Magic mushrooms have psychoactive properties and contain the compounds psilocybin and psilocin, which create altered states of perception, visual and auditory hallucinations and profound emotional experiences. The impacts of magic mushrooms can vary broadly depending on dosage, individual metabolism and consumption method.

So, how long do magic mushrooms last? It’s something we discuss in detail below.

Understanding Magic Mushrooms

Magic mushrooms, also identified as psilocybin mushrooms, are a group of fungi with psychoactive compounds—primarily psilocybin and its active form, psilocin. One of the most common species is Psilocybe buensis, which is widely available and has been used throughout the centuries in various cultures for its mind-altering effects.

Magic mushrooms are also described as “shrooms.”

The legal status of magic mushrooms varies a lot around the world. In some countries, they’re classified as controlled substances, so possession and distribution are illegal. There is also a growing movement, however, advocating for the decriminalization and therapeutic use of psilocybin.

The primary active compounds play crucial roles in the psychoactive effects of different types of mushrooms.

When it’s ingested, psilocybin is transformed into psilocin, which interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, especially the 5-HT2A receptor. The interaction leads to shifts in perception, mood and cognition. It can result in experiences like visual distortions, enhanced emotional states and reflective or introspective thoughts.

Magic mushrooms are recreationally used because of not just their hallucinogenic but also their euphoric effects.

In recent years, there has been growing interest in their therapeutic uses, especially for treating conditions like depression, PTSD and anxiety.

Duration of Effects

The duration of effects from magic mushrooms varies significantly based on several factors. Generally, the onset of the impact is within 15 to 60 minutes after ingestion. The timeline depends on the method of consumption. For example, eating dried mushrooms may take longer to produce effects than brewing them in tea.

Peak effects are typically 2-3 hours after ingestion, during which time a user might experience the most intense perception and mood alterations. At this stage, hallucinations are common, along with emotional insights and a feeling of interconnectedness. Users often report feeling euphoric or spiritual experiences so this peak period can be a central part of the psychedelic journey for them.

Overall, the total duration of effects from magic mushrooms can last between 4-6 hours. While the most intense effects usually subside after a few hours, lingering after-effects can occur, including mild changes in perception, mood fluctuations and a sense of calm.

Several factors can impact how long the effects last. 

• One is the dosage taken—higher doses tend to produce more prolonged and intense experiences. 
• The consumption method also plays a role. For instance, mushrooms consumed in tea might lead to a quicker onset and shorter duration than whole mushrooms.
• Individual metabolism influences how quickly the body processes psilocybin and psilocin.
• Other variables, such as tolerance, body weight and psychological state, can also influence the overall experience and duration of effects.
• The mental state of the user and the environment where they’re consuming mushrooms can influence how intense and long the experience is.

Presence in the Body

When ingested, psilocybin, the primary psychoactive compound in magic mushrooms, is rapidly converted into psilocin in the body. The conversion occurs primarily in the liver, and it’s why the drug has psychoactive effects.

Psilocin then interacts with serotonin receptors. After the effects are felt, it’s metabolized and eventually eliminated from the body, primarily through urine.

Detection times for magic mushrooms vary depending on the method of testing. 

• In urine tests, psilocybin and psilocin can typically be detected for up to 24 hours after ingestion, although some tests may identify them for slightly longer periods.
• Blood tests can detect these compounds for a shorter duration, usually within a few hours after consumption.
• Hair tests can show traces of psilocybin or psilocin for up to 90 days, but these tests are less common for mushrooms compared to other drugs.

When compared to other substances, the duration of effects and presence in the body can vary quite a bit. For example, substances like THC from cannabis may stay detectable in urine for several days to weeks, while alcohol is metabolized and eliminated much faster.

Safety and Risks

Magic mushrooms can produce a range of potential side effects, including nausea, dizziness, anxiety and vomiting. Some people will experience confusion, paranoia or intense emotional fluctuations during their trip. The effects vary widely based on the person, the dosage and the specific strain of mushroom they consume.

Overconsumption of magic mushrooms can lead to especially severe experiences or so-called bad trips, like overwhelming anxiety, panic attacks or even psychotic episodes.

People with pre-current mental health conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder should be aware that the intense psychological effects can worsen underlying symptoms or trigger episodes.

How Long Do Shrooms Last—Final Thoughts

To sum up, how long do shrooms last?

The duration effects from magic mushrooms typically last between 4 and 6 hours, with onset occurring within 15 to 60 minutes, and peak effects are reached around two to 3 hours after consumption. However, a lot of factors can influence a mushroom trip and how long they will stay in your system or show up on a drug test.

Understanding how long these effects last and how psilocybin is metabolized in the body is important. You also have to be aware of the possibility of risks and side effects related to magic mushrooms, including the impact on mental health.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use or needs support, consider reaching out to Moving Mountains Recovery for help on the journey to recovery.