Magic mushrooms—commonly known as shrooms—have fascinated people for centuries with their profound effects on perception, mood, and consciousness. Whether you’re a first-time user or a seasoned psychonaut, one of the most common questions people ask before taking psilocybin mushrooms is: How long do shrooms last?
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down how long a shroom trip lasts, how long it takes for shrooms to kick in, and how long shrooms stay in your system. We’ll also explore what factors influence the duration of effects and what you can expect during each stage of a mushroom experience.
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What Are Shrooms and How Do They Work?
Before diving into timelines, let’s understand what shrooms are and how they affect your body and mind.
Shrooms are naturally occurring fungi that contain psilocybin and psilocin, the compounds responsible for their psychedelic effects. Once consumed, psilocybin converts into psilocin in the body, which interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain—especially the 5-HT2A receptor—leading to altered perceptions, heightened emotions, and a shift in consciousness.
The result? A vivid, immersive experience that can last several hours and leave lasting insights or emotional clarity afterward.
How Long Does It Take for Shrooms to Kick In?
The onset time—or how long it takes for shrooms to kick in—depends largely on how you consume them and what’s in your stomach.
Typical Onset Timeline
- 15 to 60 minutes: Most people start to feel the first effects.
- 60 to 90 minutes: The effects intensify and lead into the “come-up” phase.
Factors Affecting Onset Time
- Method of Consumption
- Eating raw or dried shrooms: Takes longer (45–90 minutes) since the stomach must digest them first.
- Shroom tea: Kicks in faster (15–30 minutes) because psilocybin is absorbed more efficiently in liquid form.
- Lemon tekking (soaking in lemon juice): Accelerates onset dramatically (10–20 minutes) since the acid helps pre-convert psilocybin into psilocin.
- Eating raw or dried shrooms: Takes longer (45–90 minutes) since the stomach must digest them first.
- Stomach Contents
Taking shrooms on an empty stomach speeds up absorption, while a full meal delays the effects. - Individual Metabolism
Your body’s chemistry, weight, and metabolism play a big role in how fast shrooms hit.
How Long Does a Shroom Trip Last?
The length of a shroom trip typically ranges between 4 to 6 hours, though some experiences can last up to 8 hours depending on dosage and personal tolerance.
Here’s a detailed timeline of what to expect during each phase of the trip.
1. Onset (0–1 hour)
- You’ll start to feel subtle changes—lightness in the body, tingling sensations, and a shift in sensory perception.
- Colors may appear more vivid, sounds richer, and your thoughts may begin to wander.
2. Come-Up (1–2 hours)
- The effects intensify rapidly.
- Visual distortions begin—patterns may ripple, and objects might appear to breathe or pulse.
- You may feel waves of euphoria, laughter, or introspection.
- Some users experience mild nausea during this stage.
3. Peak (2–4 hours)
- This is the height of the shroom trip.
- You might experience ego dissolution, where the boundary between self and surroundings blurs.
- Visuals become more intricate and immersive.
- Music and art can feel emotionally profound.
- Time perception may dissolve completely—minutes can feel like hours.
4. Plateau (4–6 hours)
- The intensity stabilizes. You remain in a deeply altered state but start regaining some sense of control.
- Emotional and philosophical insights often arise here.
5. Come-Down (6–8 hours)
- The effects begin to fade gradually.
- You might feel a sense of calm or fatigue as you return to normal consciousness.
- Some users describe this as a “glow” phase—a peaceful aftereffect that can last several hours or even days.
How Long Do Shrooms Stay in Your System?
While the trip itself lasts just a few hours, psilocybin and its metabolites can linger in your system longer.
Here’s a breakdown of how long shrooms stay detectable depending on the test:
| Test Type | Detection Window |
| Blood Test | Up to 24 hours |
| Urine Test | 1–3 days |
| Saliva Test | Rarely used; up to 24 hours |
| Hair Follicle Test | Up to 90 days |
Important: Standard drug tests (like those for employment) typically do not test for psilocybin. Specialized tests are required to detect it.
Metabolism and Elimination
Psilocybin is metabolized quickly in the liver and excreted through urine within 24 hours. The duration it stays detectable depends on:
- Your body weight
- Hydration levels
- Frequency of use
- Dosage taken
If you’ve only tripped once or twice, your body will likely clear psilocybin within a few days.
Factors That Influence How Long Shrooms Last
While the typical shroom trip lasts around 6 hours, several factors can extend or shorten the experience.
1. Dosage
Higher doses mean longer and more intense trips. Here’s a general guide:
| Dose Level | Amount (dried shrooms) | Experience Duration |
| Microdose | 0.1 – 0.3g | 1–2 hours (very subtle) |
| Low Dose | 0.5 – 1g | 3–4 hours |
| Moderate Dose | 1.5 – 3.5g | 4–6 hours |
| High Dose | 4 – 5g+ | 6–8 hours (or longer) |
2. Type of Mushroom
Different species have varying psilocybin concentrations:
- Psilocybe cubensis: Most common, moderate potency.
- Psilocybe azurescens: Extremely potent—effects can last up to 8 hours.
- Psilocybe mexicana: Milder effects and shorter duration.
3. Your Body Chemistry
Metabolism, weight, and genetics play a role in how quickly your body processes psilocybin.
4. Mindset and Setting
Your environment and mental state can influence not only the quality of your trip but also how long it feels. Calm, safe settings often make time flow smoothly, while anxious environments can distort perception and make trips feel longer.
How to Shorten or Manage a Shroom Trip
Sometimes, a trip can become overwhelming. Here’s how to gently shorten or manage the intensity:
- Stay Calm and Breathe: Remind yourself that the effects are temporary and will pass.
- Change Your Environment: Move to a quiet, comfortable space with soft lighting.
- Hydrate and Eat: Drinking water or eating light snacks can help your body metabolize psilocybin faster.
- Distract Your Mind: Listen to calming music, watch something soothing, or talk to a trusted friend.
- Lemon or Vitamin C: Anecdotal evidence suggests acidic foods like orange juice may help your body process psilocybin more quickly.
If things get too intense, consider having a sober trip sitter to help ground you.
Afterglow: How Long Do the Aftereffects Last?
After your trip ends, many people report an “afterglow” period characterized by:
- Enhanced mood
- Mental clarity
- Greater empathy and connectedness
- Reduced anxiety
This phase can last from a few hours up to a couple of days, depending on dosage and mindset.
Some users even describe lingering positive effects for weeks, similar to the emotional lift associated with meditation or therapy.
Microdosing vs. Full Dosing: Duration Differences
Microdosing involves taking very small, sub-perceptual amounts of psilocybin—usually around 0.1 to 0.3 grams.
Unlike a full trip:
- Microdosing effects last about 1–2 hours.
- You won’t experience hallucinations or ego dissolution.
- It’s often used to boost focus, creativity, and emotional balance.
For anyone exploring functional psychedelics for wellness or productivity, microdosing offers subtle, manageable benefits without the intensity of a full trip.
Combining Shrooms with Cannabis: Does It Affect Duration?
Mixing shrooms and cannabis is becoming more common among experienced users.
- Cannabis during the come-up can help ease nausea or anxiety.
- Cannabis at the peak can intensify visuals and body sensations.
- Cannabis during the come-down can relax the body and smooth the transition.
However, it’s crucial to start small—cannabis can amplify the psychedelic experience, making it longer or more disorienting.
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Can Shrooms Cause a “Hangover” the Next Day?
Unlike alcohol, psilocybin mushrooms typically don’t cause a hangover. However, after a deep or emotional trip, you might feel:
- Slight fatigue
- Mental fog
- Dehydration
- Emotional sensitivity
These effects usually fade after a good night’s sleep, hydration, and a nourishing meal.
Tips for a Safe and Meaningful Shroom Experience
- Start Low, Go Slow: Especially if it’s your first time.
- Choose the Right Set and Setting: Surround yourself with positive people and familiar spaces.
- Avoid Mixing with Alcohol or Other Substances: This can increase risks or confusion.
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Water, fruit, or light snacks help maintain balance.
- Have a Trip Sitter: A sober, trusted person can offer reassurance and grounding.
- Journal or Reflect Afterwards: Integration is key to making sense of your experience.
How to Prepare for and Recover from a Shroom Trip
Before the Trip
- Eat a light, healthy meal 2–3 hours beforehand.
- Set intentions for your journey.
- Prepare a calming playlist or visuals.
- Ensure you won’t be disturbed.
During the Trip
- Embrace the experience—don’t fight it.
- Practice slow breathing if anxiety arises.
- Stay hydrated.
After the Trip
- Reflect, rest, and hydrate.
- Integrate insights through journaling, meditation, or therapy.
- Avoid making big life decisions immediately after the trip.
Final Thoughts: How Long Do Shrooms Last?
So, how long do shrooms last?
In short:
- The effects last 4–6 hours on average.
- The onset begins within 30–60 minutes.
- Shrooms stay in your system for 1–3 days, though standard drug tests rarely detect them.
Every person’s journey is unique. The duration depends on your dose, mindset, and body chemistry—but the insights gained can last a lifetime.
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References:
Srakocic, S. (2022, December 14). The Effects, Risks, and Potential Health Benefits of “Magic Mushrooms”. Healthline. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/what-are-shrooms
Saracino, A. (2025, April 21). When Do Shrooms Kick In? Fast and Dangerous Facts. Available at: https://www.safehavenbh.com/resources/when-do-shrooms-kick-in-fast-and-dangerous-facts/
Santos-Longhurst, A. (2020, May 21). How Long Do Shrooms Stay in Your System? Healthline. Available At: https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-do-shrooms-stay-in-your-system
