How Long Does It Take for Shrooms to Kick In?

Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as “shrooms,” or psychedelic mushrooms, have become a topic of interest for many exploring natural psychedelics. One of the most frequently asked questions is how long it takes for shrooms to kick in and how long the effects last.

This blog explains the timeline of psilocybin’s effects, factors that influence its onset, and the potential risks, including polysubstance use with mushrooms and drinking. Understanding the duration of psilocybin in the body is essential for safe and informed usage.

What Are Psilocybin Mushrooms?

Psilocybin mushrooms are a group of fungi containing psilocybin, a natural compound known for its psychedelic effects. One of the effects of psilocybin is heightened sensory perception, leading to enhanced experiences such as visual hallucinations.

When consumed, psilocybin is metabolized into psilocin, which interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, creating altered perceptions, mood changes, and visual or auditory hallucinations.

How Psilocybin Mushrooms Work

Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin. When you consume magic mushrooms, the psilocybin is converted into psilocin in the liver. This psilocin then binds to serotonin receptors in the brain, altering the brain’s chemistry and leading to changes in perception, mood, and cognitive function.

One of the key areas affected by psilocybin is the brain’s default mode network (DMN). The DMN is responsible for introspection, self-reflection, and mind-wandering. Typically, the DMN is active when we are not focused on the outside world and are engaged in internal mental activities. Consuming magic mushrooms can alter the activity of the DMN, leading to changes in consciousness and perception.

The effects of psilocybin mushrooms can be divided into several stages. The onset usually occurs when shrooms kick in, typically within 20 to 40 minutes after consumption and is characterized by initial changes in mood, perception, and cognitive function.

The peak effects, which are typically the most intense, occur within 1 to 3 hours after consumption. Finally, the comedown phase happens as the effects of the psilocybin wear off, usually within 4 to 6 hours after consumption.

How Long Does It Take for Shrooms to Kick In?

Average Onset Time

The effects of shrooms generally begin to manifest within 20 to 60 minutes of ingestion. However, the exact onset time of magic mushrooms varies depending on several factors:

The onset phase is characterized by altered perception, which includes changes in how time, space, and sensory inputs are perceived.

1. Method of Consumption:

*      Eating raw or dried mushrooms typically results in effects starting within 30 to 60 minutes.

*      Brewing them into a tea may produce quicker effects, often within 15 to 30 minutes.

*      Capsules or edibles can take longer, around 45 to 90 minutes, as they need to be digested.

2. Dosage:

Higher doses can lead to faster onset and more intense experiences.

3. Individual Metabolism:

Faster metabolisms can lead to quicker absorption of psilocybin.

4. Empty vs. Full Stomach:

Consuming your fungi on an empty stomach typically speeds up the onset of effects of magic mushrooms, while a full stomach may delay absorption.

How Long Do the Effects Last?

The peak effects of shrooms usually occur 1 to 2 hours after ingestion and last for 4 to 6 hours. However, some residual effects, such as changes in mood or perception, can linger for an additional 6 to 12 hours.

Understanding the duration of psilocybin in the body is critical for anticipating when the experience will subside. Psilocybin is generally eliminated from the body within 24 hours, but trace metabolites may remain detectable for a few days, depending on the testing method.

Factors Influencing the Effects of Shrooms

Dosage and Strain

The strength and duration of a psilocybin trip depend on the dosage and the specific mushroom strain. Popular strains like Psilocybe cubensis have varying potency levels.

Set and Setting

The individual’s mindset (“set”) and the environment (“setting”) play significant roles in shaping the psychedelic experience. A calm, familiar, and supportive setting is ideal for a positive experience, while an unfamiliar or uncomfortable setting is less conducive to a ‘good trip’.

Tolerance

Frequent use of shrooms can build a tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. It’s recommended to allow time between trips to reset tolerance levels.

Mental Health Considerations

Individuals with a personal or family history of mental health issues may be more vulnerable to adverse reactions when using psilocybin-containing mushrooms. It is crucial for these individuals to approach psilocybin use with caution, considering careful dosing and monitoring to mitigate potential risks.

Risks and Side Effects of Consuming Magic Mushrooms

While psilocybin mushrooms can be a powerful tool for personal growth and healing, they come with potential risks and side effects. Some of the common side effects include visual and auditory hallucinations, altered perceptions, and changes in mood and cognitive function.

Physically, you might experience an increased heart rate and blood pressure, nausea, and vomiting. Psychologically, there is a risk of anxiety, panic, and experiencing a bad trip.

It’s essential to approach the use of psilocybin mushrooms with caution and respect. To minimize risks, start with a low dose based on your body weight and experienc, have a trusted sitter present, and ensure you are in a comfortable and safe environment.

Being aware of the potential side effects and taking steps to mitigate them can help ensure a safer and more positive experience.

Risks of Combining Substances: Polysubstance Use with Mushrooms and Drinking

Mixing shrooms with other substances, such as alcohol, can complicate the experience and introduce additional risks. Polysubstance use with mushrooms and drinking may:

1.    Amplify Negative Effects: Alcohol can dull cognitive functions and impair judgment, potentially making a shroom trip more unpredictable.

2.    Increase Physical Risks: Both psilocybin and alcohol affect the central nervous system, potentially leading to nausea, vomiting, or dehydration.

3.    Interfere with Emotional Clarity: Psilocybin is often used for introspection and emotional exploration, but alcohol can cloud this process, detracting from the intended experience.

Addiction and Treatment

Although psilocybin mushrooms are not considered physically addictive, they can be psychologically addictive. Some individuals may develop a dependence on the substance and experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using it.

Treatment for psilocybin mushroom addiction typically involves a combination of counseling, therapy, and support groups. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing (MI) are two effective approaches for treating substance abuse disorders. These therapies can help individuals understand their addiction, develop coping strategies, and work towards recovery.

In addition to traditional treatment approaches, some individuals may benefit from alternative therapies such as meditation, yoga, and mindfulness-based stress reduction. These practices can help individuals develop coping skills and strategies for managing stress and anxiety.

If you or someone you know is struggling with psilocybin mushroom addiction, it’s essential to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide guidance and support throughout the recovery process, helping to ensure a successful and sustainable recovery.

Best Practices for a Safe Psilocybin Experience

1. Start with a Low Dose

First-time users should start with a low dose to understand their body’s reaction to psilocybin.

2. Choose a Safe Environment

A quiet, comfortable, and familiar setting with trusted friends or a trip sitter can reduce anxiety and enhance the overall experience.

3. Avoid Mixing Substances

To minimize risks, avoid combining psilocybin with alcohol, cannabis, or other substances.

4. Prepare Mentally and Physically

A calm, positive mindset and a healthy physical state contribute to a smoother journey.

Consuming Mushrooms in Safety is Crucial

Psilocybin mushrooms can offer profound and transformative experiences, but understanding their effects and risks is crucial for safe use. The onset of effects typically occurs within 20 to 60 minutes, with the experience lasting 4 to 6 hours.

Awareness of the duration of psilocybin in the body and avoiding risky behaviors, such as polysubstance use with mushrooms and drinking, can help ensure a safer and more fulfilling journey.

By preparing thoughtfully, setting intentions, and respecting the power of psychedelics, users can make the most of their psilocybin experiences while minimizing potential risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to feel the effects of shrooms?

Consuming shrooms as tea or in liquid form generally speeds up the onset of effects, as the active compounds are absorbed more quickly with mushroom tea.

Can you drive after taking shrooms?

No. Psilocybin significantly impairs motor skills and judgment, making it unsafe and illegal to operate a vehicle.

How does psilocybin compare to other psychedelics?

Compared to LSD, psilocybin has a shorter duration and milder effects. However, individual experiences vary greatly.

Is it safe to mix mushrooms with alcohol?

No. Combining mushrooms with alcohol increases the risk of negative effects and may make the trip more unpredictable.

How long does psilocybin stay detectable in drug tests?

While most standard drug tests do not screen for psilocybin, specialized tests can detect it or its metabolites for up to 24 to 48 hours after use.