Firstly What is ‘microdosing’?
Microdosing CBD is a technique that involves administering a small amount of a drug on a regular schedule. Microdosing is more commonly associated with psychedelic drugs such as LSD and magic mushrooms but in recent years the idea has become increasingly popular due to its health benefits in association with CBD.
A brief history of microdosing in general
Whilst the earliest use of microdosing is unknown. What we do know is that the method of microdosing has been around for a very long time. Anthropological reports have indicated that many ancient cultures may have incorporated psychedelic plants such as morning glory seeds, peyote psilocybin-containing mushrooms into many aspects of their daily routines. Many of these substances were used as part of religious ritual experiences. The ingredients were also used in smaller doses as an aphrodisiac, to reduce hunger, exert courage, manage pain and treat illnesses such as syphilis and gout.
The modern practice of microdosing is a relatively recent phenomenon. Albert Hofmann was the Swiss chemist credited with discovering LSD and the first to personally administer the drug in 1943. The drug was initially ingested as the scientist accidentally absorbed a small amount through his fingertip and experienced the effects shortly after on a bicycle ride home!
However, the more recent popularity of microdosing is often attributed to James Fadiman who published “_The psychedelics explorer guide_”. This publication was the first to describe microdosing in detail. Fadiman outlined the purported benefits of regular microdosing. The book sighted a recommended three-day cycle along with guidelines for appropriate dosages. The publication also contained a collection of case studies detailing the positive effects of microdosing and the individual’s experiences with microdosing in regards to an emphasis on positive improvements to focus, creativity, and relationships.
There was no formal research on microdosing before the prohibition of psychedelic research in 1966.
What are the benefits of microdosing CBD?
Many who microdose hallucinogens such as LSD and magic mushrooms are looking to mirror a greatly reduced experience of the original version of effects. When microdosing CBD oil, the purpose is the opposite.
Microdosing CBD over the course of a day allows you to experience the full benefits of CBD for a much longer period of time. If you were to take the full daily recommended dose all at once, the effects would wear off more quickly. -
Microdosing can offer the same benefits, but for a shorter period of time. CBD can exert different effects upon your body, depending on the quantity administered. Smaller doses can make people more alert, while larger doses have been shown to give more of a sedative effect on the body.
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. High doses of CBD helps boost functions such as metabolism, sleep, inflammation, mood, pain, and the immune system.
However, microdosing CBD helps stabilize the endocannabinoid system. This can help create and maintain a state of homeostasis that could positively affect how you feel, physically and mentally.
How to safely microdose CBD
Most people follow a variety of schedules when microdosing CBD. Some take a does each but the most common microdosing schedule is intercepting dosing days with rest days. A very common timetable is to microdose every three days. The idea behind this schedule is that there may be a residual effect from each microdose that could last up to a further two days.
Here is an example of how you could begin a microdosing schedule. However, it is really important to remember that everyone is different, listen to your body, if it doesn’t feel right then stop and reduce the dosage if you feel you want to proceed.
Create a microdosing diary
Whilst it’s important to build a set schedule of microdosing, you also need to chart the results. The easiest way to do this is to create a diary that should include some set questions. This will allow you to track your body and mind’s response to the microdosing schedule. The questions should be based on what you are looking to gain, however, we have given you a few set examples that may be useful to include, to begin with below:
Summary
Ultimately, the goal of microdosing is to feed your body a steady flow of CBD so it can begin producing more inner cannabinoids over time.
Microdosing aims to gradually empower your endocannabinoid system, it works best for those who need an extra boost but not a total makeover. People with severe health challenges may need to administer a higher dose a little quicker than microdosing allows for.
However, if you’re someone who relies on CBD to keep stress levels in check or boost focus and productivity throughout your workday or training schedule, microdosing could be an ideal method for your needs.
The most important thing about microdosing is to listen to your body and document how your body is reacting. You will then be able to find the happy equilibrium that is best suited for you. Everyone is different and this process should not be rushed. Take your time to slowly document and understand your individual feelings and body’s symptoms. Your reactions could be unique to you and it essential to remember that when reviewing your microdosing diary.
Microdosing is a powerful tool when used in the right way and could be used as an amazing tool to help aid concentration, increases energy, or manage pain.
Disclaimer:
CBD is sold as a food supplement, and as a result, It’s illegal to claim it treats, prevents, or helps cure an illness or disease. No health claims have been made in this article.