Function of fly agaric

Function of fly agaric

The fly agaric (Amanita Muscaria) is a mushroom known for its bright red color and white spots. In addition to its ancient history of use in shamanic rituals, As explained in the safety report, fly agaric has been found to reduce pain, relax, improve depression, and improve insomnia.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the mechanism by which fly agaric works in the body.

GABA receptor agonists

Muscimol, the main component of Amanita muscaria , is an agonist for GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), an inhibitory neurotransmitter. It is thought that muscimol binds to GABA-A receptors (ionotropic receptors) that are widely distributed in the brain, causing depression, drowsiness, and relaxation.

GAB-A receptors are ionotropic receptors that are primarily permeable to chloride ions (Cl - ions). GAB-A receptors are pentamer structures composed of α, β, γ, δ, and ε subunits, and the expression of these subunits varies depending on the brain region.

When muscimol binds to the GABA-A receptor, the following processes occur, resulting in a sedative effect:

1. Influx of chloride ions

When GABA binds to the GABA-A receptor, chloride ion channels open, facilitating the influx of chloride ions into the cell.

2. Inhibition of cell excitability

The influx of chloride ions makes the inside of the cell negative (the membrane potential decreases), making it difficult for the cell to become excited, and inhibiting neural activity.

3. Inhibition of neurotransmitter release

Activation of GABA-A receptors inhibits the release of excitatory neurotransmitters from neurons, which reduces the excitability of the nervous system and produces a calming effect.

Muscimol binds to the same site as GABA, activating mechanisms that inhibit neuronal activity and produce a calming effect, a process that can help relieve symptoms of anxiety and stress and promote relaxation and sleepiness.

Does muscimol cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB)?

In recent years, functional foods containing GABA have become common in convenience stores, but in fact GABA does not reach the brain and bind to GABA receptors when eaten. This is because of the existence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). However, muscimol is said to pass through this barrier, and when taken orally, it is absorbed, enters the blood circulation, and reaches the brain.

On the other hand, GABA receptors are also present in the intestines, and it is thought that GABA ingested orally acts on GABA receptors in the intestines, thereby affecting the brain through cooperation between the brain and intestines (gut-brain axis).

* The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a biological function that exists between the brain and the blood circulatory system. It is a multi-layered barrier that separates the brain from the blood circulatory system, stabilizing the brain's internal environment and protecting it from harmful substances and microorganisms.

Fly Agaric Intake

Eating raw Amanita mushrooms can cause food poisoning. Raw mushrooms contain high levels of ibotenic acid and muscarine, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and muscle spasms. In the United States, Amanita mushrooms are available in processed, detoxified extracts.

Muscimol dosage and effects are as follows:

10-15mg: Euphoria, vivid dreams

5-7mg: Mild calming effect, relieves anxiety

1-5mg (microdosing): Pain relief, mood enhancement, sleep support

Microdosing Fly Agaric

Microdosing is the regular administration of very small amounts of a particular drug or substance, well below normal or therapeutic doses, with the goal of achieving the positive effects of the substance while minimizing side effects.

Microdosing is often the term used to describe the medical use of psychedelic substances (such as LSD or magic mushrooms). Reported effects of microdosing with psychedelics include increased creativity, improved focus, stabilization of mood, and increased energy levels.

summary

Fly agaric acts on GABA receptors through muscimol, suppressing neural activity and producing a relaxing and sedative effect. By observing the appropriate dosage and method of intake, it is expected to have effects such as pain relief, anxiety reduction, and sleep support.

Microdosing may allow you to obtain these benefits more safely and effectively.