Whether you are a new or experienced microdoser, you have likely at some point wondered "what is the best microdosing protocol to follow?". The short answer is that there is no one "best microdosing protocol" as different protocols are used for different purposes with varying outcomes across different individuals.
If you are microdosing for a specific purpose like seeking relief from mental health conditions, headaches, or ADHD, it is best to consult a microdosing expert for a personalized microdosing protocol or at the very least a standard protocol recommendation.
However, if you are microdosing for creativity, inspiration, and overall optimization, experimenting with different protocol options is a wonderful way of exploring your personal relationship and connection with psychedelics. In fact, I consider it a right of passage of sorts and an invitation to deepening presence, embodiment, and mindfulness within the microdosing practice.
What is the right dose for microdosing?
Microdosing protocols are designed to provide guidance on the dosing schedule and not so much a specific dosage or stacking practice (stacking refers to the practice of adding other ingredients to enhance the effects of the microdose). Generally speaking, microdosing involves taking anywhere from 2-10% of the full dose. This dose is small enough not to cause any impairment and allows the practitioner to go about their standard daily activities without difficulty. In my practice, I predominantly work with 90-120mg of psilocybin mushrooms and occasionally larger doses of up to 300mg for specific purposes. I have found that smaller doses often produce the most profound and lasting results.
It is important to note that all microdosing protocols almost always include an "off-cycle" or a period of rest, often 2-4 weeks, to maintain efficacy and avoid developing a tolerance to the substance. This period also triggers natural neurotransmitter production in the brain and is highly likely responsible for the lingering effects of the practice long after the practitioner has seized dosing.
Here are the most effective microdosing protocols to explore:
The Fadiman Protocol
The Fadiman protocol also referred to as "the beginner's protocol" is the most popular microdosing protocol. Named after Dr. James Fadimen, also known as "The Father of Microdosing" this protocol was initially developed for microdosing LSD but has since been adopted for psilocybin as well.
The Stamets Protocol
The Stamets Protocol also called the "Stamets Stack" is a popular magic mushroom microdosing protocol developed by a renowned mycologist and medicinal mushroom advocate, Paul Stamets. He was the first to introduce the practice of stacking psilocybin mushrooms with other ingredients in an effort to enhance and prolong the effects of microdosing.
The Stamets Stack combines psilocybin mushrooms with Lion's Mane mushrooms (a popular functional mushroom revered for its effects on stress modulation and cognitive enhancements), and Niacin (vitamin B3) which is reported to enhance the absorption of psilocybin.
The Stamets Protocol is especially a great fit for anyone seeking to enhance cognitive performance.
Every Other Day Protocol
The Every Other Day Protocol was introduced by the Miccrodosing Institute in the Netherlands. This protocol is optimal for those seeking help for specific mental health conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, cluster headaches, and migraines.
Due to the high efficacy of this protocol, it is recommended to only engage with this protocol under the supervision of a microdosing expert and only in very low doses. If you are microdosing for mental health, do not experiment on your own! Consult your doctor, health professional, and a microdosing expert to ensure safety and efficacy. Schedule a consultation with me today to explore this option for your mental health goals.
Please note that as always, this blog is meant for educational purposes and not medical advice. If you are diagnosed with a mental health condition, make sure to consult your doctor before microdosing and never stop taking prescriptions without your doctor's knowledge.
The 2:1 Protocol
The 2:1 Protocol is a variation of the Every Other Day Protocol but isn't a widely known protocol. This is the most recommended protocol in my Mental Health Integrative Medicine practice. When stacked with a personalized supplemental regimen, somatic practices, and specific lifestyle changes, I have found this protocol (in very small doses) to be highly supportive for clients who suffer from PTSD.
Two Day A Week Protocol
The Two Days A Week Protocol is designed for anyone who would like to dose on specific days of the week to allow for more control over one's schedule and opportunities to pair specific activities with microdosing like creative sessions and time in nature.
This protocol involves taking a microdose on two specific days of the week with at least one "no dosing" day in between.
Intuitive Microdosing
Intuitive Microdosing is a non-regimented approach to microdosing where the practitioner picks their dosing days intuitively. The only requirement is to allow a minimum of one "no dosing" day in between active dosing days. This practice is optimal for experienced microdosers who have completed a couple of rounds of regimented protocols and are seeking a more relaxed and intuitive approach to deepen their practice.
To pick the optimal protocol for your specific needs, consider the following:
Microdosing for mental health? Consult a microdosing expert
Microdosing for creativity and flow? Start with the Fadiman Protocol and continue exploring until you find the one that best suits your needs
Want to pair microdosing with specific activities like work or creative sessions? Pick the Two Days A Week Protocol!
Been microdosing for a while and looking to explore new dimensions of the practice? Try Intuitive Microdosing!
Happy Microdosing!!
