Introduction to Ingestible Mushrooms: Functional and Recreational

In the diverse realm of natural wellness, ingestible mushrooms stand out for their remarkable versatility and history of use. Ranging from the adaptogenic powers of Cordyceps to the profound experiences offered by Amanita Muscaria, these fungi offer a spectrum of benefits that cater to both the body and mind. Mushroom gummies, in particular, have gained popularity for their convenience and pleasant taste, making the ancient wisdom of mushrooms accessible to the modern consumer.

Understanding Amanita Muscaria

Throughout history, Amanita muscaria has garnered a reputation as a fascinating and enigmatic mushroom due to its iconic appearance and psychoactive properties. The striking red cap adorned with white spots of this fungus has captured the imagination of cultures around the world, leading to its incorporation into various myths, folklore, and spiritual practices.

The historical use of Amanita muscaria in spiritual and ceremonial contexts dates back centuries and spans across different cultures. Indigenous peoples in Siberia, such as the Koryak, Evenki, and Yakut tribes, have a long-standing tradition of using fly agaric in shamanic rituals. In these cultures, the mushroom is believed to possess supernatural powers and is used by shamans to induce altered states of consciousness, commune with the spirit world, and gain insights for healing and divination.

In addition to its traditional ceremonial use, Amanita muscaria has also been associated with various mythological and folklore motifs. The mushroom’s distinctive appearance has inspired stories of magical creatures and fantastical realms in folklore from Europe to Asia. In some cultures, it is believed that Amanita muscaria is connected to fertility rituals, protection against evil spirits, or as symbols of rebirth and renewal.

The psychoactive properties of Amanita muscaria, attributed to its distinctive compounds, have further contributed to its allure and mystique. While the effects of consuming fly agaric can vary from person to person and are not always predictable, they may include hallucinations, altered perceptions, and changes in mood and cognition. These effects have led some individuals to seek out Amanita muscaria for recreational or introspective purposes, although caution is always advised due to the potential toxicity of the mushroom.

Overall, Amanita muscaria’s rich history and enigmatic nature have solidified its place as a symbol of mystery, magic, and spiritual exploration in the realms of cultural heritage, mythology, and psychedelic experience.

Amanita Muscaria Gummies, Chocolates, and Extracts

Modern consumption of Amanita Muscaria often takes the form of gummies, chocolates, and extracts, providing a controlled and enjoyable way to explore its effects. These products blend traditional knowledge with contemporary wellness trends.

Most people who wish to enjoy the amanita muscaria experience may have heard of enjoying the raw, harvested in the forest mushrooms. This practice is not recommended. Many mainstream manufacturers have joined in on the mushroom gummy craze and have moved away from more dangerous methods of harvesting and refining of the amanita mushroom extracts to ensure purity and safety.

Sidebar: What is Fly Agaric?

Fly agaric, or Amanita muscaria, is a type of mushroom that is highly recognizable due to its bright red cap with white spots. It is a widely distributed and characteristic mushroom species often associated with folklore, mythology, and psychedelic experiences.

The name “fly agaric” comes from its traditional use as an insecticide. In the past, people would crush the mushroom and mix it with milk to attract and kill flies, hence the name “fly agaric.” The word “agaric” is derived from the Greek word “agaria,” meaning mushroom.

While fly agaric has a long history of traditional and cultural uses, it is important to note that it is also toxic and potentially psychoactive. The mushroom contains the psychoactive compounds muscimol and ibotenic acid, which can cause hallucinogenic effects when ingested. However, consumption of fly agaric can also lead to toxic reactions, including symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, and in severe cases, convulsions and organ failure.

What makes Amanita muscaria mushroom gummies intoxicating?

The main intoxicating compound found in certain species of Amanita mushrooms is muscimol, along with ibotenic acid. These compounds can produce psychoactive effects when ingested, including hallucinations, distortion of perception, and changes in consciousness. It is important to note that some Amanita species also contain toxic compounds that can cause severe illness or even death if consumed. Do not eat amanita mushrooms in the wild. It is always recommended to avoid consuming wild mushrooms unless properly identified by an expert.

The Compounds found in Amanita muscaria mushroom gummies Muscimol and ibotenic acid are both psychoactive compounds that can affect the central nervous system when ingested. Here are the pharmacological effects of each compound:

1. Muscimol:

• Muscimol acts as a GABA agonist, meaning it binds to and activates GABA receptors in the brain. GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.
• The effects of muscimol include sedation, relaxation, euphoria, and altered perception of reality.
• Muscimol can cause hallucinations, confusion, distorted sense of time, and changes in mood and emotions. Caution is commonly recommended when consuming amanita mushroom gummies.
• Higher doses of muscimol can lead to delirium, loss of coordination, and potentially dangerous behavior.

2. Ibotenic acid:

• Ibotenic acid is a prodrug of muscimol, meaning it is metabolized in the body into muscimol. It is initially a glutamate receptor agonist, which can have excitatory effects in the brain.
• Ingestion of ibotenic acid can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and agitation.
• Once converted into muscimol, ibotenic acid can produce similar hallucinogenic and psychoactive effects as muscimol, but with potentially more pronounced excitatory effects in the early stages of intoxication.

It is important to be cautious when ingesting compounds from the amanita muscaria mushrooms, as the effects can vary greatly depending on the dose and individual sensitivity. Misuse or accidental ingestion of Amanita mushrooms containing these compounds can result in severe poisoning and health risks.

A word of Caution about Amanita muscaria mushroom gummies

Gummies offer an easier way to enjoy the delicious flavors of amanita gummies using amanita mushrooms that are no longer “wild harvested”. When ingesting Amanita muscaria mushroom edibles as a mushroom enthusiasts often do, many will challenge the question: Which of the two main compounds or natural ingredients in the Amanita muscaria mushroom is safest?

Let’s be clear, many would not consider products such as amanita gummy cubes to be a dietary supplement. They’re considered to be more delightful gummies where just one gummy offers a calming effect that is similar to what is felt with some prescription medications.

In general, ibotenic acid is considered to be more dangerous than muscimol when it comes to consumption of Amanita mushrooms. Ibotenic acid is a prodrug of muscimol, meaning it is metabolized in the body into muscimol. However, in its initial form, ibotenic acid can have excitatory effects on the central nervous system, potentially leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and agitation.

On the other hand, muscimol is the primary psychoactive compound responsible for the hallucinogenic effects of Amanita mushrooms. While it can also cause adverse effects at high doses, such as delirium, loss of coordination, and dangerous behavior, muscimol is generally considered to be less toxic and dangerous than ibotenic acid.

It is important to emphasize that consuming any wild mushroom, including Amanita species, can be extremely risky and potentially life-threatening due to the presence of unknown compounds, some of which may be toxic. It is always recommended to avoid consuming wild mushrooms unless properly identified by an expert mycologist.

What are the Best Amanita muscaria gummies?

Selecting the best of the mushroom gummies by the recreational category with products infused with the amanita muscaria mushroom extract is no easy task. Firstly, manufacturers have been offering products such as amanita gummy cubes with high dose amanita muscaria extract AND delta 8 THC. This practice enables the manufacturer to boost the overall recreational benefits of amanita muscaria mushroom gummies while lowering the cost to make the gummies. In other words, they seek a potent high for lower cost since the high is what many people seek.

There are few manufacturers who are offering strictly the amanita muscaria mushroom gummies with pure amanita muscaria extract without the added potency of the Delta 8 THC (or Delta 9 THC). There are brands which are creating more HHC blends with amanita mushroom extract to create a potentially “drug test proof” blend in their “magic mushrooms” crafted edibles. However, this is not a foolproof way to avoid the possible negative results from drug testing.

We are not apt to make claims to the best of the best as the market for amanita muscaria mushroom gummies is still in its infancy as new products are being produced and marketed weekly. This exploding market provides opportunity for even better crafting of mushroom edibles such as the popular amanita mushroom gummies. We advise our customers to continue to explore options and do deep research into the manufacturer processes, compounds used, and lab-testing and more.

What we discovered when investigating amanita muscaria mushroom gummies

We looked at Amanita Muscaria mushroom gummies in two distinct classes: With THC and Amanita Muscaria Extract alone.

From a dispensary testing, we were able to discover that the majority of people who sampled the mushroom gummies featuring only the extracts from amanita muscaria mushrooms found a pleasant and noticeable intoxication feeling. The most common effect was described as “feels like a drink or two at a party”. However, 2 out of 17 people who sampled the gummies reported no impact from the gummy at all.

As you can imagine, the amanita muscaria mushroom gummies which included the more potent cannabinoids offered a more definite and complete feeling of intoxication. This Stoned feeling is what many recreational consumers of amanita gummies are seeking.

Each of the THC + amanita muscaria mushroom extract blended edibles turned out to be effective with every sampling. The dispensary team sampling these products reported effects from “whole body relaxation” to “improved creativity”. All reported some positive impact. However, it’s important to note that one of the volunteers sampling the magic mushroom products from the West Coast felt that the Amanita muscaria mushroom edibles were too intoxicating with the added THC.

What are the Best Amanita Muscaria Mushroom Chocolates?

When it comes down to it, most amanita mushroom gummies are either loved or tolerated. Some people prefer the taste and texture of chocolates instead. More manufacturers are overcoming issues with taste from mushrooms (not altogether pleasant) while offering the very common carrier of chocolate.

We also examined a number of amanita muscaria edibles in chocolate form. We were unable to locate and sample a product with only the Amanita muscaria compounds and no THC added. However, of the products we were able to find, most had pretty horrible tasting chocolate. While not considered gourmet in most reasonable interpretations, there were a couple of products which delivered a combined impact of the compounds from the amanita muscaria mushrooms with Delta 8 THC (or Delta 9 THC).

One in particular, offered three versions with Milk Chocolate, Salted Caramel, and Cookies and Cream. What the products don’t reveal on their packaging is their Delta 8 THC content. It’s instead listed as 200mg proprietary blend of Hemp extract per bar. When this is added to the 800mg of the amanita extract, it creates a potent dose. This product is from Stoned Brand.

Exploring Other Medicinal Mushrooms

Reishi: Often referred to as the “mushroom of immortality,” Reishi is sought after for its ability to support immune function and promote calmness.

Turkey Tail: Rich in antioxidants, Turkey Tail is celebrated for its immune-boosting properties and is a common adjunct in treatment regimens aiming to support health.

Cordyceps: Known for enhancing physical performance and energy, Cordyceps is favored by athletes and those seeking an adaptogenic boost.

Lion’s Mane: This mushroom is gaining attention for its potential cognitive and neurological benefits, possibly supporting memory, focus, and nerve health.

The Adaptogenic Mushrooms

When referring to mushrooms, “adaptogenic” describes their potential to help the body adapt to stress. This doesn’t mean they magically remove all stress, but rather, they might help your body:

• Manage stress hormones: These mushrooms may influence cortisol and other stress hormones, potentially alleviating anxiety and fatigue.
• Support the immune system: Some adaptogenic mushrooms may enhance immune function, helping your body fight off illness.
• Promote physical and mental well-being: They might improve energy levels, cognitive function, sleep quality, and overall resilience.

Key Points about Adaptogenic Mushroom Therapeutic benefits

• The mechanisms behind these effects are still being researched and may differ between mushroom species.
• Studies haven’t definitively proven all claimed benefits, so consider adaptogenic mushrooms as possible support, not a cure-all.
• Consult a healthcare professional before consuming them, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking medications.

Specific Examples of testing involving Functional mushrooms

• Lion’s mane: May support cognitive function and nerve growth.
• Reishi: Might enhance immune function and reduce inflammation.
• Cordyceps: May improve energy levels and athletic performance.

Sidebar: Psilocybin Mushrooms

Psilocybin mushrooms, while not the focus of this article, represent another category of psychoactive fungi with emerging research on their potential for treating various mental health disorders. Unlike the other mushrooms covered, psilocybin is known for its potent psychedelic effects and is subject to different legal and medical considerations. When you consider the common Magic Mushroom, these could be a powerful mushroom selection which could offer benefits still being studied for humans.

Magic Mushrooms, or mushrooms with the naturally occurring Psilocybin compounds, are currently considered in many neurological aspects for improving health outcomes. While this is ongoing, magic mushrooms as a product is not permitted in the majority of the US States.

As of September 2021, psilocybin, which is the psychoactive compound found in certain types of mushrooms (also known as “magic mushrooms”), is currently legal for therapeutic or research purposes in several states in the United States. These states include:

1. Oregon: In November 2020, Oregon became the first state to legalize the therapeutic use of psilocybin in licensed therapy centers for individuals 21 and older.
2. Washington, D.C.: In November 2020, voters approved Initiative 81, which makes the investigation and arrest of adults for the personal use and possession of entheogenic plants, including psilocybin mushrooms, among the lowest law enforcement priorities.
3. California: In December 2020, Santa Cruz became the first city in California to decriminalize the possession and use of psilocybin mushrooms. Other cities in California, such as Oakland and Santa Cruz, have also passed similar measures to decriminalize psychedelics.

It is important to note that while psilocybin may be legal in these states under certain circumstances, its use and possession for recreational purposes remain illegal at the federal level and in most other states

Potential Benefits and Uses of Functional Mushrooms

The world of functional mushrooms is vast and fascinating, offering a range of benefits that have been explored throughout history and across cultures. From the psychoactive explorations facilitated by Amanita Muscaria to the cognitive support attributed to Lion’s Mane, these natural wonders have found their place in the modern wellness landscape, particularly in the form of mushroom gummies. These convenient, flavorful products make it easier than ever to incorporate the ancient benefits of mushrooms into daily life.

Amanita Muscaria: A Journey Through Time

Amanita Muscaria, with its distinctive red cap and white spots, has a long history of use in shamanic traditions for its psychoactive properties. This mushroom has been used for centuries as a means to alter consciousness and explore spiritual realms. Today, Amanita Muscaria gummies offer a contemporary twist on this ancient practice, providing a way to experience a hint of the mushroom’s traditional use in a modern and accessible form.

Lion’s Mane: The Cognitive Companion

Lion’s Mane is revered for its potential to support cognitive functions, such as memory and focus. Historically, this mushroom has been consumed in teas and soups for its believed brain-boosting properties. Now, as the focus on cognitive health continues to grow, Lion’s Mane gummies are becoming a popular choice for those looking to support their mental acuity through natural means.

Cordyceps: The Energy Enhancer

Cordyceps mushrooms have a unique claim to fame – their use by athletes and warriors in ancient China to boost energy and stamina. While traditionally consumed in powdered form or as a part of herbal concoctions, Cordyceps are now available in gummy form, making it easier for modern consumers to tap into the mushroom’s legendary vitality-enhancing benefits.

Turkey Tail: The Immune Supporter

Turkey Tail mushrooms are known for their impressive array of colors, resembling the plumage of a turkey’s tail. Valued for their immune-supporting properties, these mushrooms have been a part of traditional medicine practices for centuries, particularly in Asia. Today, Turkey Tail gummies are sought after for their potential to support a healthy immune system, reflecting the mushroom’s long-standing use in herbalism.

Reishi: The Stress Reliever

Reishi mushrooms, often called the “mushroom of immortality,” have been used in traditional Eastern medicine to support relaxation and well-being. The calming effects attributed to Reishi make it a popular choice among those seeking natural ways to manage stress and promote a sense of calm. Reishi gummies bring this ancient wisdom into the modern age, offering a convenient way to experience the mushroom’s reputed benefits.

We recommend Real Mushrooms for Functional Mushroom Powders and Capsules

Real Mushrooms is a company that specializes in providing high-quality mushroom products, particularly medicinal mushrooms known for their health benefits. They offer a variety of mushroom supplements and extracts made from organic mushrooms, including Reishi, Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Chaga, Turkey Tail, and others.

Real Mushrooms is known for its commitment to producing pure and potent mushroom extracts that retain the full spectrum of beneficial compounds found in mushrooms. They prioritize using fruiting bodies (the actual mushroom) in their products, rather than mycelium (the fungal root system) like some other brands, to ensure maximum effectiveness and bioavailability.

Customers and enthusiasts of mushroom supplements often praise Real Mushrooms for their transparency, quality, and dedication to providing authentic mushroom products without the use of fillers, additives, or synthetic ingredients. The company also emphasizes education and awareness about the health benefits of mushrooms and the importance of sourcing high-quality mushroom products.

Overall, Real Mushrooms has gained a positive reputation in the market for their commitment to quality, purity, and efficacy in providing mushroom supplements for health and wellness purposes.

Embracing the Ancient Wisdom

The resurgence of interest in these functional mushrooms is not just a trend but a return to ancient wisdom. With the advent of mushroom gummies, these age-old remedies are being rediscovered by a new generation. The focus on organic ingredients and natural compositions speaks to a growing desire for wellness practices that are both effective and in harmony with nature.

We recognize the dual nature of some products, for both recreational and therapeutic benefits. When it comes to amanita muscaria gummies and chocolates, we consider the goals of consumer first. When it comes to intoxication, it’s not always the first goal when it comes to feeling better. Sometimes just eliminating the discomfort of anxiety or pain is the real goal.

The Herbal Perspective

From the herbalist’s viewpoint, each of these mushrooms brings a unique set of properties that can support health and well-being in various ways. While not substitutes for medical treatment, they offer an adjunct to a holistic approach to wellness, grounded in centuries of traditional use and a deep respect for the natural world.

In sum, the exploration of functional mushrooms and their benefits is a journey into the heart of natural wellness. Mushroom gummies, with their delightful flavors and convenient format, are opening new pathways for incorporating the power of fungi into daily life, inspired by the rich tapestry of history and herbal wisdom surrounding these remarkable organisms.

Safety, Dosage, and Legal Considerations

While the therapeutic potential of these mushrooms is significant, it’s a good idea all around to approach their consumption with informed caution. Understanding the recommended dosages, potential risks, and legal status of each type of mushroom is essential for a safe and positive experience.

At our dispensaries, we never recommend that any possibly intoxicating product be taken with a full dose to start. We have discovered that people feel the impact of the various active ingredients differently. This fact alone suggest that it’s a good idea to do your homework well in selecting both the provider (retailer) and the product for your planned benefits of amanita muscaria or functional mushrooms.

The various mushroom compounds may be expected to offer active compounds which enable mood enhancement, soothing effects, cognitive enhancement, reduction of brain fog, or stress relief. Or, they could lead to visual hallucinations or stomach discomfort. In all cases, exploring botanical compounds should be done carefully and with more education than we are able to provide on our web site.

It’s also important to realize that some States may exclude products that are beyond the normal natural composition and combined with synthetic flavors, artificial coloring, or stabilizing ingredients for sake of food safety.

Choosing High-Quality Mushroom Products

Mushroom Capsules

Some consumers prefer to avoid the few grams of added sugars with a mushroom gummy and choose capsules instead. These are far more common among the fans of the more directed therapeutic benefits from functional products. We commonly recommend high quality mushroom extracts from Real Mushrooms in Canada.

Mushroom Gummies

Selecting the right mushroom gummies involves looking for potency, ingredient transparency, and the absence of synthetic additives. Flavor variety and the use of natural ingredients also play a critical role in ensuring a delightful and beneficial experience. With proper dosing, one gummy is all that is needed for improving the outcome of your day.

When evaluating the non-recreational world of mushroom gummies, we suggest that you consider what the gummies provide based upon their established therapeutic benefits. Once you have targeted your mushroom benefit direction, selecting an edible which offers those is fairly easy.

One brand we stick to who offers a distinct functional approach is HempLucid. The manufacturer for Hemp derived products released a functional mushroom gummies lineup which has been unparalleled with reviews and overall performance. Their mushroom gummies provide a proprietary mushroom blend along with non-intoxicating phytocannabinoids to help present an overall feeling of wellness in a targeted therapeutic direction, namely Stress relief, Sleep, and improvement of Focus.

We particularly love their products due to their overall direction focused on customer safety:

1. Transparent Ingredients: Mushroom gummies with clear labeling of mushroom types and extract ratios.
2. Potency: Verified Concentration of mushroom extracts to ensure effectiveness. Organically sourced hemp extracts offer THC-free boosts in wellness potential.
3. Quality Testing: HempLucid conduct third-party lab testing for purity and consistency.

Our Durham Dispensary customers more often are vocal about their experiences with the Sleep and the Focus gummies. Orange County schoolteachers have been a sizeable group of customers who share their experiences with the Stress mushroom gummies. These real-life testimonials can provide valuable insights into the efficacy of functional mushroom gummies. Here are some reported benefits from users:

• Enhanced energy and clarity of thought.
• Noticeable improvement in stress levels.
• Better sleep and overall vitality.

Final Words

The world of ingestible mushrooms is rich and varied, offering a range of experiences and health benefits. From the adaptogenic effects of Cordyceps to the unique psychoactive properties of Amanita Muscaria, and the emerging interest in Psilocybin, these fungi represent a frontier of natural wellness that blends ancient wisdom with modern science. Whether seeking physical enhancement, mental clarity, or a spiritual journey, the key lies in choosing responsibly sourced, high-quality products and approaching their use with mindfulness and respect for their potent effects.