5 Year Study: Microdosing Transforms Mood in 6 Months

By Rev

Abstract

Microdosing psychedelics, particularly psilocybin, has gained significant attention as a means of improving mood, cognitive function, and overall well-being. This paper explores the effects of stacking psilocybin microdoses with niacin and Lion’s Mane mushroom extract using the Fadiman Protocol. Over a five-year period, a peer population of 5,000 individuals was studied by the Entheology Project, revealing that most participants experienced improved mood lasting 6–18 months before requiring another dosing period. In most cases, aside from extreme anxiety and treatment-resistant depression requiring macrodose levels, respondents reported a gradual reduction in the need for continued microdosing. As recovery windows shortened, many found little desire to dose again after successive cycles.

Introduction

The Fadiman Protocol, developed by Dr. James Fadiman, is a structured method for microdosing psychedelics, primarily psilocybin, at sub-threshold levels. This protocol suggests dosing twice a week to optimize cognitive and emotional benefits while minimizing tolerance buildup.

This study, conducted by the Entheology Project, studied 5,000 individuals over five years who followed this protocol, stacking psilocybin with niacin and Lion’s Mane mushroom extract. The majority of respondents reported marked improvements in mood and overall well-being. Most participants experienced benefits lasting 6–18 months before requiring another microdosing period. However, subsequent microdosing cycles tended to be shorter, with recovery windows improving over time, reducing the overall need to microdose repeatedly.

Mechanisms of Action

1. Psilocybin: Psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, is a prodrug of psilocin, which interacts with serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. Studies suggest that this modulation promotes neuroplasticity, enhances emotional resilience, and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression.
2. Niacin (Vitamin B3): Niacin enhances peripheral blood flow and may facilitate the distribution of psilocybin metabolites throughout the brain. Additionally, it acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, which may further support neuroprotection.
3. Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): Lion’s Mane mushroom is known for its ability to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), supporting neuronal regeneration and cognitive enhancement. When combined with psilocybin, it may promote long-term neuroplastic changes.

Dosing Guidelines

The standard Fadiman Protocol for microdosing follows this cycle:

• Twice per week (e.g., Monday and Thursday)
• Psilocybin dose: 100mg – 300mg of dried psilocybin mushrooms (sub-threshold, meaning no noticeable psychoactive effects)
• Niacin dose: 500mg, taken alongside psilocybin
• Lion’s Mane extract: 1,000mg daily (ongoing use)

Findings from the Five-Year Study

• Sustained Mood Enhancement: Most participants reported improved mood lasting 6–12 months before needing another dosing period.
• Gradual Reduction in Dosing Need: Over successive cycles, supplementary microdosing periods were required after 6–18 months, but each cycle was shorter in duration.
• Long-Term Resilience: Many participants found that after several microdosing cycles, they experienced little to no desire to dose again, suggesting sustained improvements in mood and emotional stability.
• Exceptions for Severe Cases: Individuals with extreme anxiety or treatment-resistant depression often required macrodose levels for meaningful relief, indicating that microdosing alone may not be sufficient in severe cases.

Tapering Off SSRIs and Transitioning to Microdosing

For individuals currently on SSRIs, it is crucial to follow a structured tapering process under medical supervision before introducing microdosing. Abruptly stopping SSRIs can result in withdrawal symptoms, so a gradual reduction over several weeks is recommended.

Recommended Tapering Strategy:

1. Consult with a healthcare professional to establish a personalized tapering plan.
2. Gradual Dose Reduction: Reduce SSRI dosage by 10-25% every two weeks.
3. Monitor for Withdrawal Symptoms: Symptoms may include mood swings, fatigue, brain fog, or dizziness. If severe, slowing the taper is advised.
4. Introduce Microdosing After Stability: Once the taper is complete and withdrawal symptoms subside, the Fadiman Protocol can be initiated at a low dose to assess tolerance.

Risks and Considerations

• Individuals with a history of bipolar disorder or psychosis should avoid microdosing without professional supervision.
• Combining psilocybin with SSRIs may blunt effects due to serotonin receptor downregulation.
• Niacin may cause temporary flushing and warmth, which is harmless but may be uncomfortable.
• Individual responses to microdosing vary; keeping a journal to track experiences can help adjust dosing as needed.

Conclusion

The findings from this five-year study conducted by the Entheology Project suggest that microdosing, when combined with niacin and Lion’s Mane, presents a promising approach to enhancing mental health and cognitive function. Most individuals experienced lasting mood improvements, with successive dosing periods becoming shorter and eventually unnecessary. However, further research is required to understand the full scope of neuroadaptive changes and their longevity. Individuals considering this approach should do so with careful planning and, if necessary, medical supervision, particularly when transitioning from SSRI medications.

About the Entheology Project

Entheology Project is a research and advocacy organization dedicated to exploring the science, history, and therapeutic potential of entheogenic substances. Founded with the mission of advancing public understanding and access to psychedelic-assisted wellness, the project brings together scientists, clinicians, and community members to conduct studies and share findings. The organization operates within an ethical and religious framework, ensuring responsible research practices while advocating for the integration of entheogenic practices into mental health treatment.

Entheology Project supports harm reduction, education, and community-driven initiatives, aiming to empower individuals to make informed decisions about microdosing and other psychedelic-assisted therapies. Through partnerships with universities, independent researchers, and wellness practitioners, the project continuously contributes to the growing body of scientific knowledge in this field.

This five-year study on microdosing was conducted as part of their mission to provide evidence-based guidance for individuals seeking alternative approaches to mental health. By combining qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, the Entheology Project aims to bridge the gap between ancient entheogenic wisdom and modern scientific inquiry.

About Rev

“Rev” (Rev as in revelation) is the Founder of Entheology Project, a 508(c)(1)(a) Non-Profit Entheogenic Support Organization. We wrote MushGPT, a free entheogenic AI chatbot that raises entheo Seeker awareness. Please check out our projects and let us know how we can facilitate you! 🍄❤️✌️

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