HOW LONG TO
KICK IN?
Understanding onset times, what affects absorption, and what to expect while you wait.
β‘ Quick Answer
Functional mushrooms: 30-60 minutes
Psilocybin: 30-90 minutes (varies by stomach contents)
Rule #1: Never take more within the first 2 hours!
Onset Times by Type
Functional Mushrooms
Lion's Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps
Subtle effects that build gradually
Psilocybin (Empty Stomach)
Magic mushroom chocolate
Faster absorption, stronger initial effects
Psilocybin (With Food)
Eaten with or after meal
Slower, gentler onset
Psilocybin (Lemon Tek)
Pre-soaked in citrus
Fastest onset, intensity can be overwhelming
What Affects Onset Time
Stomach Contents
- Empty stomach: 15-30min faster
- Light snack: Minimal delay
- Full meal: 30-60min slower
- High fat foods: Even slower absorption
Body Weight & Metabolism
- Higher weight: Slightly longer onset
- Fast metabolism: Quicker effects
- Age affects processing speed
- Individual variation is significant
Dosage Amount
- Higher doses: Faster onset
- Threshold doses: Delayed/subtle
- Individual sensitivity varies
- Quality affects bioavailability
Chocolate Quality
- Dark chocolate: Slightly faster
- Milk chocolate: Standard timing
- Additives may affect absorption
- Temperature affects dissolution
What to Expect During Onset
Initial Phase
Usually no noticeable effects. Body is absorbing and processing.
Stay relaxed, hydrated. Don't assume "it's not working"
Early Onset
First subtle sensations. Mild mood changes, body awareness, energy shifts.
This is when effects typically begin for most people
Clear Onset
Unmistakable effects. Cognitive changes, visual enhancements, or functional benefits.
If you don't feel anything by now, wait another 30 minutes before considering more
Late Onset (Rare)
Occasionally effects start this late, especially with food or slow metabolism.
Wait full 2-3 hours before considering the dose ineffective
Chocolate vs Other Methods
| Method | Onset Time | Pros | Cons | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mushroom Chocolate | 30-90 min |
|
| 9/10 |
| Mushroom Tea | 20-45 min |
|
| 8/10 |
| Capsules | 45-90 min |
|
| 7/10 |
| Raw Mushrooms | 30-60 min |
|
| 5/10 |
Pro Tips for Onset
Do This
- β’ Wait 2-3 hours minimum
- β’ Stay hydrated
- β’ Find comfortable setting
- β’ Have snacks ready
Avoid This
- β’ Taking more too early
- β’ Mixing with alcohol
- β’ Stressful environments
- β’ Empty stomach with high doses
Pro Tips
- β’ Light snack 30min before
- β’ Room temperature chocolate
- β’ Keep a journal
- β’ Have a trip sitter
Frequently Asked Questions
NO! Wait at least 2-3 hours before considering additional doses. Onset can take up to 90 minutes, and taking more too early can lead to an unexpectedly intense experience when both doses hit.
Individual factors like body weight, metabolism speed, stomach contents, medications, and genetic variations in how your body processes compounds all affect onset timing.
Yes! Empty stomach = faster onset (20-45min) but stronger effects. Eating with food = slower onset (45-90min) but gentler, longer experience. Many prefer a light snack 30min before.
Mildly: Stay hydrated, empty stomach, room temperature chocolate. Avoid: Alcohol, grapefruit juice, or taking more. Patience is key for safety.
First 30min: Usually nothing noticeable. 30-60min: Subtle body sensations, mild mood changes. 60-90min: Clear onset of effects. Stay calm and hydrated during this time.