The Ultimate Guide to Amanita muscaria

Published on the ThirdWave website: https://thethirdwave.co/psychedelics/amanita-muscaria/

“Amanita muscaria mushrooms are a widespread and highly noticeable mushroom found in temperate regions of the northern and southern hemispheres. Commonly known as the fly agaric or fly amanita mushroom, this iconic, large red mushroom with its white spots is one of the most recognizable fungi in popular culture. Illustrations of A. muscaria mushrooms fill many children’s books, forming associations with magic, fairies, and the illusory world of the imagination.

Amanita muscaria has a mixed reputation. For many, it inspires either love or hate, a cautionary approach, or mild respect and curiosity. If we think of the term mycophobia, the fly agaric is undoubtedly the first fungus to come to mind.

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Amanita muscaria is endemic to temperate and boreal forests of the Northern Hemisphere. It is found growing in association with deciduous trees, including birch (e.g., Silver Birch, Betula pendula), conifers (e.g., Pinus spp.), and firs. As a result of the commercial cultivation of various ornamental trees, A. muscaria has been introduced to many countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and South America. They are recognized as being a “weedy” species—they can be commonly found in a variety of urban environments and are known to be opportunistic.”