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An Examination of Microdose Mushrooms Utilized for Persistent Pain Alleviation: A Case Series

Psilocybin, a psychoactive compound found in magic mushrooms, is commonly used recreationally to induce feelings of euphoria and hallucinations. 

In addition to its mind-altering properties, research has assessed the potential benefits of this compound for chronic pain relief. 

This article delves into a case study that investigates the possible effectiveness of microdosing mushrooms in alleviating chronic pain.

Key Takeaways:

• Microdosing mushrooms could offer both immediate and sustained relief from pain.
• Psilocybin microdosing is often free of side effects when compared to conventional pain medications, especially when taken in small quantities.
• Psilocybin interacts with the serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptors, which may help alleviate pain and other conditions.

The Study

The research titled “Microdosing Psilocybin for Chronic Pain: A Case Series” carried out by Dr. Matthew Lyes and his team from the Division of Pain Medicine in the Department of Anesthesiology at the University of California, San Diego, revolved around three patients who self-administered low doses of psilocybin to treat their chronic pain symptoms.

Three Patients, One Result – Chronic Pain Relief

Patient # 1

Case Study: Subject #2

Case Study: Subject # 3

Insight into Pain Management with Psilocybin

Chronic physical and visceral pain can reinforce certain neural pathways due to peripheral and central sensitization, resulting in a prolonged experience of pain both physically and emotionally. Psychedelics like psilocybin target 5-HT2A receptors, potentially resetting brain regions associated with neuropathic conditions.

One patient reported pain relief lasting for several weeks. This suggests that by stimulating the 5-HT2A receptors directly, there may be a central regulation of pain perception and synaptic adaptability.

Possible Side Effects of Psilocybin Compared to Traditional Pain Relievers

Potential Areas for Future Psilocybin Research

The research team, following an examination of three individual experiences, identified certain areas for future study due to their potential benefits.

1. Small doses of psilocybin might provide immediate and possibly long-lasting relief from neuropathic pain, without leading to physical tolerance or addiction.
2. Examine the outcomes of various treatment approaches in combination with psilocybin. For example, patient #3 observed an improved analgesic effect when psilocybin was used in conjunction with physical therapy.
3. Small doses of psilocybin may offer pain relief even without psychotherapy, as evidenced in this case study. The researchers propose that incorporating therapeutic guidance could potentially enhance or extend the therapeutic effects.

Study Limitations

Despite the encouraging findings in the patients, it’s important to acknowledge the limitations identified in the study.

• The small sample size may not effectively represent all individuals dealing with neuropathic pain.
• The study did not include any subjects who did not respond to psilocybin.
• No assessments were conducted before and after the treatment to evaluate the impact of psilocybin on psychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety.
• Most of the data was self-reported by the subjects.
• The interviewer’s presence and potential bias related to psilocybin could have influenced the participants’ responses.
• The study did not investigate the effect of the placebo effect.
• The study did not quantify the psilocybin content in each mushroom.

Microdosing Mushrooms: An Overview

In this particular study, patient #1 and patient #2 consumed a microdose of psilocybin, which was sourced from dried mushrooms and converted into a powdered form. On the other hand, patient #3 chose to blend it with chocolate. There is a wide range of products specifically designed for psilocybin microdosing, and we have curated a list of some of them for you.

Dried Mushroom Varieties

Although the study did not mention the exact strain used, the following strain is often recommended for those who are new to this.

• Golden Teacher: This is one of the most prevalent and popular strains of psychedelic mushrooms.
• Amazonian Cubensis: This strain is known for its beginner-friendly nature. It is believed to offer cognitive advantages.
• Cambodian: Microdosing with Cambodian cubensis mushrooms can potentially improve focus, social awareness, and mood.

Microdose Capsule Options

• Euphoria Psychedelics – Micro Calm Capsules: This formulation combines Ashwagandha, Reishi, CBD, Valerian root, and Psilocybin Mushrooms, ingredients that are scientifically proven to mitigate anxiety and stress.
• Ground Sounds – Microdose Capsules – Champion Lover: This unique blend provides three dosage options: 50mg, 100mg, or 250mg of pure psilocybin, blended with reishi, cacao, cordyceps, and maca.
• Kind Stranger – Brighten Capsules 250mg: These capsules feature the Golden Teacher strain, which is renowned for fostering clear thinking, enhanced creativity, and increased focus.

Using Psilocybin for Pain Relief

While the scientific exploration of mushrooms’ pain-relieving properties is still in progress, anecdotal reports and preliminary small-scale studies offer promising results.

These instances underscore the importance of additional research into the potential benefits of psilocybin, class=”wp-block-list”>

Especially, this is relevant for the management of chronic pain.

Before the wide recognition of psilocybin as a pain reliever, the hopeful testimonies from the case study offer optimism to those dealing with chronic pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the effects of microdosing psilocybin?

Psilocybin primarily activates a serotonin receptor known as “5-HT2A” in the prefrontal cortex, leading to two primary outcomes:

1. Generation of “Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor” (BDNF)
2. Boost in “Glutamate” transmission 

Besides, psychedelics foster connections between brain areas that usually do not interact. This unique connectivity is a result of psychedelics’ ability to decrease the activity of the “Default Mode Network” (DMN), which is tied to various cognitive functions like daydreaming, introspection, and reflecting on the past and future. 

What is the most notable benefit of microdosing mushrooms?

Microdosing may enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and concentration. Its most extensively researched benefit is its effect on mental health.

In November 2022, COMPASS Pathways, a mental health company, disclosed the findings of their comprehensive phase 2b trial, a randomized and double-blind study. Their investigation indicated that a single dose of psilocybin resulted in significant reductions in depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. Participants who received a higher dose of 25 milligrams showed a prolonged antidepressant response at the twelve-week follow-up.

A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal asserted that psilocybin outperforms traditional antidepressant treatments. 

How do you determine your dosage?

Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If the expected effects are not met, you can slowly increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you reach your preferred level.

Those who have previously used psychotropic substances may need to increase the dosage to 0.5 grams to get the desired effects. 

What preparations should be made before taking mushrooms?

1. Set aside time to understand why you’re microdosing on a specific day. 
2. Take a moment to self-reflect and engage with your current emotional or mental state. Identify the emotions or mindset that you believe will be beneficial for the day ahead.
3. Once your goals are clearly outlined, write them down. Using affirmations to frame your objectives can be an impactful technique to support your continuous growth.
4. Direct your focus towards the experience you want to create, rather than what you wish to evade. 
5. Take it on an empty stomach, preferably an hour before your first meal of the day.