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Literally BerserkWelcome to randomFAQ! Our Random Fact generator will add another random fact or frequently asked question from our massive database every day. Using the HTML code provided on the right side of each page, you can display a specific or random FAQ, or the latest fact of the day, on your website, blog, or MySpace profile. Just choose which fact to display, and any color to match your site. Please enjoy the unlimited use of this free service! |
Fact of the Day More Information Howard Fabing did human experiments with the psychoactive chemical bufotenine found in nature throughout the world. Similar to the Norse legend of berserkus/berserkers/berserkr, the human test subjects displayed similar symptoms to that of the wild warriors. Symptoms included the belief in superhuman protection from all (a belief so strong that some can safely walk on embers and perform other such feats). Also, those who partook were mainly uncontrollable and needed to be restrained to be observed. The reckless behavior is mirrored in stories of berserk warriors biting into iron shields among other crazy behavior.
The chemical is somewhat associated to Haitian zombification and European witchcraft. Since bufotenine is found in certain toads, one can understand its link to broom-and-cauldron witches brewing ingredients like tail of newt and body of toad. As far fetched as it once may have sounded, these witches were most likely the real thing. Able to kill and appear to raise the dead due to psychosomatic comas undetectable to even the physicians of the time.
Lastly, the word toadstool comes out of beliefs surrounding the certain toad's psychoactive properties. Some thought that these toads ate psychedelic mushrooms and acquired their power in that manner. View All Facts View Images View Maps Blog
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