Fly agaric

Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria) is a mushroom species in the family Amanitaceae. It is known for its distinctive appearance and its psychoactive properties.

Description

The Fly Agaric is a large, conspicuous mushroom with a red or orange cap covered in white spots. The cap can reach up to 30 cm in diameter. The gills are white, as is the stipe, which also features a white ring.

Distribution and habitat

Fly Agaric is native to temperate and boreal regions of the Northern Hemisphere, but it has also been introduced to other parts of the world. It is commonly found in mixed woodlands, especially in association with birch and pine trees.

Toxicity and use

Fly Agaric contains several psychoactive compounds, including muscimol and ibotenic acid. These compounds can cause hallucinations, but they can also cause nausea, dizziness, and in severe cases, seizures or coma. Despite its toxicity, Fly Agaric has been used in various cultures for its psychoactive effects. It is also sometimes used as a fly killer, which is how it got its common name.

Cultural significance

Fly Agaric has a prominent place in many cultures. In Siberia, it has been used in religious rituals. In Western culture, it is often associated with magic and fairy tales, likely due to its distinctive appearance.

See also

• Psychoactive mushroom
• Amanita phalloides
• Mushroom poisoning

This mushroom-related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.