Psilocybin, a psychoactive compound present in magic mushrooms, is frequently used for recreational purposes to induce feelings of happiness and hallucinations.
Aside from its mind-altering capacities, psilocybin has been studied for its potential to provide relief from chronic pain.
This article delves into a case study that examines the potential of mushroom microdosing as a method for alleviating chronic pain.
Key Takeaways:
- Pain relief, both immediate and long-term, may be achieved through microdosing mushrooms.
- When administered in small doses, psilocybin microdosing typically presents fewer side effects than traditional pain medications.
- Psilocybin works with serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptors to alleviate pain and manage other conditions.
The Study
The research, “Microdosing Psilocybin for Chronic Pain: A Case Series,” was led by Dr. Matthew Lyes and his team from the University of California, San Diego’s Division of Pain Medicine in the Department of Anesthesiology. Their study focused on three individuals who used small doses of psilocybin to manage their persistent pain symptoms.
Three Patients, One Result – Chronic Pain Reduction
Patient # 1
| AGE/ GENDER: | 37 Male |
| KIND OF PAIN: | Neuropathic pain occurring below a spinal cord injury site. |
| PAIN INTENSITY: | Initially 4 to 5/ 10, increasing to 8/ 10 later in the day |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSE: | 250 mg of powdered mushroom for under 6 months |
| OUTCOME: | Discontinuation of prescribed pain medication, decreased muscle spasms, and improved bowel movement efficiency. No signs of rebound pain or withdrawal symptoms were detected. |
| The patient noted that while his usual medications only managed to lessen the pain, psilocybin was able to effectively eliminate it, reducing his average pain level from 5 to | |
Case Study: Subject #2
| AGE/ GENDER: | 69 years old Female |
| TYPE OF PAIN: | Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) |
| INTENSITY OF PAIN: | Typically varies from 5 to 7 on a scale of 10, intensifying with physical activity and during pain flare-ups |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSAGE: | Daily dose of 500 mg for 7 to 10 days with rest periods (2 to 3 days) over a year. Dosage increases to 750 mg to 1 gram during flare-ups |
| IMPACT: | 80% decrease in pain for 3-4 hours, gradually returning to initial levels after 12 hours. Full pain relief (90%-100%) lasts 6-8 hours, reverting to initial levels after 18 hours. |
| The subject experiences decreased appetite without nausea. Instability and confusion in walking are noticed when the dosage is increased (750 to 1000mg). | |
Case Study: Subject # 3
| AGE/ GENDER: | 40 years old Female |
| TYPE OF PAIN: | Lumbar radiculopathy and neuropathic pain |
| INTENSITY OF PAIN: | 8 on a scale of 10, reaching maximum intensity during physical activity |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSAGE: | 1000 mg in the form of a mushroom chocolate bar every two months. |
| IMPACT: | Significant relief from pain without any psychoactive effects. Increase in flexibility and functionality was noticed. Pain gradually returns to initial severity over 2-4 weeks. Repeated dosing enhances pain management. |
| The subject does not report any significant physical, cognitive, or behavioural side effects. Her mood is mostly stable. She maintains her usual dosage of her SSRI for managing depression throughout the psilocybin treatment period. | |
Deciphering Pain Management with Psilocybin
Constant somatic and visceral pain signals strengthen certain neural pathways due to peripheral and central sensitization, leading to the persistent experience of pain, both physically and emotionally. Psychedelics like psilocybin have the potential to reset the brain areas associated with neuropathic conditions by activating 5-HT2A receptors.
One patient reported experiencing pain relief for several weeks. This suggests that directly stimulating the 5-HT2A receptors could lead to a central regulation of pain perception and adaptation of synapses.
Potential Side Effects of Psilocybin Vs. Traditional Pain Relievers
| PSILOCYBIN (Based on Studies) | TRADITIONAL PAIN RELIEVERS |
| Muscle spasms | Nausea |
| Decreased appetite | Gastrointestinal discomfort |
| Confusion | Migraine headaches |
| Unsteady gait | Dependency |
| No mood changes | Drowsiness |
Prospective Future Research on Psilocybin
The investigators, having analyzed the experiences of three subjects, have identified certain research areas that call for further investigation because of their potential benefits.
- Small psilocybin doses may provide immediate and potentially enduring relief from neuropathic pain, without causing physical tolerance or dependence.
- Examine the impact of different treatment approaches when combined with psilocybin. For example, patient #3 reported an increased pain relief effect when psilocybin was used in conjunction with physical therapy.
- Even in the absence of psychotherapy, small psilocybin doses might offer pain relief, as demonstrated in this case study. The researchers propose that incorporating therapeutic guidance could potentially enhance or prolong the therapeutic outcomes.
Study Limitations
Despite the encouraging results seen in the subjects, it’s crucial to acknowledge the limitations identified in the study.
- The limited sample size may not be a comprehensive representation of all individuals dealing with neuropathic pain.
- The study did not incorporate any participants who did not respond to psilocybin.
- No assessments were conducted before and after treatment to measure the impact of psilocybin on mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
- Most of the data was self-reported by the participants.
- The interviewer’s presence and potential biases related to psilocybin could have influenced participant responses.
- The study did not investigate the potential influence of the placebo effect.
- The study did not specify the psilocybin quantity in each mushroom.
The Practice of Microdosing Mushrooms
In the study under discussion, participants Patients #1 and #2 consumed a small quantity of powdered psilocybin, derived from dry mushrooms. In contrast, patient #3 chose to blend it with chocolate. There is a multitude of products specifically made for psilocybin microdosing, and we have assembled a selection of them below for your convenience.
Dried Mushroom Varieties
Although the study did not disclose the exact strain used, we recommend the following strain as a good introduction for novices.
- Golden Teacher: This is a prevalent and widely recognized strain of psychoactive mushrooms.
- Amazonian Cubensis: This is a user-friendly strain that is known to deliver cognitive benefits.
- Cambodian: Microdosing with Cambodian cubensis mushrooms can lead to improved concentration, increased social awareness, and mood enhancement.
Microdosing Capsules
- Euphoria Psychedelics – Micro Calm Capsules: This concoction includes Ashwagandha, Reishi, CBD, Valerian root, and Psilocybin Mushrooms, all of which have been scientifically shown to alleviate anxiety and stress.
- Ground Sounds – Microdose Capsules – Champion Lover: This intriguing blend offers three dosage levels: 50mg, 100mg, or 250mg of pure psilocybin paired with reishi, cacao, cordyceps, and maca.
- Kind Stranger – Brighten Capsules 250mg: These capsules contain the Golden Teacher strain, renowned for promoting clear thinking, enhanced creativity, and increased focus.
Pain Relief through Psilocybin
While scientific study of the pain-relieving capabilities of mushrooms is still in its infancy, anecdotal accounts and preliminary case studies are showing promising results.
Such instances underline the necessity for more in-depth research into the potential advantages of psilocybin, class=”wp-block-list”>
What effects can you expect?
The effects vary based on the individual, dosage, mushroom species, and the environment. The common effects include heightened senses, feeling of euphoria, altered perception of time and space, and introspective experiences.
It’s important to note that psilocybin is known for its ability to provide a profound psychological experience, often described as a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.
Is it possible to microdose daily?
Although it’s technically possible, it’s generally not recommended to microdose daily. This is due to the immediate tolerance that psilocybin produces, which would render the effects significantly less noticeable if taken each day. Most users follow a dosing schedule that involves taking a dose, then abstaining for a few days before dosing again.
What are the potential risks?
While psilocybin is considered relatively safe, it’s not without its potential risks. These might include psychological distress, impaired judgement and motor control, and potential interactions with other substances or medications.
It’s essential to approach microdosing with due diligence, understanding the potential risks, and starting with a low dose to assess your individual response.
Can you develop a dependence on psilocybin?
According to current research, psilocybin does not lead to physical dependence or addiction. However, like any substance, it can be misused or abused, leading to negative consequences.
class=”wp-block-list”>What is the suggested frequency for taking microdoses of mushrooms?
Several well-established protocols propose structured microdosing schedules for psychedelics. The main difference between these protocols is the number of “off” days they include, which are the days when you abstain from microdosing.
The most commonly suggested protocols recommend 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s natural tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols under consideration here are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.
