Standardized organic extract from wild-growing mushrooms
Muscimol as an Ionotropic GABA Receptor Agonist
Muscimol, a psychoactive isoxazole from Amanita muscaria and related mushrooms, has proved to be a remarkably selective agonist at ionotropic receptors for the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. This historic overview highlights the discovery and development of muscimol and related compounds as a GABA agonist by Danish and Australian neurochemists. Muscimol is widely used as a ligand to probe […] The post Muscimol as an Ionotropic GABA Receptor Agonist first appeared on apoembiotech.
Muscimol, a psychoactive isoxazole from Amanita muscaria and related mushrooms, has proved to be a remarkably selective agonist at ionotropic receptors for the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. This historic overview highlights the discovery and development of muscimol and related compounds as a GABA agonist by Danish and Australian neurochemists. Muscimol is widely used as a ligand to probe GABA receptors and was the lead compound in the development of a range of GABAergic agents including nipecotic acid, tiagabine, 4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo(5,4-c)pyridin-3-ol, (Gaboxadol®) and 4-PIOL. References Wieland T (1968) Poisonous principles of mushrooms of the genus Amanita. Science 159:946–952 Article PubMed CAS Google Scholar Wasson RG (1968) Soma: Divine Mushroom of Immortality. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, New York Google Scholar DeFeudis FV (1980) Physiological and behavioral studies with muscimol. 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Amanita muscaria (and another similar variety, Amanita pantherina) is a mushroom of the agaricales order that appears in very broad habitats of the temperate and boreal zones of the Northern Hemisphere. It grows both in low altitudes and high mountainous areas, especially in coniferous forests such as fir and black pine, as well as in beech and […] The post Amanita muscaria: Basic Info first appeared on apoembiotech.
Amanita muscaria (and another similar variety, Amanita pantherina) is a mushroom of the agaricales order that appears in very broad habitats of the temperate and boreal zones of the Northern Hemisphere. It grows both in low altitudes and high mountainous areas, especially in coniferous forests such as fir and black pine, as well as in beech and birch forests. It usually appears during the end of summer months and is especially prevalent in autumn. Its appearance is well known by the red color of the cap, covered with white dots, as well as the white stem. This mushroom contains two psychoactive alkaloids, ibotenic acid and muscimol, in addition to many other alkaloids. It has been used since antiquity as an intoxicating substance as well as in shamanic contexts and divination. The name Amanita muscaria comes from the paralyzing effect it has on some insects. It is known by other names such as hongo matamoscas in Spanish, falsa oronja, reig bord or farinera borda in Catalan, and fly agaric in English. Origin/History Historical records such as cave paintings, wood carvings and sculptures suggest that the psychoactive effects of A. muscaria have been known since ancient times on all continents, and similar practices have been observed regarding the use of A. muscaria in groups both geographically and culturally distant. A. muscaria has been used for religious, divination, therapeutic and social purposes. The first evidence of the use of A. muscaria as an intoxicant is based on linguistic analyses of North Asian languages from 4000 BCE, in which the roots of the words “drunkenness” and Amanita muscaria appear to be the same. Polychromatic paintings have been found on Saharan rocks dating back to the Paleolithic period; depictions of what appear to be mushrooms of the Amanita genus, probably of the muscaria species. The fungus grows naturally in the highlands of Mesoamerica and some mushroom myths and sculptures suggest the use of A. muscaria in Guatemala and southern Mexico at the time of creation of the Mayan civilization, around 1500 – 1000 BCE. Some symbolic similarities have been found in Guatemalan and Asian populations relating to the belief that the mushroom is born in places where lightning strikes. These parallels could be explained by the migrations that likely occurred from the Asian continent to the Americas via the Bering Strait, thus the knowledge about the use of A. muscaria would have been relayed. There is further evidence of its use in North America by the Dogrib Athabasca tribes in the Mackenzie Mountains in Canada as well as in the ceremonial practices of the Ojibwa and Ahnishinuabeg indigenous people in the Lake Michigan area of the United States, who referred to A. muscaria by the name of miskwedo and whose practices have survived until at least the end of the 20th century. The first Western report on the use of A. muscaria was made by Filip Johan von Strahlenberg, a Swedish soldier who, in 1730, was imprisoned for twelve years in Siberia. He observed how A. muscaria was used as an intoxicant in shamanic contexts. Currently the Ostyak and Vogul tribes, west of Siberia, and the Kamchadal, Koryak, and Chukchi tribes in the east, continue to use A. muscariain their rites. These Siberian tribes relied exclusively on A. muscaria as an intoxicating substance until the introduction of alcohol by the Russians. They collected Amanita, dried it in the sun and consumed it either whole, in a water or reindeer milk extraction, or mixed it with plant juices to sweeten its flavor. These tribes also exhibited the practice of consuming the urine of people who had eaten A. muscaria, as they learned that the alkaloids of Amanita are eliminated unchanged through urine, so they remain active and can be reused for up to four or five cycles. As for Amanita pantherina, some Indigenous peoples in North American work with it for magico-religious purposes in the western part of the state of Washington. Chemical composition and dosage Amanita muscaria contains a high quantity of alkaloids and its pharmacology is complex and not fully understood. The most relevant alkaloids are ibotenic acid, muscimol, muscarine and muscazone. For some time, muscarine was believed to be the psychoactive alkaloid of the Amanita, but in 1964 independent researchers in Japan, England, and Switzerland isolated ibotenic acid and muscimol, and discovered their psychoactive properties. Muscarine is the alkaloid responsible for undesired effects and the feeling of intoxication (discomfort, upset stomach and vomiting). The quantity and proportion of alkaloids contained in the mushroom depends on several factors. Mushrooms collected at higher altitudes appear to have higher concentrations of ibotenic acid/muscimol, and those collected at lower altitudes, more muscarine. Ibotenic acid is a rather unstable molecule, which is converted into muscimol by exposure to temperature and other factors. Thus, the dry mushroom is usually more powerful than the fresh specimen, because during the drying process the ibotenic acid is decarboxylated into muscimol. Ibotenic acid has stimulant effects, while muscimol has more depressant effects. Dosage of ibotenic acid: this alkaloid causes psychoactive effects in doses of 50 – 100 mg. Dosage of muscimol: equivalent doses are in the ranges of 10 – 15 mg. Thus muscimol is more potent than ibotenic acid. Dosage of Amanita muscaria: the concentrations of alkaloids are highly variable depending on the height and specific ecosystem where the mushroom grows, so the dosage is very difficult to determine and the doses indicated here are merely orientative. Low dose: a small or medium size cap. Average dose: from 1 to 3 medium size caps. High dose: 2 or more medium size caps. Effects Both muscimol and ibotenic acid have psychotropic effects. After oral administration, the effects take quite a long time to appear, and it usually takes 2 to 3 hours to reach the maximum effects. The duration of the effects is about 6 or 8 hours, depending on the dose. The nature of the effects can be highly variable, also depending on the dose, as well as the variety and personal differences. Effects may include: A first phase in which there is stimulation, increased energy and muscular vigor (not always). A second phase in which there is decay, tranquility and drowsiness. A third phase in which the psychedelic effects appear and there may be experiences of a mystical nature, awareness of non-ordinary realities, blissful or terrifying sensations. Visual distortions. Loss of balance. Muscle spasms. Experiences of a dream-like nature. Dizziness. Visual and auditory impairment. Difficulty concentrating on external tasks. Sensation of macropsia and/or micropsia (perceiving objects as either very large or very small). Nausea and vomiting. Both A. muscaria and A. phanterina contain ibotenic acid and muscimol, although each species contains these active ingredients in different concentrations, so the intoxication is also different. A. muscaria contains more excitatory ibotenic acid and less of the depressant muscimol compared to A. pantherina. For this reason, poisonings with A. muscaria present with more confusion and agitation compared to A. pantherina poisonings, which most commonly present with comatose symptoms. Legal Status A. muscaria and the other varieties of Amanita are not controlled in most countries. In the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, however, possession, purchase and sale are prohibited. In Romania, A. muscaria has also been prohibited since 2010, although previously it could be gathered and sold and was available in smart shops. Health and risk reduction It is essential to make accurate identifications of fungi, since there are different varieties that vary widely in potency, and there are other species that can be confused with Amanita muscaria, and especially with A. pantherina, that are lethal, as is the case with A. phalloides. A. muscaria: can reach up to 18 cm high, has a red cap (or orange in older specimens) and usually has white spots. The blades under the cap are white. A. pantherina: similar to A. muscaria, but the cap usually has a color ranging from cream to brown. It can also be confused with A. rubescens (edible). A. phalloides (FATAL): This highly poisonous mushroom has a whitish or greenish cap. It does not usually have white spots on its cap. Ways of use A. muscaria has traditionally been washed and dried after collection, and the stem is usually discarded since it can contain a large amount of larvae. Drying is recommended to reduce intestinal discomfort. The dried mushroom can be eaten directly, cut up, or by making an infusion with hot water, filtering it and drinking the water. It seems that the second method reduces stomach discomfort. The effects of A. muscaria can take up to 2 or 3 hours to appear. Being very careful with the amount ingested is recommended (no more than a small or medium cap), as is waiting a few hours to see the progression of the effects. The potency of the mushroom can be highly variable, so be careful with the dosage. There is an anecdotal report of Mexican shamans using the cuticle (red skin of the cap), which is separated from the rest of the cap while the mushroom is fresh, allowed to dry and then smoked. The effects appear more quickly and their duration is shorter by this route, although there are no comprehensive descriptions of dosage or effects. It appears that the intensity is lower than when the mushroom is ingested orally. The post Amanita muscaria: Basic Info first appeared on apoembiotech.
Magic Mushrooms Are you curious about the mystical world of mushrooms and their mind-altering abilities? Many people are fascinated by the legendary Amanita muscaria, commonly known as the fly agaric mushroom. Its striking red cap with white spots has made it a staple in fairy tales and folklore, but beyond its enchanting appearance lies […] The post Amanita Mushroom Effects first appeared on apoembiotech.
Magic Mushrooms Are you curious about the mystical world of mushrooms and their mind-altering abilities? Many people are fascinated by the legendary Amanita muscaria, commonly known as the fly agaric mushroom. Its striking red cap with white spots has made it a staple in fairy tales and folklore, but beyond its enchanting appearance lies a complex blend of chemicals that can significantly impact human consciousness. One intriguing fact is that fly agaric mushrooms contain psychoactive substances like muscimol and ibotenic acid which interact with our brain to produce an array of effects ranging from mild euphoria to powerful hallucinations. As you delve into this blog post, we will unpack the many facets of Amanita muscaria’s influence on our minds and bodies. We’ll explore historical uses, cultural significance, scientific research, legal status, and safe practices so you can be well-informed about these potent fungi. Ready for a journey through the enigmatic realm of Amanitas? Let’s discover what makes these mushrooms truly spellbinding! Key Takeaways Amanita muscaria, also known as fly agaric mushrooms, contain psychoactive substances like muscimol and ibotenic acid which can alter human consciousness. Consuming these mushrooms can lead to effects ranging from mild euphoria to intense hallucinations, but dosage and individual sensitivity greatly impact the experience. While some cultures have used Amanita mushrooms for their psychoactive properties in rituals and spiritual practices, they are toxic and can cause severe health risks if misused. Legal status of Amanita muscaria varies by country; in some places they are not regulated while in others they may be considered a controlled substance due to their psychoactive compounds. Ongoing research is investigating the medicinal potential of Amanitas including their use in modern psychotherapy for conditions such as depression and anxiety. Psychoactive Compounds: Muscimol and Ibotenic Acid Muscimol and ibotenic acid are the two primary psychoactive compounds found in Amanita muscaria mushrooms. These substances interact with the brain in unique ways, often leading to altered states of consciousness. Muscimol acts on the central nervous system by mimicking the neurotransmitter GABA, producing sedative and depressant effects. This can result in a calming sensation or even a dream-like state for some. Ibotenic acid works differently; it’s a potent agonist for certain glutamate receptors that play a role in learning and memory. When ingested, ibotenic acid can cause hallucinations or create feelings of euphoria. However, it’s important to note that its effects can vary greatly between individuals due to factors like dosage and personal sensitivity. The consumption of these compounds through Amanita muscaria is known for eliciting profound psychological experiences that have been both valued and feared throughout history. Pharmacological Effects on the Brain The pharmacological effects of Amanita muscaria on the brain are primarily attributed to its active compounds, muscimol and ibotenic acid. These substances have a direct impact on the central nervous system, leading to alterations in perception, mood, and cognition. Muscimol specifically acts as a potent GABA receptor agonist, inducing sedative-hypnotic effects by affecting neurotransmission within the brain. Ibotenic acid contributes to excitatory processes in the brain, potentially leading to psychedelic and dissociative experiences. The complex interactions between these compounds result in a range of psychoactive effects that can vary from person to person. In addition to their psychoactive properties, Amanita muscaria mushrooms have potential implications for medical research related to mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. The post Amanita Mushroom Effects first appeared on apoembiotech.
Amanita Muscaria vs. Psychedelic Mushrooms (Psilocybin): What’s the Difference?
Amanita muscaria, or fly agaric, is the iconic red-and-white-speckled mushroom that is embodied everywhere, from garden statues to emojis. Fly agaric mushrooms are certainly psychoactive, but they differ from traditional magic mushrooms. The phrase “magic mushroom” typically refers to far less colorful psilocybin-containing varieties that can elicit transcendent, mind-manifesting states. What sets Amanita muscaria apart […] The post Amanita Muscaria vs. Psychedelic Mushrooms (Psilocybin): What’s the Difference? first appeared on apoembiotech.
Amanita muscaria, or fly agaric, is the iconic red-and-white-speckled mushroom that is embodied everywhere, from garden statues to emojis. Fly agaric mushrooms are certainly psychoactive, but they differ from traditional magic mushrooms. The phrase “magic mushroom” typically refers to far less colorful psilocybin-containing varieties that can elicit transcendent, mind-manifesting states. What sets Amanita muscaria apart from traditional magic (psilocybin) mushroom varieties transcends appearances and effects. Here we explore the main differences between Amanita muscaria and psychedelic mushrooms, examining where they grow, active ingredients, medicinal value, lab testing, and legality. An overview of Amanita muscaria and psilocybin mushrooms Mushrooms containing psilocybin, more commonly known as “magic mushrooms” or “shrooms,” are fungi that contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic agent, which, when ingested, turns into psilocin and is known to produce powerful visualizations and mystical experiences. At a glance: Psychedelic (Psilocybin) mushrooms usually have light tan to off-white caps of varying sizes and white to brown stems, sometimes with a bluish tinge. More than 200 species of mushrooms contain psilocybin or its derivative, psilocin. Psilocybe cubensis is a species that is commonly studied; and within this the subspecies «Golden Teachers» are very loved for their gentle, guiding messages. Psilocybin mushrooms are among the most popular and commonly used magic mushrooms in the U.S. and Europe, with a long history in spiritual and religious rituals. Amanita muscaria mushrooms are also known as “fly agaric” due to their ability to attract and kill flies. This psychoactive species contains muscimol, ibotenic acid, and muscarine as the main active compounds. Amanita mushrooms can be toxic when consumed raw and are related to several deadly varieties, including Amanita phalloides (known as the “Death Cap”). At a glance: A. muscaria mushrooms are large and hard to miss, often described as remarkable and beautiful due to their scarlet red caps. They are considered a “deliriant” rather than “psychedelic” because they don’t act on the same receptors as psilocybin or psilocin. Instead they act primarily on receptors that can cause an ethereal, dreamlike and sedative state. Fly Argaric mushrooms can be relaxing and sedative, often with euphoria and a “dreamlike” state of being. They can also cause extreme sweating, vomiting, defecating, and temporary psychosis if the ibotenic acid is not decarboxylated properly. The genus Amanita contains about 600 species of agarics, including some of the most toxic known mushrooms found worldwide, as well as some well-regarded edible species. Amanita Muscaria is one species. Where they grow Psilocybin mushrooms grow in all parts of the world and can survive in almost any climate. Most psilocybin-containing species exist in meadows and woods in tropical and subtropical forests, usually in soil rich in humus and plant debris. These mushrooms grow around dead tree stumps, on decaying wood, or in grassy areas that receive a lot of sunlight. Some have been spotted growing near churches and temples. These mushrooms have also been cultivated in a sterile, temperature and light controlled growing environment indoors, using spores and substrate. It is important to make sure the substrate does not contain heavy metals. Amanita muscaria mushrooms are native to the temperate or boreal forest regions of the Northern Hemisphere. These are currently being imported into the United States from Lithuania, Poland, Ukraine, Siberia and other regions. Still, people find them worldwide in Brazil, South Africa, Central Asia, North America, and Europe. The Amanita muscaria fungus survives in a symbiotic relationship with nearby plants. It mainly grows under the boughs of trees in large forests of compatible hosts, such as birches, pines, spruces, firs, and larches. Active Ingredients Magic Mushroom Compounds There are more than 200 species of psychedelic mushrooms, each containing over 400 active compounds. The best-known psychoactive component is psilocybin. Psilocybin is considered a prodrug, which means the body must metabolize it before it can become active. So when people consume magic mushrooms, the liver digests psilocybin and converts it into the bioavailable form known as psilocin in a process called dephosphorylation. Psilocybin and psilocin are both psychoactive, but psilocin is responsible for most magic mushrooms’ psychedelic effects. Like LSD, these compounds mainly act on serotonin receptors in the brain, 5-HT (serotonin) 2A subtype receptors, to create the altered sensory experience. In addition to psilocybin and psilocin, magic mushrooms contain over hundreds of active compounds contributing to the fungi’s full spectrum of effects. At ACS Laboratory we have been analyzing five tryptamines as well as Harmine and Harmane, which we believe could be similiar to the terpenses of mushrooms. There is so much that we have to uncover and we begin the journey through analytical testing. Baeocystin: A psilocybin precursor and analog. Found as a minor active compound. Norbaecystin A psilocybin analog and minor active compound (alkaloid). Norpsilocin — A derivative of psilocybin. Acts on 5-HT2A receptors with greater potency than psilocin. Aeruginascin — Active metabolite of aeruginascin, a naturally occurring tryptamine. It is chemically similar to psilocybin and psilocin. 4-hydroxy-N,N,N-trimethyltryptamine (4-HO-TMT) — The putative active metabolite of aeruginascin, a naturally occurring tryptamine of «psychedelic mushrooms». This compound is closely related to bufotenine, the N-trimethyl analog of serotonin found naturally in toad venom. Harmine — Beta-carboline alkaloid with various psychopharmacological effects. Amanita Compounds Amanita muscaria mushrooms don’t contain psilocybin or psilocin. Instead, the primary active ingredients are muscimol, ibotenic acid, and muscarine. Muscimol and ibotenic acid are the primary compounds responsible for Amanita muscaria’s psychoactive effects. Muscimol is a central nervous system depressant that may engage GABAa receptors to deliver sedative-hypnotic, depressant, and hallucinogenic psychoactivity. It is A. muscaria’s most potent psychoactive agent and ten times stronger than ibotenic acid. Read our blog on Amanita Muscaria for more details. Ibotenic acid interacts with glutamate receptors, making it more stimulating and energizing. When mushrooms contain more ibotenic acid than muscimol, users typically report confusion, agitation, and euphoria. Muscarine exists in trace quantities (0.02% dry weight) and is the weakest psychoactive compound in this spotted species. Still, this minor alkaloid acts on muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in the parasympathetic nervous system to produce notable effects, including salivation and sweating. Muscarine is also linked to sexual arousal, crying, urination, digestion, and defecation. Psychedelic vs. psychoactive effects Magic mushrooms produce psychedelic effects, while A. muscaria elicits psychoactive effects. The difference between psychedelic and psychoactive lies in the mechanism of action and felt experience. Classic psychedelics, like psilocybin, typically engage serotonin receptors in the brain, resulting in perceptual changes, emotional shifts, and even spiritual awakenings. In the process, they forge new neural connections in a phenomenon called neuroplasticity. Rewiring the brain allows users to reframe their lives and make lasting changes. Psychedelic effects generally include Visuals such as halos around lights and objects, magical beings Vivid colors, tracers, and distorted vision A sense of the world breathing Flashbacks and reframed memories Psychedelic effects can appear 30 to 60 minutes after consuming psilocybin mushrooms, peak after 1-2 hours, and last about 4-6 hours, with an “afterglow” period sometimes lasting several hours to several days. Amanita muscaria’s psychoactive effects manifest much differently than magic mushrooms. People who injest A. muscaria often fall into a deep sleep, with visions and insights commonly occurring in dreams. Some describe the effects as similar to alcohol intoxication. Experts say that the muscimol in Amanita muscaria doesn’t elicit the hallucinatory effects that psilocybin mushrooms do and lacks the “mind-manifesting” qualities that classical psychedelics provide. Amanita muscaria’s psychoactive symptoms include Physical relaxation or a sedative-like effect Euphoria and a “dream-like” state of being Blurred vision Loss of motor skills Additionally, some users might experience moderate to extreme nausea or cramps. In extreme cases, temporary insanity, comas, and even death have occurred, making A. muscaria one of the most mysterious mycelial species. Symptoms appear 30-90 minutes after eating this mushroom and are most intense after 2-3 hours. Medicinal and nutritional value Research into psilocybin dates back to the 1960s and suggests that the substance could play a promising role in treating various disorders. Psilocybin mushrooms appear in therapeutic settings for ailments such as cluster headaches, obsessive-compulsive disorders, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and addiction. Research indicates psilocybin “produces substantial and sustained decreases in depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer.” Another study by a prestigious research group in London suggests psilocybin could be used to treat all-cause major depression. A 2015 study found psilocybin useful in treating alcoholism. Amanita muscaria, or fly agaric mushrooms, have been used medicinally for hundreds of years among tribal groups in Scandinavia, Eastern Europe, and Russia for their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and stimulant properties. Recent research on the mushroom’s pharmacology supports these traditional uses, demonstrating the muscimol in Amanita muscaria could have several medicinal benefits, including: Treating stress and anxiety Easing muscular pain Promoting restorative sleep Exhibiting anti-tumor and memory-protecting activities The book Microdosing Amanita Muscaria by Baba Masha with a foreword by microdosing expert, James Fadiman Ph.D. describes the results of a 3,000-person study on the medicinal effects of microdosing with Amanita muscaria. Baba Masha explains how to use Amanita muscaria safely, including instructions for drying the mushrooms, making tinctures, teas, oils, and ointments; as well as effective microdose amounts. The author reveals the healing potential of Amanita muscaria for a broad range of conditions, including depression, insomnia, migraines, allergies, gingivitis, heartburn, eczema, psoriasis ,epilepsy, hypertension and hormonal dysfunction. Participants in the study also reported pain relief and sucess in interrupting addictions to alcohol, opiates, nicotine, caffeine, and other narcotics. Legal differences Psilocybin-containing mushrooms States like Colorado and Oregon recently voted to decriminalize or legalize psilocybin mushrooms. However, they are still categorized as Schedule I controlled substances in the U.S., making them illegal at the federal level. Fortunately, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) have allowed several small, highly controlled human studies on their potential for use in medical and psychiatric settings. The FDA also designated psilocybin as a “breakthrough therapy” for depression, which could accelerate psilocybin drug development for treatment-resistant depression. Amanita mushrooms On the other hand, Amanita muscaria mushrooms are legal in most places. The active compounds they contain are largely unregulated and do not exist on the DEA’s drug scheduling list, making A. muscaria federally legal in the U.S. The FDA has not approved A. muscaria for human consumption, but all states allow sales except Louisiana. Brands are starting to legally sell non-psychoactive A. muscaria extracts online for personal use. As a DEA registered laboratory ACS is able to receive samples of Psilocybin mushrooms from other DEA registered parties for potency and purity testing. ACS Laboratory has also started testing Amanita Muscaria mushrooms. Start Testing your Amanita mushroom for the potency of Muscimol, Ibotanic Acid and Muscarine. To ensure there is no psilocybin in your Amanita powder, Amanita capsules, tincutures, mushroom chocolate, Amanita Gummies — or any other ingredients that may not be transparent we recomend running a Full Panel* of tests. ACS Laboratory Amanita Full Panel Includes* Potency, Heavy Metals, Pesticides, Mycotoxins, Pathogenic Microbiology, Residual Solvents (extracts), Moisture (dried fruit). The post Amanita Muscaria vs. Psychedelic Mushrooms (Psilocybin): What’s the Difference? first appeared on apoembiotech.