Microdosing techniques keep getting better
Fresh investigators have elevated the microdosing techniques inspired by Hoffman and Dr. Fadiman to a new level. One of these researchers, mycology expert Paul Stamets, firmly believes in the world-changing potential of mushrooms, especially when utilized in microdosing. Stamets has gone on to patent more than 20 technologies centered around mushrooms.
Referred to as the "Stamets Stack," Paul introduces a method that incorporates psilocybin along with two essential elements:
Lion’s Mane Mushroom: Known for its potential cognitive support, Lion's Mane mushrooms have been traditionally used to promote mental clarity and focus. They are often associated with supporting brain health and may have neuroprotective properties.
Niacin (vitamin B3): Niacin, particularly in its nicotinic acid form, has been associated with cognitive function and brain health. When combined with Lion's Mane, which is also known for its potential cognitive support, niacin may complement the cognitive benefits of the mushroom extract.
Each element in the stack offers unique properties that, when combined, are believed to provide comprehensive support for overall health and well-being.
Here are ideal dosages for a 75-kilo individual:
- Psilocybin mushrooms: 0.1-0.3 grams
- Lion’s Mane mushrooms: 5 to 20 grams*
- Niacin: 100 to 200 milligrams
* For 1% concentration Lion’s Mane
The Stamets Stack is designed to be taken in cycles of 4 days on, 3 days off:
- Days 1-4: Stack days
- Days 5-7: Off days
- Days 8-11: Stack days
- Days 12-14: Off days
These weekly cycles are meant to be placed within larger monthly cycles:
- Weeks 1-4: Stack weeks
- Weeks 5-6: Rest weeks
- Weeks 7-10: Stack weeks
- Weeks 11-12: Rest weeks
Psilocybin can be ‘stacked’ with other nootropics
Psilocybin can be stacked with other plant-powered nootropics for even better effects.
When we look at the extra parts of the Stamets Stack, Stamets highlights that when psilocybin and Lion's Mane mushroom are combined, they create a combined effect that helps with the growth of new brain cells. In Stamets' simple comparison, if psilocybin is 1, niacin is 1, and Lion's Mane is 1, when you add them together, their total impact is like 5.
Let's break it down with niacin—it's not just there in your microdosing routine; it's actually helping keep things on the "micro" side. How? Well, it has a built-in safety feature: take more than 50mg, and you might experience flushing. And no, we're not talking about adding a rosy tint to your cheeks. Flushing involves tingling and burning sensations in your arms, face, and neck because your blood vessels are dilating more than usual. So, if you're using a psilocybin + niacin combo, you probably don't want to go overboard on the niacin!
Now, considering Lion's Mane, it functions as a potent enhancer in this context. Despite being a non-psychedelic mushroom, Lion's Mane has enjoyed prominence in Traditional Chinese Medicine and various ancient healing traditions, valued for its potential health benefits. It acts as a catalyst, augmenting the effects of psilocybin and transforming your microdosing journey into a potent source of positive impact.
In a positive development, Paul Stamets asserts that Lion's Mane not only complements but also enhances the already remarkable effects of psilocybin, and this synergy is mutually reinforcing. Adding a more technical layer to this understanding, a 2021 study co-authored by Stamets delves into the intricate dynamics of this phenomenon.
The combination of ancient knowledge, current scientific research, and the innovative efforts of people like Stamets highlights the exciting potential that exists when traditional practices and modern knowledge come together.