Agaric fly agaric as a medicine, myth or reality?

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Dried fly agaric mushrooms, despite their poisonous reputation, are becoming increasingly popular due to their potentially beneficial properties. In dried form, this mushroom is capable of having a positive effect on the human body, making it an interesting subject for research and application. In this article, we will look at how dried fly agaric can be beneficial for health, discuss its composition, methods of use, as well as possible side effects and contraindications.

Usage history

The red fly agaric (Amanita muscaria) is a mushroom with a bright red cap covered with white spots. Its unique properties have long attracted the attention of shamans, healers and warriors.

In some northern regions, the fly agaric mushroom was used in rituals to achieve altered states of consciousness and communicate with spirits. Shamans drank decoctions of fly agaric mushroom or consumed it in dried form to induce visions and predictions. These practices supposedly helped them perform healing rituals, predict the future, and communicate with the spirit world.

Viking berserkers consumed fly agaric before battles. They believed that this mushroom gave them strength and invulnerability in battle. Consuming fly agaric used to make them furious, making them fearsome opponents.

In Europe, the fly agaric was often featured in fairy tales and legends as a magic mushroom. Medieval healers used it in small doses to prepare potions that were believed to cure various diseases. In other traditions, the fly agaric was used to treat rheumatism, gout and other chronic diseases.

These days, interest in the red fly agaric is being revived due to research into its chemical composition and potential medicinal properties.

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Clinical research and perspectives

Current clinical research focuses on the chemical composition of fly agaric and its effects on the human body. Here are the main directions of research:

Psychotherapy and treatment of mental disorders: one of the most promising areas is the use of red fly agaric in psychotherapy. Muscimol, the mushroom's active ingredient, has anxiolytic effects, making it potentially useful for treating anxiety disorders and depression. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that muscimol can effectively reduce anxiety levels in patients with chronic stress.

Neuroprotective properties: a study published in the journal Neuropharmacology in 2018 showed that ibotenic acid, another active ingredient in fly agaric acid, can improve cognitive function (memory and learning). These properties make agaric acid a promising treatment for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects: in 2020, a study was published in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms confirming the immunomodulatory properties of red fly agaric acid extracts. They may be useful in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammation.

Antioxidant properties: a study published in 2017 in the Journal of Antioxidants found that antioxidants found in fly agaric effectively reduce oxidative stress levels, which may help prevent various chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Analgesic action: some studies have reported that fly agaric extracts have analgesic properties, which may make them useful for the treatment of chronic pain. This area requires further research to confirm and clarify the mechanisms of action.

Potential use in microdosing: the practice of microdosing, which uses low doses of psychoactive substances to improve cognitive function and mood, has attracted the attention of researchers and users alike. Research suggests that microdosing dried fly agaric can help improve concentration and creative thinking without significant psychoactive effects.

Product uses

Dried fly agaric can be used in different forms and for different purposes. It is important to consider the correct dosage and methods of application to avoid possible negative effects.

1. Microdosing. In small doses, this mushroom can have a positive effect on cognitive functions, improving concentration, memory and creative thinking. This method is particularly popular among people who want to increase their productivity without a strong psychoactive effect.

2. Infusions and decoctions. Dried fly agaric can be used to make infusions and decoctions. These remedies are used to relieve stress, improve mood and generally strengthen the body. It is important to remember that when preparing infusions, it is necessary to strictly observe the proportions and dosage to avoid overdose and toxic effects.

3. Extracts and supplements. Dried mushrooms can also be used to prepare extracts and supplements. These forms allow concentrated doses of the fly agaric's active ingredients to be extracted and used for medicinal purposes. Extracts can be used to relieve inflammation, boost immunity and support the nervous system.

4. Folk medicine. In folk medicine, dried fly agaric is used to treat various diseases such as rheumatism, gout and chronic inflammatory processes. Tinctures and ointments based on fly agaric help relieve pain and inflammation in joints and muscles.

Dried fly agaric can be beneficial to your health if consumed properly and all precautions are followed. They can improve mood, strengthen immunity and relieve inflammation. However, it is important to be aware of possible side effects and contraindications to avoid negative consequences.