Introduction
Psilocybin is a chemical compound that is found in certain types of psychedelic or magic mushrooms, also called shrooms. When consumed, psilocybin can be eaten raw or crushed into powder and placed into food, or brewed in water to make a tea beverage.Although illegal to buy, sell, and possess in many states, psilocybin is used for research as well as other medicinal purposes. Psilocybin isn’t thought to be addictive, although it can be dangerous if too high a dose is taken at once. Today, since the drug has been decriminalized in Oregon and could soon be legalized in other states as well, Americans are beginning to use it without fear of criminal consequences. Read on to learn more about psilocybin and how long its effects last.
What is Psilocybin?
Psilocybin is a chemical found in some mushrooms. The psychedelic compound psilocybin, when consumed, can cause hallucinations, changes in perception, and euphoria. Psilocybin is typically found in certain types of mushrooms that grow in the wild. The most common type of psilocybin mushroom is called psilocybe cubensis, or “gold tops.” These mushrooms are typically harvested from cow dung fields.
What are the Effects of Psilocybin?
Psilocybin can be eaten, smoked, or taken as a pill. It’s primarily used to produce hallucinations and changes in the way one thinks. The effects of psilocybin can be broken into three categories: physiological, psychological, and behavioral.
Physiological effects can include changes in heart rate and blood pressure, nausea, and changes in body temperature. Psychological effects can include euphoria, hallucinations, and changes in thought processes. Behavioral effects can include increased confidence, risk-taking behaviors, and aggression.
Psilocybin can induce different effects in different users based on their physical and psychological makeups.
How Long Does Psilocybin Last?
The length of time that the euphoric effects of psilocybin lasts within a consumer’s body depends on many factors, including the dosage size, the person’s body weight, and the environment in which it is consumed. But for most people, psilocybin stays in your system and be detected in your blood for up to eight hours after ingestion. However, the psychological effects of psilocybin can last for much longer. It’s not uncommon for users to report effects that continue for 24 hours or more after taking the drug.
Is Psilocybin Safe?
Yes, there are safe ways to take psilocybin. That’s why it is important to follow the instructions of a qualified professional when taking it. If you happen to buy mushrooms from a dealer on the street, there is no way to determine how potent they are. It is therefore important that you take the instructed amount of psilocybin per your doctor’s orders.
What are the Risks?
As with any psychedelic drugs, with psilocybin there exists the potential for negative psychological effects such as anxiety, panic attacks, and paranoia. Additionally, since psilocybin is a serotonin agonist, there is a small risk for serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition caused by too much serotonin in the body.
In terms of physical health risks, there have been few negative side effects definitively linked to psilocybin use. However, those who have a history of mental illness may be at a higher risk for some negative psychological reactions to the drug. In particular, those with psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, should avoid using psilocybin.
Benefits of Psilocybin
There are many perceived benefits to ingesting psilocybin. Some of these include reducing anxiety and depression, improving creativity and problem-solving skills, and increasing self-awareness. Psilocybin can also help people connect with their spiritual side and increase feelings of well-being.
Conclusion
Psilocybin is a powerful compound that can produce profound changes in perception, mood, and consciousness. How long the effects of psilocybin last vary depending on the user’s biology, the mushroom dosage, and the method of ingestion. Generally, however, psilocybin’s effects are short-lived and tend to wear off within a few hours.
John DiBella is a medical marijuana advocate, owner of The Sanctuary Wellness Institute, and a writer. When he’s not writing blogs about medical marijuana, he enjoys hiking, camping and sailing.
