Psychedelic drugs have been capturing the attention of doctors and patients alike, for their increasingly proven potential to effect long-lasting improvements in the mental health of people who are suffering from conditions such as treatment-resistant depression. Microdosing of psychedelic substances such as LSD or psilocybin involves taking a fraction of a regular dose (a subperceptual dose) that is much lower than one would take if one wanted to “trip” or hallucinate on these substances.

Many people share the idea that microdosing with psychedelics enhances one’s mood, creativity, concentration, productivity, and ability to empathize with others. Or could the benefits be an “expectancy effect”? This means that most people who take a daily pill that they fervently expect will help them feel happier and smarter will feel like they are happier and smarter — just from taking the pill, regardless of what’s in it.

What is microdosing?

There isn’t a single, clearly recognized definition of microdosing for any psychedelic drug, and this complicates attempts to perform consistent research. One definition is approximately 1/5 to 1/20 of a recreational dose. (From anecdotal experience this is accurate, as a medium-strength dose of psilocybin is 2 to 3 grams of dried mushrooms, and a microdose is typically around 0.3 grams.) One obstacle is that the potency of mushrooms can vary greatly, as they are not regulated outside of clinical trials, so this isn’t an exact science. Likewise, LSD is an invisible, tasteless, odorless substance that usually comes either in liquid form or embedded into a piece of paper to be slipped under the tongue.

Given its current illegality and lack of regulation, there is no good way to know what dosage you are taking unless you have an extraordinarily reliable supplier. LSD is an extremely powerful and long-acting drug, and you don’t want to take more of it than intended. Further, psychedelics such as psilocybin and LSD can produce physiological tolerance, which might suggest that, even if microdosing does help, there could be diminishing returns if one stays at the same dosage.

Microdosing Psychedelics: A Safer Way to Explore LSD or Psilocybin?

Are you curious about psychedelics but nervous about a full trip? Microdosing—taking sub-perceptual doses of LSD or psilocybin—offers a way to explore benefits without intense hallucinations.

This guide covers everything beginners need to know, from how microdosing works to setting up a safe routine.

1. What Is Microdosing?

Microdosing involves taking 5-10% of a standard psychedelic dose—enough to feel subtle effects but not enough to trip.

Common Substances for Microdosing:

• Psilocybin Mushrooms (0.1–0.3g dried) – Enhances creativity, mood, and focus.
• LSD (5–15 micrograms) – Boosts energy, problem-solving, and mental clarity.
• DMT only Dmt vape pens are advisable if you most

🔹 Avoid substances like PCP or high-dose DMT—they’re not suitable for microdosing.

2. Potential Benefits of Microdosing

Users report:
✅ Improved mood & reduced anxiety
✅ Increased creativity & focus (popular among artists and programmers)
✅ Enhanced mindfulness & emotional openness
✅ Better sleep & energy regulation (with proper dosing)

⚠️ Note: Research is still limited, and effects vary per person.

3. How to Start Microdosing (Beginner’s Protocol)

A. The Fadiman Protocol (Most Popular for Beginners)

• Day 1: Microdose (e.g., 0.1g mushrooms or 10ug LSD)
• Day 2 & 3: No dose (observe effects)
• Day 4: Repeat
• Cycle for 4–8 weeks, then take a break.

B. Dosage Tips

• Start low (especially with LSD—it’s potent!).
• Use a precision scale (for mushrooms) or volumetric dosing (for LSD).
• Avoid caffeine & alcohol (they can interfere with effects).

4. What to Expect When Microdosing

• Subtle shifts in perception (colors may seem brighter, thoughts flow smoother).
• Mild mood lift (similar to a good cup of coffee + meditation combo).
• No hallucinations (if you’re tripping, you took too much!).

🔹 Keep a journal to track mood, productivity, and side effects.

5. Risks & Side Effects

While generally safe, some report:
❌ Increased anxiety (if dose is too high)
❌ Sleep disruption (if dosed too late in the day)
❌ Tolerance buildup (take regular breaks)

🚫 Avoid if: You have bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or are on SSRIs (risk of negative reactions).

6. Microdosing vs. Full Trips: Which Is Right for You?

💡 Beginner-friendly? Microdosing is lower risk for first-timers.

7. Legal & Safety Considerations

• Psilocybin & LSD are illegal in most places (check local laws).
• Buy from trusted sources (test kits recommended).
• Don’t drive or operate machinery while microdosing.

Final Thoughts: Is Microdosing Worth Trying?

If you want to explore psychedelics cautiously, microdosing offers a gentle introduction. Just remember:
🔸 Start small.
🔸 Track your results.
🔸 Respect the substance.

📌 Want more? Read our guide on [Best Nootropics for Cognitive Enhancement]() or [How to Grow Magic Mushrooms Safely]().

Ready to experiment? Start slow, stay mindful, and see how microdosing works for you. 🌿✨

Have you tried microdosing? Share your experience below!