Psilocybin, a psychoactive compound discovered in magic mushrooms, is frequently utilized recreationally for its ability to induce euphoria and hallucinations.
Beyond its mind-altering properties, researchers are exploring the compound’s potential benefits for relieving persistent pain.
This piece delves into a case study that evaluates the potential of microdosing mushrooms in providing relief for chronic pain.
Key Takeaways:
- Microdosing mushrooms may offer both immediate and sustained relief from pain.
- When compared to traditional painkillers, microdosing psilocybin often has fewer side effects if taken in small quantities.
- Psilocybin interacts with serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptors, contributing to pain relief among other potential benefits.
The Study
The research, “Microdosing Psilocybin for Chronic Pain: A Case Series“, was carried out by Dr. Matthew Lyes and his team at the University of California, San Diego’s Division of Pain Medicine in the Department of Anesthesiology. The study focused on three patients who self-administered small doses of psilocybin to treat their chronic pain symptoms.
Three Patients, One Result – Chronic Pain Reduced
First Patient
| AGE/ GENDER: | 37 Male |
| TYPE OF PAIN: | Neuropathic pain presenting below the site of a spinal cord injury. |
| PAIN SEVERITY: | Initially 4 to 5 out of 10, rising to 8 out of 10 later in the day |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSE: | 250 mg of ground mushroom for less than 6 months |
| OUTCOME: | Discontinuation of prescribed pain medication, reduced muscle spasms, and improved bowel movement efficiency. There were no signs of rebound pain or withdrawal symptoms. |
| The patient expressed that unlike his usual medications that only managed to mitigate the pain, psilocybin effectively eliminated it, decreasing his average pain level from 5 to | |
Case Study: Second Patient
| AGE/GENDER: | 69-year-old female |
| PAIN TYPE: | Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) |
| PAIN INTENSITY: | Generally varies from 5 to 7 out of 10, but amplifies with activity and during pain flare-ups |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSAGE: | Daily intake of 500 mg for 7 to 10 days with rest periods (2 to 3 days) over a year. Dosage raises to 750 mg to 1 gram during pain flare-ups |
| RESULT: | 80% reduction in pain for 3-4 hours, slowly returning to initial levels after 12 hours. Full pain relief (90%-100%) lasts 6-8 hours, reverting to initial levels after 18 hours. |
| The patient reports a decrease in appetite without feeling nauseous. Disorientation or difficulty in walking is observed when the dosage is raised (750 to 1000mg). | |
Case Study: Third Patient
| AGE/ GENDER: | 40-year-old female |
| PAIN TYPE: | Lumbar radiculopathy and neuropathic pain |
| PAIN INTENSITY: | 8 out of 10, escalating to 10 out of 10 during physical activity |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSAGE: | 1000 mg from a mushroom chocolate bar every two months. |
| RESULT: | Significant pain relief without any psychoactive effects. Increased flexibility and functionality noted. Pain gradually returns to initial levels over 2-4 weeks. Repeated dosing enhances control over pain. |
| The patient does not report any significant physical, cognitive, or behavioural side effects. Her mood remains mostly stable. She continues her regular intake of her SSRI for managing depression throughout the psilocybin treatment period. | |
Comprehending Pain Management with Psilocybin
Constant somatic and visceral pain signals fortify certain neural pathways due to peripheral and central sensitization, resulting in chronic physical and emotional pain. Psychedelics like psilocybin activate 5-HT2A receptors, potentially reconfiguring the brain areas related to neuropathic conditions.
A patient reported enduring pain relief for several weeks. This suggests that after direct stimulation of the 5-HT2A receptors, central regulation of pain perception and
This substance enhances synaptic adaptability.
Possible Side Effects of Psilocybin Compared to Traditional Pain Killers
| PSILOCYBIN (Based on Studies) | TRADITIONAL PAIN KILLERS |
| Muscle spasms | Nausea |
| Diminished appetite | Gut discomfort |
| Bewilderment | Headaches |
| Unsteady gait | Dependence |
| No change in mood | Drowsiness |
Potential Future Psilocybin Studies
The researchers, through analysis of three individuals’ experiences, have highlighted potential areas for further exploration due to their potential benefits.
- Small quantities of psilocybin might provide immediate and possibly enduring relief from nerve pain, without leading to physical tolerance or addiction.
- Examine the outcomes of various treatment techniques when used in conjunction with psilocybin. For example, patient #3 reported an increased pain-relieving effect when psilocybin was used with physical therapy.
- Even without psychotherapeutic intervention, small doses of psilocybin could provide pain relief, as demonstrated in this case study. It is suggested by the researchers that incorporating therapeutic guidance could potentially enhance or prolong the therapeutic effects.
Study Limitations
Despite the encouraging results seen in the patients, it’s essential to acknowledge the limitations identified in this research.
- The study’s small size might not adequately reflect the experiences of all individuals dealing with nerve pain.
- Subjects unresponsive to psilocybin were not included in the study.
- No assessments were conducted pre and post-treatment to evaluate psilocybin’s impact on psychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety.
- Most of the data was sourced from self-reports by the subjects.
- The responses of the participants could have been influenced by the interviewer’s presence and possible bias towards psilocybin.
- The study did not consider the effects of a placebo.
- The amount of psilocybin in each mushroom was not determined by the study.
Experimenting with Mushroom Microdosing
In this particular study, Patients #1 and #2 consumed a microdose of psilocybin, obtained from dried mushrooms in powdered form, while patient #3 combined it with chocolate. There are a variety of products specifically created for psilocybin microdosing, and we have gathered a short list of a few of these below.
Desiccated Mushrooms
Although the exact strain used in the study wasn’t disclosed, the following strain can be a suitable starting point for novices.
- Golden Teacher: This is a common and prevalent strain of psychedelic mushrooms.
- Amazonian Cubensis: This strain is known for its user-friendliness and potential cognitive improvements.
- Cambodian: Microdosing with Cambodian cubensis mushrooms can boost concentration, social awareness, and mood elevation.
Microdosing Capsules
- Euphoria Psychedelics – Micro Calm Capsules: This concoction incorporates Ashwagandha, Reishi, CBD, Valerian root, and Psilocybin Mushrooms, all of which have been scientifically established to alleviate stress and anxiety.
- Ground Sounds – Microdose Capsules – Champion Lover: This compelling blend offers three dosage options: 50mg, 100mg, or 250mg of pure psilocybin combined with reishi, cacao, cordyceps, and maca.
- Kind Stranger – Brighten Capsules 250mg: These capsules utilize the Golden Teacher strain, renowned for promoting mental clarity, amplified creativity, and enhanced focus.
Using Psilocybin to Mitigate Pain
While the investigation into mushrooms’ potential for pain relief is still in the nascent phase, anecdotal testimonies and small-scale case studies are showing promising signs.
Such instances underscore the call for more extensive research into the possible advantages of psilocybin, class=”wp-block-list”>
Especially in the field of chronic pain management.
Before the widespread approval of psilocybin for pain relief, the promising findings from the case study have kindled hope in those grappling with chronic pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the effects of microdosing psilocybin?
Psilocybin mainly stimulates a serotonin receptor known as “5-HT2A” in the prefrontal cortex, leading to two primary outcomes:
- Generation of “Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor” (BDNF)
- Enhanced “Glutamate” transmission
Besides, psychedelics foster connections among brain regions that usually interact less. This novel connectivity stems from psychedelics’ ability to diminish the activity of the “Default Mode Network” (DMN), which is involved in various cognitive functions, like daydreaming, introspection, and contemplating the past and future.
What is microdosing mushrooms’ most recognized benefit?
Microdosing may enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and concentration. Its most extensively researched benefit is its effect on mental health.
In November 2022, COMPASS Pathways, a mental health company, unveiled the findings of their thorough phase 2b trial, a randomized and double-blind study. Their investigation indicated that a single dose of psilocybin resulted in significant reductions in depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. Participants who received a higher dose of 25 milligrams showed a sustained antidepressant response at the twelve-week follow-up.
A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal reported that psilocybin is more effective than traditional antidepressant treatments.
How should you determine your dosage?
Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on day one. If the desired effects are not reached, you can incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you find your ideal level.
Individuals with a history of using psychotropic drugs may need to elevate the dosage to 0.5 grams to attain the desired effects.
What steps should be taken before consuming mushrooms?
class=”wp-block-list”>What is the suggested frequency for microdosing mushrooms?
Several well-established guidelines recommend structured microdosing schedules for psychedelics. These guidelines vary primarily in the number of “off” days they incorporate, which are the days you abstain from microdosing.
The most frequently suggested protocols propose including 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s natural tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols under discussion here are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.
