FAQ

Amanita Muscaria

What is Amanita muscaria?

Amanita muscaria is a mushroom with a long history of traditional use across Northern European and Siberian cultures. Unlike psilocybin mushrooms, its primary active compounds are muscimol and ibotenic acid, which work on GABA receptors rather than serotonin. The experience is generally described as calming, dream-enhancing, and introspective rather than visually psychedelic. I've been working deeply with this mushroom since 2021 and consider it a powerful ally for those who approach it with respect and proper preparation.

Is Amanita muscaria legal?

Amanita muscaria is legal to buy, sell, and possess in 49 US states. Louisiana is currently the only state where it is prohibited. It is not a controlled substance at the federal level. That said, laws can change, so if you're outside the US or concerned about your specific location, please research your local regulations.

Is Amanita muscaria safe?

When properly prepared and dosed responsibly, many people work with amanita safely. However, this is not a mushroom to approach casually. Raw or improperly prepared amanita contains higher levels of ibotenic acid, which can cause uncomfortable effects. Proper decarboxylation (converting ibotenic acid to muscimol through drying and/or pH change) is essential. I always recommend starting with very low doses, working up slowly, and ideally learning from experienced practitioners. My products are carefully prepared, but your relationship with this mushroom is your own responsibility.

How do I dose Amanita muscaria tincture?

Start low and go slow. I recommend beginning with 5-10 drops of our Amanita muscaria tincture and waiting two weeks before increasing. Everyone's sensitivity varies significantly—some people feel effects at microdoses while others need more. There's no rush. Work up gradually over weeks, not days. Many people find their sweet spot somewhere between 5-20 drops, but this is highly individual—for some it is 2-4 dropper fulls (40-80 drops). Listen to your body. Keep a journal. This is a relationship, not a one-time experience.

How do I dose dried Amanita muscaria?

For dried caps, start with 1-3 grams maximum for your first experience, and many people prefer to begin even lower (0.5-1g) to assess sensitivity. The potency can vary between individual mushrooms, so even experienced users should approach each new batch carefully. Dried amanita can be eaten directly, brewed into tea, or prepared in other ways. If making tea, a longer simmer (15-30 minutes) helps with decarboxylation, and a pH change is required for a full decarboxylation with standard kitchen equipment.

What should I expect from Amanita muscaria?

Effects vary by dose and individual. At lower/microdoses, people often report improved sleep, vivid dreams, a sense of calm, reduced anxiety, and subtle mood enhancement. At moderate doses, effects may include deep relaxation, a dreamy or trance-like state, introspection, and enhanced creativity. Higher doses can produce more pronounced altered states. This is generally not a "visual" psychedelic—it's more somatic and dream-like. Although in very high doses it can be very visually psychedelic, but also accompanied by often very difficult experiences. Many people find it pairs well with meditation, breathwork, or simply restful sleep. Effects typically begin 1-3 hours after ingestion and can last several hours.

Who should NOT use Amanita muscaria?

Avoid amanita if you are pregnant or nursing, have liver or kidney conditions, are on GABAergic medications (benzodiazepines, sleep medications, certain anti-anxiety drugs), have a history of psychosis or severe mental health conditions, or are under 18. Do not combine with alcohol or other substances. If you're on any medications or have health conditions, consult with a healthcare provider. When in doubt, don't.

Where can I learn more about Amanita muscaria?

We sell a comprehensive book by Kevin Feeney, PhD, JD called the Fly Agaric Compendium covering history, pharmacology, mythology, and practical guidance.

For community discussion and ongoing learning, I recommend these resources:

Amanita Varieties & Dried Caps

What's the difference between your Amanita tinctures?

Amanita muscaria (Red Fly Agaric) – The classic red-capped variety, sourced from Europe. This is our most popular and well-known offering.

Amanita chrysoblema (Yellow Fly Agaric) – The yellow-capped variety native to Northeastern America. I forage most of this myself locally. Potency is virtually the same as the red variety—the difference is primarily visual and regional.

Amanita pantherina (Panther Cap) – A rare, significantly more potent species with 3-5x higher muscimol content than A. muscaria. Sourced from Europe. This is for experienced users only—dosing is much smaller (typically 0.25 mL every three days).

Why do you offer both red and yellow Amanita?

The yellow variety (Amanita chrysoblema) grows locally here in the Eastern U.S., so I can forage it myself. The red variety (Amanita muscaria) is more commonly found in other regions. They're essentially the same potency and contain the same active compounds—the color difference is regional adaptation, not a difference in effects. Some people prefer locally-sourced products; others want the iconic red cap. Both work.

What's the difference between Grade A and Grade B dried caps?

Grade A Amanita muscaria – Highest quality specimens with clean appearance, minimal imperfections, and a mix of open and unopened veils. These are the most visually pristine caps, ideal for ceremonial use or those who want the best presentation.

Grade B Amanita muscaria – Second highest quality with some natural imperfections such as sand marks, slight damage, or brown bottoms. Still excellent specimens with open or unopened veils. These are ideal for making your own tinctures, topical preparations, or when appearance doesn't matter. Same potency as Grade A—just cosmetic differences.

Both grades are dried gently at 100°F, vacuum sealed for freshness, and sourced from clean European environments by experienced foragers.

What is Amanita pantherina and how is it different?

Amanita pantherina (Panther Cap) contains significantly higher concentrations of muscimol and ibotenic acid than Amanita muscaria—in some cases 3-5x more potent. This makes it a particularly strong ceremonial option for experienced users who know their sensitivity. Our Grade A pantherina caps are high-quality specimens with open or unopened veils, dried at 100°F and vacuum sealed. We also offer Amanita pantherina tincture for those who prefer liquid extracts. Start with much smaller doses than you would with muscaria.

What is Amanita regalis?

Amanita regalis, sometimes called the "Royal Fly Agaric," is a rare cousin of Amanita muscaria containing higher concentrations of both muscimol and ibotenic acid. These mushrooms are wildcrafted from pristine European environments and only available in limited seasonal batches. If you're exploring beyond muscaria, regalis is revered for its unique alkaloid profile and strong ceremonial energy. Our current lot includes both open and unopened veils, dried at 100°F and vacuum sealed.

Blue Lotus

What is Blue Lotus?

Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea) is a water lily with deep roots in ancient Egyptian culture, where it was revered as a sacred plant associated with the sun, creation, and spiritual awakening. I always say it predominantly activates the sacral chakra, the sexual and creative center. It also activates heart, throat, third eye, and crown chakra typically, but everyone is unique. Its primary compounds, nuciferine and apomorphine, create effects often described as gently euphoric, calming, and heart-opening. It's a wonderful ally for relaxation, meditation, social connection, and creative work. It is a vasodilator—it opens up blood vessels and acts similarly on the body to viagra.

How do I use Blue Lotus?

Blue lotus can be enjoyed as a tea (steep 3-5 grams of dried petals and stamens in hot water for 10-15 minutes), smoked or vaporized, taken as a tincture, or infused into wine (the traditional Egyptian method). Water is not the best solvent for blue lotus, as apomorphine and nuciferine are alcohol soluble. So an ethanol-based extract is the best use, but tea does produce some effect. For tinctures, start with half a dropper and adjust based on your experience. Effects are generally subtle and relaxing—think of it as unwinding rather than a dramatic shift.

Is Blue Lotus legal?

Blue lotus is legal in the United States and is not a controlled substance at the federal level. Some other countries have different regulations, so please check your local laws if you're outside the US.

What does Blue Lotus feel like?

Most people describe blue lotus as gently euphoric, relaxing, and mildly sedating. It can create a sense of ease and openness, enhance social experiences, deepen meditation, and promote restful sleep. Some people notice mild aphrodisiac effects. It's generally subtle—don't expect anything overwhelming. Think of it as a gentle shift toward relaxation and presence.

What Blue Lotus products do you offer?

We offer several blue lotus preparations:

Lotus Varieties

What's the difference between Blue, White, Pink, and Red Lotus?

Each lotus variety has its own unique character, traditional uses, and effects:

Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea) – The most well-known sacred lotus from ancient Egypt. Known for gentle euphoria, heart-opening effects, and aphrodisiac qualities. Contains nuciferine and apomorphine. Best for relaxation, social connection, and creative/sexual energy.

White Lotus (Nymphaea ampla) – Significant in Mesoamerican cultures. Known for supporting dream states, trance, and deep meditation. Associated with rebirth, fertility, and divine presence. More visionary and introspective than blue lotus.

Pink Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) – The Sacred Lotus of Eastern spiritual traditions. Associated with spiritual clarity, heart-centered awareness, and calming the mind. Symbolic of enlightenment and rebirth. More subtle and meditative.

Red Lotus (Nymphaea rubra) – Known for soothing, dream-enhancing, and mildly euphoric qualities. Traditionally used as a sleep aid and ceremonial herb. Good for emotional balance and promoting vivid dreams and deep rest.

Which lotus should I choose?

It depends on your intention:

All lotus flowers can be used for tea, smoking, or ceremonial purposes. Blue lotus is the only variety we currently offer as a tincture and resin.

Ceremonial Cacao

What is ceremonial cacao?

Ceremonial cacao is minimally processed, whole-bean cacao prepared specifically for intentional and spiritual use. Unlike commercial chocolate or cocoa powder, ceremonial cacao retains all its natural fats (cacao butter) and is never roasted at high temperatures. This preserves its full nutrient profile and what many consider its spiritual potency. It's fermented, ground into paste, and shaped into blocks—often by hand. Our cacao sometimes even shows fingerprints from the people who made it.

Where does your cacao come from?

Our ceremonial cacao is sourced from small-batch women's collectives, cooperatives, and independent sovereign farmers across Guatemala. We work with several origins including Mama Amor (a women's collective in Suchitepequez), Cahabon and Entre Nubes (cooperatives in Alta Verapaz supporting Q'eqchi communities), and Las Marias (an award-winning agroforestry plantation in Izabal). Each origin has its own distinct flavor profile and story. The cacao is grown using organic and regenerative practices, fermented for 5-11 days depending on origin, and hand-processed with minimal intervention.

How do I prepare ceremonial cacao?

A typical ceremonial dose is 1 oz of cacao. Score your 16 oz block into 16 equal portions for easy dosing. Chop or grate your portion and melt it into 6-8 oz of hot water or plant milk (don't boil—just hot enough to melt). Whisk until smooth. You can add spices like cinnamon, cayenne, or cardamom, and sweeten with honey or maple syrup if desired, though many origins are naturally mild and don't need sweetener. Sip slowly with intention.

How is ceremonial cacao different from hot chocolate or cocoa?

Commercial cocoa powder has the cacao butter (fat) removed and is often roasted at high temperatures, which destroys many beneficial compounds. Hot chocolate mixes typically contain sugar, dairy, and additives. Ceremonial cacao is the whole bean—fermented, minimally processed, with all its natural fats intact. This gives it a richer, more nourishing quality and preserves compounds like theobromine, magnesium, and flavonoids that support heart health, mood, and cognitive function.

What does ceremonial cacao feel like?

Cacao contains theobromine, a gentle stimulant that provides clean, sustained energy without the jitters or crash of caffeine. The term "Theobroma" comes from Greek, where "theos" means "god" and "broma" means "food," translating to "food of the gods." This name reflects the high value placed on cacao, particularly in ancient Mesoamerican cultures. Many people experience a heart-opening warmth, enhanced focus, elevated mood, and emotional clarity. It's not psychoactive in the way mushrooms or other entheogens are—it's subtler, more like a supportive ally for whatever practice you're bringing to it. Effects typically begin within 20-30 minutes and last 2-4 hours.

What can I pair cacao ceremony with?

Ceremonial cacao enhances many practices: breathwork, meditation, journaling, yoga, sound healing, music, chanting, emotional processing, creative work, or simply quiet reflection. It pairs beautifully with intention-setting, gratitude practice, or connecting with others. The most important element is your own intention—whether that's healing, presence, connection, or gratitude. Some varieties contain more or less theobromine and fats, which can contribute to unique effects. Some varieties are wonderful for ecstatic dance parties and socializing; others are more heavy and beneficial for introspective and relaxing experiences.

How much cacao should I use?

A full ceremonial dose is typically 1-1.5 oz. For daily use or a gentler experience, 0.5-0.75 oz works well. If you're new to cacao, start with a smaller amount and see how your body responds. Some people are more sensitive to theobromine than others. Each 16 oz block provides roughly 16 ceremonial doses. It's important to drink water after cacao because theobromine can have diuretic effects.

Who should avoid ceremonial cacao?

Use caution or consult your healthcare provider if you're pregnant or nursing, taking antidepressants (especially MAOIs), have heart conditions or high blood pressure, are sensitive to stimulants, or are taking medications that interact with theobromine. Cacao is generally well-tolerated, but it does have physiological effects. If you're unsure, start with a very small amount.

How should I store my cacao?

Store your cacao block in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It doesn't need refrigeration but should be kept below 75°F to prevent melting. Properly stored, it will keep for 1-2 years. If you live in a warm climate, you can refrigerate it—just let it come to room temperature before grating or chopping.

Functional Mushroom Tinctures

What's the difference between Regular Strength and High Strength tinctures?

Regular Strength tinctures are a 1:10 extraction ratio (100 mg/mL), meaning 10 grams of mushroom per 100 mL of tincture. High Strength is a 1:4 ratio (250 mg/mL)—2.5 times more concentrated. If you're new to a particular mushroom, start with Regular Strength. If you know what works for you or want maximum potency, go with High Strength.

What is dual extraction and why does it matter?

Dual extraction uses both water and alcohol to pull out the full spectrum of beneficial compounds. Water extracts polysaccharides and beta-glucans (immune-supporting compounds), while alcohol extracts triterpenes and other fat-soluble compounds. Single-extraction products miss half the picture. All our mushroom tinctures are dual-extracted for maximum bioavailability.

Are your mushrooms wild foraged or cultivated?

It depends on the species. Reishi, Chaga, Turkey Tail, Birch Polypore, Maitake, and Chicken of the Woods are wild foraged locally in Pennsylvania. Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, and Shiitake are cultivated locally on organic substrates. We never use mycelium-on-grain products—only real fruiting bodies (or sclerotium in the case of Chaga).

How do I take mushroom tinctures?

Most people take 1-2 mL (about 1-2 droppers full) once or twice daily. You can take it directly under the tongue, add it to water, tea, coffee, or smoothies. Consistency matters more than timing—find what works for your routine and stick with it. Some mushrooms like Reishi are traditionally taken in the evening; energizing ones like Cordyceps work well in the morning.

What is Reishi good for?

Reishi (Ganoderma tsugae) is known as the "Mushroom of Immortality" in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It's revered for immune modulation, stress relief, sleep support, and longevity. Research suggests benefits for anxiety, liver health, blood sugar regulation, respiratory function, and cognitive protection. Our Reishi is wild foraged from hemlock forests in Pennsylvania—not cultivated or lab-grown.

What is Chaga good for?

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is called the "King of Herbs" and grows as a dense mass (sclerotium) on birch trees in cold climates. It's exceptionally high in antioxidants—among the highest of any food or supplement. Research supports benefits for immune function, blood sugar regulation, antiviral activity (including against HSV and Hepatitis C), and potential anti-cancer properties. Our Chaga is wild-harvested from birch forests in the Eastern U.S.

What is Turkey Tail good for?

Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor) contains PSK (Polysaccharide-K), which is approved in Japan as an adjunct therapy alongside chemotherapy. It's one of the most researched medicinal mushrooms for immune support and cancer care. Studies also show benefits for gut microbiome health, antiviral activity against influenza and HPV, and overall immune modulation. Our Turkey Tail is wild-harvested from local forests.

What is Cordyceps good for?

Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris) has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries as a yang tonic for energy, libido, and athletic performance. It enhances ATP production at the cellular level, improving oxygen utilization and reducing fatigue. Research supports benefits for endurance, sexual vitality, immune function, and longevity. Our Cordyceps is locally cultivated on a vegan substrate—no insects involved.

What is Lion's Mane good for?

Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is best known for cognitive support—memory, focus, and nerve health. It stimulates Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), which are essential for brain health and neuroplasticity. Research suggests benefits for mood, neuroprotection, and potentially slowing cognitive decline. It's one of the few mushrooms that crosses the blood-brain barrier. Our Lion's Mane is locally cultivated in the region. We also offer a Lion's Mane Spagyric for those seeking an alchemical preparation.

How long does Lion's Mane take to work?

Some people notice effects within a few days to a week, particularly improved focus or mental clarity. However, Lion's Mane is best approached as a long-term supplement—the more significant benefits for brain health and nerve support develop over weeks to months of consistent use. Be patient and consistent.

Can I take Lion's Mane every day?

Yes, Lion's Mane is generally taken daily. Many people take it in the morning for focus and cognitive support. Some prefer to cycle (several weeks on, one week off), but daily use is common and well-tolerated. I typically advise 5 days on, 2 days off for consistent use.

Mushroom & Herb Blends

Which blend should I choose?

Evolve Blend (Reishi, Chaga, Lion's Mane, Cordyceps) – For mental clarity, physical energy, and balanced performance. Great for busy days when you need mind and body aligned.

Chill Blend (Reishi + Tulsi) – For stress relief, nervous system support, and calm focus. Ideal if you're dealing with anxiety, tension, or sleep issues.

Harmony Blend (11 mushrooms + Tulsi) – Our most comprehensive formula for overall wellness. If you don't have a specific need but want broad-spectrum support, start here.

Wild Classic (Reishi, Chaga, Birch Polypore, Turkey Tail, Late Fall Oyster) – Our original flagship blend. All wild-foraged, all local. Great for immune support and general health.

If you have a specific goal (cognitive support, energy, sleep, etc.), a single-mushroom tincture lets you isolate those compounds. If you want overall wellness, go with a blend.

What's in the Harmony Blend?

Harmony Blend contains 11 mushrooms plus Tulsi Holy Basil: Reishi, Chaga, Birch Polypore, Turkey Tail, Maitake, Chicken of the Woods, Green Oyster (all wild foraged locally), plus Shiitake, Lion's Mane, Cordyceps (locally cultivated), and our 4th-generation Tulsi. It's the culmination of years of foraging and formulation—comparable to national brands in its breadth of benefits, but entirely local to the Pennsylvania area.

What's in the Wild Classic?

Wild Classic contains five wild-foraged mushrooms: Reishi, Chaga, Birch Polypore, Turkey Tail, and Late Fall Oyster. This was our original formula—the one that got Harmony Acres started. It's what I made for friends and family before this became a business. All ingredients are sustainably wild-harvested from local Pennsylvania forests.

Herbal Tinctures

What is Japanese Knotweed good for?

Japanese Knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum), known as Hu Zhang in Traditional Chinese Medicine, is rich in resveratrol, polydatin, and emodin. It's widely used in Lyme disease protocols for its effectiveness against both active and persister forms of Borrelia. Research also supports benefits for inflammation, antiviral activity, cognitive health, blood sugar regulation, liver support, and skin healing. Our Knotweed is wild-foraged locally.

What is Tulsi good for?

Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), also called Holy Basil, is a powerful adaptogen from Ayurvedic tradition—considered sacred in the Hindu religion and dedicated to Vishnu. It helps the body adapt to stress, reduces anxiety, and supports balanced energy. Research shows benefits for immune modulation, respiratory health, and blood pressure regulation. Our Tulsi is 4th-generation seed grown on our farm—I love growing this herb year after year. Note: Tulsi may lower blood pressure, so consult your healthcare provider if you're on BP medication.

What is Mugwort good for?

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) has a long history of traditional use for digestive support, respiratory health, and as a dream herb. Research supports antioxidant, hepatoprotective (liver-protecting), antibacterial, antifungal, and muscle relaxant properties. It also has bronchodilator effects. Important: Mugwort is not a tonic herb for long-term daily use and may have antifertility effects—avoid if pregnant, nursing, or trying to conceive.

Where do you source your herbs?

Tulsi is grown on our farm from 4th-generation seed. Japanese Knotweed and Mugwort are wild-foraged locally in the USA. We use only aerial parts (leaves and stems) for Mugwort and root for Knotweed. All tinctures are extracted in purified water and 25% organic grain-free ethanol.

Spagyric Extracts

What is a Spagyric extract?

Spagyric extraction is an alchemical preparation method that goes beyond standard tincturing. The word comes from Greek: "spao" (to separate) and "ageiro" (to combine). The process involves separating, purifying, and recombining the plant's components—including the mineral salts that are normally lost in regular extraction. We incinerate and calcine the marc (plant matter) after extraction to reveal the minerals previously trapped in the body, then reunite them with the liquid extract. This creates a more complete, "whole" medicine that honors the plant's full essence.

How are your Spagyrics made?

Our Spagyrics take 8-10 weeks to complete. We align our medicine-making with lunar cycles and planetary correspondences. We begin around the New Moon, setting intentions and clearing energy. The medicine sits in darkness for two full lunar cycles (8 weeks), then is harvested around the Full Moon. The marc is then separated, incinerated, calcined, and purified to extract the mineral salts, which are recombined with the liquid extract. Each mushroom is worked with on its corresponding planetary day—for example, Amanita muscaria and Yellow Fly Agaric correspond to Venus and Friday, while Lion's Mane corresponds to the Moon and Monday.

What Spagyric extracts do you offer?

We currently offer:

Due to the lengthy process, Spagyrics are limited in quantity and availability.

How are Spagyrics different from regular tinctures?

Regular tinctures extract water-soluble and alcohol-soluble compounds, but the mineral content remains trapped in the plant matter and is discarded. Spagyric extraction captures these minerals through calcination and reunites them with the liquid extract. The result is considered a more complete, higher-vibrational medicine. The process also incorporates intention, lunar timing, and planetary correspondences—treating the medicine-making as a spiritual practice. Our Lion's Mane Spagyric, Amanita muscaria Spagyric, and Yellow Fly Agaric Spagyric are all 1:10 ratio (100mg/mL) in 30% organic ethanol.

What is the Yellow Fly Agaric Spagyric?

The Yellow Fly Agaric Spagyric is an alchemical preparation of locally foraged Amanita chrysoblema—the yellow-capped fly agaric native to Northeastern North America. I forage most of this myself here in Pennsylvania. The potency and active compounds are virtually identical to red Amanita muscaria; the difference is regional, not chemical.

Like our Amanita muscaria Spagyric, this preparation follows the full alchemical process over 8 weeks and two lunar cycles, with mineral salt recombination through calcination. It's aligned with Venus (Friday) and is NOT fully decarbed—no heat or pH change is applied. This is 1:10 ratio (100mg/mL) in 30% organic ethanol with spring water harvested on the New Moon.

Choose this spagyric if you prefer locally sourced medicine or want to work with the yellow variety's unique regional energy.

Salves & Topicals

What are your Amanita salves used for?

Our salves are formulated for external topical use to support tired muscles, stiff joints, and areas of nerve discomfort. They combine Amanita-infused oils with anti-inflammatory Amanita resin and essential oils. Many people use them for post-workout recovery, chronic tension, or as part of grounding and ceremonial practices. These are external-use products only—not for ingestion or application to sensitive areas.

What's the difference between the Pine Resin Salve and Panther Balm?

The Amanita Pine Resin Salve uses Amanita muscaria infused in organic extra-virgin cold-pressed jojoba oil (similar to our jojoba oil infusion), combined with ethically harvested pine and spruce resins. It has a clean, woodsy forest scent and offers gentle-to-moderate support for muscles and joints.

The Panther Balm is our high-strength option. It uses Amanita pantherina organic extra-virgin cold-pressed jojoba oil infusion (which has higher muscimol content than A. muscaria), plus a full-spectrum Amanita muscaria resin extract. It's blended with penetrating essential oils like cajeput, wintergreen, menthol, camphor, and clove for a deeper, more intense aromatic experience. Choose this one if you want maximum potency.

How are the salves made?

The Amanita is infused in organic cold-pressed extra-virgin jojoba oil over eight weeks, spanning two full lunar cycles—started on the New Moon, filtered on the second Full Moon. This slow extraction process draws out the mushroom's essence while honoring traditional preparation methods. The infused oil is then combined with wildcrafted resins, beeswax, Amanita resin, essential oils, and vitamin E. Each batch is made by hand with care and intention.

How do I use the salves?

Apply a small amount of Pine Resin Salve or Panther Balm to the desired area—muscles, joints, or energetic centers like temples, shoulders, or feet. Massage gently into the skin. Use as needed for physical support or as part of grounding rituals, post-ceremony integration, or energetic clearing. Start with a small amount to assess your skin's response.

Who should avoid using the salves?

Do not use these salves if you are pregnant or nursing (due to essential oil contraindications), have broken or irritated skin, or are sensitive to any listed ingredients. Do not apply to mucous membranes or sensitive areas (eyes, nose, mouth, ears, genitals). Keep away from children and pets. These products are for external use only—do not ingest.

Where do you source the salve ingredients?

Our Amanita muscaria and Amanita pantherina are sourced from Europe. Pine resin is ethically harvested from the West Coast of the U.S., and spruce resin comes from Canada. All carrier oils and most essential oils are certified organic and sourced from Mountain Rose Herbs and other reputable suppliers. NO FRAGRANCE OILS :). We prioritize sustainable, ethical sourcing throughout our supply chain.

Oil Infusions

What are the Amanita oil infusions used for?

Our jojoba and olive oil infusions of Amanita muscaria are excellent for topical use—massage oil, spot treatment for inflammatory relief, or as a base for creating your own salves and balms. They're infused over 8 weeks across two lunar cycles (started on the New Moon, filtered on the Full Moon). Both are 1:8 ratio (125mg/mL).

What's the difference between jojoba and olive oil infusion?

Jojoba Oil Infusion – Jojoba is technically a liquid wax, not an oil. It closely resembles human sebum, absorbs easily without leaving a greasy residue, and has an extremely long shelf life (won't go rancid). Best for: facial application, lighter massage, and cosmetic formulations.

Olive Oil Infusion – Extra virgin olive oil is rich in antioxidants and deeply nourishing. It's thicker and more emollient than jojoba. Best for: deep massage, very dry skin, and traditional topical preparations.

Both are equally effective for delivering the Amanita constituents topically—choose based on your texture preference and intended use.

How are the oil infusions made?

We use dried Amanita muscaria caps (European origin) infused in organic extra virgin oil. The process takes 8 weeks—started on the New Moon and filtered on the second Full Moon. This slow, intentional extraction allows the oil to fully absorb the mushroom's essence. Lab reports are available on our website.

Resin Extracts

What are resin extracts?

Our resin extracts are highly concentrated forms of Amanita muscaria and blue lotus, created through careful extraction processes that preserve and concentrate the plant's core constituents. They represent the most potent offerings in our product line—significantly stronger than tinctures or dried material. These are offered for spiritual, ritual, educational, and research purposes.

How potent is the Amanita muscaria resin?

The Amanita muscaria resin is produced at approximately a 3:1 ratio—meaning every 10 grams of resin contains the extracted constituents of roughly 30 grams of dried caps. For comparison: our strongest tincture (2 fl oz at 250 mg/mL) is equivalent to about 4.4 grams of this resin. This is an extremely concentrated product and should be approached with respect and caution.

How potent is the Blue Lotus resin?

Our blue lotus resin is made from a winterized ethanol extraction of petals and stamens. We capture and purify the absolute oils first, then combine after winterization and purge all solvent. For reference: 10 grams of this resin contains the extracted constituents of approximately 78 grams of blue lotus flower. Our entire 2 oz bottle of strongest tincture (250 mg/mL) is equivalent to roughly 1.9 grams of this resin. It is our most potent blue lotus offering.

How should I store the resins?

Both resins are highly hydrophilic, meaning they absorb moisture from the air and will soften into a gel if exposed. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Minimize exposure to open air when accessing. Proper storage is essential to maintain consistency and potency.

How is the Amanita resin made?

The Amanita muscaria resin is created through a solvent-free, heat-based extraction process using dried caps from Europe. No liquid carriers or chemical solvents are used—this is a pure, dry concentrate. The decarboxylation process converts ibotenic acid to muscimol, resulting in a properly prepared extract. This resin is also used in our Panther Balm for added potency.

Products & Quality

Where do you source your mushrooms and botanicals?

I work with trusted foragers and suppliers who share my commitment to quality and sustainability. My Amanita muscaria, pantherina, and regalis come from pristine European environments. Yellow Fly Agaric I forage myself locally. Functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, and Turkey Tail are wild-foraged from Pennsylvania forests. Blue lotus and other lotus varieties come from Thailand. Ceremonial cacao is sourced from Guatemalan cooperatives. I've been foraging wild mushrooms myself since 2016 and have spent years developing relationships with people who approach this work with the same respect and attention to quality that I do.

How are your tinctures made?

My tinctures are made using traditional dual extraction methods with organic grain-free alcohol and water decoction. We use custom stainless steel equipment designed for high-quality botanical extractions. We pull a vacuum on the sealed inner chamber, allowing our solvents to boil at low temperatures to preserve compounds. We also heat the solvent with a double-boil method—no direct heat touches the solvent, ensuring no hot spots on the final extraction. When you taste our tincture, it tastes like the fresh botanical, not a cooked version of it. Each batch is made with care and attention, using processes refined over years of practice. I'm a one-person operation making everything by hand—this isn't mass-produced supplement manufacturing.

How should I store my products?

Store tinctures in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. They'll keep for 2+ years when stored properly. Dried mushrooms and botanicals should be kept in airtight containers away from moisture, heat, and light—for long-term storage, refrigeration or freezing is recommended. Properly stored dried material can last 1-2 years, though potency is best in the first year. Resins should be kept in airtight containers as they absorb moisture from the air.

Why does packaging say "not for human consumption"?

This is a legal disclaimer common in the botanical supplement industry. Many traditional plants exist in a regulatory gray area—they're legal to sell but haven't gone through the FDA approval process required to make specific health claims or market them explicitly as supplements. This labeling protects small businesses while allowing adults to make their own informed decisions. The information I share about traditional uses and preparation methods is educational.

Shipping & Orders

How long does shipping take?

Orders typically ship within 1-3 business days. I use USPS or UPS for most shipments. Domestic orders usually arrive within 3-7 business days depending on your location. I'm a small operation, so please allow a little extra time during busy periods.

Do you ship internationally?

International shipping is limited due to varying regulations on botanicals in different countries. I do not ship Amanita products to Louisiana, Australia, The Netherlands, Romania, or Thailand. Please contact me directly if you're outside the US and I'll let you know if I can ship to your location. You are responsible for knowing your local laws.

What is your return policy?

Due to the nature of these products, I cannot accept returns on opened items. If your order arrives damaged or there's an issue with your product, please reach out within 7 days of delivery and I'll make it right. Customer satisfaction matters to me—if you have any concerns, let's talk. Refer to our Terms of Service and Shipping Policy for more detail.

Do you offer wholesale pricing?

Yes, I work with select retailers and practitioners. Please contact me directly to discuss wholesale arrangements and minimum order requirements.

Working With Me

Do you offer consultations?

Yes. I offer one-on-one consultations for people who want deeper guidance on working with these plant and mushroom allies. My background includes over 15 years of experience with entheogens, meditation, and yoga, as well as training in Reiki and permaculture design. I approach this work with an emphasis on harm reduction, integration, and personal responsibility. Reach out if you're interested in scheduling a session.

What is your background?

I've been exploring entheogens since 2008, practicing meditation and yoga since 2010, and foraging wild mushrooms since 2016. My focus on Amanita muscaria began in 2021. I'm a certified Reiki practitioner and permaculture designer. I speak at mushroom festivals, lead ceremonies, and teach yoga and Qi Gong. This isn't just a business—it's an extension of my life's work and practice.

How can I learn more?

I share more in-depth education through my Patreon: The Amanita Masterclass. My email newsletter goes out regularly with thoughts on philosophy, spirituality, updates on my work, and practical guidance. You can also find me on YouTube for longer-form content. If you have specific questions, don't hesitate to reach out directly—I read and respond to messages personally. For deep research, grab a copy of the Fly Agaric Compendium.