Psilocybin is a psychoactive substance found in magic mushrooms, commonly used recreationally to induce feelings of joy and hallucinatory experiences. 

In addition to its mind-altering effects, researchers have also studied its potential for providing relief from chronic pain. 

This article features a case study that investigates the potential of microdosing mushrooms in managing chronic pain.

Key Takeaways:

• Microdosing mushrooms could potentially provide both immediate and sustained pain relief.
• In contrast to traditional pain medications, psilocybin microdosing typically presents no side effects when administered in small quantities.
• Psilocybin works with the serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptors to alleviate pain and other conditions.

Study Details

The research, “Microdosing Psilocybin for Chronic Pain: A Case Series,” led by Dr. Matthew Lyes and his team from the Division of Pain Medicine in the Department of Anesthesiology at the University of California, San Diego, focused on three patients who self-administered small doses of psilocybin to control their chronic pain symptoms.

Three Patients, One Result – Reduction of Chronic Pain

Patient # 1

Case Study: Subject #2

Case Study: Subject # 3

Comprehending Pain Management with Psilocybin

Continuous bodily and visceral pain signals fortify specific neural pathways due to peripheral and central sensitization, causing chronic physical and emotional pain. Psychedelics like psilocybin activate 5-HT2A receptors, potentially resetting the brain areas associated with neuropathic conditions.

One patient reported enduring pain relief for several weeks. This suggests that, following direct stimulation of the 5-HT2A receptors, there may be a central regulation of pain perception and

Potential Side Effects of Psilocybin Compared to Traditional Pain Relievers

Future Research Possibilities with Psilocybin

The research team, having studied the experiences of three individuals, has identified specific areas for further examination due to their potential benefits.

1. Small doses of psilocybin may provide immediate and possibly long-lasting relief from neuropathic pain, without causing physical tolerance or dependence.
2. Examine the outcomes of different treatment approaches when used alongside psilocybin. For example, patient #3 reported an increased pain relief when psilocybin was administered in conjunction with physical therapy.
3. Even in the absence of psychotherapy, small doses of psilocybin could potentially alleviate pain, as indicated in this case study. The researchers propose that the inclusion of therapeutic guidance could potentially enhance or extend the therapeutic effects.

Constraints of the Study

Despite the encouraging findings in the patients, it’s important to acknowledge the constraints identified in the study.

• The limited sample size may not accurately reflect the entire population of individuals dealing with neuropathic pain.
• The study lacked the inclusion of any subjects who did not respond to psilocybin.
• There were no assessments conducted before and after treatment to evaluate the influence of psilocybin on psychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety.
• Most of the data was based on self-reporting by the subjects.
• The presence of the interviewer and potential bias related to psilocybin could have swayed the participants’ responses.
• The study did not consider the potential impact of the placebo effect.
• The study did not ascertain the quantity of psilocybin in each mushroom.

Exploring Microdosing with Mushrooms

In our study, we observed that Patient #1 and Patient #2 consumed a small quantity of powdered psilocybin derived from dehydrated mushrooms. On the other hand, Patient #3 chose to blend it with chocolate. Several products are specifically designed for psilocybin microdosing and we have compiled a select few for your reference below.

Dehydrated Mushrooms

Although the study did not detail the specific strain used, we recommend the following strain as a suitable choice for beginners.

• Golden Teacher: This is a prevalent and widely recognized strain of magic mushrooms.
• Amazonian Cubensis: This strain is noted for its user-friendliness and potential cognitive advantages.
• Cambodian: The use of Cambodian cubensis mushrooms for microdosing can potentially enhance focus, social awareness, and mood.

Microdose Capsules

• Euphoria Psychedelics – Micro Calm Capsules: This composition includes Ashwagandha, Reishi, CBD, Valerian root, and Psilocybin Mushrooms, all of which have scientific backing for their anxiety and stress reduction properties.
• Ground Sounds – Microdose Capsules – Champion Lover: This captivating blend offers three dosage alternatives: 50mg, 100mg, or 250mg of pure psilocybin combined with reishi, cacao, cordyceps, and maca.
• Kind Stranger – Brighten Capsules 250mg: These capsules comprise the Golden Teacher strain, renowned for promoting clear thinking, enhanced creativity, and improved focus.

Using Psilocybin for Pain Relief

While scientific research on the analgesic properties of mushrooms is still emergent, promising results are being found in anecdotal accounts and small-scale case studies.

Such instances underline the importance of additional research into the potential advantages of psilocybin, particularly in the field of managing chronic pain.

Before the widespread acceptance of psilocybin as a pain relief method, the promising results from case studies have given a ray of hope to those enduring chronic pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the effects of microdosing psilocybin?

Psilocybin mainly activates a serotonin receptor named “5-HT2A” in the prefrontal cortex, leading to two significant outcomes:

1. Generation of “Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor” (BDNF)
2. Enhanced “Glutamate” transmission

Besides, psychedelics foster connections between brain regions that don’t usually interact. This distinctive connectivity results from psychedelics’ ability to lower the activity of the “Default Mode Network” (DMN), which is linked to several cognitive functions, including daydreaming, self-reflection, and pondering about the past and future.

What is the most recognized benefit of microdosing mushrooms?

Microdosing can potentially enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and concentration. Its most extensively researched benefit is its influence on mental health.

In November 2022, COMPASS Pathways, a mental health corporation, unveiled the outcomes of their extensive phase 2b trial, a randomized and double-blind study. The investigation indicated that a single dose of psilocybin resulted in significant reductions in symptoms of depression compared to a placebo. Participants who were administered a higher dose of 25 milligrams exhibited a consistent antidepressant response at the twelve-week follow-up.

A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal suggested that psilocybin is more effective than traditional antidepressant treatments.

How can one determine the correct dosage?

Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If the desired effects aren’t reached, you can incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you find your ideal dosage.

Those with a history of using psychotropic substances may need to increase the dose to 0.5 grams to achieve the desired effects.

What precautions should be taken before consuming mushrooms?

1. Allocate time to understand your reasons for microdosing on a specific day.
2. Set aside time for self-reflection and to connect with your current emotional or mental state. Identify the emotions or mindset that you believe will be useful for you that day.
3. Once your goals are clearly outlined, write them down. Articulating your objectives as affirmations can significantly aid your ongoing growth.
4. Direct your intentions towards the experience you want to have, rather than what you want to evade.
5. Take it on an empty stomach, ideally an hour before your first meal of the day.

What is the advisable frequency for microdosing mushrooms?

There are several widely accepted protocols advocating for structured microdosing regimens for psychedelics. These protocols primarily vary in the number of “off” days they incorporate, which are the days you abstain from microdosing.

The most commonly recommended protocols advise including 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s inherent tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols under review in this context are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.