What is Microdosing: A Complete Overview
There is a widespread belief that by diminishing the dose of a hallucinogenic substance, one can reduce its harmful effects. In this guide, we aim to explore the answer to the question, “What is microdosing?” and consider the potential upsides and downsides of the approach. While those who support the practice believe that it helps individuals alleviate stress and enjoy other benefits, critics warn against consuming illegal substances and believe further research is needed to prove the positive effects of reduced doses.
What Is Microdosing?
The term refers to the practice of taking tiny quantities of psychedelics or other drugs to experience elation and other effects associated with being high. Individuals prefer microdosing as this way of consuming substances allows them to boost their spirits, ignite creativity, and deal with stress. However, people may feel their mood improve due to the placebo effect.
Microdosing has become popular only recently. Drugs like psilocybin, which is present in almost 200 species of mushrooms, are believed to be safe when people consume them in small amounts. It’s a crucial element of the religious ceremonies of Indigenous people. The practice does not result in a psychedelic trip. Besides, it’s not associated with hallucinations. Nonetheless, when one takes too much, they may experience negative effects.
Many take high doses of psychedelic drugs to explore the limits of their minds, relax, or experience spiritual revelations. Those who prefer limited intake claim they want to normalize their emotions and handle stress while avoiding a psychedelic trip. They take low doses to become more open toward the world and new experiences.
Understanding what is microdosing helps separate scientific evidence from the hype surrounding this growing wellness trend. Scientists warn against the practice of sub-perceptual dosing, as the term remains vague. According to researchers, a microdose should be about 1% of the active dose. But this definition is also subject to criticism. Controlled micro-intake should not cause any intoxication or lead to noticeable alteration of consciousness.
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Popular Substances People Take in Micro Doses
The tradition of consuming psilocybin mushrooms, also called magic mushrooms, remains popular among specific populations. Besides, people often consume LSD, DMT, and cactus peyote in tiny measured portions, hoping to diminish the adverse effects of these drugs. Many of them are even illegal to obtain and use. Here are some other substances individuals take in reduced quantities to avoid dependence and misuse:
- Ketamine
- Cannabis
- Ritalin
Further research is needed to study the motivation behind the usage of these chemicals in smaller doses. LSD and psilocybin remain the most popular so far, as their consumption has cultural and religious significance in some populations.
What are the Advantages of Microdosing?
Microdosing benefits require thorough examination. So far, serious studies have used the method of self-reporting to ask people who have adopted the practice about its upsides. As a result, it might be impossible to eliminate bias, as most respondents advocate for microdosing, as it makes them feel good.
Some data indicates microdosing could positively impact a person’s mental health and overall well-being. Microdosing LSD has a subtle positive impact on perception of pain, sleep patterns, emotional state, awareness of social situations, and reward response, triggering dopamine release.
The evidence collected with the help of self-reports implies that potential upsides of microdosing may include enhanced concentration and mindfulness, cognitive benefits, higher energy levels, lower anxiety, alleviated stress, and better problem-solving.
Many adults consume intoxicants in microdoses to boost productivity and discover motivation to create something new. They retain the ability to control and limit substance usage and do not report noticeable drawbacks.
Below, we have briefly outlined the key upsides of the approach:
- Healthier state of mind. People take drugs to deal with manifestations of depression and lighten their emotional load. Microdosing allows them to deal with panic attacks and calm down. Patients consider the practice more productive than other traditional clinically supported therapies. However, without an in-depth study, such evidence remains inconclusive.
- Better brain functioning. The practice enables individuals to process new ideas better and use their cognitive abilities to the fullest.
- Creativity. Occasionally, individuals consume barely noticeable doses of psilocybin to augment their creative abilities. Reduced stress and increased concentration may help a person discover innovative solutions faster.
Despite these self-reported upsides, only a systematic study conducted in a managed setting will allow one to uncover scientific evidence and reinforce such assertions.
What are the Risks?
Scientists continue to study what is microdosing to better understand its potential benefits and long-term effects on the brain. Meticulous analysis is needed to conclude whether this practice does not have any negative, enduring consequences. The approach is hardly suitable for everyone, as its effects are unpleasant for some. Besides, those who are prone to reacting to components found in hallucinogens occasionally report undesired sensations.
Twenty percent of those who tried the practice of reducing their dosage reported physical discomfort or emotional impacts. Some discovered they were unable to concentrate on a task at hand or developed substance tolerance. Others found themselves less energetic. There were cases when people felt increased anxiety and their mood drastically worsened. Here are some other notable risks one should be aware of:
- People with neurotic traits may notice their condition has further deteriorated.
- Patients with diagnosed psychosis-spectrum conditions, including schizophrenia, often discover unwelcome consequences in practice. Tiny quantities of chemicals stimulate their minds and make them feel extremely agitated.
- Individuals may be arrested if they acquire prohibited chemicals.
DEA classifies hallucinogens like LSD and peyote as substances associated with high risks of misuse. They aren’t used for medical purposes. Professional tests accurately detect such substances even if a person consumes a subthreshold dose. Consuming such substances results in severe health complications and serious issues with the law.
How to Minimize Microdosing Side Effects
Due to the lack of thorough examination, one should abstain from taking illicit substances even in tiny amounts unless they are prescribed by health professionals. However, if one decides to consume illicit substances, it’s better to adopt several harm reduction strategies:
- Consider the reasons behind your addiction. If you want to handle negative feelings, it might be better to schedule a meeting with a mental health professional to get expert assistance.
- Discuss your health issues with a doctor. They will suggest time-tested strategies that will allow you to improve your health.
- Do not use substances from unknown sources. Some criminals intentionally add illicit substances to seemingly harmless drugs, which may lead to overdosing.
- Don’t microdose when you are depressed or in poor physical health. Unwanted outcomes might exacerbate your condition. Make sure not to take any intoxicants when you take psychiatric medications, as it may lead to negative health outcomes.
- Find a safe place to recuperate from the negative effects of microdosing. It’s important to get support from a community of similarly minded individuals who recognize the dangerous consequences of the practice and can help you abstain from drugs in the future.
Even if you reduce the dose, some substances may have an accumulative effect. It will manifest at some point. Staying in touch with medical professionals regarding your health is the best way to avoid embracing unscientific approaches.
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Final Thoughts
People who ask, “What is microdosing?” are curious about hallucinatory substances and believe they can avoid negative consequences by reducing the dosage. However, they remain susceptible to the negative effects of these drugs even if they limit their consumption. If a person becomes addicted, it’s necessary to get help from certified health specialists.
Eco Sober Houses offers a safe space for those who have already gone through inpatient treatment programs and want to abstain from drugs. We have introduced transparent rules for our clients, requiring them to participate in household chores together for the duration of their stay. A predictable routine enables individuals to learn how to live independently and deal with triggers. Get in touch with our managers to achieve sustainable progress on your way to a healthy life.
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