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Microdosing (also known as psychedelic microdosing) is the practice of using sub-threshold doses of a psychedelic substance in an attempt to produce a therapeutic or nootropic effect. Microdosing has been claimed by some to have a wide range of benefits including enhancing productivity, treating symptoms of psychological disorders such as clinical depression and adult ADD/ADHD, boosting creativity and problem-solving abilities, as well as increase spiritual awareness. There is currently no clinical evidence to support these claims, however a number of small scale studies have shown positive outcomes. In 2020 a study by the Beckley Foundation found that a 20 microgram dose of LSD significantly reduced pain perception when compared to a placebo, with results comparable to those observed after administration of opioids.[1]
Microdoses range from about one tenth of an active dose. A microdose of LSD is generally considered to be between 5-15 micrograms. This can be measured accurately using volumetric dosing techniques. A microdose of psilocybin mushrooms is harder to determine due to the variations in potency between species and batches; it is generally advised to start with no more than .25g.
Horsley, R.R., Páleníček, T., Kolin, J., & Valeš, K. (2018). Psilocin and ketamine microdosing: effects of subchronic intermittent microdoses in the elevated plus-maze in male Wistar rats. Behavioural Pharmacology. https://doi.org/10.1097/FBP.0000000000000394
