What Is Amanita Muscaria?

Amanita Muscaria, also known as the fly agaric, is one of the most iconic mushrooms in the world. With its vibrant red cap adorned with white spots, it has been immortalized in fairy tales, folklore, and art. Found in temperate and boreal forests, Amanita Muscaria has been historically used in shamanic rituals, traditional medicine, and as a symbol of mysticism and wonder. While its appearance is enchanting, Amanita Muscaria has also captivated interest due to its unique psychoactive properties.

This beginner’s guide aims to provide essential information about Amanita muscaria, including its identification, distribution, effects, and precautions.

 

Amanita Identification

Appearance: Amanita muscaria features a classic toadstool shape. The Cap is typically bright red, although it can sometimes appear orange or yellow, with white to cream-colored warts or patches scattered across its surface. The cap can grow to about 5-20 centimeters (2-8 inches) in diameter, while the stem is white, stout, and usually measures 10-20 centimeters (4-8 inches) in length.

• Gills: The mushroom’s gills are white and free, which means they do not connect to the stem. They are found on the underside of the cap and radiate outward from the stem.
• Ring and Volva: Amanita muscaria has a white, skirt-like ring on the upper part of the stem, known as the annulus. Additionally, there may be a white, sack-like structure called the volva at the base of the stem, which is a remnant of the mushroom’s protective veil during its early growth stages.
• Spore Print: To identify the mushroom conclusively, collect a spore print by placing the cap gills down on a piece of paper overnight. The spore print of Amanita muscaria is white.

It’s crucial to distinguish Amanita Muscaria from other Amanita species, some of which are highly toxic, such as Amanita phalloides (death cap) and Amanita virosa (destroying angel). Always consult a reliable field guide or expert mycologist when identifying mushrooms.

 

Historical and Cultural Significance

Amanita muscaria has played a significant role in the mythology, traditions, and rituals of various cultures around the world:

Siberian Shamans: The mushroom has been associated with Siberian shamanism, where it was used ceremonially by shamans for its mind-altering properties.

European Folklore: Amanita muscaria’s striking appearance inspired various European folklore and fairy tales, including depictions of magical toadstools in fairy rings.

Christmas Symbolism: Some theories suggest that Amanita muscaria’s red and white coloration may have influenced the modern image of Santa Claus, as the mushroom was used in winter solstice rituals in some regions.

 Does Amanita Muscaria Get You High?

Yes, Amanita Muscaria has mild psychoactive properties. However, its effects are quite different from classic psychedelics like psilocybin. Rather than inducing intense visual hallucinations, Amanita Muscaria’s effects are more sedative, dream-like, and introspective. The primary effects stem from its unique interaction with the GABAergic system in the brain.

The GABA Connection

Amanita Muscaria’s active compounds interact with the GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) system in the brain. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, relaxation, and sleep. By modulating this system, Amanita Muscaria can produce sedative and calming effects, as well as shifts in perception and consciousness.

Calming vs. Sleepy

While some users report a deeply calming experience, others find the effects sedative to the point of inducing sleep. The balance depends on the dosage (ie: amount of Muscuimol), and individual physiology. Anecdotal reports often describe a gentle, meditative state that may drift into vivid, lucid dreams. Taking a small dose (a few drops > 1/4 dropper) will help calm you and manage anxiety. Taking a larger dose (½ dropper) of Blue Toad’s RELAX OR SLEEP near bedtime will help you sleep deeply and likely produce vivid dreams. Our SLEEP product also adds 10mg of CBN (Cannabinol) which can help reduce waking up during the night or other sleep disturbances. 

Active Ingredients

• • Muscimol: Muscimol is the primary psychoactive compound responsible for Amanita Muscaria’s effects. It binds to GABA receptors, producing relaxation, altered perception, and sometimes euphoria. Muscimol’s effects can range from a heightened sense of tranquility to dream-like states and introspection.
  • Ibotenic Acid: Ibotenic acid is a precursor to muscimol. It is less psychoactive and can cause nausea or discomfort when ingested. Proper preparation methods, such as drying and heating, convert ibotenic acid into muscimol, significantly reducing potential adverse effects.
  • Muscarine: Muscarine, another compound found in Amanita Muscaria, is present in small amounts. It is not responsible for the psychoactive effects but can contribute to physiological side effects such as excessive salivation, sweating, or slowed heart rate.

What Does an Amanita High Feel Like?

The Onset of Effects: The effects of Amanita Muscaria typically begin within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption, depending on the preparation and dosage. Some users report a subtle start, with relaxation building gradually, while others experience a more sudden shift.

How Long Will It Take?: The onset varies by individual factors, such as metabolism, preparation method, and whether the mushroom was consumed raw or as a prepared extract/tincture. For some, effects may take longer to manifest but persist for an extended period.

What Will I Feel?: Common sensations include relaxation, a dream-like state, altered perception of time and space, and mild euphoria. In higher doses, some users experience vivid dreams or hallucinations, heightened introspection, and altered sensory perceptions. Physical sensations may include a warm, tingling feeling throughout the body.

How Long Will The Effects Last?: The effects can last anywhere from 6 to 10 hours, with a lingering sense of relaxation often lasting into the next day. The intensity and duration depend on factors like dosage, preparation, and individual tolerance.

Typical Sensations and Experiences

• • Physical relaxation and reduced muscle tension
  • Mild euphoria and a sense of well-being
  • Altered visual or auditory perception, such as colors appearing more vivid
  • Dream-like states or lucid dreaming
  • Heightened introspection and altered thought patterns

Is Amanita Muscaria Poisonous?

While Amanita Muscaria is not as toxic as some other Amanita species, consuming it raw can lead to unpleasant and potentially dangerous side effects. Symptoms of raw ingestion may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive salivation. Proper preparation is essential to reduce toxicity and convert ibotenic acid into muscimol.

Potential Negative Effects of Using Raw Amanita

Raw Amanita Muscaria Mushrooms can cause:

• • Nausea and vomiting
  • Gastrointestinal discomfort
  • Excessive salivation and sweating
  • Confusion or disorientation in some cases
  • Drowsiness or fatigue

Proper Preparation of Raw Amanita

To safely prepare Amanita Muscaria:

• • Drying: Fully dry the mushroom at a low temperature, typically below 170°F (75°C).
  • Decarboxylation: Heat the dried mushrooms gently to convert ibotenic acid into muscimol, enhancing the desirable effects and reducing toxicity. This step is often done by baking or simmering the mushrooms in water.
  • Storage: Store prepared mushrooms in an airtight container to preserve potency.

Dosing Guide

Raw Amanita: Raw Amanita Muscaria is not recommended due to the risk of side effects. Always properly prepare (Decarboxylation) the mushrooms before consumption.

Tinctures: Professionally developed and manufactured tinctures made from Amanita Muscaria are a safer and more controlled way to experience its effects. Dosages can be more easily measured, and tinctures often include detailed instructions for proper use/dosing.

Blue Toad’s Amanita products are quite strong (made with our proprietary NeuroAGARIC™ blend of (Amanita Muscaria, Pantherina, Muscimol), so please start out slow – we recommend a ¼ dropper in the AM (under your tongue) to help calm any stress or anxiety. As needed, add ¼ dropper at a time until you find your perfect dose.

For nighttime use to support a restful night’s sleep, you may try a single ½ dropper (under your tongue) – some customers use double that dose for a full 8+ hours of deep sleep. Much depends on your height, weight, metabolism, etc. Always go slow! Expect vivid dreams!

Is Microdosing Amanita Safe?

Microdosing Amanita Muscaria can be safe for most individuals (check with your healthcare provider). Start with very small amounts (1 to 2 mg of muscimol) to gauge your reaction. Microdosing may help with relaxation, focus, and mood stabilization without producing strong psychoactive effects.

Typical Microdosing Protocol

Remember that Amanita (Muscimol) does interact with your GABA receptors, so you want to always take a few days off per week like any microdosing schedule – this allows your body to “reset”. Typically, 4-5 days of use requires 2-3 days of non-use.

Blue Toad’s RELAX OR SLEEP

Pro-Tips for Finding Your Dosage

• • Weight: Heavier individuals may require slightly higher doses to achieve the desired effects. Adjust your dosage gradually.
  • Age: Older individuals may metabolize Amanita Muscaria differently, so start with a lower dose and adjust as needed.
  • Metabolism: Those with faster metabolisms may experience quicker onset but shorter duration of effects. Consider starting with a moderate dose to gauge your reaction.
  • Gender: Hormonal differences may influence sensitivity to the active compounds, so women and men may experience slightly different effects or require adjusted dosages.

Legal Status of Amanita in the USA

Amanita Muscaria is legal in most U.S. states, as it is not classified as a controlled substance. However, it is always advisable to check local laws, as regulations can vary. Some states or local jurisdictions may impose restrictions on its use or sale.

Toad Conclusion

Amanita Muscaria is a fascinating mushroom with a long history of use in cultural and spiritual practices. While it offers unique effects, proper preparation, dosing, and caution are essential for a safe and positive experience. Whether you’re exploring its psychoactive properties or using it for its calming effects, educate yourself thoroughly and start slowly to ensure a safe journey.