In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleWhat Are They?How Does It Work?Does It Work?SafetyOther Things to Consider
In This ArticleView All
View All
In This Article
What Are They?
How Does It Work?
Does It Work?
Safety
Other Things to Consider
Close
Photo:Design elements: Getty Images. Collage: Cassie Basford.
Design elements: Getty Images. Collage: Cassie Basford.
“Shrooms,” also known as magic mushrooms, are a popular hallucinogenic drug that has been used recreationally for centuries across the globe. And in recent years, some research has shown potential promise that, when taken in very tiny doses—also called “microdosing”—they might help treat major depression, anxiety and PTSD and possibly also enhance cognitive functioning and creativity.
“Microdosing is just how it sounds—a super-low dose,” saysErin Davis, M.S., RDN, CDCES, a registered dietitian and diabetes care and education specialist. When microdosing mushrooms, low doses are taken to help alleviate symptoms rather than to elicit a “high” or “trip.” The mushrooms most commonly used in microdosing contain a chemical called psilocybin, explains Davis.
In this article, we discuss whether or not microdosing mushrooms can actually benefit health-related treatments and if it’s safe to use them.
What Are Magic Mushrooms?
Unlike themushroomsyou find at the grocery store, magic mushrooms are wild fungi containing psilocybin. Over 200 species of fungi contain psilocybin, with thePsilocybemushroom species being the most commonly used for microdosing. Psilocybin is a psychoactive compound that alters mood and perception, typically causing hallucinations at higher doses.
There’s evidence that thesemushrooms have been used for centuries. The Aztecs have used them in healing and religious ceremonies and rituals, and according to Hindu texts, mushrooms were also used in ritualistic sacraments like “soma.”Magic mushrooms are still used as a recreational drug but are illegal in most countries, including in the United States, and are classified as a Schedule I drug.Schedule I drugs are those that aren’t currently accepted for medical use and have a high potential for abuse.
How Does Microdosing Mushrooms Work?
Microdosing psilocybin is currently being studied in clinical trials for potential therapeutic applications. In these studies, participants are administered one-tenth of a dose of psilocybin (a microdose) compared to what would cause a hallucinogenic effect.
Lauren Manaker, M.S., RDN, LD, a Charleston, South Carolina-based registered dietitian, says, “The doses are usually taken in a schedule that allows individuals to experience the potential cognitive and emotional benefits without the intense psychedelic effects typically associated with higher doses of psilocybin. Proponents of microdosing mushrooms believe it can lead to subtle yet profound improvements in well-being and mental health.”
Does Microdosing Mushrooms Work?
A 2023 study showed significant reductions in depressive symptoms for participants who took psilocybin after 43 days.Davis points to another trial published in 2022 that showed lasting effectiveness, with participants reporting “greater well-being” when evaluated after one year.
Manaker adds that many people report improvements in creativity and focus when microdosing. One study found that participants who microdosed reported a boost in creative thoughts.
With that said, research is still in development, and it’s important to note that these studies have limitations. Kunal Lal, M.D., a board-certified internal medicine physician, cautions, “Although preliminary studies have shown promising outcomes for patients undergoing microdosing of psilocybin, these should be taken with a grain of salt until official FDA trials have been concluded to determine efficacy and any potential risks or side effects.”
Are They Safe?
The scientific community is still on the fence about microdosing. Our experts all agree that more clinical research is needed to determine its safety and effectiveness. We also need clear guidance on a safe dose.
Davis explains that a person who takes magic mushrooms may experience side effects such as hallucination, impaired thinking, fear, agitation or confusion. These side effects are more likely if microdosing is done outside of a controlled setting, such as attempting to microdose at home without accurately measuring the dose.
“It is important to keep in mind that you are still using a controlled substance, which may lead to detrimental side effects if abused or improperly taken. Any plan to microdose for medical reasons should be performed in a controlled environment with licensed individuals,” says Lal.
Manaker adds, “Additionally, long-term effects of microdosing are still largely unknown, raising questions about the possible impact on mental health over time. There is also the risk of developing tolerance, which may push individuals to increase their dosage.”
It’s important to remember that microdosing psilocybin is only legal in a handful of cities and states. Manaker explains, “Legal issues represent another significantrisk, as psilocybin remains a controlled substance in many jurisdictions, posing potential legal consequences for those who engage in microdosing.” She recommends seeking additional guidance and information from reliable sources, such as your doctor.
Finally, Lal also warns that you should speak with your health care provider first if you consider microdosing, as the drug may interact with other medications and supplements you are taking.
The Bottom Line
Although microdosing with psychedelics like magic mushrooms might show promising benefits to treat some conditions, more research still needs to be conducted to determine whether or not it’s safe, how much of a dose is safe, and if there are any potential long-term risks and side effects. Keep in mind that microdosing with psilocybin is not legal in most places, and experts advise it should only be administered in a clinically controlled setting. If you are seeking help on how to treat and manage a medical condition, always consult with a medical provider first.
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SourcesEatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.Kuypers K.The therapeutic potential of microdosing psychedelics in depression: a review.Ther Adv Psychopharmacol. 2020;10:2045125320950567. 2020. doi:10.1177/2045125320950567Bonnieux JN, VanderZwaag B, Premji Z, Garcia-Romeu A, Garcia-Barrera MA.Psilocybin’s effects on cognition and creativity: A scoping review.J Psychopharmacol. 2023;37(7):635-648. doi:10.1177/02698811231179801Gotvaldová K, Borovička J, Hájková K, Cihlářová P, Rockefeller A, Kuchař M.Extensive collection of psychotropic mushrooms with determination of their tryptamine alkaloids.Int J Mol Sci. 2022;23(22):14068. doi:10.3390/ijms232214068United States Drug Enforcement Administration.Drug Scheduling.Raison CL, Sanacora G, Woolley J, et al.Single-dose psilocybin treatment for major depressive disorder: a randomized clinical trial[published correction appears in JAMA. 2024 Feb 27;331(8):710].JAMA. 2023;330(9):843-853. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.14530Gukasyan N, Davis AK, Barrett FS, et al.Efficacy and safety of psilocybin-assisted treatment for major depressive disorder: Prospective 12-month follow-up.J Psychopharmacol. 2022;36(2):151-158. doi:10.1177/02698811211073759Mason NL, Kuypers KPC, Reckweg JT, et al.Spontaneous and deliberate creative cognition during and after psilocybin exposure.Transl Psychiatry. 2021;11(1):209. doi:10.1038/s41398-021-01335-5
Sources
EatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.Kuypers K.The therapeutic potential of microdosing psychedelics in depression: a review.Ther Adv Psychopharmacol. 2020;10:2045125320950567. 2020. doi:10.1177/2045125320950567Bonnieux JN, VanderZwaag B, Premji Z, Garcia-Romeu A, Garcia-Barrera MA.Psilocybin’s effects on cognition and creativity: A scoping review.J Psychopharmacol. 2023;37(7):635-648. doi:10.1177/02698811231179801Gotvaldová K, Borovička J, Hájková K, Cihlářová P, Rockefeller A, Kuchař M.Extensive collection of psychotropic mushrooms with determination of their tryptamine alkaloids.Int J Mol Sci. 2022;23(22):14068. doi:10.3390/ijms232214068United States Drug Enforcement Administration.Drug Scheduling.Raison CL, Sanacora G, Woolley J, et al.Single-dose psilocybin treatment for major depressive disorder: a randomized clinical trial[published correction appears in JAMA. 2024 Feb 27;331(8):710].JAMA. 2023;330(9):843-853. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.14530Gukasyan N, Davis AK, Barrett FS, et al.Efficacy and safety of psilocybin-assisted treatment for major depressive disorder: Prospective 12-month follow-up.J Psychopharmacol. 2022;36(2):151-158. doi:10.1177/02698811211073759Mason NL, Kuypers KPC, Reckweg JT, et al.Spontaneous and deliberate creative cognition during and after psilocybin exposure.Transl Psychiatry. 2021;11(1):209. doi:10.1038/s41398-021-01335-5
EatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.
Kuypers K.The therapeutic potential of microdosing psychedelics in depression: a review.Ther Adv Psychopharmacol. 2020;10:2045125320950567. 2020. doi:10.1177/2045125320950567Bonnieux JN, VanderZwaag B, Premji Z, Garcia-Romeu A, Garcia-Barrera MA.Psilocybin’s effects on cognition and creativity: A scoping review.J Psychopharmacol. 2023;37(7):635-648. doi:10.1177/02698811231179801Gotvaldová K, Borovička J, Hájková K, Cihlářová P, Rockefeller A, Kuchař M.Extensive collection of psychotropic mushrooms with determination of their tryptamine alkaloids.Int J Mol Sci. 2022;23(22):14068. doi:10.3390/ijms232214068United States Drug Enforcement Administration.Drug Scheduling.Raison CL, Sanacora G, Woolley J, et al.Single-dose psilocybin treatment for major depressive disorder: a randomized clinical trial[published correction appears in JAMA. 2024 Feb 27;331(8):710].JAMA. 2023;330(9):843-853. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.14530Gukasyan N, Davis AK, Barrett FS, et al.Efficacy and safety of psilocybin-assisted treatment for major depressive disorder: Prospective 12-month follow-up.J Psychopharmacol. 2022;36(2):151-158. doi:10.1177/02698811211073759Mason NL, Kuypers KPC, Reckweg JT, et al.Spontaneous and deliberate creative cognition during and after psilocybin exposure.Transl Psychiatry. 2021;11(1):209. doi:10.1038/s41398-021-01335-5
Kuypers K.The therapeutic potential of microdosing psychedelics in depression: a review.Ther Adv Psychopharmacol. 2020;10:2045125320950567. 2020. doi:10.1177/2045125320950567
Bonnieux JN, VanderZwaag B, Premji Z, Garcia-Romeu A, Garcia-Barrera MA.Psilocybin’s effects on cognition and creativity: A scoping review.J Psychopharmacol. 2023;37(7):635-648. doi:10.1177/02698811231179801
Gotvaldová K, Borovička J, Hájková K, Cihlářová P, Rockefeller A, Kuchař M.Extensive collection of psychotropic mushrooms with determination of their tryptamine alkaloids.Int J Mol Sci. 2022;23(22):14068. doi:10.3390/ijms232214068
United States Drug Enforcement Administration.Drug Scheduling.
Raison CL, Sanacora G, Woolley J, et al.Single-dose psilocybin treatment for major depressive disorder: a randomized clinical trial[published correction appears in JAMA. 2024 Feb 27;331(8):710].JAMA. 2023;330(9):843-853. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.14530
Gukasyan N, Davis AK, Barrett FS, et al.Efficacy and safety of psilocybin-assisted treatment for major depressive disorder: Prospective 12-month follow-up.J Psychopharmacol. 2022;36(2):151-158. doi:10.1177/02698811211073759
Mason NL, Kuypers KPC, Reckweg JT, et al.Spontaneous and deliberate creative cognition during and after psilocybin exposure.Transl Psychiatry. 2021;11(1):209. doi:10.1038/s41398-021-01335-5
