Fly agaric is a poisonous mushroom — is it safe to use this cream on my skin?

The known toxicity of Amanita muscaria (fly agaric) applies to ingesting the mushroom. In this product the extract is part of a cosmetic cream intended strictly for external application, and in Eastern European folk tradition fly agaric was likewise used externally, in body rubs for the back and joints. The key is to respect the boundary between skin and everything else.

Practical safety rules for this cream:

• External use only — never swallow it and never apply it inside the mouth or nose.
• Apply only to intact skin. Skip areas with cuts, scratches, rashes or other damage, where absorption is less predictable.
• Keep it well away from the eyes and mucous membranes; if contact happens, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Wash your hands after every application so no residue is transferred to your face or food.
• Before first use, do a patch test: apply a small amount to the inner forearm and wait about 24 hours to check for redness or itching.
• Store the tube out of reach of children, and stop using the cream if any irritation appears.

Consult a specialist before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a chronic skin condition or are on medication.