A Beginner's Guide to Amanita Muscaria Mushrooms

These days, everyone is looking for a legal high. With the wave of psychedelic research happening around the world right now, it's no wonder that you're here exploring the famous red-and-white mushrooms known as Amanita muscaria. These mushrooms have a rich history and an iconic look that you can see everywhere, from Alice in Wonderland to Super Mario Bros. 

But here's the scoop: they're not just for making your Animal Crossing island look cute or powering up Mario. These mushrooms have fascinating science behind them, and yes, they can indeed take you on a trip. Whether you're just starting on your psychedelic journey or looking to expand your fungi knowledge, this Amanita muscaria guide will walk you through everything you need to know about these mushrooms in a beginner-friendly way. Let's jump in.

What Is Amanita muscaria?

You might not recognize the name, but you know its look. Think of the quintessential mushroom emoji—a bright red cap with white spots. This funky little mushroom is none other than the Amanita muscaria, also known as fly agaric. 

You've probably heard of psilocybin mushrooms, those super illegal but magical fungi that can send you on a face-melting trip. But another player in the psychedelic scene has been causing quite a stir lately: Amanita muscaria. And the cool part is that it's perfectly legal in most places. 

Amanita muscaria is another type of psychotropic mushroom, but it's pretty different from the psilocybin varieties most people are familiar with. The key players in its chemical makeup are ibotenic acid, muscimol, and muscarine. That's right— you won't find psilocybin in these shrooms. Its unique compounds are what give Amanita muscaria its unique effects, ranging from dreamlike hallucinations to a sense of euphoria and relaxation. 

This mushroom has been around the block, popping up in various folklore and shamanic rituals, especially in northern Europe and Central Asia. Siberian shamans used these vibrant fungi in their ceremonies to connect with the spirit world, and pre-Christian cultures incorporated them into Winter Solstice celebrations. It's like a magical bridge between the human and the supernatural.

And for good reason. These psychedelic mushrooms will make you trip, and you'll feel like you're falling down that sleepy rabbit hole in Alice in Wonderland. With its growing popularity, people are more curious than ever about Amanita muscaria. While mycologists may still debate its toxicity, one thing is clear: Amanita muscaria is one of the most remarkable and beautiful mushrooms out there, capturing the imagination of psychonauts and mushroom enthusiasts alike.

Amanita muscaria Identification

Amanita muscaria is quite the world traveler. It's found not only in Europe and North America but also in far-flung places like Brazil, South Africa, and Central Asia. That said, it can be found out in the wild pretty easily if foraging for your psychedelics is your thing. So, how do you spot this famous mushroom in the wild? Let's break down its distinctive features to help you confidently identify Amanita muscaria.

Amanita muscaria is like the celebrity of the mushroom world—it's got a classic toadstool look that's hard to miss. The cap is typically bright red, but you might also find some with orange or yellow hues. What really makes it stand out are the white to cream-colored warts or patches that dot the surface. This cap can grow anywhere from 5 to 20 centimeters in diameter, making it quite the showstopper. The stem is white, stout, and usually measures 10 to 20 centimeters long, adding to its sturdy appearance.

Check under the cap, and you'll find the gills. These are white and free, meaning they don't connect directly to the stem. The gills radiate outwards from the stem, creating a beautiful, delicate pattern.

One of the key features of Amanita muscaria is the white, skirt-like ring, or annulus, on the upper part of the stem. This ring is a remnant of the mushroom's partial veil, which protected the gills during its development. Additionally, at the base of the stem, you might see a white, sack-like structure called the volva. This is another remnant of the mushroom's early growth stages, specifically the universal veil that once enveloped the entire mushroom.

Dangerous Lookalikes

We can't stress enough how dangerous it is to forage mushrooms, though. There are a lot of toxic mushrooms that look a lot like our friendly fly agarics, and you don't want to eat those 'cause you'll get sick. 

For those who want to be absolutely sure they've found an Amanita muscaria, collecting a spore print is a reliable method. To do this, place the cap gills down on a piece of paper and leave it overnight. In the morning, you'll see a white spore print on the paper, confirming its identity.

Look out for dangerous lookalikes, and if you're not sure, don't bother. You can trust the lab-tested Amanita muscaria products here at Destino Farms instead. As Alexis Nikole says on her foraging channel, "Happy snacking, don't die!" 

Does Amanita muscaria Get You High?

Yes, Amanita muscaria can get you high. When we think of "magic mushrooms," psilocybin is usually the star of the show, but Amanita muscaria brings something different to the table. Instead of psilocybin or psilocin, this mushroom's psychoactive ingredients are muscimol and ibotenic acid. These compounds offer a unique experience that is quite different from the familiar psilocybin high. 

Active Ingredients

Muscimol: The Main Player

Muscimol is the primary psychoactive compound in Amanita muscaria, and it's responsible for the mushroom's characteristic effects. Structurally similar to GABAa, the brain's main inhibitory neurotransmitter, muscimol, reduces central nervous system activity. This leads to physical relaxation, euphoria, and a sense of tranquility. Think of it as a sedative, depressant, and deliriant rolled into one.

One of the fascinating aspects of muscimol is its impact on sleep. Evidence suggests that it enhances the quantity and quality of NREM sleep, the deep, restorative part of the sleep cycle. Users report longer durations of deep sleep, intensified by increased Slow Wave Activity (SWA). This deep sleep stage is crucial for physical recovery and memory consolidation, making muscimol an intriguing compound for both its recreational and potential therapeutic benefits.

Ibotenic Acid: The Precursor

Ibotenic acid is the primary active compound in raw Amanita muscaria mushrooms. It has a molecular structure similar to the neurotransmitter glutamate, which excites the central nervous system. While ibotenic acid can have neurotoxic properties and is believed to cause a lot of the nausea that comes with eating raw mushrooms, it also acts as a prodrug to muscimol. This means that when you dry, boil, or ingest Amanita muscaria, the ibotenic acid converts to muscimol, reducing its toxicity and enhancing its psychoactive effects.

However, ibotenic acid in high doses can cause hallucinations, confusion, vomiting, and nausea. Most commercially available Amanita products are processed to minimize ibotenic acid content, making them safer for consumption. 

Muscarine: The Lesser-Known Component

Muscarine is another compound found in Amanita muscaria, though in much smaller amounts. It's known for its therapeutic and potentially toxic properties, depending on the dose. High concentrations of muscarine can cause adverse effects like excessive sweating, salivation, abdominal cramps, and other unpleasant symptoms. However, Amanita muscaria mushrooms generally contain about 0.0003% muscarine, so the risk is minimal.

Interestingly, muscarine interacts with muscarinic receptors in the brain, hinting at potential medicinal benefits such as cognitive enhancement and improved neuromuscular function. Most Amanita products filter out muscarine, but it's unclear whether this is necessary due to the low concentrations naturally present in the mushroom.

More or less, Amanita muscaria mushrooms will make you feel high thanks to these unique little compounds. 

What does an Amanita muscaria High Feel like? 

So, what can you expect from an Amanita muscaria high? Users report a range of effects, from euphoria and sensory distortions to enhanced colors and altered perceptions of time and space. The experience can vary significantly from person to person and is highly dose-dependent. This means that the more you take, the more intense the effects will be. That said, you're gonna want to start low and go slow with these mushrooms. 

It offers a blend of physical relaxation, dreamlike states, and emotional highs, but, like all mushrooms, it may come with its own set of challenges and potential discomforts depending on how you felt before your trip, whether or not you ate beforehand, what your setting was like, and if you were in a good headspace before you took the mushrooms. 

Buckle up because the ride is quite different from the classic psilocybin or even cannabis experience. An Amanita muscaria high, known as a trip, can vary widely from person to person, but there are some common effects and sensations you can expect. 

The Beginning: Onset of Effects

The onset of an Amanita muscaria trip typically begins about 30 minutes to two hours after consumption. You might start to feel a sense of physical relaxation and a mild sedative effect. This initial phase can sometimes come with feelings of light-headedness or slight nausea, which usually pass as the trip progresses. You may also feel some physical anxiety or maybe some tingling as the trip sets in. 

The Trip: Key Sensations and Experiences

The onset can sometimes feel intense, but after about 30 to 45 minutes, you’ll start to feel the effects leveling out as your trip sets in.  You might feel your muscles relax and experience a sense of physical tranquility. Some people describe it as a warm, comforting sensation that spreads through the body, making you want to lie down and close your eyes.

As the trip deepens, your perception of time and space may become distorted. Minutes can feel like hours, and familiar surroundings might look different or surreal. You might feel detached from your usual sense of reality, almost as if you're in a dreamlike state. 

While Amanita muscaria doesn't produce the vivid, colorful visuals associated with psilocybin, it can lead to more subtle visual distortions. You might see patterns or movements in your peripheral vision, and objects can appear to breathe or shimmer. Auditory hallucinations are also common, with sounds becoming more pronounced or taking on an unusual quality.

Many people also report feelings of euphoria and deep emotional introspection. You might find yourself laughing uncontrollably or feeling a profound sense of connection to nature or the universe. These emotional shifts can be intense but are usually accompanied by a sense of well-being. However, one of the most unique aspects of an Amanita muscaria trip is the dreamlike quality it can induce. You might feel like you're drifting in and out of consciousness, experiencing vivid, fantastical dreams even while awake. This can be both enchanting and disorienting, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.

The Comedown

After a few hours, the effects will begin to subside. Your vision will return to normal, and you'll usually feel relaxed, sleepy, and disoriented. This effect is known as the afterglow and will linger with you long after you return to normal, especially if you did some serious introspection during your trip. After about 6-8 hours, you'll be ready to either take more or head to bed. 

The Downside: Potential Negative Effects

It's important to note that not all trips are purely positive. Some users might experience the following:

1. Disorientation and Confusion

The delirious effects of muscimol can lead to confusion and disorientation. You might feel lost or unable to focus, which can be unsettling, especially for first-time users.

2. Nausea and Vomiting

Gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea and vomiting, is not uncommon, especially if the mushrooms weren't prepared properly. This is typically due to the presence of ibotenic acid, which can irritate the stomach.

3. Muscle Twitching and Spasms

Some people report mild muscle twitching or spasms, which can be uncomfortable but usually aren't dangerous. These effects are linked to the mushroom's impact on the central nervous system.

4. Anxiety or Paranoia

Like any psychedelic experience, there is a risk of anxiety or paranoia, particularly if you're in an unfamiliar or uncomfortable setting. Ensuring a safe and calm environment can help mitigate these effects.

Remember, some of these potential side effects are purely related to your set and setting. Some trips are hard, but you can be brought back to an upbeat experience by keeping yourself relaxed and occupied, drinking water, nibbling on food, and relaxing. It helps to have a good friend trip sitting you to remind you that you're just high and you'll come down soon to ensure you stay comfortable. If you're curious about exploring this ancient and culturally rich mushroom, make sure you do so with proper preparation and respect for its potent effects.

Is Amanita muscaria Poisonous?

Yes, Amanita muscaria is technically poisonous. Thanks to modern medicine, fatalities from consuming this mushroom are extremely rare, but they can still occur under certain conditions. There have been instances of people falling into comas after ingesting it or pooping their pants after eating too much. However, the North American Mycological Society states that "in humans, there are no reliably documented cases of death from toxins in these mushrooms in the past 100 years." 

The biggest thing to keep in mind is that they're a lot more likely to make you sick if you eat them raw. In raw mushrooms, there is way too much ibotenic acid, which tends to make you sick. Symptoms of toxicity appear within 30 minutes to two hours after ingestion. Here's what you might expect:

• Nausea and Vomiting: These are the most common initial reactions and can be quite intense.
• Gastrointestinal Distress: Cramps and diarrhea often accompany nausea, making for an uncomfortable experience.
• Neurological Symptoms: These include loss of balance, muscle spasms, convulsions, confusion, and visual distortions. These symptoms occur due to the mushroom's effects on the central nervous system.

Proper Preparation

Despite its potential toxicity, Amanita muscaria can be consumed safely if prepared correctly. The key is to reduce the levels of ibotenic acid and muscarine, which are believed to be responsible for most of the adverse effects and increase the levels of muscimol, the compound that produces the desired psychoactive effects. Here's how to prepare Amanita muscaria safely:

• Drying: Drying the mushrooms converts a significant portion of the ibotenic acid into muscimol. This process reduces toxicity and enhances the psychoactive properties.
• Boiling: Boiling the mushrooms in water helps to leach out the ibotenic acid and other toxins. It's recommended to boil them for at least 15 minutes and then discard the water.
• Lab-Tested Extracts: For those who prefer a safer and more controlled experience, lab-tested Amanita extracts, such as tinctures, gummies, and chocolates, that you can buy online or at dispensaries like ours, are perfect. These products are specifically formulated to minimize toxic compounds and standardize the dosage of muscimol, making for a more controlled experience that doesn't require you to do any extra work, like foraging, drying, or boiling. 

Dosing Guide: How Do You Eat Amanita muscaria Mushrooms 

So, we've established that Amanita muscaria is technically poisonous and can have some nasty side effects if not prepared correctly. But how can you safely enjoy the psychoactive effects of this intriguing mushroom without, well, crying and throwing up? Here's a step-by-step guide to detoxifying and consuming Amanita muscaria.

Detoxification Process

1. Boil the Mushrooms

The primary culprit behind Amanita muscaria's toxic effects is ibotenic acid. Boiling the mushrooms helps to remove this acid, making them safer to consume. Here's how to do it:

• First, Clean and Slice the Caps: Focus on the red caps and discard the stems, which can often contain larvae.
• Boil in Water: Place the mushroom caps in a pot of water and bring it to a boil. Let them boil for at least 15-20 minutes. The longer you boil, the more ibotenic acid you remove.
• Discard the Water: After boiling, discard the water to get rid of the extracted toxins. You can repeat this process if you're particularly cautious.

2. Dry the Caps

Dried mushrooms are generally gentler on the stomach than raw ones. You can dry the caps by placing them in a dehydrator or simply leaving them in a well-ventilated area until they're fully dry. Once dry, you can either eat them as they are or boil them again to make a tea-style infusion using lemon juice, which is often recommended to further reduce the risk of stomach pains.

Consuming Amanita muscaria

Once you've detoxified your Amanita muscaria mushrooms, there are several ways to consume them safely:

1. Eat the Dried Caps

Dried caps can be consumed directly. Start with a small piece to test your tolerance and avoid any potential negative effects.

2. Make a Tea

Boil the dried caps in water again to make tea. This method helps to further reduce the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort and is a popular way to consume Amanita muscaria.

3. Lemon Tek 

Like psilocybin mushrooms (and most mushrooms, honestly), it's hard for our bodies to break down the thick cell walls of mushrooms. Soaking your dried mushrooms in lemon juice for a few minutes and then eating them can help break down those cells and make them easier to digest, which might help you prevent any unnecessary tummy trubs. 

4. Use Extracts

For a more controlled and convenient experience, consider using Amanita muscaria extracts. These products are specifically formulated to minimize toxic compounds and standardize dosages. Extracts are available in various forms, including tinctures, gummies, and chocolates.

Amanita muscaria Dosage

When it comes to eating dried mushrooms, we always recommend starting with about a half of a gram to a full gram. You can then wait an hour, and if you don't feel anything, feel free to take more until you find your desired effects. There's no one-size fits all approach to dosing mushrooms since it all depends on your tolerance, biology, physiology, metabolism, and so much more. The key with any psychedelic mushroom is t ostart low and go slow. 

On the other hand, if you're using an extract or, a mushroom chocolate bar or mushroom gummies, you'll want to look at the lab test results to get a better understanding of what you're in for. Here are some dosage ranges to look out for as they relate to the active compounds: 

• Muscimol:
• 5 to 7 mg: Induces a calming effect and alleviates anxiety.
• 10 to 15 mg: Can lead to euphoria and vivid dreams.
• Ibotenic Acid:
• 50 mg: Starts to produce psychoactive effects.
• 100 mg: Peaks in its effects, which can include altered states of consciousness, vivid dreams, and euphoria.

Most extracts and mushroom products tend to filter out muscarine. The reason why is that studies suggest the muscarine itself can cause adverse effects like excessive sweating, crying, salivation, and cramps. However, most mushrooms contain less than 1% of it, so don't panic if you do see trace amounts of it on the lab report and label. 

Can you microdose Amanita muscaria? 

Microdosing is a hot new trend where you take a super small amount of something to cash in on the potential positive benefits for your mind and body without actually feeling high. The good news is that you can indeed microdose Amanita muscaria. 

Typical microdosing involves taking no more than 1 to 5 mg of an extract gummy or chocolate. Alternatively, if you're eating them whole and dry, you'd eat somewhere around 0.25 to 0.5 grams, depending on your tolerance. 

Microdosing these mushrooms provides relaxing euphoria, warm body sensations, pain relief, and a sense of calm and tranquility and may help with mood elevation and sleep support without impairing you with a full-blown trip.

Pro-Tips for Finding Your Dosage

Remember, the effects of mushrooms are highly individual and depend on a lot of different factors, like your tolerance, any medications you might be taking, how fast your metabolism works, and what your mind can handle. Consider the following: 

Regular use of Amanita muscaria can lead to tolerance, meaning higher doses are needed to achieve the same effects. New users should start with lower doses and gradually increase as needed.

If you have any medical conditions or are taking prescription medications, consult a healthcare specialist before consuming Amanita muscaria. The mushroom interacts with NMDA and GABAa receptors in the brain, and combining it with other substances like ketamine, alcohol, benzodiazepines, or barbiturates can cause unpredictable and potentially dangerous reactions.

High doses can result in intense psychoactive effects, such as vivid dreams and hallucinations, as well as adverse effects like dizziness, confusion, tiredness, and increased sensitivity to visual and auditory stimuli.

For beginners, start with a microdose or low dosage, typically less than 400 mg of Amanita muscaria extract, and gradually increase it. Body weight affects metabolism and tolerance. Generally, individuals with higher body weight may require larger doses to achieve the same effects as those with lower body weight.

Amanita muscaria Beginner Tips

If you're brand new to tripping in general, let alone fly agaric, it's important to take some precautions to ensure it goes smoothly. I like to remind people that there's no such thing as a bad trip, just hard ones. You might have to face something that's been bugging you subconsciously, or you might feel a little too high for a while. The key is accepting the trip for what it is: a journey. 

Your mindset and setting (environment) are the most important aspects of your trip. Approach the trip with a positive and open attitude, and make sure your surroundings are peaceful and free from stressors. Trip in a place where you feel safe and comfortable, ideally somewhere familiar. This will help reduce anxiety and allow you to relax and enjoy the journey.

Being around people you trust can make a huge difference. Their presence can offer comfort and stability, helping you to feel secure and supported throughout your trip. A trusted friend who can stay sober and keep an eye on you during your trip (a trip sitter) is invaluable. They can help guide you through any challenging moments and provide reassurance if you start to feel overwhelmed.

Even with all precautions, sometimes trips can go south. Have a plan in place for what to do if you start feeling uncomfortable. This could include breathing exercises, focusing on a calming activity, or having your trip sitter talk you through it.

Have some calming activities on hand to help ground you if you start feeling anxious or uncomfortable. Art supplies, soothing music, a favorite movie, or even a comforting book can be great to have nearby. Keep some water and light snacks handy. Staying hydrated and having a little food can help maintain your comfort levels and prevent any physical discomfort from dehydration or hunger.

At the end of the day, though: enjoy the ride. Amanita muscaria can offer a range of experiences from euphoria and relaxation to vivid dreams and altered perceptions. Embrace the journey, and let yourself explore the unique effects without judgement, and have a game plan if you find yourself feeling a bit fearful. 

Oh, and one more thing— don't do anything stupid. Amanita muscaria can significantly alter your perception and coordination. Never drive or operate heavy machinery while under its influence. It's best to clear your schedule and have a relaxing, responsibility-free day. Also, the effects of Amanita muscaria on pregnancy and breastfeeding are not well-studied, so it's best to avoid using it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding to ensure the safety of you and your baby.

Is Amanita muscaria Legal? 

As of now, Amanita muscaria is legal in most parts of the world and the United States, except for Louisiana, where it can only be used for decorative purposes. In Canada, Amanita muscaria is legal but falls under the Food and Drug Act, meaning it's not approved for commercial sale or medical use. These mushrooms are also legal in Sweden, Ireland, and Russia, but illegal in Australia, Romania, the Netherlands, and Thailand.

Always remember: due to its potential toxicity, never consume wild mushrooms unless you're an experienced mycologist or guided by one. Make sure to check local laws to ensure you're in the clear before foraging or consuming Amanita muscaria.

How to Choose Amanita muscaria Products 

If you're curious about trying Amanita muscaria but don't want to risk foraging for wild mushrooms, we've got you covered. Opting for safe, lab-tested products is the best way to enjoy the benefits of Amanita muscaria without the potential hazards.

Lab-tested Amanita muscaria products ensure you get a safe and consistent experience. These products are carefully processed to reduce toxicity and standardize the dosage, making them a reliable choice for both beginners and experienced users.

What to Look for on the Label

When shopping for Amanita muscaria products, always check the label for the following information:

• Exact Amount of Amanita Extract per Serving: This ensures you know exactly how much you're consuming.
• Muscimol and/or Ibotenic Acid Content: Clear labeling of these compounds helps you understand the product's potency and effects.
• Recommended Dosage: Look for dosage guidelines to achieve your desired effect safely.
• Lab Test Results: Verify that the product has been tested for the presence and absence of psychoactive compounds to ensure quality and safety.

For high-quality Amanita muscaria products, check out Destino Farms. We offer a range of mushroom gummies and chocolates that are not only delicious but also safe and legal. Our products are crafted with care to provide you with the best possible experience.

By choosing lab-tested products from trusted sources like Destino Farms, you can explore the unique effects of Amanita muscaria with peace of mind, knowing you're consuming a safe and regulated product. 

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, Amanita muscaria is a fascinating mushroom with a rich history and unique psychoactive properties. While it can offer a remarkable experience, it's essential to approach it with caution and respect due to its potential toxicity. By following proper preparation methods, adhering to safe consumption guidelines, and choosing lab-tested products from reputable sources like Destino Farms, you can enjoy the benefits of Amanita muscaria safely and responsibly. Always remember to prioritize your safety and well-being, and enjoy your journey!