The microdosing movement is in full swing. Not only are more and more people reaping the benefits in their everyday life, but an increasing number of scientific studies are pushing the practice into the spotlight. From treating depression to enhancing focus, the motives behind this psychedelic surge stretch far and wide. We take a closer look at the main reasons why people from all corners of society are choosing to microdose.

What does Microdosing involve?

Hallucinogens have been used for centuries within indigenous cultures, for a multitude of therapeutic, medicinal and spiritual purposes, in both large and small doses. Microdosing refers to the latter, with sub-perceptual amounts of psychedelic drugs, such as LSD and psilocybin, taken according to a regular schedule or protocol. The low dosage removes the psychedelic high while still delivering benefits, which can range from a boost in mood and creativity to an increase in productivity.

Since hallucinogens remain largely illegal in many parts of the world, scientific evidence to support and validate such claims is lacking. But that is beginning to change. As attitudes are starting to shift, the scientific and medical community are becoming more open to examining the effects and potential of psychedelics, particularly as a powerful new tool for combatting depression.

In fact, several esteemed institutions, including London's Imperial College and Baltimore's Johns Hopkins, have set up their own research centres solely dedicated to psychedelic study. So the rising trend in scientific interest is clear, as effective treatments to help ease the global mental health crisis are urgently needed. But what about general society? Why are an increasing number of people from all walks of life tuning in to microdosing?

Microdosing Craze Sweeps Silicon Valley and beyond

In the business world, everyone is on the hunt for ways to work harder, faster and better, and no more so than in the tech sphere of Silicon Valley. Within this pressurised start-up culture, having the edge over competitors makes the difference between success and failure. It is no surprise then that microdosing became an instant hit for these young professionals, with users reporting a wide range of benefits.

Ingesting minute amounts, usually 1/10 of a full dose, of LSD or magic truffles or mushrooms, made the workers more focused and able to concentrate for longer, while improving their creative thinking and ability to solve problems. Aside from a cognitive lift, employees also claim microdosing reduces anxiety, helps them cope better with stress and enhances empathy, effectively boosting relations with their co-workers. This trend is no longer unique to Silicon Valley, as professionals from companies far and wide are kicking off their work day with psychedelics.  

Outside the Business Realm

But it's not just those in a corporate environment that are on board. One of the largest studies into microdosing motives examined participants from varying ages, nationalities, educational backgrounds and occupations. The research from Maastricht University in the Netherlands involved an online survey, of which 1116 respondents were included in the findings. The study revealed the following motivations:

*36.6% Performance enhancement - Increase energy, enhance creativity, to study, increase concentration

*29.1% Mood enhancement

*15.2% Curiosity

*14% Symptom relief - Physical and psychological

*5% Other - Enhance empathy, spirituality, etc.

Just less than half (47.6%) of participants microdosed to go to work, with the most popular occupations including study, office work, working with people, creative work and physical work. While the advantages in terms of job performance are obvious, it is interesting to note that over half of all respondents used microdosing simply as part of their daily routine, regardless of work, highlighting the powerful role microdosing plays in general well-being.

Such findings are of course anecdotal and more research is needed to validate these benefits and unravel the true potential of psychedelics. Whether helping to rid new mothers of anxiety or increasing productivity at start-ups, microdosing has already found plenty of advocates, and looks set to break even more ground in the years to come.