Magic mushrooms (available with offerings) are known for creating vivid experiences that shift mood, thoughts, and perception. People who take them often wonder how long do you feel the effects of shrooms. The answer depends on the dose, the type of mushroom, and personal factors like body weight and metabolism. Let’s look at what research tells us about the timing and duration of shroom effects.
When the Effects Begin
After taking shrooms, the body needs time to digest and convert psilocybin into psilocin, the compound that causes the psychedelic effects. Most people start to feel changes within 20 to 40 minutes if the mushrooms are eaten raw or dried. If made into tea, the onset can be a little faster because the compounds are absorbed more quickly.
The early signs include a shift in mood, light changes in perception, and sometimes a sense of excitement or nervousness. For some, there may be mild nausea during this stage as the body processes the mushrooms.
The Peak Experience
The strongest effects usually appear one to two hours after ingestion. At this point, colors may look brighter, sounds may feel richer, and thoughts can become more fluid. Many people describe visual patterns, feelings of connection, and deep personal insights.
The peak often lasts for two to three hours. During this time, changes in perception and emotion are most intense. This is also the period when support from a calm environment or a trusted person is most valuable.
Total Duration
In most cases, the effects of shrooms last between four and six hours. Larger doses can extend the experience to eight hours or more. Once the peak has passed, the effects begin to taper. People often feel more relaxed, reflective, and calm during this stage.
Mild aftereffects like a sense of mental clarity or fatigue can last several more hours. By the next day, most people feel back to normal, although some describe an “afterglow” of improved mood and openness that can last for days.
Factors That Change the Timeline
Not everyone experiences shrooms in the same way. Several factors influence how long the effects last:
- Dose: Larger amounts of mushrooms lead to longer and stronger experiences.
- Mushroom type: Some species, like Psilocybe azurescens, contain more psilocybin and can create longer trips.
- Body weight and metabolism: People with faster metabolism or larger body mass may process psilocybin more quickly.
- Stomach contents: Eating on an empty stomach usually speeds up onset. A full meal can slow things down.
- Set and setting: The user’s mindset and environment shape how the experience feels and how time is perceived.
Beyond the Immediate Effects
While the acute trip usually lasts a few hours, psilocybin can have effects that extend well beyond that window. Clinical studies show that people often report improvements in mood, reduced depression, and more positive outlooks lasting weeks or even months after just one or two sessions.
This lasting impact is linked to psilocybin’s influence on brain networks and neuroplasticity. In other words, even though the trip ends within a day, the benefits may continue long after.
The Clear Answer
So, how long do you feel the effects of shrooms? For most people, the effects begin within 30 minutes, peak at one to two hours, and taper over the next four to six hours. Some may feel aftereffects into the next day, and therapeutic benefits can last much longer.
Final Thoughts
The duration of a shroom experience is relatively short compared to the potential positive impact it can bring. A few hours of altered perception can open the door to days or even months of improved mental health and wellbeing. Understanding the timeline helps people prepare, set expectations, and make the most of the experience.
Sources
- Brown R, et al. Pharmacokinetics of Psilocybin: A Systematic Review. Pharmaceutics. 2023.
- Dolder PC, et al. Clinical Pharmacokinetics of Psilocin After Psilocybin Administration. Clin Pharmacokinet. 2024.
- Carbonaro TM, et al. Acute Adverse Effects of Therapeutic Doses of Psilocybin: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Netw Open. 2024.