Psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, has been used for centuries for its mind-altering effects. Many Individuals have become interested in taking over their own health. Whether you are a psychonaut yourself or you have never taken a psychedelic we have information for you. We’ll cover the duration of a psilocybin trip, the stages of the experience, and factors that can influence how long it lasts.
Understanding Psilocybin
For those who are not yet familiar, psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain species of mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms. When ingested, psilocybin is converted into psilocin in the body, which is responsible for the hallucinogenic effects. These effects can vary greatly depending on the dosage, individual tolerance, and the environment in which they’re consumed.
If you want to learn more about psilocybin retreats check out our other blog post here.
How Long Does a Psilocybin Trip Last?
One of the most common questions is, “How long does a psilocybin trip last?” The duration of a psilocybin trip can vary, but typically, you can expect the following timeline:
Onset: The effects usually begin 20 to 40 minutes after ingestion.
Peak: The peak of the trip occurs about 2 to 3 hours after consumption.
Duration: The entire experience can last between 4 to 6 hours, but some residual effects may linger for several more hours.
Let’s break down each stage in more detail and explore what you might experience during a psilocybin trip.
Onset: 20 to 40 Minutes After Ingestion
The onset phase is when you first start to feel the effects of psilocybin. Here’s what you might experience during this time:
Initial Sensations: You may begin to feel a sense of euphoria or excitement. Some people describe it as a tingling sensation or a feeling of lightness.
Visual Distortions: Colors might appear more vivid, and objects may seem to shimmer or move slightly. You might also see patterns or shapes when you close your eyes.
Heightened Senses: Sounds, smells, and tastes can become more intense. Music, for example, may sound richer and more profound.
Physical Effects: Some users report slight nausea or stomach discomfort as the body adjusts to the psilocybin.
During this phase, it’s common to feel a mix of anticipation and curiosity about the journey ahead.
Peak: 2 to 3 Hours After Consumption
The peak is the most intense part of the trip, where the effects of psilocybin are at their strongest. During the peak, you can expect:
Deep Visual Hallucinations: Complex, multi-colored patterns and shapes may appear. These can be seen both with eyes open and closed. Some users report seeing fractals, geometric designs, or even scenes and images.
Altered Perception of Time: Time may seem to slow down or speed up. Minutes can feel like hours, and vice versa.
Emotional Intensity: Emotions can be greatly amplified. You might feel profound joy, awe, or even sadness. This is often accompanied by a sense of connection to the universe or a feeling of oneness with nature.
Ego Dissolution: At high doses, you may experience ego dissolution, where the sense of self temporarily fades away. This can lead to a feeling of unity with the environment and other people.
Philosophical Insights: Many users report deep, introspective thoughts and insights about life, existence, and personal issues.
This phase can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, and it’s crucial to be in a safe, comfortable environment during this time.
Duration: 4 to 6 Hours with Residual Effects
After the peak, the effects gradually start to diminish. However, you can still experience several lingering effects:
Gradual Comedown: The intense visuals and emotional experiences begin to fade. You might feel a sense of calm and relaxation.
Afterglow: Some users report a pleasant afterglow, where they feel more connected, reflective, and at peace with themselves and their surroundings.
Residual Visuals: Although not as intense as during the peak, you might still notice mild visual distortions or enhanced colors.
Fatigue: It’s common to feel physically and mentally tired as the body recovers from the experience. Rest and hydration can help during this phase.
Integration: This is a time for reflecting on the trip and integrating any insights or experiences. Journaling or discussing the experience with a trusted friend can be beneficial.
While the primary effects subside after 4 to 6 hours, some residual effects may linger for a few more hours, and the emotional and psychological impacts can last much longer, often leading to lasting changes in perspective.
Factors Influencing the Duration of a Psilocybin Trip
Several factors can influence how long a psilocybin trip lasts:
Dosage: Higher doses can lead to longer and more intense trips.
Individual Tolerance: Regular users may have a higher tolerance, potentially shortening the duration.
Mushroom Type: Different species of magic mushrooms can have varying levels of psilocybin.
Consumption Method Eating mushrooms on an empty stomach can lead to a quicker onset and potentially shorter duration.
Set and Setting: The mental state and environment can also play a significant role in the experience. There is lots of information out there describing the importance of set and setting. It is no wonder so many individuals choose to find alternative retreat centers to those in their own area. There is quite a benefit to participating in a group retreat with trained professionals.
Check out our 5-day psilocybin retreat here.
How Long Does Psilocybin Stay in Your System?
While the psychedelic effects wear off after a few hours, psilocybin and its metabolites can be detected in your body for a longer period. Here’s a breakdown of how long they typically remain:
Blood: Psilocybin is detectable in the blood for up to 24 hours.
Urine: It can be detected in urine for up to 24 hours, but some tests may detect it for up to a week.
Hair: In rare cases, psilocybin can be detected in hair samples for up to 90 days.
However, standard drug tests do not usually screen for psilocybin. Specialized tests are required to detect its presence in the system.
We have a recent post “Do Magic Mushrooms Show Up On a Drug Test” here.
Safety Considerations During a Psilocybin Trip
When embarking on a psilocybin trip, safety should always be a priority. Here are some important considerations:
Set and Setting: Ensure you are in a safe, comfortable environment. Being around trusted friends or a trip sitter (a sober person) can provide support.
Start with a Low Dose: Especially for beginners, starting with a low dose can help you gauge your sensitivity to psilocybin and reduce the risk of overwhelming effects.
Stay Hydrated: Drink water before, during, and after the trip to stay hydrated.
Avoid Mixing with Other Substances: Mixing psilocybin with alcohol or other drugs can increase the risk of adverse reactions. This may sound obvious but there have been many anecdotal reports of adverse effects when combining multiple substances.
Potential Therapeutic Benefits of Psilocybin
Recent studies have explored the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, particularly in the fields of mental health and wellness. Some promising areas of research include:
Depression and Anxiety: Psilocybin has shown potential in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, especially in individuals with treatment-resistant conditions.
PTSD: Some studies suggest that psilocybin-assisted therapy could help alleviate symptoms of PTSD by facilitating emotional processing and healing.
Addiction: Psilocybin may help individuals struggling with addiction by providing new perspectives and breaking unhealthy patterns of behavior.
While these findings are promising, it’s important to note that psilocybin should only be used in a therapeutic context under professional guidance.
For more information we have a whole post about psilocybin research here.
Legal Status
We always include a short mention about the legal status of these substances. The legality of psilocybin varies by country and region. In some places, it is entirely illegal, while others may allow for its use in religious or therapeutic contexts. It is always important that you know the rules and regulations in your own area before obtaining, consuming or dispersing any of these substances.
How to Store Psilocybin Mushrooms Properly
Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the potency and safety of psilocybin mushrooms. Here are some tips:
Drying: Ensure the mushrooms are thoroughly dried before storage. Any residual moisture can lead to mold growth.
Airtight Containers: Use glass jars or vacuum-sealed bags to keep out air and moisture.
Cool, Dark Place: Store the containers in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or cupboard. Avoid exposure to light and heat, which can degrade the active compounds.
Desiccants: Including desiccant packets in your storage containers can help absorb any remaining moisture.
Long-Term Storage: Freezing Psilocybin Mushrooms
For longer preservation, you can freeze dried psilocybin mushrooms. This method can extend their shelf life for several years. Here’s how:
Ensure Dryness: Make sure the mushrooms are completely dry before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Use Airtight Containers: Seal the mushrooms in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to prevent freezer burn.
Label and Date: Clearly label and date the containers to keep track of storage times.
If you would like more information about storage of dried mushrooms, read our post “Do Psilocybin Mushrooms Go Bad?”
Dosage and Safety Considerations
When it comes to consuming psilocybin mushrooms, it’s essential to start with a low dose, especially for beginners. Common dosages include:
Microdose: 0.1 to 0.3 grams
Low Dose: 0.5 to 1 gram
Medium Dose: 1 to
2.5 grams
High Dose: 2.5 to 5 grams
Always consider your set and setting, and if possible, have a trip sitter present, especially for higher doses. This can help ensure a safe and supportive environment.
Integration After a Psilocybin Trip
As a retreat center ourselves we are advocates of psychedelic integration. After the trip, it’s important to take time to reflect and integrate the experience. Here are some ways to do this:
Journaling: Write down your thoughts, feelings, and any insights gained during the trip.
Talking with Friends: Discussing the experience with trusted friends or a therapist can help you process and understand it better.
Mindfulness Practices: Engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga to ground yourself and reflect on the trip.
Summary
A psilocybin trip can offer profound and transformative experiences, but it’s crucial to understand how long the effects last, how to ensure a safe experience, and how to integrate the insights gained. By following the guidelines in this article, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable journey with psilocybin.
Whether you’re curious about the duration of a trip, how long psilocybin stays in your system, or how to store it properly, this guide provides a comprehensive overview. Always prioritize safety, start with a low dose, and be mindful of the legal implications in your area.