Kind Stranger popular practice of microdosing psychedelic mushrooms has gained interest from both the public and scientific community. This modern revival may be fueled by recent decriminalization in Oregon and other cities, a growing number of groundbreaking studies published in top-tier medical journals, and shifting cultural attitudes that are destigmatizing the use of these drugs.

But while anecdotal reports from users who swear by microdosing psychedelics suggest a real benefit, the science behind it remains largely unclear. Many scientists wonder whether the benefits, such as improved mood and thinking skills, are due to psilocybin’s pharmacology or simply the placebo effect.

Microdose Pills Explained: What to Expect from a Low-Dose Psilocybin Routine

To find out, researchers have conducted some of the first scientific experiments on psilocybin microdosing. In one, they gave participants a dose of 0.5 grams of dried psilocybin mushrooms (or a placebo) and asked them to complete tests that measure creativity, well-being, and cognitive function. Afterward, they measured the brain activity of each participant using EEG. Compared to the placebo condition, participants who took psilocybin reported increased levels of divergent thinking and decreased levels of convergent thinking. They also reported greater emotional connectedness and more positive mood states. In addition, the psilocybin-treated group reported reduced brain activity in the theta wave frequency and preserved levels of Lempel–Ziv broadband signal complexity.

Other research suggests that microdoses of psilocybin can help people think more creatively, increase their sense of meaning in life, and decrease anxiety and depression. But it’s important to talk with your doctor before trying any psychedelic drug, even a low dose. Taking the wrong mushroom species or incorrect dosage can lead to dangerous side effects. In addition, people with certain mental illnesses—such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder—or a family history of them might be at higher risk for psychosis.