Micro-dosing

Microdosing is a practice that involves consuming sub-perceptual doses of a substance, often below the threshold where noticeable psychoactive effects occur, with the aim of experiencing subtle therapeutic benefits. While microdosing is most commonly associated with psychedelics, such as LSD or psilocybin mushrooms, it can also apply to other substances, including herbal supplements like tinctures. The concept of microdosing has gained popularity in recent years, with anecdotal reports suggesting potential benefits for mood enhancement, cognitive function, creativity, and overall well-being.

Logic Behind Microdosing:

The logic behind microdosing stems from the principle of hormesis, which suggests that low doses of certain substances may have beneficial effects on health and performance, while higher doses may be harmful. By taking small, consistent doses of a substance, individuals aim to modulate neurotransmitter levels, enhance neuroplasticity, and optimize brain function without experiencing pronounced psychoactive effects.

Scientific Evidence and Research:

While the scientific literature on microdosing is still limited, there is growing interest in exploring its potential therapeutic effects. Some studies have investigated the effects of microdosing psychedelics on mood, creativity, and mental health, albeit with mixed results. For example:

1. Anderson and Petranker (2019) conducted a study examining personality traits, mental health, and creativity differences in microdosers. They found that microdosers reported higher levels of openness and lower levels of neuroticism compared to non-microdosers.

2. Hutten et al. (2019) explored the motives and side effects of microdosing psychedelics among users. They found that microdosers reported improvements in mood, focus, and creativity, as well as reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety.

3. Szigeti et al. (2021) conducted a self-blinding citizen science study to explore the effects of microdosing psychedelics on mood and well-being. While the results are still being analyzed, preliminary findings suggest that microdosing may have positive effects on mood and overall quality of life.

Effectiveness and Individual Variability:

The effectiveness of microdosing can vary widely depending on individual factors such as biology, metabolism, genetics, and psychological state. Some individuals may experience noticeable improvements in mood, focus, and creativity, while others may not perceive any discernible effects. Additionally, the optimal dosage and frequency of microdosing may differ from person to person, requiring a personalized approach to find the right balance.

Overall, while the scientific evidence on microdosing is still emerging, anecdotal reports and preliminary research suggest that it may hold promise as a tool for enhancing mood, cognition, and overall well-being. However, further controlled studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms of action, optimal dosing regimens, and potential long-term effects of microdosing.

References:

• Anderson, T., & Petranker, R. (2019). Microdosing psychedelics: personality, mental health, and creativity differences in microdosers. Psychopharmacology, 236(2), 731–740. [https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-018-5106-2]

• Hutten, N. R. P. W., Mason, N. L., Dolder, P. C., & Kuypers, K. P. C. (2019). Motives and side-effects of microdosing with psychedelics among users. International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology, 22(7), 426–434. [https://doi.org/10.1093/ijnp/pyz028]

• Szigeti, B., Kartner, L., Blemings, A., Rosas, F., Feilding, A., & Nutt, D. J. (2021). Self-blinding citizen science to explore psychedelic microdosing. eLife, 10, e62878. [https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.62878]

• Microdosing involves consuming sub-perceptual doses of a substance, typically below the threshold where noticeable psychoactive effects occur, with the goal of experiencing subtle therapeutic benefits. While the concept is commonly associated with psychedelics, it can also apply to herbal supplements like tinctures. Microdosing is often used to improve mood, focus, creativity, or overall well-being.

References on Microdosing:

1. Anderson, T., & Petranker, R. (2019). Microdosing psychedelics: personality, mental health, and creativity differences in microdosers. Psychopharmacology, 236(2), 731–740. [https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-018-5106-2]

2. Hutten, N. R. P. W., Mason, N. L., Dolder, P. C., & Kuypers, K. P. C. (2019). Motives and side-effects of microdosing with psychedelics among users. International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology, 22(7), 426–434. [https://doi.org/10.1093/ijnp/pyz028]

3. Szigeti, B., Kartner, L., Blemings, A., Rosas, F., Feilding, A., & Nutt, D. J. (2021). Self-blinding citizen science to explore psychedelic microdosing. eLife, 10, e62878. [https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.62878]

Protocol for Microdosing Tinctures:

1. Start Low: Begin with a conservative dose, typically around 1/10 to 1/20 of the standard adult dosage recommended on the tincture label. This may equate to 1-2 drops for each tincture.

2. Consistency: Take the microdose consistently, usually once per day, preferably in the morning or early afternoon.

3. Observation: Pay close attention to subtle changes in mood, focus, energy levels, or other desired effects over time.

4. Adjustment: After a week or two, if no noticeable effects are observed, consider slightly increasing the dose by one drop at a time until desired effects are achieved. However, always stay below the standard adult dosage.

5. Monitoring: Regularly assess your mental and physical well-being while microdosing. Discontinue use if any adverse effects occur.