Amanita muscaria (fly agaric) is a fungus in the order of Agaricar found in many habitats in the Northern Hemisphere’s temperate regions. It grows in low-altitude and alpine areas, especially in coniferous forests such as spruce and black pine. It usually appears during the last months of summer, especially in autumn.
Its appearance stands out for the red color of its white-speckled hat and body. Mushrooms contain psychoactive toxins (ibotenic acid and muscimol) and many other alkaloids. Since ancient times they have been implemented as an intoxicant in magical and psychoactive contexts. It is known by names such as false oronja, fly swatter, and reig board, among others.
All about this interesting fungus
Ecologically, this species, like all species of this genus, is essential for maintaining temperate forests due to its ectomycorrhizal associations with various trees, especially conifers.
Taxonomically, this genus is much more diverse, with about a dozen described species, and is one of the most widespread in the world. On the other hand, due to their hallucinogenic properties, mushrooms are widely used for various purposes (ceremonies, entertainment, etc.).
Possibly the oldest hallucinogenic substance used by humans, this mushroom has been described as the ancient soma of India and was eaten by the Aryans 3,500 years ago. That is why the Amanita muscaria for sale worldwide is so important.
Its pharmacology is complex and not yet fully understood. The most important alkaloids are manic acid, mucin, muscarines, and muscarines.
Muscarines were long thought to be the psychoactive alkaloids of Amanita. But in 1964, researchers in Japan, Great Britain, and Switzerland isolated a manic acid and mucin. It was discovering its psychoactive properties.
The amount and percentage of alkaloids found in mushrooms depend on several factors. Mushrooms harvested at higher altitudes were found to have higher concentrations of ibotenic acid/thymol. At the same time, mushrooms collected at lower altitudes had more.
A precise description of the fungus is necessary because different species can vary, and other species can be confused with Amanita muscaria, especially a pantherina.
On the other hand, a muscaria can reach a height of 18 cm, has a red cap (or orange for old specimens), and usually has white spots. The panel under the hat is white.
Where to find them?
The fly swatter or false cape cap (Amanita muscaria) is a lovely and curious fungus. It usually grows from September to November, but that does not detract from its prominence in the spring when it appears sporadically.
It is a soil fungus colonized by jaralis (Qestus) in acid soils under pine trees, mixed pine-eucalyptus forests, and degraded areas of Monteverde. It can be seen growing abundantly at the relocation site with pine trees and an artificial area in the middle.
Traditionally, mushrooms are washed and dried after picking, and the stem is usually discarded as it can contain many larvae. Drying is recommended to reduce intestinal discomfort. Impact, the mascara can last up to 2 or 3 hours before arrival. Therefore, it is recommended to pay attention to the amount of ingestion.
