Microdosing — taking very small amounts of a drug to experience its benefits without the associated risks — is growing in popularity among creative professionals, athletes, students, and others who regularly seek to improve their mental performance, emotional stability, and overall well-being. While anecdotal evidence of success abounds, there is little scientific evidence to back it up. This article will explore the potential benefits and risks associated with microdosing, and offer a few suggestions on how to get the most out of the practice.
What is Microdosing?
Microdosing is the practice of ingesting very small doses of psychedelics in order to experience the beneficial effects without inducing a full-fledged psychedelic states. Although non-psychoactive compounds such as ibogaine have also been tested in microdosing regiments, the most common practice is to use psychedelics such as LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, or mescaline. For most, the goal is to achieve a subtle but perceptible change in their overall wellbeing, with increased creativity, energy, improved moods, and enhanced ability to think more critically and lateralize ideas.
The Potential Benefits of Microdosing
One of the most cited benefits of microdosing psychedelics is an improvement in creativity. It is believed that psychedelics, when taken in small amounts, can increase divergent thinking – the capacity to generate new, creative ideas. In addition, microdosing psychedelics has been associated with increased emotional stability and improved mood, increased productivity, reduced stress, and improved focus.
The Potential Risks Associated With Microdosing
While the potential benefits of microdosing are intriguing, it is important to remember that psychedelics are still drugs – and as with any drug, there is a risk of side effects. Psychedelics can create feelings of anxiousness, confusion, and paranoia, and in extreme cases, cause psychotic breakdowns. In addition, microdosing can often lead to increased tolerance, meaning that taking larger doses may be necessary to achieve the same level of benefit as before. It is also important to note that microdosing practice is still largely unregulated, and there is no scientific data on optimal practices or optimal dosing amounts.
Suggestions for Getting the Most Out of Microdosing
Before embarking on a microdosing regimen, it is important to become aware of the different types of psychedelics, their properties, and the various ways they can be ingested. It is also important to consult with a knowledgeable therapist or physician before beginning. Once you have a good understanding of the risks and have chosen an appropriate substance, the following suggestions may help you get the most out of your microdosing practice:
– Start with very small doses, such as 1/4 to 1/2 the regular dosage, and increase slowly as needed.
– Cycle the doses, taking breaks between them to allow the body to rest. – Remind yourself that microdosing is not a recreational activity and commit to the practice with clear intentions and goals in mind.
– Establish a regular meditation practice and/or journal to gain a deeper understanding of how the microdosing is affecting you.
FAQs
What are the differences between regular and microdoses?
Regular doses are larger doses of psychedelics which produce strong changes in perceptual states and mind-altering experiences. These doses are often used in religious or spiritual contexts, and for therapeutic or recreational purposes. Microdoses are very small doses which often create no noticeable changes in perceptual states, but are believed to still produce beneficial effects, including improved creativity, enhanced focus, and increased well-being.
Can I take psychedelics with other drugs or substances?
It is always best to consult with a knowledgeable therapist or physician before taking any drugs, including psychedelics. When taken together, psychedelics may interact unpredictably with other drugs, alcohol, or supplements, which can lead to dangerous or even fatal consequences.
Is microdosing safe?
Though anecdotal evidence is promising, there is still much to be learned about the risks and safety of microdosing psychedelics. As always, it is best to consult with a knowledgeable therapist or physician before beginning. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects, such as anxiousness, confusion, and paranoia, and the potential for increased tolerance.