Micro Dosing Mushrooms: 6 ways this practice increases neuroplasticity
With psychedelic research pouring out of esteemed universities like Johns Hopkins, Yale, and Stanford…. plant medicine work is surging in popularity. And for good reason!
Users are reporting huge benefits to their mood, mental health, focus and overall being!
Preliminary research suggests that because micro dosing increases neuroplasticity users are more able to rewire the brain- resulting in lasting changes post microdose protocol.
What exactly is Micro Dosing you ask?
The concept has gained popularity in recent years as individuals seek alternative approaches to mental health, biohacking, self discovery, and cognitive enhancement.
Micro dosing is the practice of consuming small, sub-perceptual doses of any psychedelic- though this practice is most commonly paired with psilocybin. The doses are typically about 1/10th- 1/20th of a full dose.
The goal is to experience the benefit of increasing neuroplasticity without the psychedelic effects being consciously noticeable.
Because the dose is sub perceptual it means that one can reap the neurological benefits and while still engaging with the daily demands of life- like driving, and going to work.
Micro dosing is often done on a regular schedule, such as 5 days on and 2 days off, or every three days. This differs from the occasional, macro dose of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes.
The most important part of a micro dosing protocol is integration! While the brain is neoplastic, intentional integration practices can create new neural pathways resulting in lasting changes in the user's life.
So… How does Micro Dosing increase neuroplasticity?!
Micro dosing is thought to influence neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections. There are several hypotheses about how this practice may enhance neuroplasticity:
Serotonin Receptor Modulation: Psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin primarily affect serotonin receptors in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter associated with mood, cognition, and learning. By modulating serotonin receptors, micro dosing may influence the balance of neurotransmitters, potentially contributing to changes in neural plasticity.
Increased Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF): Some studies suggest that psychedelics may lead to an increase in BDNF, a protein crucial for the growth, survival, and differentiation of neurons. Elevated levels of BDNF are associated with enhanced synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis, the formation of new neurons.
Enhanced Connectivity in the Default Mode Network (DMN): The default mode network is a brain network involved in self-referential thinking and mind-wandering. Psychedelics, even in sub-perceptual doses, may alter the connectivity and activity of the DMN. This shift in network dynamics is hypothesized to promote flexible thinking and creativity.
Modulation of Glutamate Transmission: Psychedelics can influence the glutamate system, a major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. Modulation of glutamate transmission may play a role in synaptic plasticity, impacting learning and memory.
Reduction of Inflammatory Processes: Some researchers propose that psychedelics may have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially influencing neuroplasticity. Chronic inflammation is associated with neurodegenerative diseases, and reducing inflammation may support a healthier, more adaptable brain.
Altered Perceptions and Cognitive Flexibility: Microdosing is often associated with enhanced creativity and cognitive flexibility. By providing individuals with different perspectives and approaches to problem-solving, microdosing may indirectly contribute to the development of new neural pathways.
