Microdosing is the short-term practice of intermittently taking sub-perceptual doses of psychedelic substances, for the benefit of optimised well-being.
A practice that has become increasingly popular these last few years.
Not long ago there was an all-out ban on any psilocybin use. Today, thanks to a fringe experiment, the conscious and measured use of psilocybin use has gone mainstream as an effective wellness practice.
This is what Dr. James Fadiman’s pioneering work managed to accomplish.
Dr. James Fadiman’s Global Survey
The story of modern microdosing began in 2011 when Dr. James Fadiman, a psychologist and researcher with a long-standing interest in psychedelics sent out a global survey.
He wanted to collect anecdotal reports from individuals who were already microdosing within the privacy of their own homes.
Participants were instructed to record their microdosing experiences over several weeks to gather qualitative data on how these small doses impacted their daily lives.
The results of this survey were groundbreaking.
Participants reported a wide range of benefits, everything from improved mood, enhanced focus, increased creativity, and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.
A short-term practice with such minimal risk of adverse effects and a potentially wide range of benefits was bound to become mainstream.
And it really has.
The Spread of Microdosing Culture
Dr. Fadiman’s survey results and subsequent publications demystified microdosing redefined psychedelic use and reintroduced psilocybin into the public consciousness.
The timing was perfect as the internet played a crucial role in disseminating this information.
Like spores forums and social media platforms quickly became hubs for microdosing enthusiasts to share their experiences and tips.
This idea of microdosing began to appeal to a diverse audience, from Silicon Valley tech professionals seeking cognitive enhancement including individuals looking for alternative ways to manage mental health issues.
Books, podcasts, and documentaries further fueled the public’s interest. Fadiman’s book, “The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide,” published in 2011, provided a comprehensive overview of the potential benefits and protocols for safe microdosing.
From then on, further media coverage and anecdotal success stories contributed to a growing acceptance and curiosity around the practice.
Let’s be honest, we’ve all read the Medium.com articles, right?
The Rise of Psilocybin Since 2021
While LSD was initially more common in microdosing circles, psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, has seen a significant rise in popularity since 2021.
We’ve all seen how many cities and states in the United States have moved towards decriminalising or legalizing psilocybin for therapeutic use.
In 2020, Oregon became the first state to legalise psilocybin for therapeutic purposes, setting a precedent that has inspired similar legislative efforts across the country.
European countries allow for the use of psilocybin truffles and Australia legalized the use of psychedelics last year in 2023.
The global curiosity and hype prompted a growing body of scientific research to be carried out and to begin proving the potential therapeutic potential of psilocybin efficacy in treating conditions such as depression, PTSD, and addiction.
These findings have not only validated the experiences of microdosers but have also attracted the attention of the medical and scientific communities, leading to increased investment in psychedelic research and development.
Shift In the Cultural Narrative
I’ve heard several Boomers be surprised at the notion of taking microdoses for the purposes of well-being as opposed to the recreational doses from their youth.
Influential figures in the wellness industry are no longer afraid to openly discuss their positive experiences with microdosing psilocybin, further normalizing the practice.
Various groups like MomsOnMushrooms have sprouted and found themselves debating the practice of microdosing with Dr.Phil on daytime television.
From Dr. James Fadiman’s groundbreaking survey in 2011 to the explosive use of psilocybin since 2021, many have changed their minds on how they see or use psychedelic products.
More than anything, Fadiman’s global survey created enough momentum for the scientific community to take notice and resume clinical trials.
The results from these clinical trials have produced results that did not surprise fellow citizen scientists. Not in the least.
Many of us knew that this practice would yield positive outcomes and it’s great to be validated scientifically.
It’s wonderful to have hard data to support what humanity has intuitively known all along.
And for this, Dr. Fadiman, we thank you!
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Flow strong,
Asha ✨
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