A Complete Guide

Magic mushrooms, commonly known as shrooms, are a popular psychedelic that many people turn to for recreational, therapeutic, or spiritual purposes. Whether you’re a first-time user or an experienced psychonaut, one of the most common questions is: “How long does it take shrooms to kick in?” Understanding the onset of effects and what to expect can help you prepare for a safe, enjoyable experience. In this guide, we will explore the factors that influence how long it takes for shrooms to kick in, the different stages of the trip, and what you can do to manage your experience.

What Are Shrooms?

Shrooms are a type of mushroom that contains the psychoactive compound psilocybin, which is converted into psilocin in the body. These compounds interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to altered perception, vivid hallucinations, and emotional shifts. The effects of shrooms can vary widely depending on factors like dosage, personal tolerance, and the specific species of mushroom consumed.

How Long Does It Take Shrooms to Kick In?

On average, it takes between 20 to 60 minutes for shrooms to kick in after consumption. However, the onset time can vary based on several factors, including how the shrooms are consumed, the dose, and individual factors like metabolism.

1. Method of Consumption

The method you use to consume shrooms plays a significant role in how long it takes for the effects to begin. When eating raw or dried mushrooms, the psilocybin must pass through your digestive system before it enters your bloodstream and begins to take effect. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

However, if you prepare shroom tea or a liquid extract, the effects may be felt more quickly. This is because the active compounds are absorbed faster when dissolved in a liquid, often leading to a quicker onset—sometimes within 20 to 30 minutes.

2. Dosage

The amount of shrooms you consume also impacts how long it takes for the effects to kick in. Lower doses (around 1 gram of dried mushrooms) may take longer to manifest noticeable effects compared to larger doses, which may cause the effects to be felt more quickly.

On the other hand, higher doses, particularly those over 3 grams, can sometimes result in a delayed onset, but when the effects do begin, they tend to be much more intense. The more you consume, the more pronounced and immediate the onset tends to be, though this can also depend on individual factors like body weight and tolerance.

3. Stomach Contents

If you consume shrooms on an empty stomach, the effects will typically kick in faster. When your stomach is empty, your body can absorb the psilocybin more quickly. If you’ve eaten a large meal before taking shrooms, it may take longer for the effects to be felt since the body has to process the food before absorbing the active compounds.

4. Individual Factors

Everyone’s body processes substances differently. Metabolism, body weight, and mental state all influence how long it takes shrooms to kick in. Those with a faster metabolism may feel the effects sooner, while those with a slower metabolism may experience a delayed onset.

Your mood and environment can also play a role. If you’re feeling anxious or distracted, the effects of shrooms may be harder to notice right away. Conversely, being relaxed and in a comfortable setting can allow you to more easily tune into the changes happening in your mind and body.

What to Expect When Shrooms Start to Kick In

Once shrooms begin to kick in, the experience can feel quite different from person to person. Generally, the onset will be marked by subtle shifts in perception and a growing sense of euphoria or heightened awareness.

1. Physical Sensations

The first noticeable effects are often physical. You might feel light-headed, tingly, or slightly detached from your body. Some people experience visual distortions, like colors becoming more vibrant or objects seeming to breathe or move slightly. It’s not uncommon to also feel a slight stomach discomfort in the first hour, especially if you’ve consumed raw mushrooms.

2. Mental Effects

As the effects intensify, you may notice changes in your thinking. Your thoughts might become more fluid or abstract. You might experience insights, a deep sense of connection with the universe, or a shift in your emotional state. It’s during this early stage that many people begin to experience feelings of awe or curiosity about the world around them.

3. Visual and Auditory Hallucinations

The most noticeable part of a shrooms trip for many is the visual and auditory distortions. You may see colors and shapes shift, walls may seem to ripple, or everyday objects may appear to morph. Sounds may also become distorted, and you might hear things that aren’t actually there. As the trip progresses, these hallucinations can become more intense.

How Long Do Shrooms Take to Fully Hit?

While the initial effects may be felt after 20 to 60 minutes, it can take 1 to 2 hours for shrooms to fully hit. This is when the peak of the trip begins, and you may experience the most intense visuals and shifts in consciousness. At this point, the effects will last for 2 to 3 hours before starting to gradually fade.

Tips for Managing the Onset of Shroom Effects

Here are some tips to help you manage the onset of a shrooms trip:

1. Start with a Lower Dose: If it’s your first time, start with a smaller dose to gauge how your body reacts. This can help you better understand how long it takes for shrooms to kick in and prevent overwhelming effects.
2. Be Patient: It’s common for new users to feel anxious or impatient as they wait for the effects to kick in. Remember that shrooms typically take 20 to 60 minutes to start working, and it’s important to relax and trust that the effects will come on their own time.
3. Stay Hydrated and Calm: Drink plenty of water and stay in a safe, comfortable environment. Avoid distractions or stressful situations during the onset phase to reduce anxiety and make the experience more enjoyable.
4. Avoid Mixed Substances: If you’re new to shrooms, avoid mixing them with other substances like alcohol or other drugs. This can alter the effects and potentially lead to unpleasant experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long does it take for shrooms to kick in?

On average, it takes about 20 to 60 minutes for the effects of shrooms to kick in after ingestion, depending on factors like dosage and method of consumption.

2. Can shrooms kick in faster if I drink shroom tea?

Yes, shroom tea can cause the effects to kick in faster compared to consuming raw or dried mushrooms. This is because the active compounds are absorbed more quickly in liquid form.

3. Why do shrooms take longer to kick in if I’ve eaten?

If you’ve had a large meal before taking shrooms, it may take longer for the psilocybin to be absorbed because your digestive system is busy processing the food. Taking shrooms on an empty stomach typically leads to faster onset.

4. Can the effects of shrooms be delayed?

Yes, some people may experience a delayed onset, especially if they have a slower metabolism or consume shrooms in larger doses. It’s also common for the effects to be delayed if the mushrooms are consumed in a different form, like tea.

5. How long does it take for the full effects of shrooms to hit?

While the first effects of shrooms may be felt after 20 to 60 minutes, it can take up to 1 to 2 hours for the full effects to hit, including intense visual and auditory hallucinations.

6. Do shrooms take longer to kick in for everyone?

Yes, the onset of effects can vary from person to person. Factors like metabolism, body weight, and mental state can influence how quickly shrooms take effect.

7. What should I do if I don’t feel anything after 60 minutes?

If you don’t feel anything after 60 minutes, don’t panic. The onset might simply take longer for you, especially if you’re new to shrooms or took a smaller dose. Just relax and allow the experience to unfold.

8. Can I speed up the onset of shrooms effects?

Unfortunately, you can’t speed up the onset of a shrooms trip, but you can help the experience by staying hydrated and remaining calm while you wait for the effects to kick in.

9. How can I tell when shrooms have fully kicked in?

Shrooms are fully in effect when you start to experience intense visual distortions, changes in perception, and shifts in your emotional state. The peak typically begins 1 to 2 hours after ingestion.

10. How long will the effects of shrooms last?

The effects of shrooms typically last 4 to 6 hours, with the peak of the trip occurring between 1 and 3 hours after ingestion.

Conclusion

How long does it take shrooms to kick in? On average, it takes 20 to 60 minutes for shrooms to begin working. The onset can vary depending on the dose, method of consumption, and individual factors