Photo courtesy of Schedule35

Guides | 10.03.2023

Microdosing 101: What’s The Hype About And How’s It Done

With everyone and their mom catching on to the benefits of psychedelics, microdosing is taking off as a practice of choice. But how is it done? And why all the hype?

Originally catching on in the “tech bro” scene, the practice of microdosing has begun to spread out to broader reaches of society, including microdosing moms, aging adults, and people looking to take control of their mental health during the pandemic.

Hollywood has caught on, too, with Nicole Kidman’s character (secretly) microdosing her retreat guests in the hit show Nine Perfect Strangers, and Jon Stewart saying he would “love to” try it, and even asking for a microdosing sponsor for his podcast.

New brands have arisen, mainly in Canada and the west coast US, with sleek packaging, aiming to bring psychedelics into the modern person’s routine.

So What Is Microdosing, And Why Do People Do It?

  • DOSING: To start with a definition, microdosing is the practice of taking a sub-hallucinogenic dose of a psychedelic substance, usually 1/10th of a “trip” dose. For magic mushrooms this is typically 50-250 mg; for LSD it’s 5-20 ug. Cannabis microdosing has also grown in popularity and, while the jury’s still out on a proper amount, 1-5 mg of THC tends to be the typical range. The effects of different dosing amounts are different for everyone and can vary based on factors like time of day and empty vs. full stomach.
  • BENEFITS: The reported benefits of microdosing include improvements in mood (and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety), enhancements in creativity and focus, an increased sense of empathy and connection, and heightened energy levels.
  • SAFETY: Even if the effects are a result of a placebo effect – research on this is hindered by legal issues and scientific study designs that are difficult to apply to psychedelics – psychedelics are understood to be likely safer than traditional medications for depression, anxiety, pain, et cetera.
  • PROTOCOLS: People typically follow a microdosing protocol. The two most popular protocols are the Fadiman approach (one day on, two days off) and the Stamets approach (weekdays on and weekends off). These are based on the works of pioneering psychedelic researcher James Fadiman and everyone’s favorite mycologist Paul Stamets.

Set & Setting

As with any psychoactive substance, a mindful approach is the best way to maximize benefit and minimize risk.

The concept of “set & setting” is popular within the psychedelic therapy ecosystem and is centered around the idea of curating one’s mindset and environment to optimize the psychedelic experience.

This concept can and should be applied to microdosing, as well – at least if one wants to maximize the chances of achieving their desired outcome.

This was the impetus behind launching Houston, a microdosing companion app. 

Houston provides microdosers with a digital set & setting, allowing them to select a dosing schedule, set intentions, log moods and notes, connect with a community, and reflect on their journey with insights on their data.

Houston, a microdosing companion app, launched on the App Store in December 2021 – developed by people formerly working at Headspace and Field Trip Health. (Photo courtesy of Houston)

How To Get Started

When getting started, it’s useful to understand the fundamentals mentioned above: (1) dosing amounts; (2) dosing protocols; (3) intention and goal-setting; and (4) tracking progress (moods, energy levels, thoughts, etc.).

The Houston app provides these tools, and more, in a user-friendly digital format, and online resources like Reddit provide a great community to learn from. 

It’s important to understand where you’re getting the substance from – ideally a trusted source. Testing kits for LSD are a good way to take safety into your own hands.

It’s also important to understand the legal status of the substances in your jurisdiction. While a psychedelic “gray market” has made trustable products more available at less risk, most of these substances are illegal in most countries – though many cities around North America have begun to decriminalize possession. 

Cannabis is a very suitable and approachable legal option in most places.

One thing that’s certain is that this trend will continue to grow thanks to a wave of conscious consumers, and celebrities, that look to more natural, mindful ways of improving their health, unlocking their potential and exploring their inner worlds.

Watch this space.

The Art Of Microdosing With Microdose Gummies

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If you’re considering delving into the exciting world of THC microdosing, Microdose Gummies are the perfect choice to begin this fascinating journey.

These gummies deliver entry-level THC doses in a precise and controlled manner. This means you can explore the effects of THC with complete confidence, without worrying about excessive or unpredictable doses.

Why not start this experience with an extra splash of pleasure? The exquisite taste of perfectly grown strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries will make every bite a delight, making it easy to incorporate microdosing into your routine.

Microdosing THC allows you to find just the right amount of relief without the overwhelming psychoactive effects. These gummies are designed to provide an optimal balance of wellness and mental clarity.

Microdose Gummies are the best choice for those who want to explore THC microdosing in a safe, precise, and delicious way.

Experience the art of microdosing with confidence and comfort, and discover a new world of personalized wellness that only Microdose Gummies can offer.

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