Amanita muscaria, commonly known as fly agaric, has a rich history of use in various cultures around the world. While its exact usage and significance varied among different societies, here are some cultures known to have used Amanita muscaria:

1. Siberian Shamanism: Perhaps the most well-known cultural use of Amanita muscaria is among the indigenous peoples of Siberia, particularly the Evenki, Yakut, and Koryak tribes. In these cultures, Amanita muscaria was used by shamans in religious and spiritual ceremonies to induce altered states of consciousness. The shaman would consume the mushroom to communicate with the spirit world, receive visions, and perform healing rituals.

2. Norse Mythology: Some scholars believe that Amanita muscaria played a role in the religious rituals and mythology of ancient Norse culture. It has been suggested that the iconic red-and-white appearance of the mushroom may have influenced depictions of the mythical “fly agaric” in Norse art and literature. Some theories propose that Amanita muscaria was consumed by Norse berserkers to induce states of frenzy and courage in battle.

3. Baltic and Slavic Traditions: Amanita muscaria has also been associated with folk traditions in Baltic and Slavic cultures. In some regions, it was used in rituals related to fertility, harvest celebrations, and winter solstice festivals. The mushroom’s distinctive appearance and psychoactive properties likely contributed to its inclusion in these cultural practices.

4. Sami Culture: The indigenous Sami people of northern Scandinavia are believed to have used Amanita muscaria in their spiritual practices and rituals. Similar to Siberian shamanism, Amanita muscaria was used by Sami shamans to induce altered states of consciousness and connect with the spirit world.

5. Native American Tribes: While Amanita muscaria is not as widely documented in Native American cultures as in Siberian cultures, there are some accounts of its use among certain tribes, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. It’s suggested that some tribes may have used Amanita muscaria in religious ceremonies or as a medicine, although the extent of its use and significance varies among different indigenous groups.

It’s important to note that the cultural significance and usage of Amanita muscaria varied widely among different societies, and our understanding of its historical use is often based on interpretations of archaeological evidence, folklore, and ethnographic accounts. Additionally, while Amanita muscaria has been used in religious and spiritual contexts by various cultures, its recreational or medicinal use in modern times is often discouraged due to its potential toxicity and psychoactive effects.