Mushroom Use: Military Drug Testing Procedures

Magic mushrooms, or shrooms, are hallucinogenic fungi that contain the psychedelic compounds psilocybin and psilocin. While the standard drug tests used by the military do not test for these compounds, specialized tests can detect their presence in urine, saliva, blood, or hair follicles. The use of magic mushrooms can have profound effects on an individual's mental and emotional well-being, and in some cases, can lead to a challenging bad trip or even exacerbation of underlying mental health issues. As such, it is important to understand how long these compounds stay in the system and whether they can be detected through drug tests, especially in contexts such as military service where their use is prohibited.

Explore related products

Identify Diagnostics Drug Test Cups | 5 Pack | 12 Panel CLIA Waived Instant Urine Marijuana Drug Test Kit for AMP,BAR,BUP,BZO,COC,MDMA,MET,MOP|OPI,MTD,OXY,PCP,THC

$21.79

Exploro Highly Sensitive at Home Marijuana Drug Test Kit, THC Drug Test Kit Marijuana/Weed, THC Drug Test Urine, Easy Home Drug Test Marijuana/THC Substance Abuse, 15 THC Test Strips/Sticks, 50 ng/ml

$9.99

[5 pack] Prime Screen 14 Panel Urine Drug Test Cup - Instant Testing Marijuana (THC),OPI,AMP, BAR, BUP, BZO, COC, mAMP, MDMA, MTD, OXY, PCP, PPX, TCA

$21.99

Prime Screen [5 Pack] 6 Panel Urine Drug Test Kit (THC-Marijuana, BZO-Benzos, MET-Meth, OPI, AMP, COC), WDOA-264

$9.49

Prime Screen-12 Panel Multi Drug Urine Test Compact Cup (THC 50, AMP,BAR,BUP,BZO,COC,mAMP/MET,MDMA,MOP/OPI,MTD,OXY,PCP) C-Cup-[1 Pack]

$5.99 $7.99

Easy@Home 5 Panel Urine Drug Test Kit [5 Pack] - THC/Marijuana, Cocaine, OPI/Opiates, AMP, BZO All Drugs Testing Strips in One Kit - at Home Use Screening Test with Results in 5 Mins #EDOAP-754

$10.99

Standard military drug tests do not test for mushrooms

The standard military drug tests, such as the 5-panel test, are not designed to identify psilocybin or psilocin. These tests are commonly employed to screen for other drugs, such as THC, cocaine, and opioids. However, it is important to note that specialized tests can indeed detect the presence of psilocybin and psilocin. These specialized panels are designed specifically to identify these compounds in urine, saliva, blood, or even hair follicles.

The absence of psilocybin and psilocin from standard military drug tests does not imply that the military condones their use. The military maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards illicit substance use, including natural substances like fungi. While the standard tests may not routinely screen for mushrooms, the military can and does conduct specialized tests in certain situations. For example, if a military member is observed displaying hallucinogenic behavior or incriminates themselves or others, samples may be sent to specialized labs capable of detecting mushrooms and other hallucinogens.

The detection window for psilocybin and psilocin is relatively brief, typically lasting up to 24 hours in urine and saliva tests and up to 12 hours in blood tests. This short detection period contributes to the rarity of specialized tests being administered. Additionally, the body metabolizes these compounds relatively quickly, further reducing the likelihood of detection in standard drug tests. Nonetheless, it is important to remember that the use of psilocybin mushrooms is illegal and can carry significant risks, including adverse psychological effects and potential contamination by other dangerous substances.

While standard military drug tests do not routinely screen for psilocybin mushrooms, specialized tests can detect their presence. The military reserves these specialized tests for situations where there is a validated suspicion of illicit substance use. The detection methods, sensitivity levels, and detection windows vary among the specialized panels, influencing how long psilocybin and psilocin can be identified in an individual's system.

Specialized tests can detect psilocybin or psilocin in urine, blood, saliva, or hair follicles

Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms," contain the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin. These compounds induce hallucinations, altered perceptions, and changes in consciousness, resulting in a "trip" that typically lasts 4 to 6 hours. While the effects of shrooms are relatively short-lived, these compounds can be detected in the body through specialized tests.

Standard drug tests, such as the common 5-panel, 8-panel, 10-panel, or 12-panel tests, do not typically screen for psilocybin or psilocin. These tests are designed to detect more commonly abused substances, such as THC, cocaine, PCP, amphetamines, and opioids. However, specialized tests can identify psilocybin or psilocin in various bodily fluids and tissues.

Urine tests are the most common method used to detect shrooms, as psilocin can be detected in urine for up to 1 to 3 days after ingestion. Standard urinalysis tests are often used by the military, and a positive result for psilocin is treated the same as any other prohibited substance. Blood tests are less common due to their shorter detection window, with psilocybin or psilocin typically only detectable for several hours after ingestion.

Saliva tests for shrooms are rare but can be effective within 1 to 2 days of consumption. Hair follicle testing is even less common due to its higher cost, but it can detect psilocybin and its metabolites for several weeks or even months after ingestion. While these specialized tests exist, they are not in widespread use, and shrooms are typically not a primary target of drug screenings.

The detection of shrooms in the body depends on various factors, including dosage, metabolism, and the time elapsed since ingestion. Additionally, it is important to note that the effects of shrooms can be profound, and while the compounds leave the body relatively quickly, their impact on mental and emotional well-being can be significant.

Positive urinalysis for mushrooms is treated the same way as any other positive urinalysis

Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms," contain the psychedelic compounds psilocybin and psilocin. While psilocybin mushrooms are not included in standard drug tests, they can be detected in specialised tests. The standard drug tests, such as the 5-panel test, do not typically test for the presence of magic mushrooms. However, specialised tests can detect psilocybin or psilocin in urine, saliva, blood, or hair follicles.

The Navy, for example, does not routinely test for psilocybin mushrooms under the standard panel drug test. However, they may request specific tests for validated suspicions of illicit substance use. The Navy's policy, OPNAV 5350.4E, specifically mentions abstaining from all illicit substance use, including natural illicit substances (fungus).

In the military, a positive urinalysis for mushrooms (psilocin) will be treated the same way that any other positive urinalysis is treated. Typically, samples are sent to AFMES after incidents, such as a member displaying hallucinogenic behaviour or incriminating themselves in using a drug not tested for in the standard urinalysis program. It can take a few months for AFMES to report the results back to the command.

The detection window for psilocybin mushrooms in standard drug tests is brief, and they are absent from routine drug screenings, making it unlikely to be flagged in conventional urine tests. Specialised panels can identify psilocin, but these tests are rarely administered. The body also metabolizes psilocybin mushrooms relatively quickly, and the compounds are typically out of the system within a day.

Explore related products

3 Pack - DrugExam THC Advantage Made in USA Multi Level Marijuana Urine Test Kit. Highly Sensitive THC 5 Level Drug Test Kit. Detects at 15 ng/mL, 20 ng/mL, 50 ng/mL, 200 ng/mL and 300 ng/mL (3)

$14.95

Residue Detection Multi-Drug Test Kit - Rapid Surface Residue Detector

$12.97

Easy@Home Marijuana Urine Drug Test Kit [15 Pack] - THC Tests for Home Use - Weed Detox Testing Kits with 50ng/ml Cutoff Level #EDTH-114

$10.99

3 Pack - DrugExam Made in USA Most Sensitive Marijuana THC 15 ng/mL Single Panel Drug Test Kit - Marijuana Drug Test with 15 ng/mL Cutoff Level for Detecting Any Form of THC

$8.95 $12.95

Prime Screen Multi-Drug Urine Test Cup 16 Panel Kit (AMP,BAR,BUP,BZO,COC,mAMP,MDMA,MOP/OPI,MTD,OXY,PCP,THC, ETG, FTY, TRA, K2) -[1 Pack]-CDOA-9165EFTK

$14.99

Exploro 5 Panel Drug Test Kit – at Home Urine Drug Screen for THC, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP – Federal 5 Standard with Quick Results for Pre-Employment & Personal Use (Pack of 5)

$4.49 $7.99

The Navy does not routinely test for mushrooms under the standard panel drug test

However, there are specialized drug panels that can detect psilocybin and psilocin in urine, saliva, blood, or hair follicles. These specialized tests are rarely administered due to their high cost and the brief detection window for psilocybin and psilocin. The Navy will conduct these specialized tests if there are validated suspicions of illicit substance use. For example, if a member is observed displaying hallucinogenic behavior or incriminates themselves, samples may be sent to AFMES for further testing.

It is important to note that the effects of magic mushrooms can be profound, lasting up to several hours and resulting in hallucinations, altered perceptions, and emotional changes. The impact on an individual's mental and emotional well-being can also be significant, with potential exacerbation of underlying mental health issues or the triggering of latent ones. Therefore, while the Navy may not routinely test for mushrooms, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with their use.

The Navy has a zero-tolerance policy for drug use, and members who test positive for any illicit substance, including mushrooms, may face disciplinary action. The Navy's policy specifically calls out natural illicit substances, including fungi, and states that members should abstain from all illicit substance use. As such, it is essential for Navy personnel to be aware of the risks and potential consequences of using mushrooms or any other substance.

The body metabolizes psilocybin and psilocin relatively quickly

Psilocybin and psilocin are the two main hallucinogenic compounds found in magic mushrooms. Psilocybin is a prodrug that is dephosphorylated by alkaline phosphatase to form the active metabolite psilocin. Psilocin is then further metabolized, with psilocin-O-glucuronide being the main urinary metabolite. The metabolites of psilocybin and psilocin can be detected in urine, saliva, blood, or hair follicles using specialized tests. However, these compounds are not typically included in standard drug tests, which focus on substances like THC, cocaine, and opioids. The detection window for psilocybin and psilocin is relatively short, with most tests detecting their presence for up to 24 hours, and some specialized tests detecting them for up to 48 hours.

The metabolism of psilocybin and psilocin in the body is a complex process that involves multiple organs and enzymes. When consumed, psilocybin is absorbed into the bloodstream and filtered by the liver. Psilocybin is then dephosphorylated into psilocin by alkaline phosphatase or non-specific esterases in tissues and fluids. This process occurs rapidly, with the body quickly converting psilocybin into its active form, psilocin. Psilocin is then further metabolized by monoamine oxidase (MAO) into O-Glucoronide and 4-Hydroxy-indoline-3-acetaldehyde, which are then broken down into 4-Hydroxy-indole-3-acetic acid and 3-Hydroxytryptophole.

The psychedelic effects of psilocybin and psilocin are a result of their interaction with serotonin receptors in the brain. Psilocin is particularly potent due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and exert central actions. The duration of the psychedelic experience can vary depending on factors such as dosage, body weight, and metabolism, typically lasting between 4 to 8 hours. The effects of psilocybin and psilocin include hallucinations, altered thinking, sensory perception, and emotions. While some individuals report positive experiences, others may face adverse reactions such as a challenging "bad trip," nausea, or panic attacks.

The military has been known to conduct urinalysis tests for the presence of psilocin, indicative of the use of magic mushrooms. However, standard drug testing panels in the military and other organizations may not routinely include tests for psilocybin or psilocin. Specialized tests are available and can detect the presence of these compounds in various bodily fluids and tissues. The detection window for these compounds is relatively short, making it important to conduct testing promptly if suspicion arises.

In summary, the body metabolizes psilocybin and psilocin relatively quickly through a series of enzymatic reactions. The metabolites of these compounds can be detected in the body for a short period, typically up to 24 hours, using specialized tests. The rapid metabolism and short detection window present challenges for drug testing and highlight the need for timely and specialized testing methods.

Frequently asked questions