Microdosing with Paul Stamets’ Stack

Overview: The Stamets Stack, developed by Paul Stamets, combines psilocybin mushrooms, Lion’s Mane Mushroom, and Niacin for potential cognitive and mental health benefits. The protocol involves microdosing for either five days on, two days off, or four days on, three days off each week. Anecdotal evidence suggests improvements in mood, creativity, and productivity. However, more rigorous scientific research is needed to validate these claims and understand the true effectiveness of this microdosing routine.

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What is the Stamets Stack?

In the world of mycology — the scientific study of fungi — few figures shine as brightly as Paul Stamets. A trailblazer in the field, Stamets has significantly advanced our understanding of mushrooms and ventured into psychedelic exploration. His revolutionary research spans from unlocking the medicinal potential of mushrooms to innovative cultivation methods.

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Stamets has become a luminary, advocating for the therapeutic benefits of fungi and reshaping our perception of mushrooms. His work has highlighted the ecological significance of fungi and their medicinal applications. Notably, his research on mycelium networks has drawn attention to their vital role in ecosystem health and the symbiotic relationship between fungi and the environment.

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This article delves into the phenomenon of microdosing, with a particular focus on Stamets’ pioneering Microdosing Protocol, commonly known as the “Stamets Stack.” The Stamets Stack consists of a unique combination of psilocybin mushrooms, Lion’s Mane Mushroom, and Niacin (Vitamin B3).

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The Stamets Stack was developed to enhance brain function and offer a range of other health-related benefits. These purported benefits include:

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• Improved mood

• Enhanced creativity

• Improved self-awareness and social skills

• Enhanced feelings of connectedness

• Kindness

• Anti-aging effects

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The goal of the Stamets Stack is to encourage more positive, creative, and resilient states of mind, as well as beneficial behaviors, ultimately broadening one's consciousness. However, it is important to note that although anecdotal accounts suggest the potential of the Stamets Stack, this protocol has yet to be studied in clinical trials. More research is needed to validate these claims.

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Microdosing with the Stamets Stack: An Overview

The Stamets Stack is carefully crafted to potentially synergize the benefits of each component. The combination of ingredients is designed to create a “stacking” effect, where the interaction of the components may amplify their individual benefits. Many nootropic supplements use similar techniques to seek cognitive enhancements.

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Let’s take a closer look at the three components that make up the Stamets Stack.

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Psilocybin Mushrooms

Psilocybin, a compound found in “magic mushrooms,” has garnered attention for its therapeutic effects. Although psilocybin itself is not psychoactive, it is converted in the body to psilocin, which is responsible for its psychedelic effects.

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Psilocybin mushrooms have a rich history of use in various cultures for spiritual and medicinal purposes. Recent studies suggest that psilocybin, the active compound in these mushrooms, may help alleviate symptoms of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety related to terminal illness, and substance use disorders like alcohol and tobacco addiction. In these clinical studies, researchers typically use higher doses of psilocybin, around 2-2.5 grams of dried mushrooms, to explore its therapeutic potential.

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For microdosing, which involves taking much smaller amounts to achieve subtle effects without a full psychedelic experience, Paul Stamets recommends using 0.1 to 1.0 grams of dried psilocybin mushrooms. It’s important to note that doses between 0.5 and 1.0 grams can sometimes induce mild psychedelic effects, such as subtle visual changes and physical sensations. Therefore, it's best to avoid these higher microdoses if you have important responsibilities that day.

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Additionally, the psilocybin content in mushrooms can vary significantly between different batches and species, so it's crucial to exercise caution and start with lower doses to understand your personal tolerance and the mushroom's potency. For more detailed information on mushroom dosages and how to safely use them, please visit How Much Shrooms to Take.

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Research on psilocybin continues to evolve, with ongoing studies exploring its applications beyond mood disorders, including potential benefits for conditions such as PTSD and eating disorders. 

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Lion's Mane Mushroom: Potential Cognitive Benefits 

Lion’s Mane Mushroom, a non-psychoactive white mushroom with a distinctive, shaggy appearance resembling a lion's mane, is included in the Stamets Stack for its proposed cognitive benefits.

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Research suggests that Lion’s Mane may support the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that is crucial for the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons. This could offer significant advantages for cognitive function and neuroprotection.

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The neurotrophic properties of Lion’s Mane have led to its exploration in neurodegenerative conditions. Research suggests that it may help slow the progression of dementia or possibly prevent its onset. While more research is needed, early studies indicate the potential of this fungus in promoting cognitive health and protecting against age-related cognitive decline.

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Paul Stamets suggests that Lion’s Mane may enhance psilocybin’s ability to promote neuroplasticity. He also emphasizes the benefits of the mushroom’s mycelium — the root-like network that grows underground or within its substrate — over the fruiting body, which is the above-ground part commonly seen and consumed. Stamets argues that the mycelium may offer additional health benefits compared to the fruiting body alone.

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In addition to its cognitive benefits, Lion’s Mane has shown potential cardiac and anti-inflammatory properties. Research indicates that compounds in Lion’s Mane may help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

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The Lion’s Mane dose in the Stamets Stack is 5 to 20 grams fresh or 50 to 200 milligrams of extract containing erinacines and hericenones. Legal and widely available, Lion's Mane can be purchased at natural food stores, health shops, and online retailers.

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The Role of Niacin in the Stamets Stack

Niacin (vitamin B3) plays a crucial role in the Stamets Stack. Niacin is also known as nicotinic acid.

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Niacin plays a crucial role in converting calories from food into usable energy. It has anti-inflammatory properties, supports the health of the nervous system, aids in the proper functioning of the digestive system, and contributes to maintaining healthy skin.

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Additionally, some research suggests that niacin helps improve circulation and supports cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol levels. However, a study published in 2024 has called this into question by associating niacin intake with elevated risk of heart attack and stroke, due to inflammation in arteries. This highlights the importance of further research on the effects of niacin.

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The inclusion of niacin in the Stamets Stack is suggested to enhance the uptake of psilocin, the active compound derived from psilocybin. Niacin has vasodilatory effects, meaning it opens blood vessels and increases blood flow. This improved circulation may help distribute psilocybin more effectively throughout the body, potentially enhancing its therapeutic effects.

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The Stamets Stack protocol recommends taking 100 to 200 milligrams of niacin. This dose typically induces a flushing effect, which can be uncomfortable for some people. The flushing effect is characterized by redness, tingling, and a sensation of heat or itchiness, primarily due to the vasodilative properties of niacin. These symptoms are generally temporary but can be uncomfortable.

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The recommended niacin dose in the Stamets Stack — 100 to 200 milligrams — is significantly higher than the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of 14 to 16 milligrams. However, research suggests that niacin is safe for healthy adults in doses up to 1,000 milligrams or more.

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Despite this, it is advisable to keep the niacin dose on the lower side to avoid unwanted side effects, especially given some studies that associate higher doses with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

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As always, it is recommended to consult with a doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.

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Dosage Recommendations for the Stamets Stack

The Stamets Stack involves specific dosage recommendations for each of its three components to maximize their potential benefits. Here are the suggested dosages:

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• Psilocybin Mushrooms: For microdosing, Paul Stamets recommends using 0.1 to 1.0 grams of dried psilocybin mushrooms. It’s important to start with a lower dose to gauge your tolerance, especially since psilocybin content can vary between different batches and species.

• Lion’s Mane Mushroom: The recommended dosage for Lion’s Mane in the Stamets Stack is 5 to 20 grams of fresh mushroom or 50 to 200 milligrams of extract containing erinacines and hericenones. This dosage aims to support cognitive function and neuroprotection.

• Niacin (Vitamin B3): Niacin is included to enhance the uptake of psilocin and improve circulation. The recommended dosage is 100 to 200 milligrams. This dose can induce a flushing effect, characterized by redness, tingling, and a sensation of heat or itchiness, due to its vasodilatory properties.

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By following these dosage guidelines, users can potentially optimize the synergistic effects of the Stamets Stack for cognitive and emotional enhancement. However, it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

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The Stamets Stack Microdosing Protocol

Paul Stamets has outlined two versions of the Stamets Stack microdosing protocol:

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1. Five Days On, Two Days Off: This regimen involves microdosing for five consecutive days, followed by two days off each week.‍
2. Four Days On, Three Days Off: This model consists of microdosing for four consecutive days, followed by three days off each week.

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In both versions, it is advised to take two to three days off from the stacking protocol each week to prevent tolerance build-up and allow the body to reset.

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Duration of the Routine

Recommendations regarding the duration of the microdosing routine vary. Some individuals follow the schedule for prolonged periods without taking significant breaks, while others prefer to microdose for a month at a time before taking a break.

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It is essential to listen to your body and adjust the routine as needed. Consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any microdosing protocol is also recommended to ensure safety and effectiveness.

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Potential of Microdosing

Anecdotal reports suggest that microdosing may have great potential as a mental health treatment, improving mood, creativity, and productivity. Popular books such as The Psychedelic Explorer's Guide by James Fadiman and A Really Good Day by Ayelet Waldman discuss the benefits of microdosing.

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Current Research and Findings

Research on microdosing has increased in the past few years, with findings suggesting possible therapeutic potential. Studies indicate that microdosing could offer benefits for mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD.

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However, existing research has demonstrated negligible benefits, leading some to suggest that the effects may be due to a placebo effect. In this context, a placebo effect means that individuals experience perceived benefits because they believe they are taking an effective treatment, even if the substance itself has no therapeutic effect.

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Challenges in Microdosing Research

Studying the true effectiveness of microdosing psilocybin faces several significant challenges. Blinding and the placebo effect are major issues, as participants might recognize the subtle effects of psilocybin, compromising the study’s blinding and leading to biased results.

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Additionally, self-administration at home introduces variability, as participants may not consistently follow the dosing schedule or may inaccurately report their experiences, affecting the reliability of the data. Environmental factors, such as the psychological state of participants and their surroundings, can also greatly influence the outcomes. These factors are hard to standardize and control, adding complexity to accurately assessing the benefits of microdosing.

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Innovative Research Methods: Self-Blinding

Some researchers have begun to develop methods where participants can engage in self-blinding, where they are unaware of whether they are taking the psychedelic or a placebo. This approach aims to maintain the integrity of the study while allowing participants to follow their regular microdosing schedules.

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The Need for Rigorous Research on the Stamets Stack

There has been no formal research on the possible benefits of the Stamets Stack, though it has received significant support on forums such as Reddit.

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Some individuals report that microdosing with the Stamets Stack has been more effective than conventional treatments for mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, addiction, OCD, and ADHD. Others claim that it has improved their lives in various ways, such as increased focus and productivity or enhanced creativity.

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This highlights the need for more rigorous research to validate these anecdotal claims and fully understand the therapeutic potential of microdosing.

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Summary

The Stamets Stack microdosing protocol, developed by mycology pioneer Paul Stamets, combines psilocybin mushrooms, Lion’s Mane Mushroom, and Niacin to potentially enhance brain function and provide various health benefits.

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Anecdotal reports suggest improvements in mood, creativity, self-awareness, and productivity, among other advantages. However, despite promising testimonials, the Stamets Stack has not been rigorously studied in clinical trials, and more research is needed to validate its effectiveness.

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Current research on microdosing indicates potential therapeutic benefits for mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD, but challenges such as the placebo effect, self-administration variability, and environmental factors complicate the study of its true efficacy.

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The need for robust scientific investigation remains critical to fully understand and harness the potential of microdosing protocols like the Stamets Stack.