A Comprehensive Guide

Magic mushrooms, commonly referred to as shrooms, are a popular psychedelic known for their mind-altering effects. If you’ve decided to try them or are curious about their effects, one of the most common questions people ask is: How long does shrooms take to hit? Understanding the onset of a shroom trip can help you better prepare and manage your experience.

In this blog post, we will discuss how long it typically takes for shrooms to hit, factors that influence the onset, what to expect during the trip, and tips for maximizing your experience. We’ll also address frequently asked questions to help you make informed decisions about your first or next trip.

What Are Shrooms?

Shrooms are mushrooms that contain psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound that, once ingested, is converted into psilocin in the body. Psilocin acts on serotonin receptors in the brain, causing changes in perception, mood, and cognition. This leads to the altered states of consciousness, vivid hallucinations, and deep introspective experiences that people seek when using shrooms.

The effects of shrooms can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors, and the time it takes for shrooms to hit is one of the key factors in shaping the trip.

How Long Does Shrooms Take to Hit?

Typically, shrooms take 20 to 60 minutes to kick in after consumption. However, the exact onset time can vary depending on several factors such as dosage, method of consumption, stomach contents, and individual characteristics like metabolism and body weight. Let’s dive deeper into each of these factors to help you better understand what influences how long it takes for shrooms to hit.

1. Method of Consumption

The way you consume shrooms significantly impacts how long it takes for the effects to start. Here’s how different consumption methods affect the onset time:

• Raw or Dried Shrooms: If you eat raw or dried mushrooms, it can take 30 to 60 minutes for the psilocybin to be absorbed by your body. This is because the psilocybin must first pass through your digestive system and be broken down before it can enter the bloodstream and reach your brain.
• Shroom Tea: Many people find that shroom tea works faster than raw mushrooms. Since the psilocybin is dissolved in hot water, it’s easier and quicker for your body to absorb, meaning you may start feeling effects within 20 to 30 minutes.
• Shroom Capsules or Extracts: When consuming shrooms in capsule or extract form, the effects may also kick in faster than with dried mushrooms. Since the psilocybin is already in a more concentrated form, your body absorbs it more quickly, resulting in a faster onset.

2. Dosage

The amount of shrooms you consume plays a significant role in how long it takes for the effects to kick in. Lower doses, around 1 gram of dried mushrooms, may take a little longer to take effect compared to larger doses. However, higher doses, typically 3 grams or more, might result in the effects kicking in more quickly, though the intensity of the trip may be delayed until the peak occurs.

If you take a large dose of shrooms, you may feel the effects begin sooner, but the trip will become more intense and last longer. A smaller dose may take longer to show noticeable effects but might result in a more manageable experience.

3. Stomach Contents

What you’ve eaten prior to consuming shrooms can have a significant impact on how quickly the effects are felt. If you take shrooms on an empty stomach, the effects usually kick in faster because your digestive system doesn’t have to process as much food before absorbing the psilocybin.

If you’ve recently eaten a large meal, shrooms may take longer to hit as the body prioritizes digesting food. A full stomach can delay the absorption of psilocybin, meaning the onset of effects could take up to 90 minutes or more.

4. Individual Factors

Everyone’s body processes substances differently, so shrooms can take different times to hit based on individual factors. Here are some key elements that influence the onset:

• Metabolism: If you have a fast metabolism, your body may process psilocybin more quickly, and you might feel the effects sooner. Conversely, those with slower metabolisms may experience a delayed onset.
• Body Weight: Heavier individuals may experience a slower onset as the psilocybin takes longer to circulate through the bloodstream.
• Mental State: Your mindset going into the experience plays a significant role in how quickly the effects manifest. If you’re anxious or distracted, it may take longer to notice the effects. Being relaxed and calm will make the experience feel smoother and the effects easier to notice.

What to Expect When Shrooms Start to Hit

When shrooms start to hit, the first signs are typically subtle. It’s important to remember that the effects will gradually intensify, especially as the shroom trip peaks. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect as the effects begin:

1. Physical Sensations

You may begin to feel tingling sensations in your body, or a slight lightheadedness. Shrooms can alter your perception of touch, and some users report feeling as if their body is vibrating or disconnected from their surroundings. Physical changes, such as increased heart rate or mild nausea, are also common early signs.

2. Visual Changes

Visual effects are often the most noticeable early on. Colors may seem more vivid, and objects may appear to distort or “breathe.” You might notice geometric patterns when you close your eyes, and light sources may appear to sparkle. As the trip deepens, these visual effects will become more intense.

3. Mental Changes

In the early stages, your thoughts may become more fluid, and you might start to feel a sense of heightened awareness. Many people experience a flood of ideas or gain insights into their emotions and surroundings. It’s common for the onset of a trip to feel a little disorienting or surreal at first, especially for new users.

Managing the Onset of Shrooms

While it’s impossible to control exactly how long shrooms take to hit, you can take steps to ensure the experience is positive and manageable.

1. Start Slow with Low Dosage

If it’s your first time using shrooms, start with a small dose (around 1 gram of dried mushrooms) to get a feel for how your body responds. This will also help you understand how long it takes for shrooms to hit.

2. Choose a Safe, Comfortable Environment

Being in a calm and safe setting will help you stay relaxed as the effects start to kick in. Avoid large crowds or stressful situations during the onset to prevent unnecessary anxiety.

3. Stay Hydrated

Drinking water is important for staying comfortable during the trip. Dehydration can increase the intensity of the effects, and a dry mouth is a common side effect.

4. Have a Trip Sitter

If you’re new to shrooms, it’s a good idea to have a trusted trip sitter with you. A sitter can help guide you through the experience, offer reassurance if things get overwhelming, and ensure your safety during the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long does it take for shrooms to hit?

On average, shrooms take about 20 to 60 minutes to kick in, depending on factors such as dosage, method of consumption, and individual differences.

2. Can the onset time vary based on the method of consumption?

Yes, the method of consumption significantly influences the onset time. Shroom tea and extracts are absorbed faster, leading to quicker effects, while eating dried mushrooms takes longer.

3. Does the dosage affect how long shrooms take to hit?

Yes, larger doses of shrooms tend to kick in more quickly, but they also lead to a stronger, longer-lasting trip. Smaller doses take longer to set in but might result in a more manageable experience.

4. Can I speed up the onset of shrooms?

While you can’t speed up the process, taking shrooms on an empty stomach and opting for faster-absorbing methods like tea can help you feel the effects more quickly.

5. Why does it take longer for shrooms to kick in if I’ve eaten?

If you’ve consumed a large meal, your body must digest the food first, which delays the absorption of psilocybin. Taking shrooms on an empty stomach allows for faster absorption.

6. How long will shrooms take to hit for first-time users?

For first-time users, shrooms may take slightly longer to kick in due to unfamiliarity with the substance. Expect the onset time to be around 30 to 60 minutes.

7. What should I do if I don’t feel the effects of shrooms after 60 minutes?

If you don’t feel the effects after an hour, try not to worry. It’s common for the onset to take longer in some people. Just relax and wait for the effects to build.

8. How long do the effects of shrooms last?

The primary effects of shrooms last around 4 to 6 hours, with the peak happening 1 to 2 hours after consumption. Some lingering effects may

last for a few hours after the main trip ends.

Conclusion

Understanding how long it takes for shrooms to hit is crucial for managing expectations and ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience. On average, it can take 20 to 60 minutes for the effects to begin, but this varies depending on factors such as dosage, method of consumption, and individual differences. By considering these factors, you can better prepare for your trip and enjoy the journey with confidence.