Are Amanita Mushroom Gummies Safe?
For centuries, “magic mushrooms“, from shrooms to caps, have captured the hearts and For centuries, magic mushrooms, from shrooms to caps, have fascinated people worldwide. The debate over the legality of these intriguing fungi has raged on, but in recent years, there has been a positive shift, especially among mushroom enthusiasts and the general public. Amanita Muscaria is one mushroom that has garnered considerable attention.
So, what’s all the fuss about these mushrooms? Are they safe to eat? Here’s the spoiler: Amanita mushrooms are safe for consumption, but there are a few things you should be aware of.
What is Amanita Mushroom?
Amanita Mushrooms are psychedelic red mushrooms with white spots, kind of like those in Mario Brothers. They’re legal in almost all states in the U.S.
These iconic toadstools spread to many countries in the Southern Hemisphere through trees like birch and conifers. Amanita mushrooms have a cozy relationship with these trees, growing in the soil at their base. Their bright red caps and distinct white spots stand out against the brown and dark green of the trees, making them easy to spot.
Using Amanita mushrooms for spiritual enlightenment and religious ceremonies goes back thousands of years across various countries and religions. Shamans in Eastern and Western Siberia are famous for consuming these mushrooms, both for ancient rituals and for fun. Some even believe in drinking the shaman’s urine afterward, as it still contains the psychoactive properties of the mushroom.
Amanita mushrooms contain muscimol, a psychoactive compound, unlike psilocybin found in other mushrooms.
Amanita Muscaria, a specific species, has been turned into gummies for recreational use. People often wonder: Are amanita mushrooms safe?
Are Amanita Mushrooms Gummies Safe?
Let’s delve into the science to understand the toxicity and safety of Amanita gummies.
Amanita belongs to the Amanitaceae family, which is a group of fungi. Amanita is a genus within the Amanitaceae family. The Amanita Muscaria is just one of the many species of mushrooms found in this genus. Specifically, Amanita Muscaria is a particular species.
Some mushrooms within the Amanita genus are known as “death caps” and “destroying angels.” As you might guess from their names, these mushrooms are poisonous and can even be deadly. When researching or reviewing Amanita gummies, it’s crucial to ensure the mushroom used is safe and not of poisonous varieties.
What Is Inside Amanita Muscaria Mushrooms?
Amanita Muscaria can also be considered poisonous because of its Psychoactive Compounds. These include muscimol and Muscarine.
There’s an inactive compound called muscimol in these mushrooms. When dried or heated, it changes ibotenic acid into muscimol through a process called decarboxylation. This is a chemical reaction where a carbon atom is removed from a carbon chain.
The Amanita Muscaria genus contains a toxin called muscarine, but it’s found in trace amounts and isn’t typically a concern.
Ibotenic acid and muscimol are similar to Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA), which is a neurotransmitter that calms the central nervous system. Muscimol is a strong GABA receptor agonist, meaning it activates receptors in the brain.
Muscimol enhances calmness produced by GABA, as well as any visual hallucinations and distortions. It also heightens changes in sensory awareness.
Ibotenic Acid also activates metabotropic Glutamate Group I and II receptors, leading to distorted vision or hearing, feelings of disassociation, and general elation.
The effects of these mushrooms usually start between 30 minutes and two hours after ingestion and can last from four to eight hours, depending on dosage and individual factors.
Amanita Muscaria mushroom gummies are generally safe, despite their poisonous nature. The specific Amanita species used to make gummies is the only one considered safe, and even then, caution is advised.
How Are Amanita Mushroom Gummies Made?
Please refrain from attempting to make Amanita mushroom gummies at home. Most companies take precautions to ensure safety and maximize benefits by subjecting Amanita mushrooms to a process called decarboxylation.
Decarboxylation, as mentioned earlier, involves exposing Amanita mushrooms to heat. Other methods like using acid or pressure may also be employed. You can find more information about these methods elsewhere.
Ibotenic Acid is a major component in Amanita mushrooms and is much more toxic than Muscimol. Therefore, the decarboxylation step is crucial to render Amanita mushrooms safe for consumption.
After decarboxylation, the mushrooms are typically crushed into a fine flour, which can then be measured and added to the other ingredients in the gummies.
What Are the Risks of Taking Amanita Mushroom Gummies?
Like with everything else we consume, there’s a chance of having a negative experience when consuming Amanita mushroom gummies. This risk is even higher with fungi species that are poisonous. While Amanita mushroom gummies may be safe, there are still factors and risks to consider.
1. Potential Side Effects
Hallucinations are one of the effects caused by compounds in Amanita mushrooms.
Amanita mushroom gummies may lead users to experience altered perception, hallucinations, and delirium. They can also induce relaxation and tranquility. However, some individuals may find these effects overwhelming, leading to increased anxiety and stress.
You may also experience allergic reactions or other physical ailments, such as nausea, stomach upset, confusion, and anxiety. These symptoms, alone or combined, can worsen the experience, adding stress.
It’s essential to research and consult a doctor before trying Amanita mushroom gummies to ensure the amount consumed is appropriate.
Amanita mushroom gummies may not be suitable for everyone, so it’s crucial to consider all factors before making a final decision.
2. Correct Dosage and Usage
Depending on who you ask or where you read, the recommended dosage of Amanita mushrooms, specifically mushroom caps, can vary. A small dose might be as low as 1-5g, roughly half of a full mushroom cap.
The “average” dose is around three mushroom caps or 5-10g, but eating raw mushroom caps is strongly discouraged. They need to be properly prepared before consumption to avoid stomach upsets, allergic reactions, or adverse effects from ibotenic acids.
In documented cases, users consumed large quantities of raw mushroom compared to the recommended dosage for Amanita mushroom gummies. Safety largely depends on the preparation of these mushrooms and their controlled quantities.
Amanita mushroom gummies typically recommend a much lower dosage than mushroom caps, ensuring safety. Each gummy contains a predetermined amount of the fungus, providing a consistent dose and removing guesswork.
The amount of Amanita mushroom per gummy usually ranges from 350mg to 1000mg, which is lower compared to mushroom caps.
The lower dosage per gummy not only makes it safer but also helps users better understand the effects. They can adjust the dose as needed based on their experience.
Always follow the recommended use listed on Amanita mushroom gummies, usually starting with half a gummy at first.
3. Consult with Healthcare Professionals
Talking to your doctor is another excellent option if you’re still curious and unsure. It’s recommended, especially if you’re currently taking prescription medication. There could be harmful interactions between them.
When combining any medication with other substances, always be cautious!
4. Amanita Isn't for Everyone
Amanita mushroom gummies may not be suitable for everyone. Certain groups like pregnant women and children should avoid these gummies.
Amanita mushrooms can also trigger allergic reactions in people taking certain medications. If you fall into any of these categories, it’s best to avoid the gummies.
After considering the pros and cons, and thinking about your personal goals or reasons for taking these spores, you may decide that Amanita mushroom gummies are the best choice for you.
Bottom Line - Are Amanita Mushroom Gummies Safe?
Amanita Muscaria mushroom gummies are gaining popularity for recreational use and can offer various benefits. However, they’re not suitable for everyone, despite their advantages.
You can trust that Amanita mushroom gummies are safe, but it’s essential to proceed with caution. The first step to enjoying these gummies is finding a reputable company that openly shares information about their product, including ingredients and sources.
When taken in the correct dosage from a trustworthy source, Amanita mushroom gummies can be safe. Reading reviews and talking to people who’ve used the product can help you make an informed decision.
Always prioritize safety by finding a reputable company like Utoya Organics that openly shares information about their product, including ingredients and sources. With their commitment to transparency and quality, Utoya Organics’ Amanita chocolate caps ensure you can enjoy your experience safely and responsibly.
