The Stamets Stack
A Psilocybin Microdosing Protocol Encouraging Cognitive Health and Neuroplasticity
In Paul We Trust
In the mysterious world of mycology, few lanterns shine as bright as Paul Stamets. Growing up on a farm in rural western Colorado, I had a plethora of “old-timers” in my community to consult with about wrenching on vintage vehicles and farm equipment.They poured knowledge about growing corn, hay, stone fruits, garden fare, and preserving local food for the winter.
When it came to my curiosity about the science of growing fungi, no such local old-timer existed — so I turned to books — and Paul’s collected works have been a most cherished learning resource. After decades of following his protocols in my lab (and life) with great results, I am proud to say his wisdom is tried and true. Please see the recommended reading section at the end of this article.
What is in the Stamets Stack?
Imagine it as a daily tune-up for your neural engine that helps to combat stress, aging, and brain fog.
The Stamets Stack is a synergistic trio of supplements designed to supercharge brain health: a microdose of psilocybin (the active compound in magic mushrooms), Lion's Mane mushroom extract, and niacin (vitamin B3). Developed by Stamets himself, this protocol isn't about chasing hallucinogenic highs. Instead, it's a subtle, sub-perceptual regimen aimed at supporting neuroplasticity – the brain's ability to rewire and regenerate itself.
How Often Should I Take The Stamets Stack?
Paul’s protocol follows a rhythmic cycle to prevent tolerance and maximize benefits.
Take the full stack for four consecutive days.
Abstain for three days.
Repeat this weekly pattern for one month (four weeks on), followed by a two-to-four-week break.
During off days, you can still nibble on whole Lion's Mane mushrooms for sustained support, but skip the psilocybin entirely. Stamets suggests that this intermittent approach, mimics natural biological rhythms and sustains long-term efficacy without diminishing returns.
Drawing from his extensive research into fungi's role in human evolution, Stamets envisions the stack as a catalyst for "humanity's next evolutionary leap," promoting empathy, creativity, and resilience in an increasingly disconnected world. Preliminary studies, including those on psychomotor performance, hint at real-world perks like improved mood and focus. Let’s review each layer of the stack and suggested dosages.
Suggested Dosages & Benefits
Psilocybin: The Spark of Subtle Transformation
0.1 – 0.2 grams dried
Psilocybin is the psychedelic tryptamine found in over 200 species of mushrooms, like Psilocybe cubensis. Stamets recommends a microdose of 100 – 200 milligrams (0.1–0.2 grams) of dried mushrooms – about one-tenth the amount needed for a full trip. This tiny serving is calibrated to be imperceptible: no swirling colors or existential epiphanies, just a gentle nudge toward enhanced well-being.
Stamets emphasizes that higher amounts risk sensory distortions and impaired judgment, derailing daily life. At micro levels, psilocybin subtly elevates serotonin-like activity, fostering a "slight mood change" and deeper sense of connectedness. It promotes neuroplasticity by encouraging dendritic spine growth in the brain, potentially easing depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms. Research from Yale echoes this, highlighting psilocybin's role in neurogeneration. Stamets sees it as the stack's "primary ingredient," amplified by its partners to extend benefits without tolerance buildup from daily use. Users often report sharper focus and emotional resilience, making it ideal for creatives or high-stress professionals.
Lion's Mane: The Neural Architect
500 – 1,000 mg extract
Hericium erinaceus, or Lion's Mane – a shaggy, tooth-like fungus that's been a staple in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Stamets pairs it with psilocybin at 500–1,000 milligrams of extract powder (standardized for beta-glucans, the active polysaccharides). Opt for fruiting body extracts over mycelium for potency; on off days, whole dried mushrooms (up to a few grams) keep the momentum going.
Stamets champions Lion's Mane for its nootropic prowess, backed by emerging science showing it stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein crucial for neuron repair and growth. This dosage strikes a balance: potent enough to support neurogenesis – the birth of new brain cells – without overwhelming the system. Stamets theorizes it synergizes with psilocybin, helping the psychedelic "prompt" brain changes while Lion's Mane provides the building blocks. Studies suggest it reduces irritability, nerve pain, and mild cognitive impairment, with one trial linking it to improved memory in older adults.
In the stack, this mushroom acts as a bridge between fungi's regenerative magic and human neurology. Stamets, a lifelong fungi evangelist, views it as essential for countering modern life's toll on our brains – think inflammation from poor diet, chronic stress, and constant bombardment with information by internet apps. At 500–1,000 mg, it's therapeutic, not excessive, allowing steady integration into routines like morning coffee.
Niacin: The Delivery Dynamo
50–200 mg, flush form
Niacin, is the humble vitamin B3, dosed at 50–200 milligrams in its flush-inducing form (avoid "no-flush" versions). That tingly, red-faced warmth? It's the point. Stamets insists on the flushing type because it dilates blood vessels, boosting circulation and ushering the Stack's active ingredients deeper into tissues.
Beyond basic B-vitamin duties like energy metabolism, high-dose niacin supports nervous system health and cholesterol balance. Stamets' key insight: the flush enhances bioavailability, pushing psilocybin and Lion's Mane across the blood-brain barrier and into peripheral nerves. Lower doses (under 50 mg) won't trigger this vasodilation; higher ones risk discomfort without added gains. It's a clever hack – that harmless prickling is your cue that the delivery system's firing on all cylinders.
Critics question niacin's role, but Stamets points to its underappreciated evolutionary ties: humans uniquely flush from niacin, perhaps signaling social bonds in our ancestors. Think of it like blushing today: it broadcasts vulnerability, excitement, or connection. In hunter-gatherer bands, a post-meal flush (from niacin-rich foods like game or early fermented stuff) could've signaled "I'm safe, I'm bonding, let's share resources." It promotes group cohesion, empathy, and trust—key for survival in tight-knit tribes. Stamets weaves this into his bigger vision: the stack isn't just supplements; it's a nod to our fungal-human symbiosis, reigniting those primal, empathetic circuits in our modern, isolated brains. In the stack, it ensures even distribution of the active ingredients in the mushrooms, and amplifies neurogenesis for broader body-wide benefits.
Paul’s advice has never steered me wrong in the lab.
I trust him with my neural network, too.
But only you can make the right decision for you.
Reminder of the Risks
Psilocybin consumption is legal for adults 21+.
Never operate a vehicle or heavy machinery under the influence of psilocybin or any other drug.
Only carry and consume on private property with the express permission of the property owner.
Recommended Reading
Psilocybin Microdosers Demonstrate Greater Observed Improvements in Mood and Mental Health at One Month Relative to Non-microdosing Controls
by Joseph M. Rootman, Maggie Kiraga, Pamela Kryskow, Kalin Harvey, Paul Stamets, Eesmyal Santos-Brault, Kim P. C. Kuypers & Zach Walsh
Adults Who Microdose Psychedelics Report Health Related Motivations And Lower Levels Of Anxiety And Depression Compared To Non-Microdosers
By Joseph M. Rootman, Pamela Kryskow, Kalin Harvey, Paul Stamets, Eesmyal Santos-Brault, Kim P. C. Kuypers & Vince Polito, Francoise Bourzat, & Zach Walsh
Books By Paul Stamets
“Growing Gourmet and Medicinal Mushrooms”
“Mycelium Running”
“The Mushroom Cultivator: A Practical Guide to Growing Mushrooms at Home”
co-authored with J.S. Chilton
“Psilocybin Mushrooms of the World”
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