A rising interest in using red fly agaric mushrooms as natural medicine is raising alarms among health experts.
Historically linked to Viking lore and myths about berserkers, red fly agaric is now being used in microdoses to address issues like sleep disorders, ADHD, and mental health conditions.
However, this trend comes with significant risks, according to Denmark's Poison Line (Giftlinjen) and DR Nyheder.
Unpredictable and Risky Effects
The red fly agaric contains toxic compounds, and its effects vary greatly depending on the size, growing conditions, and preparation of the mushroom.
Senior doctor Anja Huusom from the Poison Line warns about the difficulty of ensuring precise dosing: “The amount that works one day may not work the same way the next day. This makes it an unpredictable and risky treatment method.”
Potential side effects include hallucinations, psychosis, vomiting, diarrhea, and heart palpitations.
While no recent deaths have been linked to red fly agaric, the risks associated with self-treatment remain high.
A Cultural Movement
Annika Lagoni, spokesperson for the Psychedelic Society, notes that interest in red fly agaric has grown significantly in recent years.
She sees this trend as part of a broader movement toward natural medicine and psychedelic remedies: “Many people are searching for alternatives because they are dissatisfied with antidepressants or face long waiting times for psychiatric care.”
Lagoni stresses that experimenting with mushrooms, particularly toxic ones like red or white fly agaric, requires a deep understanding and respect for their potential dangers: “It’s crucial to know what you’re doing when working with natural medicine.”
Experts Issue Warnings
As interest in red fly agaric mushrooms grows, experts are urging caution. Poison Line and other professionals strongly advise against experimenting with toxic mushrooms without expert guidance.
“It’s a dangerous path to take, and the consequences can be serious,” Dr. Huusom adds.
