This question frequently arises among both beginners and experienced microdosers: “How often should I microdose?” A microdosing protocol entails a carefully crafted schedule outlining the timing and duration of your microdosing sessions.
Multiple approaches exist for determining this frequency. Presently, there are six distinct dosing schedules—referred to as microdosing protocols—with the Fadiman and Stamets protocols being the most renowned. I am delighted to share their findings with you, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of your microdosing journey.
1. The Fadiman Method: A Comprehensive Microdosing Protocol
The “Fadiman Microdosing Protocol: An Ideal Starting Point for Novices”
If you’re new to microdosing or have limited experience, James Fadiman’s protocol presents a favorable introduction to your initial microdosing experiment. This protocol follows a three-day cycle that is repeated for a duration of four to eight weeks.
On the first day, you engage in microdosing, while the subsequent day serves as a transition period where you may still perceive residual effects from the microdose. The third day is a normal day, allowing you to reflect upon the disparity between a microdose day and a day without noticeable effects. Commit to this microdosing schedule for at least one month to determine its suitability for you.
Day 1: Microdosing Day
Day 2: Transition Day
Day 3: Normal Day / Reflection Day
Day 4: Microdosing Day
Day 5: Continue the Cycle for 1 to 2 Months
Reset: 2 to 4 Weeks of Rest (No Microdosing)
2. The ‘Two Days a Week’ Regimen: A Stabilized Microdosing Protocol
The Fixed Microdosing Protocol: Tailored for Consistency
While the Fadiman protocol may only suit some due to its varying microdosing days each week, there is an alternative for those seeking stability. Simply select two specific days of the week that align best with your schedule.
Day 1: Microdosing day of your choice
Day 2: Transition day
Day 3: Normal day / Reflection day
Day 4: Microdosing day of your choice, with at least a minimum of 1 day gap between microdosing days
Continue this cycle for 1 to 2 months, allowing ample time to observe the effects. Following the cycle, take a reset period of 2 to 4 weeks, abstaining from microdosing. This fixed microdosing protocol provides a consistent framework tailored to your preferences and needs.
3. The Alternating-Day Microdosing Protocol: Optimized for Medical Purposes”
Designed specifically for individuals utilizing microdosing for medical reasons such as depression, (social) anxiety, ADHD, ADD, migraines, or cluster headaches, the “Every Other Day” protocol offers potential benefits.
Day 1: Microdosing day
Day 2: Transition day
Day 3: Microdosing day
Day 4: Transition day / Transition day
Continue this cycle for a duration of 1 to 2 months to assess its effectiveness. Following the cycle, allocate a reset period of 2 to 4 weeks, refraining from microdosing. This alternating-day microdosing protocol is well-suited for those seeking therapeutic relief and can be a valuable approach to address specific medical conditions.
4. The Intuitive Microdosing Approach: Trusting Your Inner Guidance
Embracing the intuitive aspect of microdosing, this protocol encourages individuals to rely on their inner guidance when determining their microdosing schedule.
Rather than adhering to a strict set of guidelines, the intuitive microdosing approach allows you to listen to your body and mind, making informed decisions based on your personal needs and experiences.
This personalized protocol empowers you to determine the frequency and timing of your microdosing sessions, ensuring they align with your intuition and desired outcomes. By embracing this intuitive microdosing journey, you can cultivate a deeper understanding of your unique response to microdosing substances and tailor your practice to best suit your individual requirements.
5. The Lion’s Mane Stacking Protocol by Paul Stamets
The Paul Stamets’ Stacking Lion’s Mane Protocol: Unleashing Neuroplasticity
Paul Stamets, a world-renowned American mycologist, author, and advocate of medicinal mushrooms, has devised and tested a groundbreaking microdosing formula. According to Stamets, combining a low dose of psilocybin, a niacin flush (vitamin B3), and the extraordinary mushroom known as lion’s mane can have a long-lasting, positive impact on brain cell behavior and growth (neuroplasticity). This amalgamation of substances is referred to as “stacking.”
The protocol specifically focuses on the combination of lion’s mane, psilocybin, and vitamin B3/niacin. To facilitate your journey with this method, we offer a convenient ‘Stamets Stack kit’ that includes all the necessary components.
For optimal efficacy, adhering to the ‘4 days on, 3 days off’ schedule (Stamets protocol) is recommended:
Days 1 through 4: Stacking Lion’s mane, psilocybin, and niacin
Days 5 to 7: Rest or Lion’s mane only
Days 1 through 4: Stacking Lion’s mane, psilocybin, and niacin
Days 5 through 7: Rest or Lion’s mane only
Continue this cycle for up to one month, harnessing the potential benefits of neuroplasticity. Following the cycle, allow for a reset period of 2 to 4 weeks, refraining from microdosing. The Paul Stamets’ Stacking Lion’s Mane Protocol offers a promising approach to unlocking the transformative power of neuroplasticity for cognitive growth and well-being.
6. The Nightcap Microdosing Protocol: Enhancing Sleep and Restoration
For individuals who encounter fatigue while microdosing truffles or mushrooms, the Nightcap Microdosing Protocol offers a potential solution. Among this group, many individuals find that taking truffles or mushrooms every other day before bedtime promotes a restful night’s sleep. It is most effective when the microdose is consumed at least one to a few hours before going to bed. Those who adhere to this protocol often report experiencing vivid dreams and waking up refreshed with a clear mind.
Additionally, microdosing extracts of the B. caapi vine and the San Pedro cactus can also follow this approach. It is recommended to follow this protocol for a maximum of 1 to 2 months. Following this period, allow your body and mind to reset by taking a 2 to 4-week rest.
Day 1: Microdosing ‘nightcap’ evening
Day 2: Transition day
Day 3: Microdosing ‘nightcap’ evening
Day 4: Transition day
Continue this cycle for 1 to 2 months to maximize the benefits of enhanced sleep and mental clarity. Subsequently, ensure a reset period of 2 to 4 weeks without microdosing, allowing your system to regain balance. The Nightcap Microdosing Protocol is tailored to optimize your sleep quality and rejuvenation.
Discovering Your Ideal Microdosing Protocol: A Journey of Self-Exploration
Determining the most suitable microdosing protocol for your needs is a personal process that requires self-examination. It is advisable to dedicate at least one to two months to a single protocol, rather than continuously switching between different approaches. This approach allows for a more meaningful exploration of the protocol’s effects. Our team recommends starting with either the ‘Fadiman protocol’ or the ‘2 days a week protocol’ as they provide a solid foundation for understanding the potential benefits of microdosing. These protocols offer a distinct contrast between microdosing days and normal days, with the break in between serving as a valuable reflection period.
If you require guidance in making decisions such as selecting the most suitable substance, determining an appropriate protocol based on your life situation, finding your optimal dose (sweet spot), or maximizing the benefits of your microdosing experience, our team is here to support you. We can provide expert advice and insights tailored to your specific needs. Embark on this journey of self-discovery to unlock the full potential of microdosing and make informed choices that align with your unique goals and circumstances.
