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As more and more research is conducted, click here to explore the benefits of microdosing mushrooms and what science says
At one point, talking about the recreational use of hallucinogens seemed taboo. But that mentality has shifted as widespread media has reported on the benefits of microdosing.
It is now estimated that 5.5 million American adults use hallucinogens. And people are not afraid to talk about their positive effects.
So what do microdosing mushrooms look like? What are the suspected benefits of this practice and is it safe?
This article will look at the alleged risks and benefits of microdosing. It will also examine what the science says about it.
What Is Microdosing?
First, let’s examine what microdosing is. Microdosing is the consumption of very small amounts of psychedelic substances.
The substances are often illicit. They include cannabis, Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), Mescaline (Peyote), Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDMA), Ayahuasca, and Psilocybin-containing mushrooms.
A microdose is anywhere from 1/5 to 1/20 of the traditional recreational dose. For example, many will consume up to 3 grams of mushrooms in a regular dose. With microdosing, users only consume roughly 0.3 grams of mushrooms.
Microdosing aims to produce the therapeutic effects of these drugs. But to do so while avoiding adverse reactions or symptoms of intoxication.
Microdosing has become mainstream in recent years. But there is still very little clinical evidence to support the practice. Medical centers all over are researching the potential benefits and risks of psychedelics.
Microdosing Mushrooms
Microdosing mushrooms is a popular option for those who want to try hallucinogens. Psilocybin-containing mushrooms are also known as shrooms. Shrooms have been a popular illicit drug for decades.
Even though researchers continue to study the benefits of microdosing, many believe that psilocybin is generally safe in low doses. But ingesting large doses of mushrooms can lead to traumatizing experiences for some. That’s why many prefer microdosing psilocybin.
The effects of microdosing last anywhere from 8 to 72 hours. The experience is different from person to person. Other variables such as body weight, and the rate of metabolism impact how long the effects of microdosing last.
Microdosing comes in the form of crushed psilocybin-containing mushrooms. It is consumed directly, steamed into tea, or consumed through edibles like shroom chocolate, for those looking for a more enjoyable taste.
It’s advised that those trying microdosing for the first time book a few days off work and away from social obligations. To avoid building up a tolerance that will need larger doses, it’s highly recommended that microdosing only occur every few days. It’s best to microdose with a two-day break between doses.
The Benefits of Microdosing
According to advocates, there are several benefits to microdosing. Those who partake in the practice report improvements in their mental and physical health and well-being.
There is little scientific evidence available to support the claims. But researchers are looking into it further.
Many believe that microdosing increases self-awareness. It makes people more aware of their mental and physical needs, resulting in a healthier lifestyle.
Here are some of the benefits microdose users have reported.
Relieving Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression
Psilocybin treatment has been linked to the relief of major symptoms of anxiety and depression. Microdosing is believed to improve moods and lower levels of stress.
It’s believed that psychedelics stimulate serotonin in the brain. This makes microdosing feel good. It also leads to emotional balance.
Many users report improvements in their mental health. Microdosing advocates argue that it’s more effective at treating mental health problems than SSRI drugs are.
Better Performance
Regular microdosers claim psilocybin treatment boosts performance and productivity.
Anecdotally, many report higher levels of performance when microdosing Psilocybin. Psychedelics have been a part of athletic performance, particularly in the world of extreme sports for years. Many athletes claim the drugs intensify their experience and performance.
Research suggests the placebo effect may be partially responsible for the claims. But there does appear to be a link between microdosing and performance.
Creativity & Problem Solving
Microdosers report a boost in their creativity. It has made it popular amongst artists, musicians, and creative types. Some writers also believe microdosing clears writer’s block.
Some studies show that microdosing leads to more flexible and unique ideas. It increases convergent thinking, and the ability to find solutions to problems.
Psilocybin alters perceptions of time. It also enhances visual images and heightens the senses. This can cause people to feel as though they are in a dream-like state. This can lead to increased creativity.
Better Sleep
Microdosing Psilocybin often leads to a relaxed state of being.
Serotonin is not only responsible for making users feel good. It also helps regulate sleep. Many believe psychedelics disrupt sleep. But microdosers often say they sleep better with Psilocybin.
This improved sleep might be credited to lower levels of stress and anxiety. Psilocybin also increases dream activity during sleep, making dreams appear more vivid and visual.
Trauma
It’s believed that Psilocybin treatment also helps treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Some say that the treatment helps cut sudden triggers that otherwise cause people to relive their trauma.
Research suggests that Psilocybin stimulates nerve cell regrowth. This takes place in the part of the brain that is responsible for producing emotion and memory. Microdosing helps victims of trauma to break away from memories that trigger them.
Microdosing Psilocybin increases the production of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. It helps to lower stress levels and make users feel happier.
For these reasons, psychedelics show promising signs of treating PTSD.
ADHD Treatment
Psilocybin may also treat conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts the ability to pay attention. It also causes impulsivity and hyperactivity.
In a survey, some claimed microdosing was more effective than other medications that treat ADHD. It is possible that using a natural substance like Psilocybin mushrooms has fewer side effects. It may be a better alternative to other ADHD medications.
Finding a more effective treatment for ADHD has the potential to improve relationships. It may also boost academic performance and self-esteem.
Increased Productivity
Many microdosers report increased mental clarity and energy levels. This has caused many to believe that microdosing can lead to increased productivity.
Scientifically, psychedelics lower anxiety, creating mental clarity. But microdosing Psiloycibin also generates new brain cells.
Microdosing Psilocybin has also been linked to collaborative work. Microdosers report feeling more analytical and experiencing more intellectual thoughts. They also said they feel more inclined to accept creative solutions from coworkers.
Psilocybin produces the effects of serotonin in the brain which help improve the quality of sleep and increase energy levels. It makes it easier to focus on the tasks at hand.
Premenstrual Syndrome Relief
Microdosing Psilocybin is also a vasoconstrictor. It restricts blood flow to some areas of the body, lowering inflammation.
The lower inflammation helps to reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Those symptoms include headaches, muscle fatigue, and cramps.
Psilocybin has been linked to improved moods. It may also treat severe symptoms of PMS including nausea and lightheadedness.
Psilocybin may also increase levels of cortisol and prolactin hormones. That could potentially improve symptoms of PMS by regulating symptoms.
Improved Social Cognition
A lot of research indicates that microdosing Psiloycibin improves social interactions. Reports suggest that Psiloycibin increases emotional empathy.
Some believe that Psiloycibin can help those with Autism as well. Microdosing increases the ability to connect with others.
The science behind this remains unclear. But many believe it is the mindfulness that comes with psychedelics. Microdosers feel connected to their environment and inner thoughts.
This could help increase emotional empathy or the ability to remain present and attentive to others in our interactions.
Obstacles & Risks of Microdosing
Microdosing psychedelics like Psiloycibin has become a mainstream idea in recent years. This is in part because of the many potential benefits discussed here.
There has not been enough scientific research to solidify many of these claims. And while medical experts are researching the potential benefits of microdosing, a lot of those benefits are anecdotal now.
Microdosing is also different for each individual. People should be aware of obstacles and risks associated with the practice.
If you are considering microdosing, here are a few things you should be aware of.
Legalities
Microdosing is also typically done using controlled substances. These are not over-the-counter medications and there is still a stigma attached to them.
Many cities and states have looked to decriminalize the possession of these substances. But microdosers open themselves up to potential legal issues by possessing illicit substances.
No Regulation
Because these substances are not legalized, there is also a lack of regulation. Sourcing substances can be difficult and the drugs are often purchased from the black market.
This is a serious risk to users. It is important to buy substances from a reliable and reputable source. Understand the substance and the dosage.
There are roughly 200 species of fungi or mushrooms. And while mushrooms look similar, many are poisonous. Consuming the wrong mushroom can harm the liver or even be fatal.
It is important to understand the potency of the mushroom consumed. Larger doses can cause traumatizing experiences, intoxication, or bad trips for those who are using them.
Currently, the state of Oregon and the city of Denver are among the places that have decriminalized Psiloycibin. This will allow for regulation of the production, to make microdosing safer.
Lack of Medical Research
Research around microdosing is new. Many of the risks and benefits associated with this practice have not been confirmed by medical centers.
While microdosing continues to grow in popularity, it is becoming more normalized by society. But that does not mean the practice is risk-free.
There simply isn’t enough knowledge available to determine the long-term impact yet.
Increased Anxiety & Depression
The impacts of microdosing are different for everyone. Many microdose to ease symptoms of depression and anxiety. But some say the practice made their symptoms worse.
The majority of microdosing experiences are positive. But some people found using Psiloycibin increased their stress levels. Others said microdosing made them feel more on edge.
Others said microdosing lowered their mood and energy level.
Risk of Addiction
Some users state that microdosing helped them conquer addictions to other substances. But that may not always be the case.
While the risk of becoming addicted to Psiloycibin is low, it is not impossible. When you microdose, you are exposing yourself to substances that would not enter your system otherwise.
Anytime this happens, you run the risk of developing a reliance on the substance. So, microdosing does come with an increased risk of addiction.
Physical Reactions
Some microdosers have also reported stomach issues as a result of Psiloycibin. While this is also rare, it does happen.
Others expected to experience heightened clarity. But claimed to have brain fog, and lower attention levels.
There were also reports of microdosing causing nausea and headaches for some users.
Physical reactions to Psiloycibin vary from person to person. There may also be a change period, so it is smart to set aside a few days if you are planning to microdose for the first time.
The Benefits of Microdosing
Microdosing mushrooms and psychedelics have become more popular in recent years. Medical research is in its infancy. But microdosers reported a wide variety of benefits to their physical and mental well-being.
By reading about the benefits and risks of microdosing Psiloycibin, you can determine if the form of therapy is right for you. It is important to understand how to microdose safely and efficiently.
For more information like this, follow the health section of our website.
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