doses.
Archaeology has shown time and time again that humans have lived alongside psychoactive plants but evidence of the plants being there does not give the bigger picture of how they were interacted with. We can know that humans have interacted with plants throughout time, and many of these substances offer physical medicine as well as psychological medicine especially when it comes to pain relief.
It can be postulated that perception shifting plants were ingested in smaller doses, through physical medicines, beer, and other means.
How to approach microdosing
In clinical practice, the first thing to do with any treatment protocol is to create a clear structure – what days will be chosen for dosing and setting alarms to remind people.
We set out the exact reasons for microdosing
- Create affirmations alongside the treatment.
- We always recommend a journal and diary so that progression can be tracked.
- We work with microdosing alongside recommendations of working with music, mediation, dancing, gardening etc alongside the plant medicines.
- This is one routine that is recommended. It may differ depending on your needs and what you will be taking.
Choose a small dose
- It’s recommended to take your first dose on an average, non-workday when you feel physically and mentally well. Although sub perceptual in essence, dosage is often hard to decipher for you as an individual and to measure accurately when not in a lab.
- Ensure your environment is calm and safe, with few, if any, demands on your time.
- Stick to your chosen protocol for at least four to eight or ten weeks.
- Start with a minimal dose for a few days. If needed, adjust the amount up or down for another few days. Keep tweaking the dose as needed until you achieve the desired results.
- Microdose in the morning, as taking a dose later may disrupt regular sleep patterns.
- Don’t take alcohol or other mind-altering drugs concurrently, at least initially.
- Maintain a microdosing journal including details on your diet, activities, other alcohol or drug use, and OTC medications, along with specifics on the dose, time taken, results, and any concerns.
Don’t rush the process. Give your protocol and dose time to work.
Notes on how it works
Psilocybin and amanita mushrooms sometimes get confused because they both get called : magic mushrooms. Both are mushrooms, both have psychedelic effects but they are completely different in their make-up and effects.
The active agent in amanita muscaria is not psilocybin, but muscimol and ibotenic acid. When these agents are introduced to the body, they affect GABA neurotransmitters that are situated in the brain. These receptors are responsible for the mild changes in perception, slight sedation, and uplifting effects.
In contrast, psilocybin has a much more intense effect on different regions of the brain.
A study published by researchers in 2012 looked at MRI brain images of people who were taking psilocybin and found the ingredient actually altered the flow of blood to various regions in the brain. This profound action can explain why people who are using psilocybin mushrooms often experience disruptions in sensual reality and hallucinations. Essentially, the neural regions are not processing information the same as usual. Additionally, psilocybin activates serotonin receptors.
Benefits of microdosing
Improved Mood: Many users report reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, enhanced emotional stability, and an overall uplifted mood.
Enhanced Creativity: Users often claim increased creativity, problem-solving abilities, and divergent thinking.
Increased Focus and Productivity: Some individuals experience better focus, concentration, and productivity, making microdosing popular in professional and creative settings.
Social Benefits: Improved social interactions, empathy, and communication skills are commonly reported.
Improved headaches and migraines
These blog articles are herbal education resources, produced by the Seed Sistas. Gain insights and join us in the evolution of healthcare, please do leave a comment or question. Wellbeing empowerment for all…
