Have you ever heard of microdosing? While some of you rely on coffee or vitamins for a daily boost, others turn to microdosing hallucinogenic substances. But what do we know about the effects of this practice? What does science say? What does the law say? We'll tell you all about it.
Microdosing involves consuming minute quantities of hallucinogenic substances such as LSD or psilocybin (found in certain mushrooms). This is enough to experience some of the effects, but far less than what is needed to trigger a trip. For those who practice it, consuming one- twentieth to one-tenth of a hallucinogenic dose prevents intoxication while providing benefits to mood or cognitive performance.
Psilocybin, an amplifier of emotions
Psilocybin and psilocin are the active ingredients in hallucinogenic mushrooms and produce effects similar to those of LSD. Ingesting them can amplify emotions, sharpen the senses, and give the user a feeling of lucidity.
These substances can also cause hallucinations, potentially with negative effects. Psychologically , consuming magic mushrooms can generate anxiety, even paranoia accompanied by risky behaviors, especially in individuals with pre-existing psychiatric disorders. Physically , users may experience sweating, numbness, dry mouth, nausea, as well as seizures, urinary incontinence, and a spike in blood pressure.
However, some believers attribute multiple benefits to "microdosed" psilocybin consumption, including a feeling of tranquility, improved concentration and creativity, a reduction in anxiety and depressive disorders, and support in the fight against certain addictions such as cigarettes.
What does science say?
Opinions are divided. The reported positive effects have not yet been scientifically confirmed, although several researchers are interested in and continue to study the health benefits of psilocybin. Among them, Mark Haden, research director at Psygen and assistant professor at the University of British Columbia's School of Public Health, believes that “Psychedelic products could be more effective and have fewer side effects than antidepressants . Unlike traditional medications, psilocybin helps develop inner strength to overcome difficulties and allows one to move forward with a different perspective.”
Nevertheless, scientific studies on the effects of microdosing remain rare and are inconclusive.
A study conducted by Imperial College in Great Britain in January 2021 also suggests that microdosing is no more effective than a placebo . The positive opinions gathered to date come primarily from users.
And what about the law in all of this?
The production, sale, and consumption of magic mushrooms for recreational purposes are illegal. However, since January 2022, Canadian physicians can request access to psilocybin and MDMA (the active ingredient in ecstasy) through Health Canada's Special Access Programme in cases of urgent patient treatment .
Possessing them without a license, prescription, or exemption from the Federal Department of Health can lead to a prison sentence of up to 3 years.
MushUp coffees: the magic of our adaptogenic mushrooms
Not all mushrooms are hallucinogenic, and many species have positive effects on human health. Mushrooms such as Mycetes and Fungi possess numerous beneficial properties for humans, as well as for the biological balance of our forests. Medicinal benefits are the only magical powers attributed to our MushUp mushrooms . Since they are not hallucinogenic at all, you won't find psilocybin in our coffees. Depending on the range you choose, each cup of coffee will have antioxidant, anticancer, stimulating, or calming properties, or will contribute to strengthening your immune system.
While the microdosing of magic mushrooms still needs to be proven, the numerous benefits of Mushup adaptogenic mushrooms are well established. Discover them in our various coffee ranges .
