How Long Does it Take Mushrooms to Kick In?

Psilocybin is the major psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms. Like LSD and other psychedelics, psilocybin causes hallucinations and changes in perception of time and space when consumed.

Psilocybin is illegal in most countries because it can be dangerous when misused or combined with certain medications. But while there are risks associated with the recreational use of psilocybin, many experts believe it has potential therapeutic health benefits. For example, in 2023 Oregon became the first state to legalize psilocybin use, and more U.S. states could soon follow suit.

How Long Does it Take for Shrooms to Work?

The effects of psilocybin usually start kicking in within 20 to 60 minutes after ingestion, although it can take up to two hours to feel the full effects of the drug. There are a variety of factors that affect how long it takes for psilocybin mushrooms to kick in, such as:

How you consume the mushrooms: Psilocybin mushrooms are usually consumed whole or in teas, powders, or capsules. Powders and Teas tend to take effect the quickest.

How much food you’ve eaten: The less food you have in your stomach the more quickly you will likely feel the hallucinogenic effect of mushrooms. Eating a large meal before mushrooms might slow or reduce the effects, while taking mushrooms on an empty stomach might result in nausea.

What type of mushroom you chose: There are several types of psilocybin, some of which are more potent than others. For example, Psilocybe azurescens is considered one of the strongest varieties.

Effects vary by person: The same mushroom and dose might have a different effect on one person versus another. Your weight is also a factor.

Note that individuals with mental health concerns should proceed with caution before taking psilocybin, as studies have shown that magic mushrooms trips can have adverse psychological effects for people struggling with depression and other mental health conditions.