Psilocybin, a psychoactive compound found in magic mushrooms, is frequently used for recreational purposes due to its ability to induce euphoria and hallucinations.
Beyond its mind-altering effects, research has been conducted to explore the potential benefits of this compound for relieving chronic pain.
This article delves into a case study that investigates the potential of microdosing mushrooms as a means to alleviate chronic pain.
Key Takeaways:
- Microdosing mushrooms may provide both immediate and sustained relief from pain.
- In contrast to traditional pain medications, psilocybin microdosing often has minimal side effects when administered in small doses.
- Psilocybin interacts 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 carried out by Dr. Matthew Lyes and his team from the Division of Pain Medicine at the Department of Anesthesiology, University of California, San Diego. The study focused on three patients who self-administered low doses of psilocybin to manage their persistent pain symptoms.
Three Participants, One Result – Reduction of Chronic Pain
Participant # 1
| AGE/ GENDER: | 37 Male |
| TYPE OF PAIN: | Neuropathic pain appearing below the site of a spinal cord injury. |
| PAIN LEVEL: | Initially ranging from 4 to 5/ 10, increasing to 8/ 10 later in the day |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSE: | 250 mg of ground mushroom for less than six months |
| RESULT: | Discontinuation of prescribed pain medication, decrease in muscle spasms, and improvement in bowel movement efficiency. No signs of rebound pain or withdrawal symptoms were observed. |
| The participant reported that while his usual medications merely dulled the pain, psilocybin effectively eliminated it, reducing his average pain level from 5 to | |
Case Study: Second Patient
| AGE/ GENDER: | 69-year-old Female |
| PAIN TYPE: | Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) |
| PAIN INTENSITY: | Typically between 5 and 7 out of 10, but increases with physical activity and during pain flare-ups |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSAGE: | A daily dose of 500 mg for 7 to 10 days with rest periods of 2 to 3 days over a year. Dosage increases to 750 mg to 1 gram during pain flare-ups |
| EFFECT: | 80% reduction in pain for 3-4 hours, gradually returning to initial levels after 12 hours. Complete pain relief (90%-100%) lasts 6-8 hours, returning to initial levels after 18 hours. |
| The patient experiences reduced appetite without nausea. Disorientation or unsteady walking is noted when the dosage is increased (750 to 1000mg). | |
Case Study: Third Patient
| AGE/ GENDER: | 40-year-old Female |
| PAIN TYPE: | Lumbar radiculopathy and neuropathic pain |
| PAIN INTENSITY: | 8 out of 10, rising to 10 out of 10 during physical activity |
| PSILOCYBIN DOSAGE: | 1000 mg from a mushroom chocolate bar every two months. |
| EFFECT: | Significant relief from pain without any psychoactive effects. Increased flexibility and functionality noted. Pain gradually returns to initial levels over 2-4 weeks. Repeated dosing improves pain management. |
| The patient does not observe any significant physical, cognitive, or behavioural side effects. Her emotional state remains largely stable. She maintains her regular dosage of her SSRI for depression management during the psilocybin treatment. | |
Exploring Pain Management with Psilocybin
Continuous physical and visceral pain signals can reinforce certain neural pathways due to peripheral and central sensitization. This leads to the chronic experience of pain, both physically and emotionally. Psychedelics like psilocybin can activate 5-HT2A receptors, potentially resetting the brain areas linked with neuropathic conditions.
A patient reported experiencing pain relief for several weeks. This suggests that after directly stimulating the 5-HT2A receptors, there can be a central regulation of pain perception and adaptability of synapses.
Potential Adverse Effects of Psilocybin Versus Conventional Pain Relievers
| PSILOCYBIN (Based on Research) | TRADITIONAL PAIN RELIEVERS |
| Muscle spasms | Nausea |
| Appetite reduction | Abdominal discomfort |
| Confusion | Migraines |
| Unsteady walk | Dependency |
| No mood changes | Drowsiness |
Potential Areas for Future Psilocybin Research
The research team has identified potential areas of further study based on the experiences of three individuals, due to their potential benefits.
- Small psilocybin doses could provide immediate and possibly lasting relief from neuropathic pain, without causing physical tolerance or addiction.
- Explore the outcomes of different treatment approaches used in conjunction with psilocybin. For instance, patient # 3 reported enhanced pain relief when psilocybin was combined with physical therapy.
- Even without psychotherapy, small psilocybin doses may alleviate pain, as indicated in this case study. The researchers propose that incorporating therapeutic guidance might enhance or extend the therapeutic effects.
Study Limitations
Despite the encouraging results observed in the patients, it’s essential to keep in mind the limitations identified in the study.
- The small sample size might not accurately represent all individuals experiencing neuropathic pain.
- The study lacked participants who did not respond to psilocybin.
- No assessments were performed before and after the treatment to gauge the impact of psilocybin on psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety.
- Most of the data was self-reported by the participants.
- The presence of the interviewer and potential bias towards psilocybin could have influenced the participants’ responses.
- The study did not investigate the potential effects of the placebo.
- The study did not measure the psilocybin content in each mushroom.
The Practice of Microdosing Mushrooms
In this particular research, participants Patient #1 and Patient #2 consumed a microdose of psilocybin in powder form extracted from dried mushrooms. In contrast, Patient #3 combined it with chocolate. There are numerous products specifically designed for psilocybin microdosing, a selection of which we have listed below.
Dried Mushroom Varieties
Although the study did not detail the specific strain used, the strain listed below is an excellent starting point for novices.
- Golden Teacher: This is one of the most prevalent and easily recognized strains of magic mushrooms.
- Amazonian Cubensis: This strain is known for its user-friendliness and potential cognitive enhancements.
- Cambodian: Microdosing with Cambodian cubensis mushrooms can boost concentration, social awareness, and mood.
Capsules for Microdosing
- Euphoria Psychedelics – Micro Calm Capsules: This concoction comprises Ashwagandha, Reishi, CBD, Valerian root, and Psilocybin Mushrooms, all of which have been scientifically validated to alleviate anxiety and stress.
- Ground Sounds – Microdose Capsules – Champion Lover: This appealing combination offers three dosage levels: 50mg, 100mg, or 250mg of pure psilocybin mixed with reishi, cacao, cordyceps, and maca.
- Kind Stranger – Brighten Capsules 250mg: These capsules feature the Golden Teacher strain, renowned for promoting clarity, enhancing creativity, and improving focus.
Using Psilocybin to Ease Pain
While research into the pain-mitigating qualities of mushrooms is still in its infancy, anecdotal reports and small-scale case studies offer promising signs.
These instances underscore the need for additional investigation into the potential benefits of psilocybin, class=”wp-block-list”>
Chronic pain management can be greatly improved with the help of psilocybin, and even though its widespread use for pain relief is still being accepted, case studies have already inspired hope in those living with chronic pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What effects can microdosing psilocybin produce?
Psilocybin primarily stimulates a serotonin receptor known as “5-HT2A” in the prefrontal cortex, which leads to two key effects:
- The generation of “Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor” (BDNF)
- An increase in “Glutamate” transmission
Moreover, psychedelics foster connections among brain regions that don’t typically interact. This unique connectivity stems from these substances’ ability to diminish the activity of the “Default Mode Network” (DMN), which is associated with various cognitive functions such as daydreaming, self-reflection, and pondering about the past and future.
What is the most recognized benefit of microdosing mushrooms?
Microdosing can potentially enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and focus. The most extensively researched benefit is its influence on mental health.
In November 2022, mental health company COMPASS Pathways unveiled the findings of their extensive phase 2b trial – a randomized and double-blind study. Their research indicated that a single dose of psilocybin resulted in significant reductions in symptoms of depression when compared to a placebo. Participants who received a higher dose of 25 milligrams exhibited a sustained antidepressant response at the twelve-week follow-up.
A study published in the Psychiatry Research Journal suggested that psilocybin is more effective than traditional antidepressant treatments.
How can one determine their dosage?
Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on day one. If you don’t achieve the desired effects, you can progressively increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you find your optimal dosage.
People with previous experience using psychotropic drugs may need to increase the dosage to 0.5 grams to achieve the desired effects.
What steps should be taken before consuming mushrooms?
class=”wp-block-list”>What is the suggested frequency for microdosing mushrooms?
Several well-accepted protocols recommend systematic microdosing schedules for psychedelics. The difference between these protocols mainly lies in the number of “off” days they incorporate, which are the days you abstain from microdosing.
The most commonly suggested protocols propose including 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.
