Dosing & Preparation
Capsule Preparation
What is capsule preparation?
Capsule preparation is the process of encapsulating pre-weighed amounts of homogenized powder into individual capsules. This creates pre-measured, portable, and discreet doses that are easy to take consistently.
Capsule sizes commonly used:
| Capsule Size | Approximate Capacity (powder) |
|---|---|
| Size 4 | ~120 mg |
| Size 3 | ~200 mg |
| Size 2 | ~300 mg |
| Size 1 | ~400 mg |
| Size 0 | ~500 mg |
| Size 00 | ~700 mg |
Note: Actual capacity varies significantly based on powder density and fineness.
Why it matters for microdosing
Capsule preparation transforms loose powder into a standardized dosing system:
- Consistency — each capsule contains the same pre-weighed amount
- Convenience — no need to weigh powder before each dose
- Portability — easy to carry and take anywhere
- Taste masking — avoids the unpleasant taste of raw mushroom powder
- Stacking — capsules can include additional supplements (lion's mane, niacin, etc.) in a standardized blend
- Reduced handling — less exposure to air, moisture, and contamination with each dose
How it works in practice
Equipment needed:
- Precision scale (0.001 g / 1 mg resolution)
- Empty capsules (vegetarian or gelatin)
- Capsule filling machine (optional but helpful for batches)
- Homogenized powder
- Small scoop or micro-spatula
Process:
- Calculate your dose — based on titration results and the potency of your homogenized material
- Weigh each fill — use a milligram scale to weigh powder for each capsule individually
- Fill capsules — place powder into the larger capsule half, then close
- Verify weights — weigh several completed capsules to confirm consistency
- Label and store — mark the batch with dose, date, and contents; store with desiccant in a cool, dark place
Stacking example (Stamets Stack):
- Psilocybin mushroom powder: 100 mg
- Lion's mane mushroom powder: 200 mg
- Niacin (vitamin B3): 50 mg
What to watch out for
- Scale accuracy — consumer milligram scales are often inaccurate below 20–50 mg; calibrate regularly and weigh above the scale's reliable threshold
- Filler material — if your target dose is very small (e.g., 50 mg), you may need filler (rice flour, for example) to fill the capsule properly
- Moisture control — capsules can absorb moisture; always include desiccant in storage
- Degradation — prepared capsules have a shelf life; potency may decrease over months, especially if storage conditions are poor
- Individual capsule weights — always weigh individually; capsule filling machines can produce inconsistent results