Microdosing Psychedelics
Table of Contents
Microdosing is the practice of taking very small, sub-perceptual amounts of psychedelic substances to enhance mental clarity, emotional balance, and daily wellbeing.
Microdosing will require proper measurements to ensure correct dosing of your chosen psychedelic substance. Microdosing protocols can be useful to anyone seeking particular effects from microdosing. Many people find microdosing is a helpful way to prepare for and integrate larger dose journeys, while others find a variety of benefits, including alleviation of mental health symptoms, enhanced creativity, increased self-awareness, and more.
How to Microdose Safely & Effectively
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What is Microdosing?
Microdosing involves taking a small amount of a psychedelic on a regular or irregular basis for various benefits, such as enhanced focus, creativity, energy or awareness.
A microdose is usually between 5% and 10% of a standard dose. These amounts are low enough that they don’t interfere with everyday activities, but may still offer subtle positive effects on mood, cognition, and presence.
Popularized in the West by Dr. James Fadiman, microdosing has become increasingly popular for various benefits. Although research is still emerging, anecdotal evidence suggests microdosing can support mental health, emotional resilience, creativity, focus, and spiritual connection. Microdosing does not come without risk however, as studies indicate that habitual microdosing may carry heart health risks. Although with slightly differing effects, any classic psychedelic substance, such as LSD and psilocybin mushrooms are used for microdosing.
Note: Microdosing MDMA is not recommended due to its stimulant properties and associated risks.
How to Microdose Safely & Effectively
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Microdosing Effects
Primary reported benefits of microdosing include improved mood and wellbeing plus enhanced creativity and cognition. However, effects may vary per individual.
Microdosing does not have to be sub-perceptual. It is normal to feel, notice and perceive minor changes.
While experiences vary, the most commonly reported microdosing effects include:
Elevated mood and emotional wellbeing
Increased mental clarity and problem-solving
Enhanced creativity and cognitive flexibility
Improved focus and productivity
Greater emotional sensitivity and presence
Heightened self-awareness and introspection
Subtle but meaningful spiritual connection
Although many people report positive results, effects are not guaranteed. Microdosing is a personal practice, and results depend on individual biology, mindset, and context.
How to Microdose Safely & Effectively
A simple, evidence-based course.
How to Measure Microdoses
Accurate dosing is key to safe and effective microdosing.
Psilocybin mushrooms: A microdose typically ranges from 0.1g to 0.5g of dried mushrooms. Because potency can vary widely between mushroom stems, blending mushrooms into a powder helps ensure consistency.
LSD: A microdose is typically 5μg to 20μg. Diluting LSD into distilled water helps divide and control dosage more easily. While cutting a tab of LSD into tiny pieces can work, it is not recommended.
How to Microdose Mushrooms
You’ll need:
Dried psilocybin mushrooms
A blender or grinder
Airtight and dry container
Precision scale (milligram scale recommended)
Steps:
Grind mushrooms into a fine powder.
Store in a cool, dark container.
Measure a dose between 0.1g and 0.5g.
Take your microdose in the morning or as needed.
Optional: Use microdosing capsules or mix into a tea or smoothie.
How to Microdose LSD
You’ll need:
A tab of LSD (usually ~100μg)
100ml of distilled water
A glass dropper bottle
10ml pipette
Steps:
Place the LSD tab into the 100ml water-filled bottle.
Shake and refrigerate for 48–72 hours.
1ml = 1μg, so a 10μg microdose = 10ml of liquid.
Use a pipette to administer your microdose.
Take your microdose in the morning or as needed.
Start small and track your response before adjusting.
How to Microdose Safely & Effectively
A simple, evidence-based course.
Microdosing Protocols
Microdosing protocols, schedules or routines facilitate tracking of effects over longer timeframes. Various microdosing schedules exist—such as the Fadiman or the Stamets protocols. However, you can also microdose without following a prescribed protocol.
While microdosing everyday is strongly discouraged, it is safe to microdose irregularly, on a as-needed basis. It is recommended that you experiment with different protocols. Remember to take breaks from microdosing.
The Fadiman Protocol
The Fadiman protocol is the most popular and common microdosing protocol.
Psychologist and writer Dr. James Fadiman has been researching psychedelics since the 1960s. His protocol recommends a microdose every three days. This is the most common protocol.
It is recommended you continue this cycle for 30 to 60 days and then reset by stopping the microdose protocol for 2 to 4 weeks (4 weeks is recommended).
Have you been following the Fadiman protocol for at least 2 weeks and want to share about your experience? You can join our community to discuss your experience with others.
Every Other Day Protocol
The every other day protocol is developed by James Fadiman and has been proven to be more beneficial for people who microdose for medical purposes to help them ease the effects of conditions such as depression, ADHD, ADD, (social) anxiety, migraines or cluster headaches.
It is recommended you continue this cycle for 30 to 60 days and then reset by stopping the microdose protocol for 2 to 4 weeks (4 weeks is recommended).
Have you been following this protocol for at least 2 weeks and want to share about your experience? You can contact us to talk about your experience.
Two Fixed Days Protocol
A challenge of the Fadiman protocol is having continuously changing days of the week as microdosing days. Some people might benefit from a fixed day schedule, where you can choose two fixed weekdays (that are best for your own schedule) to microdose—for example Monday and Friday.
It is recommended you continue this cycle for 30 to 60 days and then reset by stopping the microdose protocol for 2 to 4 weeks (4 weeks is recommended).
Microdosing offers a unique approach to enhancing wellbeing and mental clarity through subtle doses of psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD. By carefully measuring and following established protocols, you may experience benefits such as improved mood, focus, and emotional balance without the intensity of a full journey. Whether you're new to microdosing or looking to deepen your practice, understanding the effects, proper measurements, and protocols will help you maximize the potential benefits while ensuring a safe and intentional experience.
Consider booking a call with a guide for further microdosing guidance.
