The Legal Magic Mushroom is here.
Amanita Muscaria, commonly known as Fly Agaric or Fly Amanita, is a muscimol mushroom. Arguably the most iconic toadstool species, the fly agaric is a large white-gilled, white-spotted, usually red mushroom, and is one of the most recognizable and widely encountered in popular culture, including art, films, cartoons and video games. Amanita Muscaria has a far-reaching, rich history with roots in many cultures, recreations, and is used entheogenically in ceremonial settings — and it’s still utilized today in many corners of the world. Today’s researchers and users have rediscovered what these ancient tribes and indigenous people already knew — this mushroom is more than just a fairytale emblem; it has deep medicinal benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of Amanita Muscaria?
The Amanita Muscaria mushroom has been used medicinally for hundreds of years among tribal peoples in Siberia, as well as in parts of Scandinavia, Eastern Europe and Russia, where it has been used both topically and internally for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and stimulant properties. Recent research on the mushroom’s pharmacology supports these traditional uses of this mushroom and has also demonstrated that certain compounds exhibit anti-tumor and memory-protecting activities.*
For centuries Amanita Muscaria has been used as a homeopathic medicine. There are reports of its use to treat a variety of illnesses, including pain, depression, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, and addiction/withdrawal. Despite the warnings from mycologists and lingering tales from mycophobia, more people are becoming curious about this fungus and exploring its use as an entheogen, as well as to treat depression and physical ailments. There are reports of individuals microdosing Amanita Muscaria to boost their energy and productivity.*
Is Amanita Muscaria legal?
Amanita Muscaria is legal in all states in the USA, except in Louisiana, where growing, selling, or possessing Amanita Muscaria (with many other potentially hallucenogenic plants) is prohibited by the Louisiana State Act 159. The main active compound, muscimol, is not considered a controlled substance by the federal government of the United States. Internationally, Amanita Muscaria is legal in most countries with the exceptions of Australia, Romania, The Netherlands, and Thailand.
While cultivation, possession, and distribution of Amanita Muscaria is unregulated by the United States federal government, it has not been approved for human consumption. According to the Erowid Center’s website, “If sold as a supplement, sales must conform to U.S. supplement laws. If sold for consumption as a food or drug, sales are regulated by the FDA.”
Is Amanita Muscaria toxic?
Muscimol and ibotenic acid are lethal in very high doses. There are no studies to determine the levels of toxicity or long-term effects in humans. In much the same way as alcohol, Amanita Muscaria is technically poisonous it can be safely consumed in controlled doses. Care should be taken to prepare the mushrooms properly by thoroughly drying them either in a food dehydrator or oven at a low temperature. The mushrooms should never be eaten raw as this may result in gastrointestinal effects, adverse effects from the ibotenic acid, or allergies to uncooked mushroom proteins. Only proper handling and preparation of Amanita Muscaria ingredients ensures safe and effective finished products.
How much should I take?
Body composition, metabolism and tolerance levels are key factors. Titration and having a clear objective is key to figuring out the optimal dose for yourself. The most recommended approach is starting with a small amount until you are familiar with the effects, and increase as you feel the need for your personal objective.
What is an entheogen?
Entheogens are psychoactive substances, typically of plant origin, that induce alterations in perception, mood, consciousness, cognition, or behavior for the purposes of engendering spiritual development or otherwise in sacred contexts.