Amanita is a genus of fungus that refers to several hundred species of agarics that can be found across the globe. Agarics are a type of fungus, or mushroom, that have rounded caps at the top of each stalk. Many may know them by the nickname “toadstools” or “gilled mushrooms.”
How Does Amanita Work?
Amanita mushrooms have become well-known as some contain psychoactive compounds. The first compound is called muscimol and is present in several species of Amanita, including but not limited to: Amanita muscaria, Amanita pantherina, and Amanita regalis. Muscimol acts as a depressant when introduced to the central nervous system through its engagement with GABAa receptors. GABA is responsible for reducing agitation throughout the nervous system, and also suggests why muscimol has a sedative effect.
The secondary active compound in Amanita varieties is ibotenic acid. This compound usually binds with the NMDA and trans-ACPD receptors in the central nervous system, and the onset of effects is typically felt within 60 minutes. It offers more stimulating and uplifting effects, which may help balance muscimol for many consumers.
What Are the Effects of Amanita?
Users of Amanita products have reported feeling invigorated, elated, and euphoric. Depending on serving size and tolerance, consumers have also reported out-of-body experiences, dream-like state of mind, and altered perception. Many users find that the effects come in waves: first, increased energy and stimulation, followed by tranquility, relaxation, and levels of sedation. The third phase includes a more psychotropic experience, including alterations in visual or auditory perceptions, accompanied by blissful or unusual physical sensations. Users of Amanita mushrooms often report that their dreams during sleep are affected, and can feel unusually intense or lucid.
It is important to note that Amanita mushrooms do not contain psilocybin. Psilocybin is a compound that provides psychedelic effects, whereas Amanita does not. You should not experience hallucinations or extreme negative effects as you might with psychedelic mushrooms.
For Amanita muscaria, the onset and effects are as follows: After ingesting, the effects take 1-2 hours to appear, and it usually takes 2-3 hours to reach the maximum effects. The duration of the effects is about 6-8 hours, depending on serving size.
For Amanita pantherina, the onset and effects are as follows: The effects begin around 1 hour after consumption, peaking at 3 hours, and lasting a total of 10-24 hours.
It is highly recommended to start with a low dose to see how Amanita affects you. Taking more than is recommended can cause adverse effects, such as upset stomach, nausea, and feelings of heavy sedation.
How Much Amanita Should I Take?
The amount of Amanita you choose to take will vary depending on your specific needs and/or desired effects. Starting with a low dose will help you determine your specific response and tolerance for an Amanita product. We suggest starting with the recommended serving size and gradually increasing or decreasing in different sessions as needed to feel your desired effects. An introductory serving size can start as low as one gummy, for instance.
Is Amanita Legal?
Amanita muscaria products are federally legal as they do not contain psilocybin. The only state that does not allow the sale or possession of Amanita products is Louisiana.
Does Amanita Show Up on a Drug Test?
While anecdotal evidence suggests Amanita muscaria does not show up on a drug test, there is no concrete proof to determine if this is accurate.The average drug test does not test for amanita muscaria. Advanced drug tests may test for psilocybin. As Amanita mushroom varieties do not contain psilocybin, they should not appear on a drug test, unless a test is specifically designed to test for muscimol or other compounds held within Amanita mushrooms.
What Are the Different Ways To Take Amanita?
Edibles
Edibles, like gummies, are currently the most recommended method to ingest Amanita. This form introduces Amanita through the digestive system into the bloodstream. You will likely begin to feel the effects of edibles within 1-2 hours, with effects generally lasting between 6-10 hours.
Combined With Cannabinoids
Some Amanita products are offered with the added benefit of cannabinoids. This can elevate the experience and effects felt when combined with Amanita. For example, blending Amanita with the cannabinoid HHC can deliver effects faster as HHC metabolizes more quickly than Amanita itself—the effects of HHC in edibles can set in as quickly as 30 minutes.
How Can I Find the Right Product?
Finding the right Amanita product will depend largely on your needs, wants, and preferences. Many customers find personal consultations helpful in determining which products and methods of delivery works best for them. Visit us in-store for a personal consultation with our doyens.
Let CBD Kratom be your guide.
Stop by one of our stores today and speak to an expert. Our Doyens are knowledgeable and trained to help you determine your needs and find the right edibles for your wellness journey. You can also schedule some one-on-one time with one of our experts from the comfort of your home via video conference or phone.