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Microdosing vs. Macrodosing

Updated: Dec 27, 2024


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The growing interest in psychedelics has led to the increasing popularity of two distinct approaches: microdosing and macrodosing. These methods differ vastly in their goals, effects, and outcomes and whether you are considering microdosing to enhance daily performance or macrodosing to experience a deeper level of consciousness, it is important to understand the psychological, physical, and mental effects of each approach.


This article aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of both experiences highlighting their potential benefits, risks, and considerations.


We do not advocate one form of dosing over another nor do we recommend any one particular type of substance. We kindly remind you that this article is purely for educational purposes. We advice you to conduct your own research and talk to your designated healthcare professional if you're considering the use of psychedelic substances.


What is Microdosing?

Microdosing refers to the practice of taking very small, sub-perceptual amounts of psychedelic substances—typically about 1/10th to 1/20th of a full (macrodose) quantity. Unlike a traditional hallucinogenic experience, microdosing does not induce the powerful sensory distortions or ‘trips’ associated with higher doses, but rather enhances cognitive and emotional processes in subtle ways.


Psychedelics commonly microdosed include:

  • Psilocybin (magic mushrooms)

  • LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide)

  • MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine)

  • Ayahuasca

  • Cannabis (CBD and THC variations)


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Psychological Effects of Microdosing

Microdosing is believed to have profound psychological benefits, though most of the evidence remains anecdotal or based on preliminary studies. The practice is widely reported to help with:

  • Mood Enhancement: Users frequently describe feeling lighter, happier, and more emotionally stable.

  • Creativity and Problem-Solving: Enhanced creative and divergent thinking—leading to breakthroughs in personal and professional projects.

  • Work Performance: Enhanced focus, productivity, and efficiency, especially in tasks requiring sustained attention or creative solutions.


While the potential for using microdosing to treat depression, PTSD, and addiction is promising, much of this remains anecdotal, and more research is needed.


Potential Drawbacks of Microdosing:

One key concern is the potential for psychological dependence.


For individuals who struggle with mental health or addiction, the desire to constantly feel better through microdosing might create an unhealthy reliance on the substance without addressing the root causes of their distress. Early studies also offer mixed results. Some users report improvements in mood and well-being while others experience heightened anxiety or cognitive impairments.


For individuals with underlying mental health issues, microdosing should be approached with caution. More research is needed to determine the long-term effects, both positive and negative.


Physical Effects of Microdosing

Because microdosing involves such small amounts of a psychedelic substance, its physical effects tend to be minimal. However, some users report:

  • Subtle boosts in energy levels

  • Heightened connection with their bodies

  • Reduced muscle tension and increased relaxation.

  • No Major Sensory Distortions: Since the dose is sub-perceptual, there are no significant alterations in visual or auditory senses, keeping the user grounded in reality.


Mental Effects of Microdosing

Mentally, microdosing appears to improve emotional and cognitive processing. Users frequently describe:

  • Improved mental clarity, feeling more present in daily life, greater emotional awareness.

  • Reduced habitual negative thinking, particularly in the context depression and anxiety.

  • Improved emotional stability in how they respond more calmly to stressors.


What is Macrodosing?

Macrodosing refers to taking a full or "normal" dose of a psychedelic substance, often leading to intense hallucinogenic experiences, profound emotional shifts, and deep introspection. Unlike microdosing, macrodosing can significantly alter one’s perception of reality, leading to what many describe as spiritual or transformative experiences.


Substances like psilocybin, LSD, ayahuasca, and DMT are frequently used for macrodosing.


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Psychological Effects of Macrodosing

The psychological effects of macrodosing are often dramatic:

  • Ego Dissolution: a sense of merging with the environment or universe, leading to a feeling of interconnectedness and a profound shift to life's meaning and perspective on individual purpose.

  • Emotional Catharsis: can help individuals confront repressed emotions and unresolved trauma in cathartic or healing manners.

  • Increased Sense of Meaning: feelings of euphoria, awe, and a deeper connection to the world around can be appreciated which lead to long-term shifts in personal values, belief systems, and life goals.


Therapeutic Benefits of Macrodosing:

Macrodosing is being studied in clinical settings to treat mental health conditions such as:

  • PTSD: Studies suggest that macrodosing in a controlled therapeutic environment can help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce PTSD symptoms.

  • Addiction: Shown promise in helping to overcome substance abuse by shifting thought patterns and breaking habitual negative thought/behavioral cycles.

  • Anxiety and Depression: Offers new perspectives on entrenched thought patterns.


Physical Effects of Macrodosing

Macrodosing has more pronounced physical effects than microdosing and includes:

  • Altered Sensory Perception: Visual and auditory distortions are the hallmark of a traditional psychedelic macro-dose trip. Many users report seeing vivid patterns, hearing sounds differently, or experiencing synesthesia, where they might "see" sounds or "hear" colors.

  • Nausea or Discomfort: The initial onset of macrodosing may induce nausea or dizziness, particularly with substances like ayahuasca or psilocybin. This physical discomfort often subsides as the experience deepens.

  • Loss of Physical Coordination: Users may feel disoriented or clumsy due to the powerful effects on perception and motor control. It is advisable to remain in a safe, controlled environment when macrodosing.


Mental Effects of Macrodosing

The mental impact of macrodosing can be profound, potentially leading to long-term shifts in thinking and behavior:

  • Deep Introspection: Macrodosing allows individuals to explore the depths of their consciousness, often leading to insights about their relationships, past traumas, or personal goals.

  • Breaking Thought Patterns: Psychedelics at full doses can disrupt entrenched patterns of thinking, offering a chance for cognitive "reset." This is especially useful for individuals with mental health issues such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or depression.

  • Therapeutic Breakthroughs: Macrodosing in a therapeutic setting can result in breakthroughs that traditional therapy might take years to achieve, making it a promising tool in the treatment of mental health disorders.


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Microdosing vs. Macrodosing: Which Path is Right for You?

When deciding between microdosing and macrodosing, the choice depends on your goals, health, and readiness for the experiences each path offers.


Here's a comparison to help you decide:

Factor

Microdosing

Macrodosing

Purpose

Subtle mood enhancement, creativity, work performance

Deep emotional, spiritual, or psychological change

Frequency of Use

Regular, ongoing (e.g., every 3 days)

Infrequent, often with significant preparation

Risk Level

Low, with minimal physical side effects

Higher risk, especially for those with mental health issues

Effects

Subtle, cumulative over time

Intense, profound shifts in perception and thinking

Accessibility

More accessible for everyday use

Requires significant preparation and safe environment

Risks and Cautions

Whether you choose to microdose or macrodose, it’s important to understand the risks:

  • Addiction Potential: Microdosing may lead to psychological dependency, especially for individuals using it as a crutch for mental health without addressing deeper issues.

  • Mental Health Concerns: Macrodosing can trigger latent mental health disorders such as psychosis, and should be approached with caution for those with a history of mental illness. Microdosing, while less intense, may still cause anxiety or exacerbate underlying conditions.

  • Lack of Research: Despite the promising benefits, psychedelics remain under-researched. Much of the evidence is anecdotal, and the long-term effects are still not fully understood.


Conclusion

Both microdosing and macrodosing offer unique experiences and potential benefits, but they cater to different needs and outcomes.


Microdosing allows for subtle enhancements to daily life, such as improved mood, creativity, and focus, without overwhelming perceptual changes.


Macrodosing, on the other hand, offers a more profound, sometimes life-altering experience, capable of catalyzing deep emotional healing and spiritual insight.


The choice is highly personal and should be made with care, considering your mental health, goals, and environment. So no matter what you pick we remind you to consult with a trusted medical professional and/or a trusted psychiatric therapist to ensure you're on the right track.


Thank you and safe travels.


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