Mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional spiritual practices and have gained popularity in recent years for their potential therapeutic benefits. There are two main ways to take mushrooms: microdosing and macrodosing.

Microdosing involves taking a very small dose of mushrooms, typically around 0.1 to 0.5 grams, every few days. The goal of microdosing is to experience the benefits of the mushrooms without the intense effects that come with larger doses. Some people use microdosing as a way to boost creativity, increase productivity, and reduce anxiety or depression.

On the other hand, macrodosing, also known as a Hero dose, involves taking a larger dose of mushrooms, typically between 2 and 5 grams. The effects of a Hero dose can last for several hours and can include intense experiences, including hallucinations, changes in perception, and a sense of connection to the world around you. Some people use macrodosing as a way to explore their consciousness and gain new insights about themselves and the world.

One way to think about the difference between microdosing and macrodosing is to use the Hero’s Journey, a storytelling archetype popularized by Joseph Campbell. The Hero’s Journey involves a protagonist who goes on a transformative journey, facing challenges and gaining knowledge along the way.

Microdosing can be thought of as the “Call to Adventure” stage of the Hero’s Journey. The small dose of mushrooms can be a gentle nudge to explore new ways of thinking or to start a new project. It can help increase focus and motivation, similar to the way a mentor might encourage the hero to begin their journey.

Macrodosing, on the other hand, can be thought of as the “Road of Trials” stage of the Hero’s Journey. The larger dose of mushrooms can lead to intense experiences that can be challenging to navigate. However, these experiences can also lead to new insights and a deeper understanding of the self, similar to the way the hero in the story gains knowledge and wisdom through their trials.

It’s important to note that both microdosing and macrodosing should only be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional or experienced guide. However, recent research has shown promising results for the use of mushrooms in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and addiction, and there is growing interest in legalizing the use of mushroom therapy.

In summary, microdosing mushrooms can be a useful tool for increasing focus, creativity, and reducing anxiety or depression. Macrodosing, or a Hero dose, can lead to intense experiences that can be challenging but also provide new insights and a deeper understanding of the self. Both methods should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional or experienced guide.

Simplified Journey Illustration by Reg Harris