Frequently asked questions
What is Amanita muscaria and what family does it belong to?▼
Amanita muscaria, commonly known as fly agaric, is a fungus from the Amanitaceae family and Amanita genus. It contains active compounds traditionally used in natural medicine and has distinctive red caps with white spots.
What are the main active compounds in fly agaric preparations?▼
The primary active compounds are ibotenic acid (0.21%), which converts to muscimol, the psychoactive substance about five times stronger than ibotenic acid. Other compounds include muscazone and muscarine. Muscimol is responsible for the mushroom's psychoactive properties.
How do fly agaric preparations work in the body?▼
Ibotenic acid acts as a glutamatergic receptor agonist on NMDA receptors, while muscimol functions as a GABAA receptor agonist. Muscarine acts as a muscarinic acetylcholine receptor agonist but plays a minor role. These mechanisms produce the preparation's therapeutic effects.
What are the traditional medicinal applications of fly agaric?▼
Fly agaric preparations have been traditionally used to combat mood fluctuations and treat cramping digestive disorders. They can be administered orally, rectally, or through injections as tablets, suppositories, or injection solutions.
What are the contraindications and side effects of fly agaric preparations?▼
Contraindications include bile duct obstruction, gallstones, jaundice, alcoholism, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Common side effects include allergic skin reactions. The preparation is not recommended for children under 12 years due to insufficient research.

