Updated 06/06/2025, reading time approx. 6 minutes
What do psychedelics do to the human mind?
The honest answer is: no one knows exactly. In fact, science is only at the beginning of the exploration of psychedelics. What we do already know is that psychedelics reduce activity in a very important brain network, the default mode network.
The default mode network is involved in everything related to our sense of self, thought processes and self-reflection; it is where the "ego" resides and where you derive your identity and self-image. In people suffering from depression, anxiety disorder, stress, burnout, adhd/add or addiction, the default mode network is often disturbed and overactive.
Because psychedelics reduce the activity of the default mode network you get more peace within yourself. Worrying, excessive thinking and deep-rooted thought patterns fade away, it becomes quieter in your thought world. You get more space in your head, suddenly start seeing things more clearly, you become more aware of yourself and it becomes easier to manifest changes in your life, such as smoking less, living healthier, taking up a study or finishing a project.
Less likely to be off balance
Psychedelics also decrease blood flow to the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is the brain area that regulates hormone levels and influences mood and stress.
The consequence of reduced blood flow is that "things don't affect you as much. You are less likely to become unbalanced, less likely to be irritable and more positive in responding to situations where you normally experience tension or negativity.
Brain scans show that under the influence of psychedelics, different brain areas cooperate better with each other and imbalance in the default mode network is reduced. More and different connections develop in the brain. This could explain why memories, emotions and thoughts that are inaccessible in normal life suddenly surface. It feels like doors are being opened to information that was previously invisible, or hidden.
These effects occur to a limited extent when you microdose.
How microdosing works: the effect of LSD on the brain
The difference between microdosing and 'macrodosing'
Macrodosing and microdosing are words related to consuming psychedelics. Macrodosing refers to taking a "normal" dose of psychedelics, where the user may experience intense hallucinations, euphoria and distortions of reality. Microdosing means consuming a fraction of a normal dose, usually 5-10% of a macro dose.
The differences between microdosing and consuming a normal (macro) dose:
- In microdosing, you only consume a very small amount. You do not "trip" or hallucinate and you are not overwhelmed with intense feelings when microdosing. You can function normally and do everything you normally do in your daily life (work, study, play sports, meet friends, and so on).
- When consuming a normal (macro) dose, you are "shot into the universe," so to speak, and you get to process many and sometimes very deep insights and information in a short period of time. With microdosing, the lessons and insights come in at a much more leisurely pace. You get more time to reflect on what the drug makes you see and feel. You get more time and space with microdosing to work on your goals and intentions.
- Macrodosing allows you to journey deeper and see further into yourself. With macrodosing, your subconscious becomes more accessible and the ego is temporarily sidelined. The feelings and insights can be intense. With macrodosing, there is a chance that you are not entirely in control.
- With macrodosing, you need a trip sitter or companion to take care of and monitor you during your trip. Microdosing you can easily do yourself at home. You don't need anyone or anything else for it.
- Preparations that are advised with macrodosing, such as a special diet or fasting, are not necessary with microdosing. Nor do you need to "recover" after a microdosing day, which is common with macrodosing.
- Microdosing is appropriate for most people. Not everyone is prepared for macrodosing. Macrodosing is (also) not suitable for people with mental illness, schizophrenia or (severe) disorders.
See also Is microdosing safe.
Do you already microdose and would like to macrodose as well? Then slowly increase the dose. Increase the dose in the first step by 25-50%. Do you like it, notice a lot of difference? Then add another 25% (try to feel this yourself). Repeat the increase as often as you feel necessary, but do not go over the limit of the amount of a normal full dose (depending on the drug, of course).
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Microdosing in practice
Before you start microdosing
If microdosing is new to you, it is wise to go through the following three steps.
The first step is doing "research. Listen or read some experience stories and/or short documentaries and interviews about microdosing. If you know a little more about microdosing, the chances of having a successful and positive experience become a lot better. You will know better what to expect and what not to expect and also learn how microdosing works in practice.
Furthermore, it is good to set goals or set an intention for your microdosing journey. By consciously setting goals, you are more likely to gain insights about them during microdosing. Common goals and intentions are: I am curious, I want more energy, I want more focus on work or study, I want less stress, I want to feel more positive, get rid of depression or sleep better.
The trickiest step in microdosing is finding the right dose, your "sweetspot. This is the amount that is right for you works best for you.
The first few times you microdose you may not notice anything at all, or you may notice too much. This may demotivate you, or make you feel that microdosing is not for you. If things aren't going as expected, don't give up too quickly! Gradually increase (or decrease) the dosage until you find the right dose.
Once you find the right dose, you'll quickly realize why so many people are excited about microdosing.
What schedule to follow?
In microdosing, you take a small amount of psychedelics over several weeks, on specific days. On other days, you take nothing. This way you prevent the development of tolerance (the process by which your body gets used to the substance, causing it to have less effect). So microdosing is done every few days and not every day.
To properly observe the effects that microdosing has on you, a set routine is recommended. Experts and experienced microdosers come up with roughly the same guideline. And that one assumes a 3-day cycle, which you follow for 8 to 10 weeks. You then take a microdose on day 1, not on days 2 and 3. On day 4 you take another microdose (and so on).
DAY 2: Transition day (not microdosing)
DAY 3: Normal day (not microdosing)
DAY 4: Microdosing day
DAY 5:....
Once you have gained some experience with microdosing, you can also intuitively follow your own schedule or routine. As long as you always take at least 1 rest day (with shrooms and truffles) and 2 rest days with (1P)LSD (the body takes a bit longer to break down LSD).
If you want to microdose (or: consume) in quicker succession, go to LSD/magic mushroom tolerance calculator to calculate how much you need to achieve the same effect as at your last intake.
To get the most out of your microdosing, it is recommended that you keep a diary. In it you record on each microdosing day the amount you took and the time of day. After your microdosing day, you can write down any insights and changes you observe as a reminder. In this way, over time you will gain a good understanding of your process and learn what dose works best for you.
Microdosing in daily life
Microdosing can be perfectly combined with work, studies, sports, social events and everything else you normally do in your daily life. However, if you are just starting out with microdosing, it is wise to do it the first few times on days when you have a little more rest, time and especially no obligations (day off, weekend, vacation).
If you give yourself time to get used to microdosing step by step, you will naturally learn to use it in such a way that it fits seamlessly into your daily life.
Learn more in the free microdosing guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How much do you take when you microdose?
Dosage for (1P)LSD
Microdosing with 1P-LSD is done a maximum of once every 4 days. Your body needs about 72 hours after ingestion to break down the (1P)LSD. If you take more LSD during that period, its effects will be less effective.A typical (1P)LSD 'microdose' dose is between 5 and 20 micrograms (a microgram is one-millionth of a gram). Depending on how much is microdosed, the effects can be enhanced or somewhat tempered until the perfect dose is found (also known as the 'sweet spot'). On average, people take 12 micrograms.
Dosage at Psilocybin
If you microdose with truffles, you take 0.7 to 1.5 grams. A normal dose of truffles (which you do get a trip experience from) is about 10 to 20 times as much. If you microdose with magic mushrooms, then it is recommended to take between 0.1 and 0.4 grams. If you have used magic mushrooms before then you could go a little closer to 0.4. If you haven't microdosed before, then take between 0.1 and 0.2 grams.Note:
The effect of psychedelics can be different from time to time and from person to person. The experience can be affected by what you ate, your mood, the environment and your physical and mental condition.Also read
Microdosing guide -
How do I find my sweet spot?
The ideal amount to microdose is just below what is called thethreshold. It is the threshold between noticeable and not (clearly) noticeable effects. This threshold is different for every person.
The goal of microdosing is to evoke subtle, sub-perceptual effects. If you feel no effects, consider increasing your dose slightly by 1 to 2 micrograms per microdosing day until you find the ideal "spot.
If you notice too much of it and don't like it, reduce your dosage.
You have found your "sweet spot" when you are able to do all the things you normally do in your daily life, such as work, sports, social activities. But you should also feel an increase in interaction with other people, more connection with yourself, the environment and nature, more energy and/or feel more in the 'now'.
Also read:
Microdosing guide
How does microdosing work
How to find your microdosing "sweet spot" | James Fadiman
How to findyourmicrodosing sweet spot -
What schedules (protocols) can I use for microdosing?
The two most well-known schemes are the Fadiman microdose protocol and the Stamets microdose protocol.
With both protocols, it is recommended to include a rest period of at least 2 weeks after a maximum of 4 weeks. This way you reset any built-up tolerance and you can integrate the experiences gained/lessons learned into your daily life.
More info:
Microdosing guide
Microdosing in practice
How does microdosing work?
Everything You Need To Know About Choosing A Microdosing Protocol.
A Guide On How to Microdose -
I don't notice any microdosing at all. How do I fix this?
The ideal amount to microdose is just below what is called thethreshold. This is the threshold between noticeable and not (clearly) noticeable effects. If you don't notice anything at all, then you may (probably) be taking too little.
Increase the dose until you feel you have reached a pleasant state where you can function normally in your daily life.The goal of microdosing is to evoke subtle, sub-perceptual effects. If you feel no effects, consider increasing your dose slightly by 1 to 2 micrograms per microdosing day until you find the ideal "spot.
Also read:
Microdosing guide
How does microdosing work?
How to find your microdosing "sweet spot" | James Fadiman
How to find your microdosing sweet spot -
What is the maximum amount of time I can microdose?
Microdosing is done for a maximum of 8 to 10 weeks in a row with (1P)LSD, or 4 weeks with Psilocybin. After that, take a rest period of at least 2 weeks.
The reason for pausing is to counteract the build-up of tolerance (becoming less sensitive, needing more and more). The receptors in your brain get a chance to "reset" themselves during the break, and in addition, during the break you have extensive time to reflect on microdosing and process impressions.
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Why should I include breaks in my microdosing regimen?
Microdosing is mainly a matter of less is more. Microdosing is done for a maximum of 8 to 10 weeks(LSD) or 4 weeks(psilocybin) in a row, after which you take a break of at least 2 weeks.
The point during rest breaks is to integrate the insights you have experienced during your microdosing journey into your life. The idea is to actively look back at what you experienced and learned after a period of microdosing. Take time to integrate the lessons.
Another reason to take rest breaks is to build up tolerance (becoming less sensitive, needing more and more). This gives the receptors in your brain a chance to "reset" themselves, and in addition, during the rest break you have extensive time to reflect on microdosing and process impressions.
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How long does 1P-LSD keep and how do I best store 1P-LSD?
Shelf life 1P-LSD seals
Store 1P-LSD seals in a cool and dry place. The stability of 1P-LSD lasts up to 2 years, after which the effect decreases.Shelf life microdose spray
From the time you put the seals in a microdose bottle, it will keep for about 6 months. Store the bottle in a cool, preferably dark place. -
Can I drive a car while microdosing?
Like LSD, magic mushrooms and truffles contain psychoactive compounds that can affect perception, mood and cognitive processes, even at small doses. Although the effects in microdosing are very subtle, they can sometimes lead to (temporary, intermittent) decreased alertness, absent-mindedness and reduced reaction times - all critical factors during activities such as driving a car or operating a forklift.
We do not recommend driving on microdosing days when microdosing with psychedelics, and this is a little more especially true for people who have little or no experience with the effects of microdosing.
See also:
Driving and microdosing -
Can I use THC/CBD or smoke weed if I microdose?
Some people who microdose use THC or CBD (e.g., cannabis oil) or like to smoke cannabis. For some, it's a very pleasant combination; for others, it's not. Below are the potential benefits and risks of cohttps://microvibes.nl/wat-is-microdoseren/mbinatie THC/CBD (smoking weed, blowing weed, cannabis oil) and microdosing with LSD and psilocybin.
Benefits of combining with weed:
- (even) more creativity: Some people find that smoking pot before or after microdosing increases their creativity This is because both substances can alter your perception of reality and help you think outside the box.
- Amplified effects: Weed can amplify the effects of microdosing, making the experience more intense and potentially more transformative. This is especially beneficial for those seeking a deeper spiritual experience or a greater sense of connection.
- (even) less anxiety: Weed can have a calming effect and help counteract any anxiety or nervousness. This is especially beneficial for experienced THC users who are new to microdosing and/or who feel anxious or uncomfortable during a psychedelic experience.
- Pain relief: Weed is known as a potential pain reliever and can help relieve any physical pain or discomfort.
- (even) better mood: Both weed and psychedelics have shown that they can improve mood (mood). Combining the two can lead to an even greater sense of well-being and positivity.
Risks of combining microdosing with marijuana:
- Overwhelming effects: Combining marijuana and psychedelics can lead to an overwhelming experience, especially for people who have not had a psychedelic experience before.
- Anxiety and paranoia: Although marijuana can help with anxiety, in some cases it can also exacerbate these feelings. Combining with microdosing can increase the likelihood of experiencing anxiety or paranoia, especially if you are already prone to these feelings.
- Unpredictable effects: Everyone's body is different, so it is difficult to predict how the combination of microdosing and cannabis may affect an individual. Some people have a positive experience, while others experience negative side effects.
- Impaired judgment: Weed can impair your judgment and make it harder to make decisions or process information. This can be dangerous if you operate heavy machinery or drive under the influence of either substance.
- Negative interactions: If you are on medication or have underlying health problems, combining cannabis and psychedelics can lead to negative interactions or side effects.
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Can I drink alcohol while microdosing?
Microdosing and drinking alcohol is certainly possible, but it is not an ideal combination. In fact, alcohol can inhibit the effects of psychedelics. Too much alcohol and microdosing can alter your judgment and perception to the point where you can no longer properly experience and perceive the benefits of microdosing.
We recommend staying sober of alcohol during your microdosing days. You will experience the benefits of microdosing best then.
Also read:
Microdosing guide -
Can I combine different psychedelics/drugs during my microdosing journey?
All psychedelics are related to each other and have so-called cross-tolerance. If you want to start combining, get to know the substances you have in mind separately first.
Combining is (often) not ideal, but it is possible. If you decide to use multiple substances in one microdose, it is best to use one a few times first and then the other a few times, rather than taking them together all at once.
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I get nauseous from microdosing, what can I do about it?
Nausea sometimes occurs in people who microdose with truffles and to a lesser extent with magic mushrooms. To prevent nausea from the truffles, it helps to take fresh ginger tea with them. Swallowing directly also helps for some.
Microdosing with LSD rarely, if ever, causes nausea.
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I get tired when I microdose. Is that normal?
Fatigue with microdosing occurs mostly with truffles and to a lesser extent with magic mushrooms (this side effect is reported by people with some regularity).
When microdosing (1P)LSD you can also feel (bouts of) fatigue, but this effect is rare with (1P)LSD. If you do suffer from it, it could very well be that you are actually (over)tired, but that you do not perceive this in your normal daily life, or do not allow it (unconsciously).
See also:
Possible side effects of microdosing -
I sometimes get scared, stressed or hypersensitive when I microdose. What can I do about that?
These complaints often involve the user taking too much of the drug.
The best thing to do (as a first step) is to take a little less of the drug. Next time, see if you still experience (as much) anxiety, stress or hypersensitivity. If so, perhaps the drug you are microdosing with is (still) a bit too intense; switch to another drug.
There may also be combination uses that you may not be aware of. Go to interacting with other drugs for more information.
If you experience occasional (i.e. not on every microdosing day, but sometimes you do) anxiety, stress and/or hypersensitivity, check whether on that day there was agitation in your environment, agitation in your head (prior to microdosing), are you fit or tired/depressed/exhausted, and so on.
If you can't figure it out, contact a professional (a coach, counselor, professional). And/or join social media groups, forums or other places where people share experiences with microdosing. Don't be afraid to ask.
It may take some time to figure out how much or what works best for you.
Don't give up microdosing too soon.
See also:
Possible side effects of microdosing -
I want to take a high dose. How long after that can I continue microdosing?
Before you start a high dose, a week's break will do. A high dose is between 50-250mcg for LSD and 3-7 grams for magic mushrooms, depending on the strain. If you have had a high dose it is advisable to wait 1-2 weeks before continuing microdosing.
Often people experience an afterglow (*) in the days after consuming a high dose. This can last for 2 to 4 weeks; as long as you still experience it, you don't need to microdose.
(*) Afterglow is a description for the positive physical and mental effects that continue gently for a while after the main effects have faded, or after the peak experience has subsided. This state is often characterized by feelings of detachment and increased (psychological) clarity
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What happens if I accidentally take a "microdose" that is (much) too high?
If you take too high a dose (for example, if you forgot you had already taken your microdose and take it again) then the effects of the drug you are microdosing with may become noticeable physically and/or mentally.
Effects you may then begin to feel include hot/cold waves through your body, mild hallucination, temporary confusion (for example, simple actions suddenly become very complex) and nausea/fatigue (with psilocybin).
- Becoming laughable, mentally/physically agitated, confused and/or paranoid, anxious, overwhelmed
- Nausea (with psilocybin), distortion of vision and sound - hallucinations and "tripping"
- Euphoric, in awe of the people and things around you
- Suddenly becoming emotionalEveryone reacts differently to psychedelics. Your experience is influenced by the amount you consume, the environment (calm, restless, peaceful, etc.) and the people who are with you. The more comfortable you feel, the better it will fall. If you are in a bad mood, worried or depressed, psychedelics may be able to amplify those feelings - especially when taking an (unexpectedly) larger dose.
To slow down your trip, you can do the following
- if you're hot enough look for the fresh air
- if you're cold, find a warm place
- avoid crowded places or then go to a place where you feel most comfortable
- a shower can sometimes help
- drink herbal tea
- high dose of vitamin C (2000-5000mg), and/or grapefruitYou can also stop your trip with a "downer" such as Xanax, but we strongly advise against it.
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How do I stop a "trip" or slow down the effect?
To slow down a psychedelic trip, you can do the following things:
- try to make yourself as comfortable as possible
- make sure your environment is calm (less light, noise, restless music)
- if you feel hot seek out the fresh air
- if you feel cold, find a warm place
- avoid crowded places or move to a quiet place where you feel comfortable
- a shower can sometimes help
- drink herbal tea
- coffee can sometimes help
- high dose of vitamin C (2000-5000mg), and/or grapefruitYou can also stop your trip with a "downer" such as Xanax, but we strongly advise against it.