If you’re wondering how long shrooms last, you’re not alone. Magic mushrooms have become increasingly popular in recent years, and research shows that 11.3% of people aged 12 or older in the United States reported having used psilocybin in 2022. Understanding magic mushroom effects and duration can help you recognize when someone might need support or when it’s time to reach out for professional help.
At Sunlight Recovery, we work with people who have questions about psychedelic substances and their effects. Knowing what to expect from a shroom experience can make a big difference in helping you get the help you need when you need it.
What Are Magic Mushrooms and How Do They Work?
Magic mushrooms are fungi that contain psilocybin. This is a naturally occurring compound that can cause changes in how you perceive things, your mood and your thought patterns. When you consume these mushrooms, your body converts the psilocybin into psilocin, the active chemical that creates the psychedelic effects.
These mushrooms have been used in spiritual ceremonies for thousands of years. Today, people use them recreationally or sometimes in attempts to self-treat mental health conditions. However, it’s important to understand that using shrooms without medical supervision carries serious risks.
Psilocybin works by attaching to the serotonin receptors in your brain, changing how different parts of the brain communicate. The result is an altered state of consciousness. Colors might seem brighter, sounds might feel different and your sense of time might become distorted.
Onset, Peak and Duration of Effects
The psilocybin trip timeline typically follows a predictable pattern. However, individual experiences can vary. Research shows the effects of psilocybin begin within 20 to 40 minutes and then disappear within 3 to 6 hours.
Here’s what usually happens during a typical trip. You might not feel anything for the first 20 to 30 minutes after consuming shrooms, but this delayed reaction can be misleading. Some people make the mistake of taking more because they think the first dose didn’t work, leading to an overwhelming experience.
The effects typically start gradually. Colors might seem more vibrant, or some patterns might appear to move. The sensations that start mild can build over time.
The peak of the experience typically hits a couple of hours after consumption when the effects are strongest. During the peak, hallucinations are the most intense, and your perception of reality is most altered. Time might feel like it’s moving at either a very slow or unusually fast pace.
After the peak passes, the effects gradually decrease over the next few hours. Most people return to a relatively normal state within a few hours of taking shrooms. However, some individuals may feel different or experience lingering effects into the next day.
Factors That Influence How Long Shrooms Last
Several factors can affect the duration of magic mushroom effects. Understanding the variables can help explain why experiences can differ so much from person to person.
- Dosage. This is the biggest factor. A larger amount of mushrooms typically results in more intense and longer-lasting effects.
- The type of mushroom. Different varieties of mushrooms contain varying psilocybin levels.
- Food in your stomach. Taking mushrooms on an empty stomach can cause effects to start right away and feel more intense. If you’ve just eaten a large meal, it might take longer for the effects to begin.
- Weight and metabolism. Your overall health can influence how quickly your system processes psilocybin. People with faster metabolisms may experience shorter trips, while those with slower metabolisms might feel the effects longer.
- Previous experience with psychedelics. If you’ve recently used shrooms or similar substances, you might have developed a tolerance, meaning you’d need a higher dose to feel the same effects.
- Your mental state. If you’re anxious, the negative effects of the psilocybin might be intensified.
- Your environment. Being in a comfortable, safe place with people you trust can influence your experience, while being in an unfamiliar setting might make the experience worse.
Mental and Physical Effects During a Trip
The effects of shrooms can go far beyond just seeing things differently. At Sunlight Recovery, we help people understand both the mental and physical impacts of using psychedelic substances.
Mental effects can include:
- Hallucinations
- Changes in how you think about yourself and the world around you
- Disconnection or overconnection to reality
- Unpredictable emotions
There are also some physical effects, potentially including:
- Nausea (especially within the first hour)
- Blood pressure and heart rate changes
- Dilated pupils
- Coordination issues
- Changes in body temperature, even if the actual temperature hasn’t changed
- Muscle weakness or tremors
How Long Do Shrooms Last in the System?
Even after the effects wear off, traces of psilocybin remain in your body for a while. Research indicates that about 66% of the compounds from shrooms get excreted in the first 3 hours. However, the detection window varies depending on the type of test used.
- Urine tests. Up to 3 days
- Blood tests. Up to 24 hours
- Hair follicle tests. Up to 3 months
Because most standard drug screenings don’t test for psilocybin, specialized tests are often required. This means that while the substance leaves your system relatively quickly, specialized testing can still identify recent use.
Get Support at Sunlight Recovery
Understanding how long shrooms last is just part of the puzzle. Professional help is available if you or someone you care about is struggling with substance use involving magic mushrooms or other drugs. At Sunlight Recovery, we provide comprehensive treatment programs to address substance use and support long-term recovery.
You might be uncertain if your substance use has become a problem or worry about what treatment involves. Our compassionate team understands these concerns, and we’re here to provide the support you need without judgment. Contact Sunlight Recovery today to learn more about how we can help you move forward toward a healthier future.
