From the Guidelines
I strongly advise against taking Cactus Labs Mushroom Gummies containing Amanita muscaria if you have Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). These gummies contain compounds from the Amanita muscaria mushroom, which has psychoactive properties and could potentially trigger mast cell degranulation in someone with MCAS, as suggested by the AAAAI Mast Cell Disorders Committee Work Group report 1. The main active compounds in Amanita muscaria, muscimol and ibotenic acid, can affect your central nervous system and might exacerbate MCAS symptoms or cause unpredictable reactions.
Some key points to consider when managing MCAS include:
- Avoiding triggers that can cause mast cell degranulation, such as certain foods, stress, or physical stimuli 1
- Using antihistamines, such as H1R and H2R antagonists, to relieve symptoms caused by secreted histamine, as recommended by expert opinion 1
- Working with an immunologist or healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan and discuss potential risks and safer alternatives for any supplements or medications
MCAS makes your body more sensitive to various triggers, and introducing a substance with psychoactive properties could lead to increased histamine release, potentially causing symptoms like:
- Hives
- Flushing
- Gastrointestinal distress
- Respiratory issues
- Or even anaphylaxis in severe cases, as reported in patients with MCAS 1
Additionally, these mushroom products are not FDA-regulated for medical use, and their exact composition and safety profile may vary. Before trying any supplement, especially one with psychoactive properties, you should consult with your immunologist or healthcare provider who manages your MCAS to discuss potential risks and safer alternatives, as recommended by the AAAAI Mast Cell Disorders Committee Work Group report 1.
From the Research
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and Cactus Labs Mushroom Gummies
- There is no direct evidence to suggest that Cactus Labs Mushroom Gummies Watermelon Amanita Muscaria Enhanced 2500mg is safe or suitable for individuals with MCAS 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- MCAS is a condition characterized by symptoms involving multiple organ systems, including the skin, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurologic systems 2, 5, 6.
- The diagnosis of MCAS requires clinical symptoms of anaphylaxis that correlate with elevation of a mast cell activation biomarker(s), which improves with H1-antihistamines 2.
- Patients with MCAS may experience a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, flushing, dermatographism, memory and concentration difficulties, and headache 5, 6.
- Treatment for MCAS typically involves medications that target mast cell mediators, such as H1 and H2 histamine receptor antagonists, anti-leukotrienes, or mast cell stabilizers 3, 5, 6.
- There is no evidence to suggest that Amanita Muscaria, a ingredient in the Cactus Labs Mushroom Gummies, has any specific benefits or interactions with MCAS 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- It is recommended that individuals with MCAS consult with their healthcare provider before taking any new supplements or medications, including Cactus Labs Mushroom Gummies Watermelon Amanita Muscaria Enhanced 2500mg 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.