Fliegenpilze: Die bunten Wunder und die Mythen dahinter

Fly Agarics: The Colorful Wonders and the Myths Behind Them

When you think of mushrooms, most people think of chanterelles or button mushrooms. But there is one particular type of mushroom that stands out and has captured the hearts of fairy tale lovers , adventurers and mushroom pickers alike: the fly agaric . In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating world of fly agarics, their history, myths and more . 🍄

The fly agaric family

The fly agaric, scientifically known as * Amanita muscaria *, belongs to the Amanitaceae family . It is known for its striking red cap, which often has white spots. A sight that inspires the imagination and is reminiscent of fairy-tale worlds .

The Mushroom of Myths

The fly agaric has played a special role in many cultures. In Nordic mythology, it is said to create a connection between the real world and the world of the gods . The shamans of the Siberian peoples used the mushroom for spiritual purposes and thus created a bridge to the spirit world.

The Poisonous Friend

One of the most remarkable features of the fly agaric is its toxicity . The dried fly agaric contains a lot of muscimol due to the decarboxylation of ibotenic acid, which is responsible for the psychoactive effect and minimizes the toxicity to such an extent that it is theoretically only possible to experience poisoning from 17,000g of fresh mushrooms. No cases of acute poisoning are known!

Legal?

The fly agaric is completely legal in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

Breed?

Another special feature is that the fly agaric cannot be cultivated ! Scientists are still wondering why this is the case…

Mushrooms in Art

Fly agarics are not only notable in nature, but also in art . They have inspired artists and writers, from Alice in Wonderland to paintings by Wassily Kandinsky. The fly agaric's vibrant colors and mysterious aura are a source of creativity .

Ritual Use of the Fly Agaric

In some cultures , fly agarics (dried!) have been used for ritual and spiritual purposes . They are reported to induce visions and altered states of consciousness . Some people have reported heightened perception , increased creativity , and spiritual experiences .

The Future of the Fly Agaric

Research into the fly agaric is in full swing. Scientists are interested in its chemical compounds and their potential medical applications. Who knows, maybe one day the fly agaric will be more than just a fairy tale.

Conclusion:

The fly agaric is more than just a mushroom; it is a legend, a source of inspiration and a fascinating mystery of nature. From myth to modern science, this mushroom has influenced people in many different ways. So, the next time you are walking in the woods and come across a fly agaric, remember that you have been given a tiny glimpse into a rich world of stories, myths and science.

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