Why Microdose? Physical and Mental Health Benefits
Over recent years, the explosion in psychedelic research has seen more and more people experimenting with microdosing to support their health and wellness.
A brain imaging study led by Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris at Imperial College London found psilocybin, the active ingredient in “magic mushrooms,” altered the brain connectivity of treatment-resistant depression patients..
This ability to “re-shape” thought and behavior patterns is known as neuroplasticity and is thought to be an important mechanism in psychedelics’ healing and transformative effects.
Although most psychiatric studies focus on higher doses (for psilocybin, around 25 micrograms and above), microdoses of psilocybin mushrooms or LSD can also have positive effects on mental health.
For example, in one analysis of microdosing self-reports, researchers found microdosing could help decrease trauma, stress, anxiety, and substance abuse and increase positive mood.
However, since there is mixed evidence on whether microdosing is a placebo effect or not, microdosing isn’t generally recommended as a remedy for health issues. Rather, it is more often used as a means to create positive lifestyle changes and enhance daily life.
Microdosing’s day-to-day benefits can include:
Improved energy
Increased focus
Increased self-awareness
Improved sleep
Physical energy
Increased empathy
Mood enhancement
By carefully planning your day, you can gain the most value from microdosing’s effects and increase the chance of creating long-lasting positive outcomes.
Based on his own microdosing experience, Third Wave CEO, Paul F. Austin, has created a five-pillar framework you can use to model your microdosing days and optimize your experience.
Check out the video above to hear what he has to say, or keep reading to learn more.