Psilocybin, a psychoactive compound discovered in magic mushrooms, is often utilized recreationally to generate sensations of euphoria and hallucinations.
In addition to its mind-altering abilities, research has been conducted into its potential benefits for the relief of chronic pain.
This piece showcases a case study that investigates how microdosing mushrooms could be helpful in alleviating chronic pain.
Key Takeaways:
- Microdosing mushrooms may provide both immediate and sustained pain relief.
- In contrast to traditional pain medications, psilocybin microdosing generally shows no side effects when given in small doses.
- Psilocybin communicates with the serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptors, which can help alleviate pain, among other conditions.
The Study
The research entitled “Microdosing Psilocybin for Chronic Pain: A Case Series” was led by Dr. Matthew Lyes and his team from the Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology at the University of California, San Diego. Their study centered on three patients who self-dosed with small quantities of psilocybin to control their chronic pain symptoms.
Three Patients, One Result – Reduction of Chronic Pain
Patient # 1
| AGE/ GENDER: | Male, 37 years old |
| TYPE OF PAIN: | Neuropathic pain occurring below the site of a spinal cord injury. |
| PAIN LEVEL: | Initially 4 to 5 out of 10, increasing to 8 out of 10 later in the day |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSE: | 250 mg of ground mushroom for less than 6 months |
| RESULT: | Discontinuation of prescribed pain medication, decrease in muscle spasms, and improved bowel movement efficiency. No signs of rebound pain or withdrawal symptoms. |
| The patient noted that unlike his regular medications which only managed to dull the pain, psilocybin effectively eliminated it, reducing his average pain level from 5 to 0. | |
Case Study: Second Patient
| AGE/SEX: | Female, 69 years old |
| TYPE OF PAIN: | Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) |
| PAIN INTENSITY: | Typically fluctuates between 5 and 7 out of 10, but escalates during physical activities and during episodes of heightened pain |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSAGE: | Regular consumption of 500 mg daily for 7 to 10 days, with breaks of 2 to 3 days, over a one-year period. The dosage increases to between 750 mg and 1 gram during episodes of heightened pain |
| OUTCOME: | A significant reduction in pain by 80% for a duration of 3-4 hours, gradually returning to baseline levels after 12 hours. Complete pain relief (90%-100%) is experienced for 6-8 hours, returning to baseline levels after 18 hours. |
| The patient notes a decrease in appetite without experiencing nausea. Disorientation or unsteadiness in walking is observed when the dosage is increased to between 750 mg and 1 gram. | |
Case Study: Third Patient
| AGE/SEX: | Female, 40 years old |
| TYPE OF PAIN: | Lumbar radiculopathy and neuropathic pain |
| PAIN INTENSITY: | Constantly at an 8 out of 10, increasing to a full 10 out of 10 during physical strain |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSAGE: | Consumption of a 1000 mg from a mushroom-infused chocolate bar every two months. |
| OUTCOME: | Significant pain relief without any psychoactive effects. An observed increase in flexibility and general function. Pain gradually returns to baseline levels over a period of 2-4 weeks. Consistent dosing improves pain management. |
| The patient does not report any noticeable physical, cognitive, or behavioural side effects. Her mood remains largely stable. She continues her regular dosage of her SSRI for depression management throughout the psilocybin treatment period. | |
Deciphering Pain Management with Psilocybin
Chronic physical and visceral pain signals reinforce specific neural pathways due to peripheral and central sensitization, leading to the enduring perception of physical and emotional pain. Psychedelic substances like psilocybin stimulate 5-HT2A receptors, potentially resetting the areas of the brain linked with neuropathic disorders.
One patient reported sustained pain relief for several weeks. This implies that direct stimulation of the 5-HT2A receptors can trigger a central regulation of pain perception and
Possible Side Effects of Psilocybin Versus Traditional Pain Relievers
| PSILOCYBIN (Research-Based) | TRADITIONAL PAIN RELIEVERS |
| Muscle spasms | Nausea |
| Decreased appetite | Discomfort in the abdomen |
| Confusion | Migraines |
| Impaired gait | Dependency |
| No change in mood | Drowsiness |
Future Research Possibilities Involving Psilocybin
After evaluating the experiences of three individuals, the research team identified several potential areas for future investigation due to their potential benefits.
- Small psilocybin doses could provide immediate and possibly sustained relief from neuropathic pain, without resulting in physical tolerance or addiction.
- Study the impacts of using different treatment approaches in conjunction with psilocybin. For instance, patient #3 witnessed an improved pain-relieving effect when psilocybin was combined with physical therapy.
- Small psilocybin doses might offer pain relief even without psychotherapy, as indicated by this case study. The researchers propose that incorporating therapeutic guidance could possibly enhance or extend the therapeutic effects.
Study Limitations
Despite the encouraging results seen in the patients, the study’s identified limitations must be acknowledged.
- The study’s small sample size may not accurately reflect the experience of all individuals living with neuropathic pain.
- The study did not include any subjects who did not react to psilocybin.
- Pre- and post-treatment assessments were not carried out to determine the impact of psilocybin on psychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety.
- Much of the data was based on self-reports by the subjects.
- The presence of the interviewer and any potential bias towards psilocybin could have influenced participant responses.
- The study did not consider the influence of the placebo effect.
- The study did not measure the precise amount of psilocybin in each mushroom.
Microdosing Psilocybin Mushrooms
In this investigation, both Patients #1 and #2 consumed a tiny dose of psilocybin, which was powdered from dried mushrooms, whereas Patient #3 combined it with chocolate. A wide range of products have been created for psilocybin microdosing, and we’ve gathered a selection of them below.
Dehydrated Mushrooms
The specific strain used in the study was not identified, but the one mentioned below could be an excellent choice for beginners.
- Golden Teacher: This is among the most prevalent and widely recognized magic mushroom strains.
- Amazonian Cubensis: Renowned for its user-friendly nature, it can also contribute to cognitive enhancement.
- Cambodian: Microdosing with Cambodian cubensis mushrooms can bolster concentration, social awareness, and mood.
Microdose Capsules
- Euphoria Psychedelics – Micro Calm Capsules: This compound incorporates Ashwagandha, Reishi, CBD, Valerian root, and Psilocybin Mushrooms, all of which have been scientifically validated to minimize anxiety and stress.
- Ground Sounds – Microdose Capsules – Champion Lover: This inviting blend provides three dosage options: 50mg, 100mg, or 250mg of pure psilocybin along with reishi, cacao, cordyceps, and maca.
- Kind Stranger – Brighten Capsules 250mg: These capsules incorporate the Golden Teacher strain, which is associated with enhanced creativity, clarity, and focus.
Using Psilocybin for Pain Relief
While the research into mushrooms’ analgesic properties is still in its infancy, anecdotal accounts and minor case studies are showing promising signs.
Such instances underscore the necessity for additional investigation into the potential advantages of psilocybin, class=”wp-block-list”>
Especially within the realm of chronic pain management.
Even before psilocybin was widely accepted as a solution for pain relief, the promising tales from case studies brought hope to those tormented by chronic pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the effects of microdosing psilocybin?
Psilocybin primarily stimulates a serotonin receptor known as “5-HT2A” in the prefrontal cortex, leading to two primary outcomes:
- Generation of “Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor” (BDNF)
- Enhanced “Glutamate” transmission
Moreover, psychedelics foster connections between brain regions that typically don’t interact as much. This unique connectivity stems from psychedelics’ ability to suppress the activity of the “Default Mode Network” (DMN), which is involved in various cognitive functions such as daydreaming, introspection, and contemplating the past and future.
What is the most recognized benefit of microdosing mushrooms?
Microdosing has the potential to enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and concentration. Its most extensively researched benefit is its effect on mental health.
In November 2022, mental health company COMPASS Pathways disclosed the findings of their detailed phase 2b trial, which was randomized and double-blind. The study indicated that a single dose of psilocybin significantly reduced depressive symptoms relative to a placebo. Participants who received a higher 25 milligram dose showed a prolonged antidepressant response at their twelve-week follow-up.
A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal suggested that psilocybin is more efficacious than traditional antidepressant treatments.
How do you determine your dosage?
Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If you don’t achieve the desired effects, you can incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you reach your ideal amount.
Individuals with a history of using psychotropic drugs might need to elevate the dose to 0.5 grams to achieve the desired effects.
What should you do before consuming mushrooms?
- Set aside some time to understand the reasoning behind your choice to microdose on a particular day.
- Take a moment to self-reflect and tune in with your current emotional or mental condition. Identify the feelings or state of mind that you believe will be advantageous to you that day.
- Once you have clearly defined your goals, write them down. Formulating your objectives in the form of affirmations can act as a potent tool to strengthen your continuous growth.
- Direct your focus towards the experience you want to achieve, rather than dwelling on what you want to evade.
- Take it on an empty stomach, preferably an hour before your first meal of the day.
What is the suggested frequency for microdosing mushrooms?
There are several well-recognized protocols that propose structured microdosing routines for psychedelics. These protocols primarily differ in the number of “off” days they include, which are the days you abstain from microdosing.
The most commonly advised protocols recommend including 1-3 rest days between microdoses. This aligns with the body’s inherent tolerance mechanisms. The three protocols being considered here are the Fadiman Protocol, the Stamets Stack, and intuitive microdosing.
