The Occurrence of Psilocybin Mushrooms Is Expanding Beyond Canada – Microdosing Is Becoming A Worldwide Phenomenon

Shrooms Canada has emerged in the mainstream, garnering significant investments for potential medicinal uses, stimulating scientific studies, and nurturing increasing public acceptance.

Recent research highlights the popularity of psilocybin mushrooms as a commonly consumed psychoactive substance.

Eric Leas, an epidemiologist at the University of California, San Diego, noted a 1,250% increase in microdosing-related internet searches since 2015, with psilocybin overtaking LSD in 2019. In addition, a study by the RAND Corporation indicates that roughly 3% of Americans, or about 8 million adults, used psilocybin last year, making it the most frequently used hallucinogen in 2023.

Let’s explore the global interest in shrooms.

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What Does Microdosing Involve?

Psychedelic microdosing refers to the act of taking a small amount of a hallucinogenic substance to achieve positive mental effects without experiencing a full psychedelic trip. This usually means taking just 10-20% of a dose that would cause a psychoactive response. The goal is to ingest an insignificant quantity of a psychedelic substance that doesn’t significantly alter consciousness.

Historically, magic mushrooms and peyote microdoses have been applied to ease physical symptoms and enhance wellness. In the 1960s, the microdosing practice expanded to LSD as people aimed to boost cognitive performance and creativity.

Nowadays, microdosing also includes substances like MDMA, Ritalin, cannabis, and ketamine. While these substances can cause hallucinations at higher doses, they don’t prompt a psychedelic experience when microdosed.

Comparing Microdosing and Full Dose Experiences

state

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	Frequency of Use	Infrequent
Effect Duration	Little disturbance to daily routines	Altered state persists for 4-6 hours
Sensory Impact	Induces hallucinations (distorted or non-existent sensory perceptions), enhances emotions and sensory experiences (intensified colors, amplified sounds), and triggers synesthesia (such as “seeing” sounds or “hearing” colors)	Slight sensory alterations, minor mood and perception improvements, and enhanced concentration and creativity
Physical Impact	Barely any to no physical side effects	Increased energy and heart rate, and possible nausea

Rise of Psilocybin Microdosing

Approximately half of the individuals who consumed psilocybin last year chose microdosing, a method favored by tech industry workers and suburban mothers. Microdosing involves taking 1/10 to 1/20 of a full dose. Most microdosers use psilocybin only once or twice a year, with a small 11% using it more than six times. Over half prefer whole or dried mushrooms, while others opt for processed forms like chocolate bars or teas.

The growing interest in microdosing is tied to the changing legislation around cannabis and psychedelics. States such as Oregon and Colorado, where plant-based psychedelics have been decriminalized, show the most interest in microdosing.

Studies suggest an increase in psilocybin consumption, especially in nightlife scenes, where it competes with drugs like ecstasy and ketamine. An estimate suggests that 5.5 million adults consumed hallucinogens in 2019, with a marked rise in LSD usage.

Key Influences Behind the Growing Microdosing Trend

The RAND survey highlighted the top three reasons for psilocybin usage among Canadians:

Enjoyment and Social Engagement

Many Canadians partake in these hallucinogenic mushrooms for recreation, seeking a unique collective experience. The communal element of ingesting psilocybin at group events or social gatherings adds to its appeal.

Mental Well-being

A significant number of users turn to psilocybin for its potential mental health advantages. In fact, an observational study in Nature-Scientific Reports Trusted Source suggests that microdosing psilocybin mushrooms

Teas with psilocybin offer a soothing and comfortable way to consume this compound.

• Method of preparation: The psilocybin is steeped in hot water to create the tea.
• Dosage: The concentration of psilocybin can be adjusted based on the amount of mushroom used in brewing.
• Method of intake: Drunk like any other tea, often combined with sweeteners or other flavors to mask the taste.

Psilocybin Capsules

Psilocybin capsules promote improved mental health as they have been found to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. People who microdose these capsules have reported significant improvements in their mental health compared to those who do not.

• Consumption: These capsules can be swallowed easily, eliminating the requirement for any additional preparation or measurement.

Method of intake: They can be consumed like any other supplement, ideally with water.

Psilocybin Extracts

Psilocybin extracts are concentrated compounds that ensure a more uniform and accurate dose.

• Method of preparation: Psilocybin is extracted from the mushrooms using solvents like alcohol.
• Dosage: Extracts are determined in milligrams, ranging from 1 to 10 milligrams per microdose.
• Method of intake: It can be consumed directly, mixed with beverages, or encapsulated.

Psilocybin Edibles

Edibles provide a unique method of microdosing by incorporating psilocybin into food items such as chocolates, gummies, or other treats.

• Method of preparation: Psilocybin is mixed into edible products during the cooking or production process.
• Dosage: Each edible contains a specific amount of psilocybin, ensuring consistent dosing.
• Method of intake: Eaten like any other food item, often with an enjoyable flavor to mask the mushroom taste.

Psilocybin Tinctures

Tinctures are liquid extracts of psilocybin, offering flexible dosing and easy absorption.

• Method of preparation: Psilocybin is extracted into an alcohol or glycerin base.
• Dosage: Measured in drops or milliliters, allowing for precise control over the amount ingested.
• Method of intake: Applied under the tongue or mixed into a drink.

Psilocybin teas are a traditional form of consumption, providing a soothing and relaxed experience.

• Preparation Method: The dried mushrooms are soaked in hot water, often supplemented with herbs or other flavorings to improve the taste.
• Strength: The intensity of the tea relies on the amount of mushrooms incorporated, with usual microdoses varying from 0.1 to 0.3 grams.
• Consumption: It can be consumed like any other herbal tea.

Available Products at Shrooms Canada

Product	Category	Strength	Onset Duration	Experience Length	Effects
Trans Envy Magic Mushrooms	Psilocybin Mushrooms	Generally, 0.1 to 0.3 grams per microdose.	30-60 minutes	2-4 hours	Improves mood, triggers visual alterations, encourages introspection
Kind Stranger – Microdose Capsules	Psilocybin Capsules	1 capsule contains 250 mg (15 capsules in a bottle).	30-60 minutes	2-4 hours	Boosts clarity, creativity, focus, and helps reduce stress

Essential Points to Remember

The global pattern of microdosing psilocybin mushrooms, with Canada leading the way, represents a significant change in the understanding and use of psychoactive substances. As research advances and regulations evolve, the potential therapeutic advantages of psilocybin could significantly alter the management of various mental health issues and contribute to overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Crucial Tips for Microdosing?

1. Use an accurate scale if you don’t have a pre-determined dose.
2. Take the initial dose on a typical, relaxed day when you feel good.
3. Ensure your environment is secure and devoid of disruptions.
4. Stick to your selected regimen for a duration of 4-10 weeks.
5. Commence with a minimal dosage, adjusting as needed to attain the preferred effects.
6. To avoid interrupting your sleep, microdose in the morning.
7. Initially, refrain from alcohol and other mind-altering substances. CBD could be beneficial.
8. Keep a microdosing journal to track dosage, timing, diet, activities, and outcomes.
9. Display patience and give the protocol sufficient time to yield results.

Grasping the Fadiman Protocol

The Fadiman Protocol, conceptualized by psychologist James Fadiman, is a microdosing strategy that recommends taking a microdose on the first day, followed by two days of abstaining. This routine is maintained for a duration of 4 to 10 weeks.

The primary objective of this protocol is to promote a balanced approach to microdosing, prevent tolerance accumulation, and allow the body time to recover between doses. This balance ensures users can continue benefiting from microdosing without seeing a decline in effectiveness over time.

Interpreting the Stamets Stack Protocol

The Stamets Stack Protocol, put forward by mycologist Paul Stamets, suggests dosing for four consecutive days, followed by a three-day break. This protocol is distinct due to the incorporation of supplements like Lion’s Mane mushroom and Niacin.

Lion’s Mane is appreciated for its potential to stimulate neurogenesis, while Niacin is added to enhance absorption. Like the Fadiman Protocol, this regimen is sustained for 4 to 10 weeks. The combination of substances in the Stamets Stack is designed to boost cognitive function and improve overall brain health.

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