A Collection of Cases on Utilizing Microdose Mushrooms for Alleviating Chronic Pain

Psilocybin, a psychoactive compound present in magic mushrooms, is commonly used for recreational purposes due to its ability to induce euphoria and hallucinations. 

Besides its mind-altering properties, psilocybin also shows promising potential in relieving chronic pain, and extensive research has been conducted to investigate this possibility. 

This article features a case study that discusses the potential of microdosing mushrooms to alleviate chronic pain.

Key Takeaways:

• Microdosing mushrooms may serve as both an immediate and long-lasting solution for pain.
• Microdosing psilocybin generally exhibits no side effects when given in small quantities, unlike traditional pain medications.
• Psilocybin can interact with serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptors, potentially alleviating pain and other conditions.

The Study

The research, “Microdosing Psilocybin for Chronic Pain: A Case Series“, led by Dr. Matthew Lyes and his team from the Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, University of California, San Diego, centered around three patients self-administering small doses of psilocybin to manage their chronic pain.

Three Patients, One Common Result – Chronic Pain Relief

Patient # 1

AGE/ GENDER:	37, Male
PAIN DESCRIPTION:	Neuropathic pain occurring below the spinal cord injury site.
PAIN INTENSITY:	Started at 4 to 5/ 10, later increasing to 8/ 10
PSILOCYBIN DOSE:	250 mg of ground mushroom for less than 6 months
RESULTS:	Discontinued prescribed pain medication, reduced muscle spasms, and improved bowel movement. No signs of rebound pain or withdrawal symptoms were observed.
The patient stated that while his standard medications only managed to dull the pain, psilocybin effectively eliminated it, bringing down his average pain level from 5 to

Case Study: Subject #2

AGE / SEX:	69-year-old Female
PAIN TYPE:	Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
PAIN INTENSITY:	Typically varies from 5-7 out of 10, but can escalate during physical activity and flare-ups
PSILOCYBIN DOSE:	Regular consumption of 500 mg for 7 to 10 days, followed by rest periods (2 to 3 days) for a year. Dosage increases to 750 mg to 1 gram during flare-ups
EFFECT:	80% decrease in pain for 3-4 hours, with pain gradually returning to initial levels after 12 hours. Complete pain relief (90%-100%) lasts for 6-8 hours, then returns to initial levels after 18 hours.
The subject notices a decrease in appetite without accompanying nausea. Disorientation or unsteady gait occur when the dosage is increased (750 to 1000mg).

Case Study: Subject # 3

AGE / SEX:	40-year-old Female
PAIN TYPE:	Lumbar radiculopathy and neuropathic pain
PAIN INTENSITY:	8 out of 10, increasing to 10 out of 10 during physical efforts
PSILOCYBIN DOSE:	1000 mg from a mushroom chocolate bar every two months.
EFFECT:	Significant relief from pain without any psychoactive effects. Increased flexibility and functionality were observed. Pain slowly returns to initial levels over a span of 2-4 weeks. Regular dosing enhances control over pain.
The subject did not experience any discernible physical, cognitive, or behavioural side effects. Her mood stayed largely stable. She continued with her regular dosage of her SSRI for managing depression throughout the period of psilocybin treatment.

Comprehending Pain Management with Psilocybin

Persistent somatic and visceral pain signals can strengthen certain neural pathways due to both peripheral and central sensitization, resulting in chronic physical and emotional pain. Psychedelics like psilocybin have the ability to stimulate 5-HT2A receptors, which may effectively reset the brain regions linked with neuropathic conditions.

A patient reported experiencing pain relief for several weeks. This suggests that direct stimulation of the 5-HT2A receptors might lead to a central-level regulation of pain perception and adaptability of synapses.

Possible Side Effects of Psilocybin Vs. Traditional Pain Relievers

PSILOCYBIN (Based on Research)	TRADITIONAL PAIN RELIEVERS
Muscle spasms	Nausea
Decreased appetite	Stomach discomfort
Confusion	Migraines
Unsteady gait	Dependence
No mood changes	Drowsiness

Potential Areas for Future Psilocybin Research

Based on the experiences of three participants, the research group has identified certain potential areas for further study.

1. Low doses of psilocybin might provide instantaneous and possibly lasting relief from neuropathic pain, without causing physical tolerance or addiction.
2. Exploring the impacts of different treatment methods in conjunction with psilocybin. For instance, during the study, one participant experienced an increased pain-relieving effect when psilocybin was combined with physical therapy.
3. Small doses of psilocybin could ease pain even without the presence of psychotherapy, as illustrated in this case study. The researchers suggest that adding therapeutic guidance could possibly enhance or prolong the therapeutic effects.

Constraints of the Study

While the results in patients were encouraging, it’s crucial to acknowledge the limitations acknowledged in the study.

• The small number of participants may not effectively represent all individuals experiencing neuropathic pain.
• The study did not include any participants who did not respond to psilocybin.
• There were no pre and post-treatment evaluations to examine the impact of psilocybin on mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
• Most of the data was self-reported by the participants.
• The presence of the interviewer and potential bias related to psilocybin could have influenced the participants’ responses.
• The study did not consider the potential influence of the placebo effect.
• The study did not ascertain the quantity of psilocybin in each mushroom.

The Practice of Microdosing Mushrooms

In this particular study, the first two participants consumed a microdose of psilocybin, derived from dried mushrooms, in powdered form. In contrast, the third participant combined it with chocolate. There are several products specifically intended for psilocybin microdosing, some of which are listed below.

Dehydrated Mushrooms

The study does not detail the specific strain employed, but the one mentioned below is generally recommended for beginners.

• Golden Teacher: This is one of the most prevalent strains of magic mushrooms.
• Amazonian Cubensis: Renowned for its user-friendly nature, it can deliver cognitive enhancements.
• Cambodian: Microdosing with Cambodian cubensis mushrooms can improve concentration, social awareness, and mood.

Microdose Pill Formulations

• Euphoria Psychedelics – Micro Calm Capsules: This concoction combines Ashwagandha, Reishi, CBD, Valerian root, and Psilocybin Mushrooms, which are all scientifically backed to minimize anxiety and stress.
• Ground Sounds – Microdose Capsules – Champion Lover: This compelling blend offers three dosage options: 50mg, 100mg, or 250mg of pure psilocybin, along with reishi, cacao, cordyceps, and maca.
• Kind Stranger – Brighten Capsules 250mg: These capsules feature the Golden Teacher strain, reputed for promoting mental clarity, enhanced creativity, and improved focus.

Using Psilocybin to Relieve Pain

While the study of mushrooms’ pain-alleviating properties is still in its infancy, anecdotal reports and minor case studies are generating optimism.

Such instances underscore the demand for more comprehensive research into the potential advantages of psilocybin, class=”wp-block-list”>

Ensure you are in a comfortable, safe setting.

Establish a positive mindset.

It is especially beneficial in the field of chronic pain management.

Even before the widespread acceptance of psilocybin as a pain reliever, the promising results from case studies have sparked hope for those struggling with chronic pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What effects does microdosing psilocybin produce?

Psilocybin mainly activates a serotonin receptor known as “5-HT2A” in the prefrontal cortex, leading to two primary outcomes:

1. Generation of “Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor” (BDNF)
2. Enhanced “Glutamate” transmission

Moreover, psychedelics promote connections between brain regions that usually do not interact much. This unique connectivity results from psychedelics’ ability to suppress the activity of the “Default Mode Network” (DMN), which plays a role in several cognitive functions including daydreaming, introspection, and contemplating the past and future.

What is the most recognized benefit of microdosing mushrooms?

Microdosing may enhance mood, productivity, creativity, and concentration. Its most extensively researched benefit lies in its effect on mental health.

In November 2022, COMPASS Pathways, a company specializing in mental health, disclosed their comprehensive phase 2b trial results. This randomized and double-blind study suggested that a single dose of psilocybin considerably reduced depressive symptoms compared to a placebo. Participants who were administered a higher dose of 25 milligrams showed a sustained antidepressant response during the twelve-week follow-up.

A study featured in the Psychiatry Research Journal indicated that psilocybin is more effective than traditional antidepressant treatments.

How can one determine the appropriate dosage?

Start with a 0.1-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms on the first day. If the effects are not as desired, you can incrementally increase your dose by 0.05 grams on subsequent microdosing days until you find your ideal dosage.

Those with prior experience with psychotropic substances may need to up the dosage to 0.5 grams to achieve the desired effects.

What steps should be taken before consuming mushrooms?