Psychedelic mushrooms are not known to cause significant physical dependence, so classic withdrawal symptoms are rare. However, understanding how long mushrooms stay in your system is essential for drug testing and overall health and mental well-being.
Psychedelic mushrooms, commonly referred to as “magic mushrooms” or “shrooms,” are a type of fungi that contain psychoactive compounds, primarily psilocybin, and psilocin, which can cause altered perceptions, hallucinations, and changes in mood and cognition when consumed. These substances are known for their ability to produce hallucinogenic effects when ingested.
Mushroom users typically eat the fungi and can anticipate psychedelic effects within an hour of swallowing.
How Long Does It Take for Mushrooms To Kick In?
The effects of psychedelic mushrooms typically begin 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion.
After ingestion, psilocybin is rapidly converted to psilocin in the body. The effects typically begin 30 to 60 minutes after consumption, with peak effects occurring around 90 to 120 minutes.
Effects of Mushrooms
The effects of magic mushrooms can vary widely depending on the species, dose, individual physiology, and setting. Common effects, which include both desired experiences and adverse side effects, are:
- Altered perception
- Emotional changes, including euphoria
- Changes in thought patterns that often lead to deep introspection
- Hallucinations
- Dilated pupils
- Increased heart rate
- Nausea or stomach discomfort
- Drowsiness
- Headache
How Long Do the Effects Of Mushrooms Last
Depending on the dose and the individual, the effects can last 4 to 6 hours. Aftereffects, such as altered mood or perceptions, may linger for several hours or even days.
Even though the chemical compounds may clear the system quickly, psychological aftereffects (such as shifts in mood, perception, or insights from the experience) can last for days or weeks in some individuals. However, aftereffects are not detectable in drug tests.
How Long Do Mushrooms Stay in Your System?
The length of time psychedelic mushrooms stay in your system depends on various individual factors. Psilocybin and psilocin have relatively short half-lives, meaning they are eliminated from the body relatively quickly compared to many other substances.
Here’s how long mushrooms are detectable in your body based on several types of testing methods:
- Blood Tests – Psilocybin and psilocin are detectable in the blood for up to 12 hours after ingestion. However, because of the short detection window and the substances’ rapid elimination from the bloodstream, blood tests are less standard for detecting psilocybin use.
- Urine Tests – Psilocybin can be detected in urine 24 to 48 hours after use. However, it might be detectable for up to 3 days in heavy or chronic users. Because of the rapid metabolism of psilocybin to psilocin and its short half-life, urine testing for mushrooms is not as reliable as it is for other drugs like cannabis or opioids.
- Saliva Tests – Psilocybin and psilocin are rarely tested in saliva, but if such tests are conducted, detection may only be possible for up to 24 hours after ingestion.
- Hair Tests – Hair tests can detect drug use for the most extended period. Psilocybin can be detectable in hair for up to 90 days or longer after use, although hair tests for psilocybin are rare. Hair testing is more often used for substances like cannabis or cocaine.
Factors Influencing How Long Mushrooms Stay in Your System
- Dosage – Higher doses may take longer to metabolize and eliminate from the body fully.
- Frequency of use – Repeated or frequent use may lead to a build-up of psilocin, extending the time it takes to clear the system.
- Metabolism – Individuals with faster metabolisms may eliminate psilocybin more quickly than those with slower metabolisms.
Body mass and hydration – Higher body mass and good hydration may aid in faster elimination of psilocybin from the system.
Vogue Recovery Center is part of Aliya Health Group’s nationwide treatment network. Click the map to find a location near you!
Self-Assessment: Am I Addicted?
"*" indicates required fields
Contact Us
Ready to Get Help? Get in Touch Today.
"*" indicates required fields
Mushroom Withdrawal Symptoms and Detox
Unlike substances such as alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines, psilocybin mushrooms do not create a high level of chemical dependency. However, some individuals who use magic mushrooms frequently or in large doses may experience psychological withdrawal symptoms or challenges when they stop using them. Additionally, the detox process may involve mental and emotional adjustments.
While psilocybin withdrawal symptoms are usually mild compared to other substances, some people may experience the following:
- Mood swings, irritability, or feelings of sadness or depression
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Cravings for magic mushrooms
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Vivid or unsettling dreams
Since physical dependence on psilocybin mushrooms is rare, detoxification typically involves managing psychological and emotional aftereffects rather than physical withdrawal. Detox from mushrooms is usually straightforward, especially compared to other addictive substances like alcohol or opioids.
The psychological effects of psilocybin mushrooms tend to subside with time. Most people feel “back to normal” within a few days to weeks after stopping regular use.
Are Mushrooms Addictive?
Even though physical withdrawal is uncommon, frequent use of psilocybin mushrooms can lead to psychological dependency in some individuals. Some users may come to rely on the altered perceptions or emotional states induced by mushrooms and find it difficult to adjust to “normal” consciousness without the substance.
Potential signs that someone has developed a dependence on mushrooms include:
- Avoidance of personal issues
- Psychological issues like anxiety, depression, or confusion
- Continued use despite knowledge of adverse health outcomes
- Increased tolerance and a need for more mushrooms to achieve desired effects
- Experiencing withdrawal effects when trying to stop or reduce mushroom usage
Mushroom Addiction Treatment at Vogue Recovery Center
Some people find it helpful to speak with a therapist or counselor after frequent use of psilocybin, especially if they are experiencing psychological difficulties or have used mushrooms as a way to cope with underlying emotional or mental health issues. We offer dual diagnosis mental health treatments for issues like anxiety, depression, personality disorders and more so you can heal in every facet of your life. While the effects of shrooms on someone’s life can be drastic, you can always get help.
While physical addiction to mushrooms is uncommon, the potential for psychological dependence and its impact on an individual’s life should not be taken lightly. Maybe you’ve attempted to stop using psilocybin in the past but returned to its use despite your best efforts. It can be challenging to let go of habits after they’ve become part of your routine.
If you or someone you know is struggling with psilocybin use, contact Vogue Recovery Centers today. We have individualized programs designed to address many forms of substance use, including mushrooms. At our Las Vegas and Phoenix locations, Vogue’s admissions specialists can help you connect with a treatment team that will take your needs seriously and provide individualized support.
Questions about treatment options?
Our admissions team is available 24/7 to listen to your story and help you get started with the next steps.
Vogue Recovery Editorial Staff
