Shrooms Effects: What Happens When You Take Magic Mushrooms?

Shrooms, also known as magic mushrooms and psilocybin mushrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic drug that contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin. They have an interesting and long history of use in spiritual and cultural practices, as well as for recreational purposes. Despite the popularity and history of long use, the truth is that the use of psilocybin is illegal in numerous parts of the world. Nonetheless, shrooms still acquire a growing interest in people because of their therapeutic potential.

Recent studies have suggested that psilocybin may be effective in treating mental health disorders, such as treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. The therapeutic potential of shrooms may be a great advantage, but it is important that before you try them, you are aware of the shrooms effects and what they can do to your body. We will explore relevant topics about shrooms in detail below. So, don’t go elsewhere and just keep reading.

What Does Shrooms Look Like?

Shrooms come in many different types and appearances, wherein some of the most popular types include golden tops, blue meanies, and liberty caps.

Golden tops, or psilocybe cubensis, feature a distinct yellow or golden cap with a white or cream-colored stem. They are among the most widely cultivated and consumed types of shrooms. Meanwhile, blue meanies, or psilocybe cyanescens, have a bluish hue and a more cone-shaped cap than other shrooms. Blue meanies are known for being more potent and have a more intense psychedelic effect.

Moreover, liberty caps, also known as psilocybe semilanceata, have a distinctive pointed cap and a slender stem. They are found naturally in the wild and are commonly consumed in Europe. Since there are different types of shrooms, it is a safety reminder to be aware of their differences. After all, consuming the wrong type of mushroom can be very dangerous.

Remember that some poisonous mushrooms—such as the death cap—can look very similar to magic mushrooms, making it easy to mistake them. Consuming poisonous mushrooms can cause severe illness, organ failure, or even death. That’s why no one should be careless in consuming magic mushrooms, as the therapeutic potential also comes with risks.

Aside from the variety in forms, magic mushrooms can also be consumed in different ways. They can be eaten: raw, cooked, or dried. Meanwhile, some people often added shrooms to tea or incorporated them into foods like chocolates or gummies. Others opt to take shroom capsules, which contain synthetic psilocybin.

Synthetic psilocybin is a laboratory-manufactured version of the natural compound found in shrooms. It can be processed into tablets or capsules, providing a measured and controlled dose. While synthetic psilocybin is legal in some countries for research purposes, it is not yet approved for therapeutic use.

How Long Does It Takes for Shrooms to Take Effect?

When it comes to the effects of shrooms, one popular question is, “How long does it take for shrooms to take effect?” Frankly, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. The timeframe for the onset of shroom effects can vary depending on the type of magic mushroom, how it’s consumed, and the amount consumed.

Typically, it takes about 20-40 minutes for psilocybin-containing mushrooms to take effect when orally ingested. However, if consumed in tea or pill form, the effects may set in sooner. Take note that the specific type of mushroom can affect the onset time. For example, agaric mushrooms may take anywhere from an hour or more to feel their effects compared to other magic mushrooms.

Ultimately, your body’s metabolism and individual tolerance levels also influence the timing of the effects. Depending on these factors, it may take longer or shorter for the effects to kick in. At the same time, your experience with shrooms will also be affected by several factors including:

• your age
• your weight
• your personality
• your expectations
• your surroundings
• your experience with any previous drug use
• how much you’ve eaten before consuming shrooms
• the amount you use

Health Benefits of Shrooms

While psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms or shrooms, is not yet approved by the FDA for any medical use, research has shown promising potential for its use in treating certain psychiatric and behavioral conditions. Studies have suggested that psilocybin could potentially be used to treat psychiatric and behavioral conditions, including:

• depression
• alcoholism
• obsessive-compulsive disorder
• cocaine addiction
• end-of-life psychological distress related to cancer or other fatal conditions
• help people quit smoking
• alleviate cluster headaches

Take note that more research is needed to confirm these potential health benefits and to determine safe and effective dosages.

Shrooms Effects

Shrooms can produce a range of effects, including physical and psychological effects. Let’s explore the different shroom effects to know what happens when you take magic mushrooms.

Physical Effects

Magic mushrooms or shrooms contain a naturally occurring hallucinogenic compound called psilocybin. When consumed, psilocybin causes physical effects, which can be both common and rare. It is crucial to differentiate magic mushrooms from poisonous mushrooms since ingesting poisonous mushrooms can pose a severe health risk. In some cases, they may even lead to accidental death.

Common physical effects of taking magic mushrooms include:

• increased heart rate
• boost immune system
• enhance brain function
• muscle relaxation
• muscle cramps
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• dry mouth
• pupil dilation
• sweating
• chills
• numbness
• drowsiness
• yawning
• stomach discomfort
• agitation
• seizures
• facial flushes
• lightheadedness
• dilated pupils
• headaches
• numb tongue and mouth
• increased blood pressure and temperature
• lack of coordination
• unusual body sensations

These physical effects generally occur quickly and can last for several hours. Some people may experience more intense physical effects than others, depending on factors like body chemistry and the amount of mushrooms consumed. Moreover, too much consumption can lead to accidental injury or robbery. Because of the heightened risk of these potential dangers is why it is always recommended to consume magic mushrooms in safe environments and with trusted individuals.

Psychological Effects

Shrooms have been popular for centuries because of their psychedelic effects. These psychedelic effects are primarily psychological since the drug alters the user’s perception of reality. The psychological effects of taking shrooms can be either positive or negative.

Here are some of the shrooms’ psychological effects:

• heightened senses (colors may appear more vibrant, and sounds may seem more profound)
• better sense of unity with the nature or the people
• boost in creativity and spiritual experiences
• better openness
• anxiety
• restlessness
• paranoia
• fear
• sudden alteration of perceptions
• disorientation
• confusion
• depression
• sense of hopelessness
• synesthesia (senses blend together)
• trouble focusing
• panic
• disorientation
• tension
• thinking problems
• inability to determine what’s real
• a feeling of unusual well-being or euphoria
• frightening hallucinations

Although most shroom trips last only a few hours, some users report long-lasting psychological changes from a single trip. Some individuals report long-term psychological changes. On the other hand, others may report long-lasting psychological changes and improvements in conditions such as depression.

Long-Term Effects

The long-term effects of magic mushrooms have been a topic of interest for researchers as the drug’s potential therapeutic benefits have become more widely recognized. A study conducted by Johns Hopkins Medicine suggests that the use of psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms) under controlled settings can have positive psychological effects that can last for months after the experience, including increased positivity, better well-being, and even a sense of increased spirituality.

Despite several studies, the effects of magic mushrooms on mental health are still somewhat unclear. Although some studies have shown that psilocybin use can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, others have learned that it can increase the risk of mental illness or exacerbate existing conditions. For instance, individuals with a history of psychosis or other serious mental illness should avoid using psilocybin, as the illicit drug can worsen these conditions.

Another potential risk associated with magic mushroom use is the possibility of developing flashbacks or hallucinogen persisting perceptual disorder (HPPD). These conditions involve the recurrence of visual disturbances and other effects of a psychedelic experience long after the drug has worn off, with HPPD potentially lasting months or even years. Although these conditions are rare, some individuals may be more susceptible to them than others.

Given these risks, people should only use magic mushrooms in safe and relaxed environments and avoid high-risk situations, such as consuming large doses or using drugs in uncontrolled settings. Seek help from a trustworthy healthcare provider if you have behavioral health conditions or are concerned about the effects of psilocybin use.

Bad trip Effects

Bad trips are a potential risk that can occur when taking magic mushrooms, and they can happen to anyone regardless of their experience with psychedelics. A bad trip may come with different adverse effects, including:

• intense anxiety
• frightening hallucinations
• paranoia
• confusion
• intense fear
• loss of control
• increased heart rate and blood pressure
• muscle weakness
• dilated pupils

If you or someone around you has taken magic mushrooms and is experiencing a mushroom trip, it is essential to create a safe environment to feel more at ease. A safe environment can include familiar surroundings, calming music, and dim lighting. Having a sober friend present can also help talk the user through their experience and provide reassurance.

Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and mindfulness can also help to ease the symptoms of a bad trip. Remind the user that the effects of the drug will wear off in time and that the experience is temporary. Seeking medical attention may be necessary if the user experiences severe symptoms or is unable to control their behavior.

Coming Down Effects

As the effects of magic mushrooms begin to wear off, users may experience a period of coming down, which can last several hours. During this phase, users may experience the following:

• a gradual reduction in the intensity of the psychedelic effects
• transition into a more relaxed and reflective state of mind

However, coming down from shrooms can also be accompanied by some physical and psychological short-term after-effects. Users may feel:

• a sense of fatigue
• muscle weakness
• nausea
• headache
• irritability
• difficulty concentrating
• feeling emotionally drained

To ease the symptoms of coming down from magic mushrooms, the best thing to do is to stay hydrated and nourished. Drinking plenty of water or herbal tea can help to alleviate the physical symptoms of dehydration while eating healthy and nutritious food can help to replenish the body’s energy reserves.

Resting and engaging in relaxation techniques—such as meditation or gentle yoga—can also help ease the psychological symptoms of coming down. A warm bath or warm shower can also be soothing and comfort the body during this period.

Overdose Symptoms

The therapeutic benefits of magic mushrooms will be useless once they are consumed in excessive doses and experience physical dependence. Not only magic mushrooms be useless, but they can also be dangerous to the body. A person who overdoses with shrooms may experience the following psychosocial overdose symptoms:

• distorted sense of time and space
• hallucinations
• sense of unity with surroundings
• euphoria, dissociation
• irregular heartbeat
• heightened sense of emotional intensity
• panic attacks
• extreme paranoia
• anxiety
• other psychological distress
• increase the risk of toxicity
• life-threatening side effects

Withdrawal Symptoms

Although psilocybin is not chemically addictive, frequent use can lead to withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of usage. In addition, addiction is not typically associated with psilocybin, as users tend to lose interest in using the drug as the psychedelic experience becomes less profound.

Withdrawal symptoms may occur in users who are heavily dependent on magic mushrooms and stop using the drug abruptly. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and may include:

• depression
• anxiety
• irritability
• confusion
• fear
• disorientation or detachment from reality
• struggle to distinguish between what is real and what is not
• jumbled emotions

The Effects When Shrooms are Mixed with Drugs

Mixing shrooms with other drugs or polydrug use—legal and illegal—can be dangerous and unpredictable. Polydrug use can intensify and alter the effects of shrooms, leading to a bad trip and potentially fatal consequences. For example, mixing shrooms with alcohol can increase the risk of nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. Combining shrooms with stimulants like cocaine or amphetamines can cause drastically increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and muscle weakness, leading to cardiac events and seizures.

Individuals with existing psychiatric conditions or cardiac diseases are at heightened risk when consuming psychedelic mushrooms. A bad trip at high doses can lead to psychotic episodes, paranoia, and feelings of dread. Those individuals with a history of anxiety or panic attacks may experience the symptoms more acutely. It is highly recommended that individuals with preexisting mental health conditions or cardiac diseases avoid using shrooms to prevent increased cardiac stress and psychological distress.

However, when used in safe and controlled settings, psychedelic mushrooms have been known to help alleviate depression and anxiety symptoms. Research conducted by John Hopkins University found that psilocybin-containing mushrooms could provide therapeutic value. The study reported that individuals who used psilocybin experienced meaningful improvements in their depression and anxiety symptoms after a single dose, with lasting effects up to six months later.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are interested to learn more about magic mushrooms and shrooms effects, check out the frequently asked questions with answers below:

Final Thoughts

With everything discussed above, there is really no doubt that the effects of magic mushrooms can vary greatly depending on the individual and the dosage. While some may experience a profound spiritual experience, others may have a difficult or uncomfortable trip. Therefore, it is highly necessary to do your research and understand the potential risks before deciding to try them.

Remember, just like any other mind-altering substance, magic mushrooms should be treated with respect and caution. Researching before taking anything will be the most beneficial lifestyle improvement, as your health should be your top priority. Even if you are interested in the potential benefits of magic mushrooms, don’t take them before consulting a trustworthy healthcare professional. After all, mushroom misuse comes with adverse struggles and challenges.

If you or someone you know has been addicted to taking shrooms, this is the best time to get treated to change and experience freedom from addiction. Costa Rica Treatment Center offers evidence-based treatment programs in treating addiction, so you can trust us. Contact us to know how we can help you.