Magic mushrooms, commonly referred to as psilocybin mushrooms, are fungi that contain psychoactive compounds, primarily psilocybin and its active form, psilocin. These substances induce hallucinogenic effects when ingested

Magic mushrooms contain psychoactive compounds that induce hallucinogenic effects; they have a rich historical context in various cultures but also pose risks associated with their use.

What Are Magic Mushrooms?

The magic mushrooms found in the United States, Central America, and Mexico have long, thin stems and dark gills on the undersides of the semi-flat caps. Magic mushrooms are, well, mushrooms, and they contain psilocybin, which is a psychedelic or hallucinogen. This means that the drug causes people to see and hear things that are not there. This psilocybin is converted by the body into psilocin, the psychoactive compound responsible for the effects. The mushrooms can be consumed fresh, dried (dried mushrooms), dehydrated, as a powder, or brewed as a mushroom tea.

Microdosing Magic Mushrooms

Microdosing with magic mushrooms, specifically those containing psilocybin, involves consuming very low doses of the substance—typically around 0.3 to 0.5 grams of dried mushrooms—far below the threshold needed to induce hallucinations or significant alterations in perception. This practice has gained popularity as individuals seek potential benefits such as enhanced mood, increased creativity, improved cognitive function, and greater emotional empathy. However, scientific research on microdosing is still limited and inconclusive; while some studies suggest that users may experience subjective improvements in well-being and cognitive flexibility, controlled experiments have shown minimal evidence supporting these claims.

How Long Does It Take Magic Mushrooms to Take Effect?

Dried and fresh psilocybin mushrooms are typically eaten or brewed into tea, and the stomach must have time to process them. As a result, most people start to feel the effects of the magic mushrooms within 20 to 40 minutes. Factors like whether they are taken on an empty stomach can influence the onset of effects. As the shrooms start to take effect, most people notice colors becoming brighter and quiet sounds becoming more noticeable. 

What Do Magic Mushrooms Feel Like?

The experience of consuming magic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms, can vary significantly from person to person. The effects are influenced by several factors including the dosage, individual sensitivity, and the setting in which they are consumed.

Effects of magic mushrooms

The consumption of magic mushrooms, which contain the hallucinogenic compound psilocybin, can lead to a wide range of effects that vary significantly among individuals. Users may experience euphoria, altered perception of time and space, visual and auditory hallucinations, and profound changes in mood and thought patterns. Physical effects can include nausea, muscle weakness, lack of coordination, and dilated pupils. While some users report feelings of peace or spiritual awakening, others may encounter anxiety, paranoia, frightening hallucinations, or psychotic episodes—especially if they have pre-existing mental health conditions or a family history of psychosis. The onset of effects typically occurs within 30 minutes after ingestion and can last for 4 to 6 hours, with some sensory distortions potentially lingering for days.