THIS VIDEO DOES NOT RECOMMEND THE USE OF RED MUSKY! SCIENTIFIC FACTS AND OWN EXPERIENCE ARE PRESENTED FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES. The red fly agaric (Amanita muscaria) is a mushroom with a rather controversial image in our country. Although it is one of the most used medicinal mushrooms since ancient times, especially among the northern peoples of Siberia and Scandinavia, in Bulgaria it is often considered highly poisonous and avoided, even hated and viciously kicked. In some regions of Russia it is considered edible after double boiling. In some of our books it is described as mildly poisonous, and in Vazharov's book on medicinal mushrooms, it is given a worthy place. Its popular name "toadstool" comes from the fact that these mushrooms were crushed in a milk jug and used as a fly trap in shops and pubs. Red toadstools themselves have sticky fruiting bodies, and various insects (mostly Diptera) can often be seen clinging to their surface as the hyphae of the fungus wrap around them and feed on them. The red fly agaric is a mycorrhizal fungus that often enters into symbiotic relationships with spruce (Picea abies), and in other parts of the world even with some broad-leaved tree species. In addition to the plant and the fungus exchanging nutrients they need but lack, scientists have discovered that different tree species can communicate and exchange substances through this vast underground fungal network connecting their roots. A tree that "has" such an advantage is healthy, strong and rarely gets sick. Mycorrhizal fungi are considered the "internet" of the forest - it literally feels you when you walk its dark paths. The cult of this species is believed to be the basis for the birth of Christmas traditions. In the far north, towards the end of December, the shamans, dressed in red and white robes, toured all the families of the tribe. This happened at night, as they brought a priceless gift - dried red fly agarics. The snow often covered the entrance to the yurt, so the shamans entered through the hole in the roof... And that's how the legend of Santa Claus was born! The connection with deer and the flying sleigh is explained by the fact that reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) like to eat fly agaric and then their owners do not see them for a while. Many religions use the red fly agaric in their rituals for its psychoactive properties, and it is also reported to have been part of the nafora composition in early Christianity. The red fly agaric continues to feature in modern pop culture and mythology. In some folk beliefs, hedgehogs are depicted with fly agarics impaled on their backs, which they supposedly use for protection or healing. Also, the mushroom is a recognizable symbol in popular video games such as Super Mario, where it gives special abilities to the main character. Her bright appearance is often associated with magical and mystical aspects in various forms of art and culture. Folk medicine in Scandinavia and Russia recommends the use of the red fly agaric to treat many health problems and also as a means to strengthen the mind and will. Dried mushroom powder or tincture is used to cleanse from parasites, reduce fever, boost immunity, focus and creativity. Externally, tinctures are used to anoint diseased joints, warts and psoriasis. Although in some countries nutritional supplements based on red fly agaric and even panther (Amanita pantherina) have been created, in Bulgaria we are still lagging behind. It is for this reason that I cannot recommend the use of a mushroom considered poisonous. I just want to draw attention to a wonderful species that plays an important role in the health of our forests and perhaps people too! Useful informative channels and videos: @MikhailVishnevskiy, / @amanitadreamer , @AMANITAMicroDosingbabaMasha, / @-babamasha , • Why we Got it Wrong - Fly Agaric 101:... , • Paul Stamets Explains the Mushrooms &... IN THIS VIDEO, THE USE OF FLY AGARIC MUSHROOM IS NOT RECOMMENDED! SCIENTIFIC FACTS AND PERSONAL EXPERIENCE ARE PRESENTED FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES. The fly agaric (Amanita muscaria) has a rather controversial image in our country. Although it is one of the most used medicinal mushrooms since ancient times, especially among the northern peoples of Siberia and Scandinavia, in Bulgaria it is often considered highly poisonous and is avoided, even hated and angrily kicked. In some regions of Russia, it is considered edible after being boiled twice. In some of our books, it is described as mildly poisonous, and in Vajarov's book on medicinal mushrooms, it is given a place of honor.