Endless nights spent tossing and turning, followed by groggy mornings, can take a toll on anyone. It’s no surprise many people who microdose before sleep claim the practice is the ultimate cure for insomnia. According to proponents of this habit, microdosing can improve mood, boost productivity and help you sleep more soundly. As the growing trend sparks excitement, it raises questions about potential risks.
What Is Micro-dosing and How Does It Work?
While micro-dosing has been growing in popularity, it’s not yet clearly defined. The practice involves taking tiny doses of psychedelics such as LSD or psilocybin to experience subtle effects rather than intense highs. The idea is to get the drug’s potential benefits while avoiding unpleasant side effects associated with these substances.
People who microdose claim it helps improve all aspects of their cognitive function, including mood, creativity and productivity. A typical microdose might be anything between 5% and 10% of a recreational dose. But it’s difficult to set clear parameters, as LSD and psilocybin are illegal to sell and purchase.
Because these drugs aren’t regulated, users have no way of knowing their exact potency. For instance, more than 200 species of mushrooms contain psilocybin, each with varying degrees of the compound’s strength. Some of these species are even toxic, so a regular consumer would struggle to measure a correct microdose accurately.
There’s no shortage of anecdotal stories about the benefits of microdosing. However, its exact mechanisms and effects on the human brain remain unclear. Some believe these small doses interact with serotonin receptors in the brain in a similar way to antidepressants. There are also suggestions that microdosing may help people maintain focus on individual tasks by improving “mental flow.”
Inconclusive Research
Research into psychedelic drugs started in the 1960s when scientists explored their potential for treating mental health issues. However, legal concerns and societal pushback stopped much of that formal exploration. Researchers are beginning to conduct more controlled studies, but the results are mixed.
One recent study found no significant mental improvements in participants who received microdoses of psilocybin. The study instead found that microdosing negatively impacted participant’s ability to focus. There’s also concern that the reported benefits of microdosing may partially be due to the placebo effect. In other words, users may feel better after taking the compound because that’s the expected result.
Potential Benefits of Microdosing for Sleep Issues
Some individuals report better sleep when they microdose before bed. Plenty of personal accounts claim that psychedelics helped reduce stress and calm the mind. Users often say they wake up refreshed and have fewer sleep interruptions at night. Taking a tiny dose of a psychedelic is thought to shift brain chemistry and gently induce a state of relaxation.
Individuals might notice a mild calm that allows them to drift off more easily. Those who struggle with racing thoughts or stress before bed may find this especially helpful. Another benefit may be waking up in a good mood the following day. When you get better rest, you’re more likely to feel alert and ready for the day ahead.
Despite encouraging anecdotes, the research linking microdosing and sleep is limited. A clinical trial from 2024 does seem to support the idea that microdosing LSD may help individuals stay asleep longer. However, scientists have yet to fully understand the mechanics of these benefits or the potential long-term risks.
Should You Microdose Before Sleep?
Even at low doses, psychedelics are potent substances that can affect brain chemistry and mood. Potential side effects include anxiety, paranoia and mood swings. In more severe cases, self-medicating with these substances may even trigger or worsen mental health conditions. Some users report experiencing physical symptoms such as slight visual distortions or altered sensory experiences.
While some states have moved towards decriminalizing the use of psychedelic drugs or allowing it in specific clinical settings, the entire industry is largely unregulated. It’s also hard to find reliable information on dosing or know how much you purchase from illicit suppliers. Accurately measuring a microdose is a challenge, as any variations in quantity can produce different outcomes. Individuals who manage mental health conditions or take prescription medication may risk unexpected side effects when microdosing due to drug interactions.
Additionally, the long-term effects of microdosing remain largely unknown. Without conclusive studies, it’s difficult to predict the impact of repeated microdosing on mental health or cognitive function. If you’re curious about microdosing, you should always consult a qualified medical professional and never attempt to self-medicate.
How to Naturally Improve Sleep
There are several methods you can use to relieve insomnia before turning to substances. One of the best places to start is creating a consistent sleep schedule. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This may be difficult at first, but after a while, your internal clock should adjust to the set schedule.
Work on implementing a structured bedtime routine. Dimming the lights and turning off electronics at least 30 minutes before bedtime can help signal your brain that it’s time to wind down. Instead of scrolling through social media on your smartphone, try reading a book or taking a warm bath.
Your bedroom also matters when it comes to getting enough rest. To block unwanted light, try blackout curtains or a sleep mask. Investing in comfortable bedding and a good-quality mattress can also make a difference.
You can also make a few small but consistent lifestyle changes. Regular exercise, limiting caffeine and avoiding alcohol can improve the quality of your sleep. Breathing exercises and mindful meditation before bed may also help calm your mind.
When to Ask for Help
When lifestyle changes aren’t enough and self-medication is too risky, you might need a bit of additional support to get a good night’s rest. Call Sun Health Center now and ask about our state-of-the-art neuro therapies. Our experienced counselors are ready to support your journey to a more balanced version of yourself.
