Study of the Biology, Medicinal and Therapeutic Properties of Amanita muscaria (L) Lam. (Basidiomycota: Agaricales: Amanitaceae)
Middle East Research Journal of Medical Sciences January 2, 2026 Marco Vinícios de Oliveira Santana, Carlos Henrique Marchiori, Klebert de Paula Malheiros
The fly agaric mushroom (Amanita muscaria) is a visually distinctive species with a red cap and white spots. Its bioactive compounds—muscimol, ibotenic acid, and muscarine—have psychoactive, neuroactive, and therapeutic properties. Recent research suggests potential roles in neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, and depression through interactions with GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission. Laboratory findings indicate possible anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant effects, though toxicity limits clinical use and requires careful dosing and preparation. This review covers the mushroom's biology, distribution, toxicology, medicinal potential, and traditional uses.