Humans have used mushrooms for medicinal purposes for millennia. They have a wealth of health-promoting properties and are considered top-grade nutraceuticals by many. Recently, more people have become aware of a unique and often misunderstood mushroom, Amanita muscaria.
Sometimes known as fly agaric, this mushroom is unlike other medicinal mushrooms in terms of its effects. In fact, for many years, it has been considered dangerous. But now, we understand that proper preparation can render this mushroom safe to use and even potentially beneficial.
Read on to learn more about this famous fungus and why it stands out from the crowd.
Popular Medicinal Mushrooms
There are many different medicinal mushrooms available. They are primarily used for their immune-enhancing effects, although many have other exceptional qualities. Some of the most popular varieties and their common uses are listed below.
Reishi
Also known as Ganoderma lucidum, reishi mushrooms are popular in East Asian medicine and are nicknamed “the immortality mushroom.”
They are used to promote general health and longevity, mainly due to their ability to boost immune function and reduce inflammation. Some people also use reishi to promote a sense of calm and aid restful sleep.
Lion’s Mane
Lion’s mane is also known as Hericium erinaceus. As well as being a delicious culinary mushroom, it is known for its nootropic effects. This term means it aids cognitive functions, such as concentration, memory, and focus.
Lion’s mane contains unique compounds that stimulate the production of nerve growth factors in the brain, which may help maintain neuronal health.
Chaga
Chaga, or Inonotus obliquus, is not really a mushroom at all. It is a sclerotium, a mass of fungal material that grows as a parasite on birch trees.
Chaga grows in northern regions and has been used in traditional Siberian and North European medicine for centuries. It is mainly known for its immune-enhancing and anti-tumor effects.
Turkey Tail
Also known as Trametes versicolor, turkey tail mushrooms are among the most common varieties worldwide. They can be recognized by the concentric bands on their caps that resemble a turkey’s tail.
Like most other mushrooms on this list, turkey tails are used for their effects on the immune system. They are one of the most thoroughly-researched mushroom species and are often used alongside treatments like radiation and chemotherapy.
Cordyceps
Multiple types of cordyceps are promoted for their health benefits. Cordyceps sinensis grows wild in the foothills of the Himalayas and acts as a parasite on certain species of caterpillars. However, these mushrooms are becoming scarce due to overharvesting, so most supplements contain Cordyceps militaris, which can be cultivated in a lab without insect larvae.
People use cordyceps to improve immune function, and they may also enhance energy production. Therefore, many see them as a good option for athletes or others hoping to boost their physical performance.
What Is Amanita Muscaria?
The famous fungus Amanita muscaria is often known as “the fairytale mushroom” due to its red cap with white spots, so often depicted in stories and artwork. Many people consider this mushroom poisonous, but with the proper preparation, it can have potent psychoactive properties.
In high doses, it causes hallucinations, and it has been used in shamanic traditions for many years. In low doses, it induces a sense of calm and relaxation, potentially aiding peaceful sleep. The practice of microdosing Amanita muscaria is becoming popular, and products like amanita gummies are starting to fly off the shelves.
Amanita Muscaria vs. Other Medicinal Mushrooms
As you can see, Amanita muscaria differs significantly from other medicinal mushrooms. It has mind-altering effects and could be dangerous if prepared incorrectly. If you plan on using it, gummies are a great way to enjoy its effects with minimal hassle and risk.
However, like all mushroom supplements, buying your gummies from a reputable source is critical. Look for a brand that is transparent about its ingredients and provides third-party lab reports for each item. It is best to avoid products from gas stations or headshops and buy amanita online instead. Doing so will allow you to thoroughly research a company before purchasing.
When choosing amanita gummies, VidaCap is a great place to start. Each batch is expertly crafted and lab tested for potency and purity. This is an essential process since the right balance of active components is key to consuming this mushroom safely. Therefore, you can use these gummies with confidence. Simply sit back and enjoy their extraordinary effects.