Amanita muscaria: chemistry, biology, toxicology, and ethnomycology.
Didier Michelot, Leda Maria Melendez-howell
Mycological research February 1, 2003 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1017/s0953756203007305 via PubMed
Summary
The fly agaric mushroom, known for its historical use in mysticism, can cause poisoning characterized by central nervous system dysfunction, primarily due to the active components ibotenic acid and muscimol. Other species within the genus Amanita may also have similar effects. This review covers the mushroom's chemical composition, toxicology, and biological characteristics.
Study at a glance
| Design | review |
|---|---|
| Key finding | The fly agaric mushroom contains ibotenic acid and muscimol, which are responsible for its psychotropic effects and associated poisoning. |
Abstract
The fly agaric is a remarkable mushroom in many respects; these are its bearing, history, chemical components and the poisoning that it provokes when consumed. The 'pantherina' poisoning syndrome is characterized by central nervous system dysfunction. The main species responsible are Amanita muscaria and A. pantherina (Amanitaceae); however, some other species of the genus have been suspected for similar actions. Ibotenic acid and muscimol are the active components, and probably, some other substances detected in the latter species participate in the psychotropic effects. The use of the mushroom started in ancient times and is connected with mysticism. Current knowledge on the chemistry, toxicology, and biology relating to this mushroom is reviewed, together with distinctive features concerning this unique species.