Understanding The System: The Theory
A whole systems approach to the mind/brain interface requires stepping back and capturing every relevant factor. You have to examine the psychological, neurological and pharmacological dimensions themselves as complex systems and how each of these interacts with and feeds back on the others. You want to note and take advantage of synergetic relationships and how even small changes can lead to adverse externalities to be avoided. You have to carefully account for the particularities of how different chemistries interact with the body, and with each other, and then use all of this modeling to select just the right balance of form and dosage with each ingredient.
Complex systems are famously sensitive. Failure to account for the whole system can drive short-term benefits at the cost of damaging long-term equilibrium. But, if you can develop a true whole-systems approach, you can move the entire system into higher homeostasis.