Shrooms Canada has garnered considerable public interest, leading to significant investments in its potential medical uses, fueling scientific research, and encouraging wider acceptance among the public.
Two recent reports underscore the increasing prevalence of psilocybin mushrooms as a commonly-used psychoactive substance.
Eric Leas, an epidemiologist at the University of California, San Diego, noted a staggering 1,250% increase in internet searches related to microdosing since 2015, with psilocybin overtaking LSD in 2019. In addition, a study by the RAND Corporation indicates that roughly 3% of Americans – about 8 million adults – used psilocybin in the previous year, making it the most commonly consumed hallucinogen in 2023.
Let’s explore this global intrigue with shrooms.
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What Does Microdosing Involve?
Psychedelic microdosing refers to the method of taking a minimal amount of a hallucinogenic substance to achieve a positive mental effect without triggering a full-blown psychedelic experience. This usually involves taking just 10-20% of a dose that would typically result in a psychoactive response. The goal is to ingest a trivial quantity of a psychedelic substance that doesn’t significantly affect consciousness.
Historically, microdoses of magic mushrooms and peyote were used to ease physical discomfort and enhance wellbeing. During the 1960s, the practice of microdosing expanded to include LSD as people aimed to boost cognitive function and creativity.
Currently, microdosing also includes substances like MDMA, Ritalin, cannabis, and ketamine, which can cause hallucinations at higher doses but do not provoke a psychedelic episode when microdosed.
Comparing Microdosing and Full Dose Experiences
| Aspect | Microdosing | Full Dose (Psychedelic) |
| Dosage | 0.1 to 0.3 grams of dried mushrooms | 1 to 3 grams or more of dried mushrooms |
| Frequency | Regular (e.g., every few days) | Intermittent |
| Effect Duration | Minimal disturbance to daily activities | Altered state persists for 4-6 hours |
| Sensory Effects | Experiences include hallucinations (misinterpreted or unreal sensory perceptions), intensified emotions and sensory encounters (brighter colors, amplified sounds), and synesthesia (such as “seeing” sounds or “hearing” colors) | Mild sensory alterations, slight mood and perception improvements, and enhanced focus and creativity |
| Physical Effects | Little to no physical impact | Increased energy and heartbeat, accompanied by possible nausea |
The Rise of Psilocybin Microdosing
Approximately half of the people who consumed psilocybin in the last year chose to microdose, a method that’s favored by tech industry workers and suburban moms. Microdosing entails taking 1/10 to 1/20 of a typical dose. The majority of microdosers use psilocybin infrequently, only once or twice a year, with a scant 11% consuming it more than six times. Over half prefer natural or dried mushrooms, while the rest opt for processed forms like chocolate bars or teas.
Microdosing interest is tied to changing laws related to cannabis and psychedelics. States such as Oregon and Colorado, where plant-based psychedelics have been decriminalized, show the highest interest in microdosing.
Studies suggest an increase in psilocybin consumption, predominantly in nightlife scenes, where it competes with drugs like ecstasy and ketamine. A research estimated that around 5.5 million adults used hallucinogens in 2019, with a significant rise in LSD consumption.
Key Influences Behind the Growing Microdosing Trend
The RAND survey pinpointed the top three reasons Canadians consume psilocybin:
Enjoyment and Social Interaction
Many Canadians use these psychedelic mushrooms for recreation, seeking a distinctive communal experience. The social element of consuming psilocybin in group events or social meetups adds to its appeal.
Mental Health
A significant number of consumers turn to psilocybin for its potential mental health advantages. Indeed, an observational study in Nature-Scientific Reports Trusted Source suggests that microdosing psilocybin mushrooms
Teas provide a soothing method of consumption by infusing psilocybin into hot water.
- Method of preparation: Psilocybin mushrooms are steeped in hot water to create a therapeutic beverage.
- Dosage: The amount of psilocybin can be controlled by varying the quantity of mushrooms used in the tea.
- Method of intake: Drank as any regular tea, often with added flavors to mask the mushroom taste.
Psilocybin Capsules
Capsules deliver a consistent dosage of psilocybin in an easily consumable form. They also have a beneficial impact on mental health disorders. Studies have found that individuals who microdose with capsules reported improvements in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, compared to those who did not.
- Consumption: These capsules can be swallowed effortlessly, eliminating the need for additional preparation or measurement.
Psilocybin Extracts
Psilocybin extracts are concentrated compounds that provide a more uniform and precise dose.
- Method of preparation: Psilocybin is extracted from the mushrooms using solvents such as alcohol.
- Dosage: Extracts are measured in milligrams, with doses ranging from 1 to 10 milligrams per microdose.
- Method of intake: It can be consumed directly, mixed with drinks, or put into capsules.
Psilocybin-Infused Edibles
Edibles provide a unique microdosing option by incorporating psilocybin into food items like chocolates, gummies, or other treats.
- Method of preparation: Psilocybin is mixed into the edible products during their creation or cooking process.
- Dosage: Each edible contains a specific amount of psilocybin, ensuring consistent dosing.
- Method of intake: They are consumed just like any other food item, often flavored pleasantly to mask the taste of mushrooms.
Psilocybin Tinctures
Tinctures are liquid extracts of psilocybin, offering flexible dosing and easy absorption.
- Method of preparation: Psilocybin is extracted into a base of alcohol or glycerin.
- Dosage: Measured in drops or milliliters, allowing for precise control over the amount ingested.
- Method of intake: Taken sublingually or mixed into a drink.
Drinking tea is a traditional method of consuming psilocybin that provides a mild and soothing experience.
- Preparation: Dried mushrooms are steeped in hot water, often with added herbs or flavorings to improve the taste.
- Potency: The strength of the tea is dependent on the amount of mushrooms used, with common microdoses ranging between 0.1 and 0.3 grams.
- Consumption: It can be enjoyed like any other herbal tea.
Available Products at Shrooms Canada
| Product | Category | Dosage | Time to Effect | Duration | Effects |
| Trans Envy Magic Mushrooms | Psilocybin Mushrooms | Generally, a microdose is 0.1 to 0.3 grams. | 30-60 minutes | 2-4 hours | Improves mood, causes visual alterations, promotes introspection |
| Kind Stranger – Microdose Capsules | Psilocybin Capsules | 1 capsule equals 250 mg (15 capsules per container). | 30-60 minutes | 2-4 hours | Boosts clarity, creativity, focus, and reduces stress |
Essential Points
The rising global trend of microdosing psilocybin mushrooms, led by Canada, indicates a significant shift in understanding and usage of psychoactive substances. As research continues and regulations evolve, the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin could revolutionize treatments for several mental health disorders and improve general wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Essential Tips for Microdosing?
- Use an accurate scale if a pre-measured dose is not available.
- Take the initial dose on a typical, relaxed day when you are in good health.
- Ensure your environment is secure and free from interruptions.
- Stick to your chosen regimen for a period of 4-10 weeks.
- Start with a minimal dosage and adjust as needed to attain the desired effects.
- Take microdoses in the morning to avoid interfering with your sleep patterns.
- Initially steer clear of alcohol and other psychoactive substances. However, CBD might be beneficial.
- Keep a microdosing diary to track dosage, timing, diet, activities, and outcomes.
- Exercise patience and allow the regimen to produce results over a period of time.
Gaining Insight into the Fadiman Protocol
The Fadiman Protocol, crafted by psychologist James Fadiman, is a microdosing strategy which recommends taking a microdose on the first day, followed by a two-day break. This cycle is typically repeated over a duration of 4 to 10 weeks.
This protocol’s primary objective is to ensure a sustainable approach to microdosing. It helps to avoid the build-up of tolerance and allows the body to recover between doses. This balance helps maintain the effectiveness of microdosing over time without any diminishing returns.
Interpreting the Stamets Stack Protocol
The Stamets Stack Protocol, devised by mycologist Paul Stamets, advocates for four consecutive days of dosing, with a subsequent three-day break. This protocol stands out due to the incorporation of supplements like Lion’s Mane mushroom and Niacin.
Lion’s Mane is utilized for its potential to trigger neurogenesis, while Niacin is included to enhance absorption. Like the Fadiman Protocol, this routine is followed for a span of 4 to 10 weeks. The combination of substances in the Stamets Stack is designed to boost cognitive performance and foster overall brain health.
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