In the never-ending quest for new molecules capable of providing well-being and strong sensations, the CBD market is now focusing on an astonishing substance: muscimole, a hallucinogenic compound extracted from Amanita muscariabetter known as fly agaric. As the wellness market rapidly evolves, products derived from hemp and CBD have paved the way for an increased search for new legal molecules, capable of delivering intense sensations while remaining accessible. This mushroom and its active ingredient, though less well-known than THC (illegal) or psilocybin (illegal), are attracting attention for their legal status (really?), distinct and potentially beneficial effects.
In this article, we'll explore muscimole, its history, its effects and its growing potential in the wellness industry, through its integration into popular products such as candies, vapes, and even enriched hemp flowers.
1. What is Muscimole?
Muscimole is an isoxazole alkaloid, extracted mainly from Amanita muscaria. It is the result of the chemical conversion of another substance present in the mushroom, called ibotenic acid. Unlike other hallucinogenic substances such as THC or psilocybin, muscimole acts primarily on GABA receptors, which regulate inhibition in the brain. Depending on dosage, muscimole can produce sedative, psychoactive and hypnotic effects and, at higher doses, dreamlike and hallucinogenic experiences. Please read on, and don't stop here, to find out exactly what to expect from muscimole consumption.
Its history is rooted in ancient shamanic practices, notably in Siberia, where Amanita muscaria was consumed in rituals to induce visions and euphoria. But today, with the rise of the wellness and mental health markets, it is viewed from a different angle.
2. Muscimole and the Quest for New Natural Molecules
With the popularization of CBD, the hemp industry has opened the door to a growing curiosity about natural molecules, psychoactive or otherwise, capable of improving quality of life. CBD, while lauded for its relaxing effects, has a limited psychoactive profile, driving many consumers to seek out more potent alternatives.
Muscimole is positioned here as a new legal option that could fit into this wave of innovation. With effects ranging from deep relaxation to altered sensory experiences, it is attracting the attention of companies looking to diversify their products, from dietary supplements to characteristic hemp products such as flowers, resin, pre rolls and more.
3. Use of Muscimole in Wellness Products
One of the most fascinating aspects of this molecule is its versatility in applications. Here are just a few examples of emerging products on the wellness market that could benefit from the inclusion of muscimole.
Muscimole-infused candies
Like CBD candy, infusion into sweet edibles is a popular format for consumers looking to experience the effects gently. These candies allow controlled absorption of muscimole, making the effects more gradual and manageable. Low dosages (averaging 5mg) in candy may induce mild relaxation, mood enhancement and even mild sensory experiences.
The Vapes at Muscimole
Vapes have become a preferred mode of consumption for cannabinoids, particularly CBD. Muscimole could fit perfectly into this trend, offering a new way of consuming this molecule. Inhaling via a vape would enable a faster onset of effect, which could be of interest to consumers seeking immediate relaxation or a more controlled experience.
Hemp Flowers Enriched with Muscimole
Hemp flowers, already used for vaporization or infusions, can also be used as a carrier for other molecules. Enriching hemp flowers with muscimole would be an innovative way of combining the relaxing effects of CBD with the more intense properties of this new molecule. This would create interesting synergies for consumers seeking deep wellness experiences while remaining within the framework of natural products. Find out more about our MCP-S or Muscimole range on our website.
4. Muscimole Recommended Dosages: Caution and Control
One of its distinctive features is the variability of its effects, depending on the dose consumed. As with any psychoactive product, it is essential to respect precise dosages to avoid unpleasant or even dangerous experiences. Here are some general recommendations based on reported experience and studies on the effects of pure muscimole.
Light dose: 5 - 8 mg
- This dose produces subtle effects, with slight relaxation, mild sedation and sometimes minor alteration of sensory perceptions. It's an ideal dose for beginners wishing to explore the effects of muscimole in a controlled way, especially in formats such as candy or low-concentration vapes.
Moderate dose: 10 - 13 mg
- At this level, the effects are more pronounced. Deep relaxation, mild euphoria, and clearer alterations in the senses and perception of time can be experienced. This dose is suitable for those seeking more pronounced sensations. In our opinion, this dose is already a little too high, and should be consumed with extreme caution.
High dose: 15 - 18 mg or more
- This dose produces powerful effects, including visual and auditory hallucinations, distortions of reality, and sometimes a waking-dream sensation. Users may feel detached from their environment, which requires a safe, controlled environment. We strongly advise against consuming products in such high doses.
The arrival of muscimole on the CBD market is likely to create a few aberrations, particularly with regard to the % (number of mg) advertised. Don't trust shops that claim their flower and/or hash and/or other products contain more than 5%: they're lying. In reality, they contain between 1 and 4%. They'll try to "trick" you with absurd concentrations to make you believe that their products are the most potent, but don't be fooled! A rate of 10% is impossible for two reasons: the price per gram is extremely high, and no supplier/shop could afford to put on 10%, but above all, if the advertised rate of 10% were true, consumption of this product would become ultra-dangerous, with significant and very risky side-effects.
Example Hemp flowers enriched with muscimole: with 4% in a flower, this means there's 40mg of muscimole per gram, so it's advisable to consume a maximum of 0.20g (1g / 8 = 0.125g) of this flower per dose (40mg / 8 = 5mg) and to space out consumption by an hour to be on the safe side. The effects take between 10 and 45 minutes to be fully felt. At 420 Green Road, we explain on each of our muscimole products the recommended amount per dose, to keep you within the norm for light doses.
Beware of variability: It's important to note that the effects of muscimole vary greatly from person to person, depending on factors such as body weight, state of health, experience with psychoactive substances and the concentration of muscimole in the product consumed.
5. The Legality of Muscimole: A Grey Zone?
Compared with substances such as THC or psilocybin, muscimole has a less clear-cut legal status. In France, muscimole is not explicitly classified as a prohibited substance, although the sale of Amanita muscaria may be restricted or regulated. This offers scope for experimentation and marketing under certain conditions. However, this gray area could evolve rapidly, as authorities look into the risks and potential for abuse.
6. Precautions and Risks associated with Muscimole
While interest in muscimole is growing, it's important to stress that this substance is far from harmless. At higher doses, muscimole can cause side effects such as nausea, confusion and even disorienting experiences lasting several hours.
Users should exercise caution and consult reliable sources before considering the consumption of products containing muscimole, whether in the form of candies, vapes or enriched flowers.
Conclusion: New ground to explore
Muscimole, once restricted to ritual contexts, is beginning to penetrate the modern wellness market as a new natural molecule with powerful effects. Its ability to deliver deep relaxation and even intense sensory experiences places it firmly among the new trends. However, as with any psychoactive substance, its use must be framed by caution and a thorough understanding of its effects.
As the CBD market continues to grow, it's likely that other molecules such as muscimole will enrich the range of wellness products on offer. But only time, research and regulatory developments will tell whether this substance will become a mainstay of the next generation of natural products.
We remind you that muscimole products are not medicines. They are not intended to cure, treat or provide medical diagnosis.