Amanita muscaria: chemistry, biology, toxicology, and ethnomycology.

The fly agaric mushroom is notable for its appearance, history, chemical composition, and the poisoning it causes. The 'pantherina' syndrome involves central nervous system dysfunction, primarily from Amanita muscaria and A. pantherina, though other species may have similar effects. Ibotenic acid and muscimol are the active components, with other substances possibly contributing to psychotropic effects. The mushroom has been used since ancient times in mystical contexts. This review covers current knowledge on the chemistry, toxicology, and biology of these mushrooms.

Study at a glance

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.