Learn
HOW TO MICRODOSE
Psilocybin
THE ULTIMATE
GUIDE TO MICRODOSING
Microdosing involves the consumption of minuscule amounts of psychedelic substances, typically below perceptual thresholds. Many individuals who integrate microdosing psilocybin mushrooms into their weekly routines report enhanced creativity, increased energy levels, improved focus, enhanced interpersonal skills, and reductions in anxiety, stress, and depression symptoms. Some proponents also describe heightened spiritual awareness and enhanced sensory perception as additional benefits.
The contemporary interest in microdosing surged notably after the publication of Dr. James Fadiman’s 2011 book, The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys. This seminal work explores microdosing as a distinct subculture within the broader landscape of psychedelic use, popularizing the term within mainstream discourse.
Dr. Fadiman's ongoing research stands as one of the primary modern investigations into the specific effects of microdosing. Although recent clinical studies have begun to explore its therapeutic potential, our current knowledge largely derives from research on the effects of higher doses of psychedelics, which suggests analogous impacts at a smaller scale with microdosing.
Explore
THE PROCESS
SOURCE YOUR MUSHROOMS
Sourcing your mushrooms is something to take seriously. Finding clear, honest information is the first part of the process. You can source your mushrooms through resources like cafes, websites, and even eBay. You can also grow your own with mushroom grow kits that are perfect for beginners.
We recommend growing your own if you are unsure where to find a reputable and safe source. While some wish to forage for psychedelic mushrooms, it’s crucial to be aware that identifying the correct mushroom species can be difficult and dangerous, since many mushrooms look similar but can have toxic effects.
Growing mushrooms from scratch is worthwhile but can be challenging to get right. If you’re interested in a more manageable method for home growth, check our pages on Growing and head to the Shop to buy your Grow kits and Spores. We have done our best to make this process as simple and straight forward so you can focus on your microdosing journey.
HARVESTING MUSHROOMS
When embarking on mushroom identification forays, exercise caution. Beyond distinct strains like Penis Envy and Golden Teacher, numerous mushrooms bear resemblance and vary widely in toxicity levels, requiring expertise from seasoned mushroom hunters to differentiate safely. While understanding the distinguishing features reduces the risk of mistaking toxic species, vigilance remains paramount. Misidentification can lead to illness or, in rare cases, fatality if consumed.
Psilocybe cubensis thrives prolifically in tropical regions globally. These mushrooms typically feature stout stems and parasol-shaped caps, predominantly light to golden-brown in color. Caps start bulbous and become flat and wide upon full maturity. Among the most recognized cubensis varieties is Golden Teachers, revered for their moderate potency and profound psychological insights.
In contrast, Psilocybe azurescens, native to the West Coast of the United States, presents a slimmer, more convex appearance. For comprehensive guidance on identifying psychedelic mushrooms and developing expertise in mushroom foraging and cultivation, consult leading mycologists and mycelial specialists worldwide.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Is microdosing mushrooms illegal?Microdosing is not necessarily illegal. Several countries allow the cultivation of psilocybin mushrooms, the purchase of psilocybin truffles, or the purchase of LSD analogues. We do not condone microdosing where it is against the law, as penalties can be severe. Make sure you know your local laws before purchasing psilocybin mushrooms to microdose. If you live somewhere that allows the cultivation of psilocybin mushrooms for personal use, consider growing your psilocybin mushrooms and storing them for future use with one of these top-vetted mushroom growing kits. If you live in Europe, you may purchase psilocybin truffles, which are legal in the Netherlands. Remember, these are less potent than psilocybin mushrooms, and an ideal starter dose is 0.5g of dried truffle powder.
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Can psilocybin be detected in a drug test?Psilocybin and its metabolites are not included in most standard drug screens; however they are sometimes included in extended drug screens.
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Can microdosing build up a tolerance to mushrooms?The short answer is yes, microdosing mushrooms can affect your tolerance for psilocybin. Paul Stamets recommends a slightly different microdosing protocol than that discussed above. He suggests taking a microdose every day for four days, then taking three days off to avoid building up a tolerance. He also suggests making psilocybin a central part of a stack including lion’s mane and niacin, to help with neuroplasticity and general well-being.
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Where can I get psilocybin mushrooms?There are a few options for sourcing mushrooms. You can learn to hunt and pick them yourself (though this could be dangerous), grow them yourself (see below), buy them in countries where they are legal, or purchase them from the Medicinal Mushroom Dispensary, which is an online mail-order dispensary for microdoses of psilocybin mushrooms.
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Where can I get psilocybin mushrooms?There are a few options for sourcing mushrooms. You can learn to hunt and pick them yourself (though this could be dangerous), grow them yourself (see below), buy them in countries where they are legal, or purchase them from the Medicinal Mushroom Dispensary, which is an online mail-order dispensary for microdoses of psilocybin mushrooms.
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How can I grow my own mushrooms?Growing your own psilocybin mushrooms is a good alternative to the potentially dangerous practice of collecting them. As well as providing a reliable, year-round supply, home cultivation eliminates the risk of misidentifying mushrooms in the wild. For many growers, it’s also a fun, low-cost hobby. While there are ready-made mushroom kits available online, some people prefer to start from scratch. The kits do contain a living mycelium substrate (the material underlying mushroom growth), which you need to grow your own mushrooms. But making your own substrate is typically more consistent, and less prone to contamination. For more information on how to start your own psilocybin grow, check out our guide here.
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Is microdosing safe?The riskiest thing about microdosing is its potentially illegal nature. Always be aware of your local laws and don’t undertake any unlawful activities. The first-ever controlled, double-blind study of microdosing LSD and psilocybin suggests that the practice is more effective than a placebo and safe. Still unknown, however, are the effects that frequent microdosing could have on the body. This is why we recommend microdosing for no longer than a few months. However, as you can see in the graph below, psilocybin is one of the safest substances you can find, both biochemically and socially. It’s much safer than alcohol. One thing is for certain – with microdosing, there is no risk of having a “bad trip” or experiencing intense psychedelic effects. Taking a microdose is the ideal way to be introduced to psychedelics safely and comfortably.