What You Need

Psilocybin mushrooms (e.g., Psilocybe cubensis; the most common kind)
Accurate scale (0.01g or better)
Logbook or notebook to track your dosing and headache activity
Time and privacy. This protocol requires a few days between doses, and some quiet space

Dosing Guide

Microdose / Threshold dose: 0.25–1.0 grams dried

Most people start around 0.5 grams. The goal is to stay below psychedelic levels, but still feel slight effects (like body warmth, relaxation, etc.). Do not start high. You can increase slightly on the next dose if needed.

Step-by-Step Busting Protocol

Step 1: Prepare and Plan

Pick a day with no work or driving.
Eat light beforehand.
Have a quiet, safe place to rest for a few hours.

Stop using triptans, ergots, and SSRIs at least 5 days before your first dose if possible — they may block psilocybin's effect.

⚠️ Ask your doctor before stopping prescription meds.

Step 2: Take Your First Dose

Dose: Start with 0.5 grams dried mushrooms.
Eat them raw, or make mushroom tea (gentler on the stomach).
Sit or lie down and relax for 3–4 hours.

You may feel:

Mild body sensations
A shift in mood or perception
Drowsiness or giggles
Maybe very light visuals (if you're sensitive)

Step 3: Wait and Track

Wait 5 days before the next dose. Keep a headache diary:

How many attacks per day?
Severity and duration
Triggers
Changes in sleep/mood

Step 4: Repeat

Repeat every 5 days for 3–4 doses, or until cluster cycle is broken. Many people report decreased intensity or frequency within 1–3 doses. Some continue busting monthly as a preventive measure. We call this maintenance dosing.

Optional: Lemon Tek (Faster Onset)

Makes effects come on quicker, but shorter duration.

Grind mushrooms and soak in fresh lemon juice for 20 minutes.
Drink mixture (you can strain the solids if desired).

What to Avoid During Busting

Triptans (Sumatriptan, Zomig, etc.)
Ergotamine
SSRIs or MAOIs
Alcohol (especially during busting days)

These can block or blunt the effects of psilocybin, making the bust ineffective.

Signs It's Working

Fewer or shorter cluster attacks
Longer pain-free periods
Milder shadows or headaches
Ability to sleep better

Maintenance and Long-Term Use

After a successful bust, some people do:

"Booster" doses every 1–3 months (0.5g)
Microdosing regimens (e.g., 0.2g every 3 days)

But others only bust when the cycle returns (seasonal or episodic).

Legal and Safety Considerations

Psilocybin is still illegal in many places. Check your local laws.
Even low doses can affect perception and coordination.
Don't combine with psychiatric meds without consulting a doctor.
Have a trusted sitter or support person, especially for your first dose.
Be aware of variations in psilocybin (and total tryptamine) content of various strains. Potency can also vary within a strain across grows and even between flushes within the same grow. See also: Magic Mushroom Strain Guide (100+ Strains Explained)

Preventing cluster headache attacks with psilocybin