Amanita muscaria microdosing is an exciting and relatively new concept that has been gaining traction in recent years. It involves taking small doses of the mushroom to experience its effects without the risk of an overwhelming psychedelic experience. Microdosing Amanita muscaria can provide many benefits, from helping with mood, focus, and creativity. It’s also showing excellent promise for memory, brain health, pain, and inflammation. If you’re interested in learning more about microdose amanita muscaria, you’ve come to the right place! Here, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not to try microdosing amanita muscaria.
What is Amanita Muscaria Microdosing?
Amanita muscaria microdosing is a relatively new concept that has gained traction recently. It involves taking small doses of the mushroom to experience its effects without the risk of an overwhelming psychedelic experience. You can microdose a variety of mushrooms, but Amanita muscaria is one of the most popular due to its unique effects.
Active Ingredients of the Amanita muscaria mushroom
Amanita muscaria, commonly called the fly agaric, possesses several essential compounds that contribute to its unique properties. The mushroom’s hallucinogenic effects can be attributed to its two primary active ingredients: muscimol and ibotenic acid – both psychoactive substances. Furthermore, it contains muscarine, a substance known for its toxic effects on the human nervous system [1].
Muscimol
Muscimol is a potent agonist that targets GABA receptors, leading to sedative, depressant, and hallucinogenic effects [2]. When consumed, muscimol stimulates GABAa receptors in various brain regions, reducing central nervous system activity and inducing relaxation and possible hallucinogenic effects. Compared to classic psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD, muscimol’s serotonin increase is relatively insignificant. By mimicking the inhibitory neural effects of GABAa, muscimol acts as a GABAa receptor agonist, temporarily slowing down nervous system activity.
As the most potent psychoactive compound in Amanita muscaria mushrooms, muscimol is responsible for their psychoactive effects. Its role as a GABAa activator provides sedative and soothing properties like a muscle relaxant [2]. At higher doses, muscimol can induce hallucinogenic experiences, altering sensory perception, producing vivid dreams, and potentially leading to euphoria, tranquility, and out-of-body experiences. Many users report visions and insights reminiscent of dreams.
Ibotenic Acid
Ibotenic acid, a neurotoxic compound in Amanita muscaria, acts as a prodrug for muscimol. Excessive consumption can cause hallucinations, confusion, vomiting, and nausea [3]. Severe cases may induce seizures. When ingested or dried, Amanita muscaria mushrooms undergo decarboxylation, converting ibotenic acid to muscimol. The Amanita muscaria mushroom is processed to contain minimal ibotenic acid and higher muscimol levels to minimize adverse effects. Ibotenic acid activates glutamate NMDA receptors, enhancing neural plasticity, learning, and memory. Excessive stimulation can cause confusion, delirium, gastrointestinal distress, sleepiness, and ataxia. Symptoms usually subside as the body converts ibotenic acid to muscimol, which should occur before ingestion through processing methods.
Muscarine
Muscarine, an alkaloid naturally found in various wild mushrooms, possesses psychoactive properties. Although Amanita muscaria mushrooms contain trace amounts of muscarine, it is crucial to acknowledge that this compound can have toxic effects in rare instances. These effects may manifest as excessive sweating, crying, salivation, and abdominal cramps [4]. Thankfully, Amanita products provided by a trusted, well-known brand have undergone laboratory testing to confirm the absence of this potentially harmful compound.
Benefits of Microdosing Amanita Muscaria
Microdosing Amanita muscaria mushrooms is a widespread practice for those seeking the benefits of psychedelics without the intense effects of a large dose. It involves regularly consuming a minimal amount of the mushroom, providing advantages such as enhanced focus, creativity, motivation, mood, and improved sleep quality. This fantastic mushroom also shows great potential for pain relief and inflammation benefits [12].
Anxiety / Stress / Mood
Research on muscimol, the active compound found in Amanita muscaria mushrooms, suggests its potential for mood stabilization [11]. A study conducted by A.L. Gundlach and P.M. Beart in 1980 showed that muscimol increased dopamine levels in rats [5]. Additionally, research indicates that even low levels of muscimol can slightly elevate serotonin levels [6]. Moreover, the sedative effects of muscimol can aid in calming the mind and body during periods of heightened stress.
Seizures / Tremors
Muscimol, the primary active compound found in Amanita muscaria mushrooms, is currently being evaluated for its potential to assist with seizures and tremors. A clinical study conducted in August 2012 states, “A concentration of 0.125 mM of muscimol was well-tolerated and demonstrated focal suppression of EEG activity” [7].
Help with Pain / Inflammation
In a recent study published in October 2023, researchers have discovered that the administration of muscimol significantly reduces various indicators of neuropathic pain. These include mechanical allodynia, mechanical hyperalgesia, and thermal hyperalgesia [8]. Furthermore, the study has also shown that muscimol protects systemic inflammatory response in endotoxemic mice [9].
Memory / Brain Health
Additionally, research indicates that Amanita muscaria mushrooms containing muscimol may positively impact memory and brain health. This research is particularly relevant for treating symptoms associated with conditions such as Huntington’s Disease and Alzheimer’s. A 2018 study found muscimol “exerted memory-enhancing and anti-inflammatory effects” [10].
For those interested in microdosing Amanita muscaria, finding a reliable Amanita mushroom source is essential. It is also important to be aware of the potential risks of consuming Amanita muscaria, such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. It’s best to start with a very small dose and gradually increase it over time. Additionally, it is crucial to be mindful of the environment where you consume the Amanita muscaria mushroom, as it can have a powerful effect on the user’s experience. Microdosing Amanita muscaria can be a safe and enjoyable experience with the proper preparation and precautions.
When is a Good Time to Microdose Amanita Muscaria?
When microdosing Amanita muscaria, the best time to do so is when you are feeling relaxed and in a good mental state. Microdosing is a powerful tool for personal exploration and growth, and it is vital to be in the right frame of mind before taking the plunge. It is best to start with a low dose and gradually increase it over time to find the right balance.
Additionally, it is advisable to start your microdosing journey when you have no pressing commitments or responsibilities, such as driving or operating heavy machinery. If you have any pending tasks, it is best to postpone them. Once you have gained some experience, you can assess whether microdosing with Amanita muscaria is something you are comfortable with regularly. Amanita muscaria microdosing can offer a safe and fulfilling experience with proper preparation and knowledge.
How to Microdose Amanita Muscaria
Microdosing Amanita muscaria mushrooms is becoming increasingly popular among those looking to explore the incredible world of psychedelics. Microdosing is the practice of taking small doses of a psychedelic substance, such as Amanita muscaria, to experience subtle yet profound changes in mood and creativity. Exploring the potential benefits of psychedelics can be done in a safe and effective way through microdosing without experiencing the intense effects of a larger dose.
When microdosing Amanita muscaria, purchasing high-quality mushrooms from a reputable source is essential. It is also important to start with a low dose and gradually increase it over time. Most people find taking a microdose every two to three days and keeping a journal to track the effects is a great way to increase the dosage. Microdosing Amanita muscaria can be a safe and rewarding experience with the proper preparation and guidance.
Microdosage Amounts
When it comes to microdosing Amanita muscaria mushrooms, the dosage is crucial. Taking an excessive amount may result in unpleasant side effects, while taking too little may not yield the desired effects. We recommend starting with a conservative dose of 0.1-0.5 grams and gradually increasing it until you find your optimal amount. It’s important to acknowledge that each individual’s body is unique, so beginning with a low dose and gradually adjusting is prudent.
These small doses of Amanita muscaria offer therapeutic benefits without inducing intense hallucinations or perceptual changes. Users often experience a gentle and tranquil state characterized by feelings of euphoria, pain relief, relaxation, and sleepiness. These effects make Amanita muscaria a promising option for over-the-counter wellness solutions. Typically, the compound muscimol takes effect within an hour, reaches its peak around three hours, and can last between 10 to 24 hours.
Different Ways to Microdose Amanita Muscaria
When microdosing Amanita muscaria, you have several different consumption methods available. There are several things to look for when shopping for Amanita products:
- Does this brand have any store reviews?
- Reviews are an excellent way to learn more about a brand’s products before purchasing. These reviews tend to have personal experiences with the product, good or bad contact with customer service, and any shipping wins or losses they had.
- Do they provide any Certificate of Analysis for their mushroom product?
- Certificate of Analysis (or COA) is where a company sends its product to a third-party testing facility for a specific compound. For example, a supplement company will send off their multivitamin to confirm how much Vitamin C their multivitamin provides.
- How many milligrams of Amanita mushroom do you get per serving? How many servings do you get in total?
- With this information, you can determine how many microdose sessions you get from a particular product and then calculate how much you want to buy at once.
- What’s the cost? Is this brand lower or higher than others you’ve seen?
- When thinking about cost, always consider this formulation:
Total Number of Milligrams / Cost of Product = Cost Per Milligram
Ex. $25 (cost) / 100 mg (total) = $0.25 per milligram
- When thinking about cost, always consider this formulation:
The preferred method of consumption is through ready-made Amanita products, including capsules, chocolates, and Amanita mushroom gummies. Additionally, you can find Amanita muscaria in tinctures, powders, and extracts, which are particularly convenient when creating your edibles at home.
Is Amanita Muscaria Microdosing Worth A Try?
In summary, microdosing Amanita muscaria offers a safe and effective means to harness the benefits of this potent mushroom. With proper knowledge and guidance, individuals can learn to microdose Amanita muscaria and embrace the rewards of this age-old tradition. It is important to remember always to purchase high-quality mushrooms and start with a low dose, gradually increasing it over time. By following these guidelines, individuals can embark on a journey of self-discovery and explore the potential benefits of Amanita muscaria microdosing. So, if you are ready to step towards personal growth and exploration, check out our Brand Review Section!
References:
[1] Amanita muscaria: Ecology, Chemistry, Myths
Quentin Carboué and Michel Lopez
https://www.mdpi.com/2673-8392/1/3/69
[2] Muscimol Compound Summary
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/4266
[3] Ibotenic acid Compound Summary
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/1233
[4] Muscarine Compound Summary
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/9308
[5] Effect of muscimol on dopamine metabolism of the rat hypothalamus
A L Gundlach, P M Beart
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7449921/
[6] Monoamines in the brain under the influence of muscimol and ibotenic acid, two psychoactive principles of amanita muscaria
P. König-Bersin, P. G. Waser, H. Langemann & W. Lichtensteiger
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/bf00402378
[7] Convection-Enhanced Delivery of Muscimol to the Epileptic FocusHeiss, John D. MD; Walbridge, Stuart BS; Rene’ Smith, RN BSN; Sato, Susumu; Oldfield, Edward H. MD; Lonser, Russell R. MD
https://journals.lww.com/neurosurgery/abstract/2012/08000/174_convection_enhanced_delivery_of_muscimol_to.132.aspx
[8] Muscimol as a treatment for nerve injury-related neuropathic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies
Hamzah Adel Ramawad, Parsa Paridari, Sajjad Jabermoradi, Pantea Gharin, Amirmohammad Toloui, Saeed Safari, Mahmoud Yousefifard
https://www.epain.org/journal/view.html?doi=10.3344/kjp.23161
[9] The protective effect of muscimol against systemic inflammatory response in endotoxemic mice is independent of GABAergic and cholinergic receptors
Ya-Hui Li, Dur-Zong Hsu, Chuan-Teng Liu, Victor Raj Mohan Chandrasekaran, Ming-Yie Liu
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35856422/
[10] Very low doses of muscimol and baclofen ameliorate cognitive deficits and regulate protein expression in the brain of a rat model of streptozocin-induced Alzheimer’s disease
Vladimirs Pilipenko, Karina Narbute, Ulrika Beitnere, Juris Rumaks, Jolanta Pupure, Baiba Jansone, Vija Klusa
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29133125/
[11] Powerful substances in tiny amounts
An interview study of psychedelic microdosing
Petter Grahl Johnstad
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7434115/
[12] Reasons, Form of Ingestion and Side Effects Associated with Consumption of Amanita muscaria
Michal Ordak, Aleksandra Galazka, Tadeusz Nasierowski, Elzbieta
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10142736/
Jessica Reinhart
Jessica is a gifted and passionate writer with a wealth of experience contributing to a variety of websites from news and informational sites to medical clinics sites and every site in between. She is particularly devoted to writing about the cannabis and psychedelic industries. When she isn't busy tapping away on her keyboard, you can find her taking long hikes and spending time with her pets.
