The Fungus Among Us
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Medicine in Mushrooms
Any lover of edible mushrooms has heard the term, "medicinal mushrooms". You may have also heard the term, "functional mushrooms". The latter is often used to avoid the US Food and Drug Administration from prosecuting or sending a warning letter regarding claims that mushrooms contain medicinal qualities despite overwhelming scientific evidence to the contrary. Even studies that try to negate the power of fungi admit that there are "secondary metabolites" that may contain medicinal qualities. The FDA does not regulate "supplements" unless they make a claim of diagnosing, treating, mitigating or curing diseases. They have the power to confiscate products, criminally prosecute and fine. The FDA definition of a drug is: * A substance (other than food) intended to affect the structure or any function of the body. * Biological products are included within this definition and are generally covered by the same laws and regulations, but differences exist regarding their manufacturing processes (chemical process versus biological process) In many Asian cultures, mushrooms have been and continue to be used as medicine. For centuries, humans have been harnessing the "medicinal" power of fungi to prevent and treat many diseases. Here in the United States, we can thank fungi for many of our conventional medicines. The world population would surely be far lower if Alexander Fleming had not discovered Penicillium rubens was such a powerful antibacterial in 1928. Many of us may not be here right now if our elders or ourselves hadn't had access to Penicillin. |
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Cholesterol lowering statins are from Pleurotis (Oyster) mushrooms. Cyclosporine, a drug that lowers our immune response allowing organ transplants comes from Tolypocladium inflatum.
If we move beyond FDA approved pharmaceuticals, we find that many mushrooms contain chemicals that may benefit the human condition by preventing inflammation, preventing and slowing cancer growth, preventing dementia, and helping with a host of other ailments. The three main components, although there are many, are called polysaccharides, triterpenes and beta-glucans. These claims of medicinal properties are supported by many scientific studies in well respected medical journals. You can find these studies, for free, with a quick search of the term, "medicinal mushrooms" on https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
Some of these mushrooms that provide "medicinal" benefits are not palatable because they're tough and I usually compare them to chewing on shoe leather. Two major examples include Reishi (Ganoderma spp.) and Turkey Tails (Trametes versicolor). Another issue is that our digestive enzymes are unable to make the beneficial components available to our bodies. They often need to be extracted with water and/or alcohol first. The process is not hard and we actually have a free information sheet describing the process available at The Necessary Mercantile for the taking. We also stock both Turkey Tail and Reishi mushrooms.
Thankfully, there are also a variety of health bestowing mushrooms that are not only edible but incredibly delicious and culinarily versatile. Oyster mushrooms come in many colors, shapes and sizes.
They do NOT taste like oysters and they do NOT have an oyster consistency. The name comes from the similarity that one variety has in appearance to the mollusk...if you have a vivid imagination.
If we move beyond FDA approved pharmaceuticals, we find that many mushrooms contain chemicals that may benefit the human condition by preventing inflammation, preventing and slowing cancer growth, preventing dementia, and helping with a host of other ailments. The three main components, although there are many, are called polysaccharides, triterpenes and beta-glucans. These claims of medicinal properties are supported by many scientific studies in well respected medical journals. You can find these studies, for free, with a quick search of the term, "medicinal mushrooms" on https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
Some of these mushrooms that provide "medicinal" benefits are not palatable because they're tough and I usually compare them to chewing on shoe leather. Two major examples include Reishi (Ganoderma spp.) and Turkey Tails (Trametes versicolor). Another issue is that our digestive enzymes are unable to make the beneficial components available to our bodies. They often need to be extracted with water and/or alcohol first. The process is not hard and we actually have a free information sheet describing the process available at The Necessary Mercantile for the taking. We also stock both Turkey Tail and Reishi mushrooms.
Thankfully, there are also a variety of health bestowing mushrooms that are not only edible but incredibly delicious and culinarily versatile. Oyster mushrooms come in many colors, shapes and sizes.
They do NOT taste like oysters and they do NOT have an oyster consistency. The name comes from the similarity that one variety has in appearance to the mollusk...if you have a vivid imagination.
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Oyster mushrooms are native to our region and these are the mushrooms that contain Lovastatin. Research has also shown that they have anti-tumor properties. This is one of my favorite mushrooms to cook and eat.
Hen of the Woods (Grifola frondosa), which is native to our area has been found to contain components that stimulate the immune system, have anti-cancer properties and regulate blood sugar.
These mushrooms are often called Maitake.
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceous), native to our region may protect against dementia, reduce anxiety and depression, prevent inflammation and boost the immune system.
Shiitake (Lentinus edodes) may boost whites cell production to fight off pathogenic microbes. They also have been shown to contain anti-inflammatory components and may protect against cell damage.
Over and above the many "medicinal" properties, mushrooms are a nutritional powerhouse and contain many antioxidants. Add some variety to your life and explore the many fungal offerings available.
When someone says that they "don't like mushrooms", my first reaction is that there are so many varieties with different textures, different aromas, different shapes and different flavors, not to mention a virtually infinite amount of ways to cook them, that they haven't been exposed to all the fungal kingdom has to offer. White button mushrooms from a can are not exactly the best ambassadors for fungi.
If you're interested in trying many of these mushrooms, we usually carry them at The Necessary Mercantile. Just give a call to confirm that we have them in stock, (540) 712-7996.
We can also help with cooking suggestions.
Hen of the Woods (Grifola frondosa), which is native to our area has been found to contain components that stimulate the immune system, have anti-cancer properties and regulate blood sugar.
These mushrooms are often called Maitake.
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceous), native to our region may protect against dementia, reduce anxiety and depression, prevent inflammation and boost the immune system.
Shiitake (Lentinus edodes) may boost whites cell production to fight off pathogenic microbes. They also have been shown to contain anti-inflammatory components and may protect against cell damage.
Over and above the many "medicinal" properties, mushrooms are a nutritional powerhouse and contain many antioxidants. Add some variety to your life and explore the many fungal offerings available.
When someone says that they "don't like mushrooms", my first reaction is that there are so many varieties with different textures, different aromas, different shapes and different flavors, not to mention a virtually infinite amount of ways to cook them, that they haven't been exposed to all the fungal kingdom has to offer. White button mushrooms from a can are not exactly the best ambassadors for fungi.
If you're interested in trying many of these mushrooms, we usually carry them at The Necessary Mercantile. Just give a call to confirm that we have them in stock, (540) 712-7996.
We can also help with cooking suggestions.
If you're interested in learning to grow and forage for these mushrooms, we still have seats available in our upcoming mushroom classes on Tuesday, February 27th or Sunday, March 5th. You can sign up for the class here: https://enchantednaturetours.com/mushroom-class
†This article is not meant to diagnose, treat, mitigate or cure any diseases.†
Seriously, if you have a medical condition, seek proper medical attention and advice.
†This article is not meant to diagnose, treat, mitigate or cure any diseases.†
Seriously, if you have a medical condition, seek proper medical attention and advice.
Previous Fungi
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Velvet Foot Mushroom
Flamulina velutipes Greetings Friends of Fungus. We hope that you've found some time to spend observing the wonders of winter. One mushroom that you may find in our region at this time of year is the Velvet Foot mushroom. It has a sticky, rubbery brown cap that can be tinged orange, reddish or yellowish. The reproductive surface is gills. This mushroom grows from hardwood species. The white Enoki (aka Enokitake) mushrooms that you sometimes find at grocery store are actually a cultivated variety of this mushroom. While Velvet Foot mushrooms are edible, we advise extreme caution in being 100% sure of your identification. The lookalike for this mushroom is Galerina marginata whose common name is The Deadly Galerina! I think the name is explicit enough to explain our caution. The Velvet Foot has a white spore print while the Deadly Gallerina has a brown spore print. Another defining characteristic is that Gallerina marginata has a ring (called annulus in mycologist vernacular) while Flammulina velutipes does not. If you are enjoying our weekly mushroom postings, please stop by The Necessary Mercantile and let us know. We have a selection of field guides, maps, mycology books, mushroom knives and lots of mushrooms to see and touch. We still have a few logs left too if you would like to grow your own mushrooms. |
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Scarlet Elf Cup
Sarcoscypha austriaca Hello Friends of Fungus. This week we're going to look at the Scarlet Elf Cup mushroom. As you can see, it is easy to spot in the forest because of it's striking red color. It's not hard to imagine where the name came from. Their cheery red color and water holding cup shape could inspire visions of woodland elves using them for some liquid refreshment. Sarcocypha austriaca can be found between December and April in damp deciduous forests. They are saprotrophic, so you will find them growing from downed sticks. They have a preference for moss covered Sycamore, Willow, and Beech wood. As they decompose the wood, they release necessary nutrients for early spring plants. Unlike most other edible mushrooms, Elf Cups are ascomycetes. This means that they actively shoot their spores, which are white, into the air. The more common basidiomycetes simply drop their spores through gills or pores. You might be able to observe the spore "shooting" by gently blowing on them. The moving air may trigger them to shoot up a cloud of spores. |
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Scarlet Elf Cups are edible and lend themselves to interesting presentations by filling them up with meats, herbs or more mushrooms. The stunning red color can brighten up any dish. As always, we caution you to never eat a mushroom unless you are 100% sure that it is safe.
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Witch's Butter
Tremella mesenterica Hello Friends of Fungus. In winter, we see a lot of polypores like Turkey Tails and other bracket fungus as we search the forest. You might be lucky enough find this pretty little jelly fungus. Witch's Butter also called Golden Jelly Fungus or Yellow Trembler is normally found on deadwood. Often you will spot them on hardwood sticks a couple of inches or smaller. You may think that this is a saprobe (decomposer) because it is found on dead wood. It is actually a parasitic fungus that consumes the mycelium of a crust fungus in the genus Peniphora. The fruiting body is smooth and gelatinous. These fungi are common throughout the world. They are edible but not considered "choice" as the flavor is bland. One interesting use of Tremella mesenterica is its presence in cosmetics and creams. One "anit-aging" lotion that I found online charges $75.00 for a 2 ounce jar of cream. Before you start smearing jelly fungus all over your face, realize that there are some doppelganger fungi that can only be distinguished by looking at your specimen with a microscope. With a name like Witch's Butter, you know there is a lot of folklore associated with it. The most common story is that it would be found on door frames of old houses before the days of chemical paints and treatments. If you found it on the door, your house was cursed by a witch. Another story says that a group of witches would steal milk from the family cow and leave bit's of Witch's "Butter" lying about. A different take says that if you throw Witch's Butter into a fire, you can defend yourself against witchcraft. |
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LATTICE PUFFBALL
Calostoma lutescens One of our Friends of Fungus submitted these pics of Lattice Puffballs growing from a very cold and icy George Washington National Forest. There many fungi and lichens in the forest all winter long. If you find any, please send a pic to ChurchvilleStore@gmail.com This mushroom is not kin to giant puffballs (Calvatia gigantea) or stalked puffballs in the genus Podaxis It is in the same family as Castoloma cinnabarina, and shares a strikingly unique fruiting body. The cap isn't a cap. It is a spore casing on top of the stem. These type of fungi used to belong to a group named gasteroid fungi (stomach fungi) because they produce their spores on the interior rather than on an out surface. That term is now obsolete and the class is polyphyletic. These fungi are common in Virginia and the southern Appalachians. They are saprotrophic meaning that they decay dead or dying material. |
The Fly Agaric Mushroom Amanita muscaria This pretty little mushroom is often found depicted in children's books with elves or fairies. Being an Amanita, it has a bulbous base known as a volva. The reproductive surface is gills. The gills are free meaning that they do not connect to the stem. The red cap with white warts is probably the most recognizable characteristic. If you look at the stem (stipe), you will notice a ring that is called an annulus. You can find some cute Amanita Muscaria earrings at The Necessary Mercantile if you're looking for a last minute gift. |
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Cracked Cap Polypore
Phellinus robiniae
If you ask a mushroom forager and a mycologist if there are mushrooms out in the winter, you might get two different answers. A forager is searching for something edible while a mycologist is keeping a lookout for all things fungal. There are most definitely mushrooms revealing themselves during the winter. What you will usually find are perennial polypores if you live in the seasonal climates. The photograph above was taken during an ice storm in the middle of December.
Phellinus robiniae is both parasitic and saprophytic. It is usually found on Locust trees. It can be found on other decaying hardwoods as well. It is a disease for Locust trees but will decay a variety of hardwoods after they have died.
Phellinus robiniae is currently being studied in medicinal applications for hyperglycemia and diabetes. If you would like to see the mushroom in the picture above, stop by The Necessary Mercantile.
Strawberries and Cream Mushrooms
Hydnum peckii
The kingdom of fungi is full of peculiar and beautiful life forms. Hydnum peckii is a perfect example. It is peculiarly beautiful.
Hydnum peckii is also called strawberries and cream, bleeding tooth fungus, devil's tooth, bleeding hynellum, and bile tooth.
The red exudate on top of the mushroom makes it easy identify. When plants and fungi exude liquids like this, the process is called guttation.
These mushrooms may resemble strawberries and cream to some but they do not taste the same. While this fungi is not toxic, it is too bitter to eat. These mushrooms contain medicinal properties. A study revealed that a 70% ethanol extract of Hydnellum peckii had an effective anticoagulant known as Atromentin which is similar to the pharmaceutical Heparin. In vivo, 1mg of the ethanol extract was equivalent to .58 units of Heparin.
The shape can vary wildly. It is cream colored with red liquid exuding from the top. As you can see in the picture above, it has teeth as a fertile surface.
Growing
Humans have been using fungi for food, drink, and medicine for thousands of years. Edible mushrooms can turn into amazing culinary creations. Yeast gives us leavened bread, wine, and beer. Many conventional medicines come from fungi. Think of the thousands of lives that have been saved by Penicillin. Fungi can also be used to improve soil health, clean up toxic chemicals, purify water, replace foam packaging, and new applications are consistently being discovered. Fungi is truly a gift to humanity.
Just like hunter/gatherers evolved into farmers, humans have figured out how to cultivate fungi instead of relying solely on Mother Nature. Small scale mushroom "gardening" is gaining popularity because people are discovering that you don't need a laboratory to achieve success. They can be grown on logs, in bags, on straw, in garden beds, in vegetable gardens and on waste like newspaper. You can grow mushrooms by simply purchasing a pre-inoculated bag and placing it in a bowl of water.
Mushrooms have been gaining popularity worldwide and there is no end in sight. In London, the Kew Gardens' kitchen garden now includes mushrooms. Next year, the Royal Horticultural Society will create a fungi display at the Chelsea flower show for the first time. Books, movies and television shows are following the trend too.
Growing your own has many benefits. You can grow gourmet varieties that are not available at your local grocery. Mushrooms can be grown in unused spaces under the shade of a tree, in a shed, or anywhere indoors. Mushrooms can be grown in your vegetable garden while helping your vegetable plants to thrive.
If you're interested in growing your own mushrooms, The Necessary Mercantile can get you started.
Tradd Cotter of Mushroom Mountain demonstrates log/stump cultivation below:
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Shiitake Mushroom Lentinula edodes Shittaké are edible mushrooms native to East Asia and cultivated around the world. Shiitake comes from the Japanese language. Shii is from the Japanese Chinquapin tree, which they may be found growing on, and také is for mushroom. Lentinula edodes grows on hardwood logs and are reasonably easy to cultivate in our region. They have a brown cap with cream colored spots. The reproductive surface is gills. The flavor is rich and earthy. The texture is meaty, making this an extremely versatile ingredient. Try mixing 4 tablespoons of soy sauce with 1/2 tablespoon of sesame oil. Mix the ingredients well. After you sauté your mushrooms, drizzle the mix over them. Shiitake mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for generations. Lentinula edodes contain polysaccharides like lentinans and other beta-glucans. They also have one of the highest contents of naturally occurring copper. Copper supports healthy blood vessels, bones, and immune system functions. A half cup serving of Shiitake mushrooms provides 72 percent of your recommended daily intake (RDI) of copper. That same serving provides 33 percent of your RDI of selenium. If you're interested in learning how to grow these delicious and nutritious culinary treasures, stop by The Necessary Mercantile and we will give you some pointers. |
The White Button Mushroom
Agaricus bisporus
Many people will be gathering with loved ones next week to celebrate the American holiday of Thanksgiving. Some of you may be looking for mushrooms to broaden the gustatory offerings on the menu. If you are lucky enough to find Oyster mushrooms, Maitake mushrooms, or Shiitake mushrooms, take advantage of your good luck. Most will only find or simply choose the ubiquitous White Button Mushroom.
This mushroom may not have the rock-star status of many other gourmet mushrooms but it is a work-horse ingredient for chefs worldwide. Many people that say they don't like mushrooms have only tried this variety. There are numerous edible mushroom varieties to try and a nearly infinite number of ways to prepare them.
Agaricus bisporus can be found growing naturally in North America. They are native. Cultivated mushrooms are consistent in color and shape. White Button mushrooms actually turn into Portobello mushrooms when they mature. In the wild, the color can vary not only from where you find the mushroom growing, but by the age of the mushroom. The often deadly Destroying Angel mushroom could be confused as a lookalike.
There is a debate among professional chefs, foragers and amateurs about whether to wash your mushrooms or not. Some will advise to brush off your mushrooms and at most "wipe them" with a damp cloth. As someone that is experienced with food safety, cooking, mushroom foraging, and mushroom cultivation, it is my advice that you should ALWAYS wash your mushrooms and ALWAYS cook them. Some edible mushrooms can you make you quite ill when raw.
Store mushrooms in a breathable package like a paper bag. The plastic wrap that you find covering White Buttons in the grocery is actually perforated. Mushrooms must have air exchange or they will quickly rot.
Wash your mushrooms just before using them. Wet mushrooms will rot. Mushrooms make a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.
The Artist's Conk
Ganoderma applanatum
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If you find time for a walk in a forest, you may find a Ganoderma applanatum, commonly known as The Artist's Conk growing on a tree in almost any state across the US and Canada. These mushrooms grow through all seasons, so you may find one with snow on top of it. Artist's Conk gets it's name, because one can etch designs into the underside. The underside has pores and is white. |
These mushrooms can grow quite large and colors on top are extremely variable. The main lookalike for Ganoderma applanatum is the Red Belted Polypore which is easily distinguished by the red "belt" along the outer edge.
Artist's Conk has been used medicinally in China for thousands of years. It is too tough to eat, but is often cut up and steeped to make a tea. It can also be powdered and added to a smoothie.
Artist's conk is high in antioxidants. It is also being studied for cancer prevention and treatment.
Artist's conk contains many beneficial compounds. It contains beta-glucan polysaccharides which work to improve immune function. They also contain triterpenes which are know to support digestive function, hepatic function, aid in the assimilation of nutrients, and aid in the elimination of waste in the body. There are also many sterols and polypheolic compounds that likely add to its medicinal properties. If you're interested in learning more, check out research on the
National Institute of Health.
If you would like to see some Artist's Conk mushrooms, stop by the Necessary Mercantile. We have some on display.
Artist's Conk has been used medicinally in China for thousands of years. It is too tough to eat, but is often cut up and steeped to make a tea. It can also be powdered and added to a smoothie.
Artist's conk is high in antioxidants. It is also being studied for cancer prevention and treatment.
Artist's conk contains many beneficial compounds. It contains beta-glucan polysaccharides which work to improve immune function. They also contain triterpenes which are know to support digestive function, hepatic function, aid in the assimilation of nutrients, and aid in the elimination of waste in the body. There are also many sterols and polypheolic compounds that likely add to its medicinal properties. If you're interested in learning more, check out research on the
National Institute of Health.
If you would like to see some Artist's Conk mushrooms, stop by the Necessary Mercantile. We have some on display.
The Iceman Fungus
Fomes fomentarius
Fomes fomentarius is commonly known as the hoof fungus because of its resemblance to a horse's hoof. It is also known as a tinder conk. This name comes from it's ability to smolder for days at a time. Before matches and lighters were invented, starting a fire involved a lot of effort. This fungus could be carried as a glowing ember. With just a few strong blows, one could get a fire started.
This mushroom is a bit of a celebrity in the fungal world for another reason. In 1991, hikers in the Alps along the border of Austria and Italy made an accidental yet amazing discovery. They found Ötzi, a glacier mummy preserved by the ice. This mummy is older than the pyramids and Stonehenge. He is over 5,300 years old and he carried two pieces of Fomes fomentarius on rawhide. It is believed that he used the fungus medicinally for its antibiotic and styptic qualities. If you are interested in seeing some Iceman Fungus, stop by the Necessary Mercantile. We have some on display!
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Left: A replica of Otzi
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The Fungus That Eats Insects
Ophiocordyceps unilateralis
Halloween is just a few days away and this is the perfect time to learn about Ophiocordyceps unilateralis. It was once thought that this fungus only existed in tropical regions. In 2009, a species of this fungus was found in the United States. Ophiocordyceps infects ants and then takes control of their bodies. This fungal behavior is what gives it the name "zombie fungus". Here's how it works. A microscopic spore lands on the ant's cuticle and fuses itself to the ant. It then uses a massive amount of pressure to get itself through the ants exoskeleton. The pressure the fungus produces is equal to the amount of pressure in the tire of a 747 jet. Once the spore makes its way into an ant's bloodstream, it begins to replicate itself. As these spores reproduce, they fuse together to form a mycelium in the ant. The fungus infiltrates the hollow spaces between the muscles and penetrates the muscles themselves. It is debated whether the fungus actually penetrates the brain or exudes chemicals that control it. Either way, the fungus directs the host to leave the colony. Other workers would obviously notice their coworkers odd behavior, kill it and drag it to a graveyard away from the colony's home base. The fungus then directs the ant up a tree to bite down on the vein of a leaf. This seems to reliably bee at a specific height every time. At this point, the fungus kills the ant and the actual mushroom forms on the back of the ant's head. The mushroom then rains spores on the other ants below and the process begins again.
Cordyceps are being studied for many uses including: free radical scavenging, antisenescence, anti-inflammatory, and as an antiartherosclerotic. Medical research is also studying its effects on the nervous system, glucose metabolism, the respiratory, hepatic, cardiovascular, and immune systems, immunologic disease, cancer and diseases of the kidneys.
The American Cauliflower Mushroom
Sparassis americana
This mushroom looks like somebody dumped a pot of egg noodles in the forest. The American Cauliflower mushroom is white to a light cream color. It is saprotrophic and found at the base dying or decaying conifers. They have a white spore print. Like Hen of the Woods, you only find them at the base of the tree. You won't find them growing from the trunk.
These mushrooms can grow to over 10 pounds. Cauliflower mushrooms are considered a choice edible. If you are lucky enough to find one and decide to harvest it, always cut it at the base. Do not pull it. This fungal fruit will continue to produce for years, so mark your GPS and your calendar if you find one.
The Sickener Mushroom
Russula emetica
Both the common and binomial names of this fungal fruit are clues that you don't want to eat it. If you know what an emetic does, you will know what would happen to someone that foolishly eats this mushroom. Russula emetica is common in coniferous forests. They occur throughout Britain, Ireland mainland Europe, North America, as well as in northern Africa and some Asian countries. The white stems and gills contrasting with the red caps make them extremely easy to spot and identify. The reproductive surface is gills and the spore print is white to light cream.
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They are mycorrhizal and team up with Spruce and Pine trees.
The red caps will begin as scarlet red and convex. As they mature, the cap will invert into a concave shape the the red will begin to fade. |
Shaggy Mane Mushroom
Coprinus comatus
This easily identified mushroom is commonly called the Shaggy Mane, Shaggy Inkcap, or Lawyer's Wig mushroom. It grows on soil but is saprobic because it gets its food from decaying organic material.
The Shaggy Mane was first described by Danish naturalist Otto Friedrich Müller in 1780 as Agaricus comatus. Its current binomial name, Coprinus comatus was given by Christian Hendrick Persoon in 1797.
The "shaggy" cap that initially covers most of the stem is the first identifiable feature to look for. The species name, comatus is derived from the Latin word for "hairy" or "shaggy".
When cut in half, Shaggy Manes have a hollow stem with a string in the middle of it. You will also notice that it has a bulbous stem base.
Shaggy Manes are one of the approximately 350 species known as Inky Caps. If you let this mushroom rot in a bowl, the resulting black "ink" can be thinned with water and used for writing or drawing. The ink has a bit of a foul odor until it dries.
This mushroom is edible but there are some toxic fungi that look similar, so always be 100% sure before you eat any mushroom. Be advised that this mushroom contains a chemical known as coprine. When mixed with alcohol it will cause some extremely unpleasant side effects. This phenomenon is the reason for one of its other common names, Tippler's Bane. Symptoms of coprine poisoning include facial reddening, malaise, tingling in the limbs, headaches, excessive salivation, agitation, palpitations, nausea, and vomiting.
Shaggy Manes are one of the approximately 350 species known as Inky Caps. If you let this mushroom rot in a bowl, the resulting black "ink" can be thinned with water and used for writing or drawing. The ink has a bit of a foul odor until it dries.
This mushroom is edible but there are some toxic fungi that look similar, so always be 100% sure before you eat any mushroom. Be advised that this mushroom contains a chemical known as coprine. When mixed with alcohol it will cause some extremely unpleasant side effects. This phenomenon is the reason for one of its other common names, Tippler's Bane. Symptoms of coprine poisoning include facial reddening, malaise, tingling in the limbs, headaches, excessive salivation, agitation, palpitations, nausea, and vomiting.
Hen of the Woods Mushroom
Greetings Friends of Fungus. Last week, we introduced the Chicken of the Woods mushroom. This week, Hen of the Woods (Grifola frondosa) is our featured fungus. This mushroom is also called Maitake (Dancing Mushroom), Sheep's Head, and King of the Mushrooms. In China, it is known as "hui-shu-hua" which means grey tree flower.
Grifola frondosa is a polypore fungus that grows at the base of old hardwood trees, generally Oak and Maple. It is native to North America, parts of Asia, and Europe.
The reproductive surface (underside) is pores. This mushroom is always found growing on wood.
Grifola Frondosa has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to enhance immunity, control diabetes, as an anti-hypertensive, as an anti-viral, to control non-fatty liver disease, as an anti-tumor, and many other applications. Medical research is ongoing.
This is a choice edible. There are some similar mushrooms. One called Berkley's Polypore is sometimes mistaken for Hen of the Woods. If you're interested in trying Hen of the Woods, we have them for sale at The Necessary Mercantile in Churchville.
Cooking Suggestion
*Wash your Hen of the Woods thoroughly just before cooking.
Pat them dry.
*In a skillet/frying pan, melt some butter and olive oil, some bacon drippings, or use your favorite cooking oil.
*Place the whole clump of Hen of the Woods into the skillet and then place a cast iron skillet on top of the mushrooms to press them down. If you don't have a heavy skillet, a pan with a rock in it will work.
*Sear the mushroom for about 4 minutes without disturbing it.
*Flip the mushroom and sear for another 4 minutes.
*Remove it from the heat and season it with salt and pepper to taste. At this point, you could also use steak sauce, worcestershire sauce, barbecue sauce, or any other condiment that you like. The result is a delicious and nutritious steak like fare that can be paired with seasonal vegetables for an exquisite culinary experience.
*Wash your Hen of the Woods thoroughly just before cooking.
Pat them dry.
*In a skillet/frying pan, melt some butter and olive oil, some bacon drippings, or use your favorite cooking oil.
*Place the whole clump of Hen of the Woods into the skillet and then place a cast iron skillet on top of the mushrooms to press them down. If you don't have a heavy skillet, a pan with a rock in it will work.
*Sear the mushroom for about 4 minutes without disturbing it.
*Flip the mushroom and sear for another 4 minutes.
*Remove it from the heat and season it with salt and pepper to taste. At this point, you could also use steak sauce, worcestershire sauce, barbecue sauce, or any other condiment that you like. The result is a delicious and nutritious steak like fare that can be paired with seasonal vegetables for an exquisite culinary experience.
Chicken of the Woods Mushroom
Howdy-do Friends of Fungus. The fungus of the week is Chicken of the Woods (Laetiporus sulphureus). These mushrooms are also commonly called crab of the woods, sulphur shelf, and sulphur polypore.
It is a bracket fungus that ranges in color from bright orange to sulphur yellow. It is found in North America and Europe. The reproductive surface (underside) is pores. This mushroom is always found growing on wood.
Laetiporus sulphureus was first described as Boletus sulphureus in 1789 by French mycologist Pierre Bulliard. It was given its current name in 1920 by American mycologist William Murrill. Pharmacological research supports traditional medicinal claims/uses and has revealed new possibilities. Cytotoxic, anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and antioxidant effects have been observed.
This is a choice edible but as always, it is up to know what you're eating. There are some similar mushrooms that can cause terrible gastrointestinal problems. Chicken of the Woods must be cooked. If you're interested in trying Chicken of the Woods, we have some for sale at The Necessary Mercantile in Churchville this weekend. If you can't make it in on Thursday, there may still be some left on Saturday from 10-2:00.
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Crown Tipped Coral Mushroom Hello Friends of Fungus. We hope that you've had some time to spend mushroom hunting. With the recent rain and temperature fluctuations, fungal fruits of various varieties have been popping up. The fungus among us this week is the Crown Tipped Coral Mushroom (Artomyces pyxidatus (formerly Clavicorona pyxidata). These beautiful mushrooms get their name from the resemblance to the invertebrate creatures under the sea. There are many coral mushroom varieties. Some are edible and some are toxic. This one happens to be edible and quite delicious. It can make a stunning presentation as a garnish on a special meal. Identification begins with their coral like shape. Crown Tipped Corals always grow on dead and dying hardwood. The color ranges from cream to tan. Looking closely at the tips, you see the crown like protrusions that give this mushroom its name. If you're interested in learning more about mushroom identification, we will be offering a presentation at The Necessary Mercantile in Churchville, VA this Saturday, September 17th at 10:30 am. For more information: Follow us on Facebook. On Saturday, October 1, 2022 at 1:00 pm, we will be meeting at The Necessary Mercantile in Churchville, VA. From there, we will caravan to Braley Pond for an expedition and exploration of all things fungal. A delicious lunch will be provided by White's Wayside. More details coming soon. For more information: Follow us on Facebook. |
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Varnish Shelf Mushroom
Ganoderma tsugae
This stunning mushroom is commonly called the Varnish Shelf or Hemlock Varnish Shelf because of it's shiny surface. It grows almost exclusively on Hemlock trees, whose taxonomic name is Tsuga. The Ganoderma genus includes about 80 species including the often cultivated Ganoderma lucidum.
G. tsugae was first described by American mycologist William Alphonso Murrill in the Bulletin of the Torrey Botanical Club, Vol. 29 in 1902. In Japan, they refer to this mushroom as Reishi. For over 7,000 years the Chinese have been using Reishi in traditional medicine. It is so revered that they call it Lingzhi which translates to, "the mushroom of immortality". This mushroom is not a choice edible but is often used to make tinctures and teas.
A quick search of The National Library of Medicine reveals that these mushrooms and the polysaccharides that they contain are being studied for various medical benefits.
As you can see, the color ranges from a deep burgundy color to a brownish cream color along the edge. The reproductive surface is pores. These pores are normally cream colored and it is a bracket fungus. They are saprobic so they will always be on wood. The spore print is brown.
If you would like to see this mushroom in person come see us at The Necessary Mercantile. We offer a variety of teas made with Reishi mushrooms and also sell dried Reishi so that you can make your own tinctures and teas.
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Lichens
Greetings Friends of Fungus. The fungus of the week is something a little out of the ordinary. We are likin' lichens lately. Lichens are actually two or more different organisms. They are a fungus that has teamed up with algae and/or cyanobacteria. Fungus provides structure and protection from the elements for the photosynthesis performing partners. The cyanobacteria/algae shares some of the food it produces with the fungus. Lichens are essentially there own self-contained symbiotic ecosystem. We cannot begin to cover all of the interesting information about lichens in this post. You're in luck though! Friends of Fungus will be teaming up with Enchanted Nature Tours to offer an informative presentation and guided hike in the George Washington National Forest. On Saturday, October 1, 2022 at 1:00 pm, we will be meeting at The Necessary Mercantile in Churchville, VA. From there, we will caravan to Braley Pond for an expedition and exploration of all things fungal.
A delicious lunch will be provided by White's Wayside.
More details coming soon. For more information: Follow us on Facebook.
Oyster Mushroom
Pleurotus ostreatus
The AMAZING Oyster Mushroom has been found in our region recently. Pleurotus ostreatus mushrooms are amazing because of their many wonderful qualities.
Oysters are delicious and nutritious. The name comes from their resemblance to the mollusk. The flavor does not taste like seafood at all. Pleurotus ostreatus also produces the chemical Lovastatin which is used as a cholesterol-lowering pharmaceutical. A quick search of Pleurotus ostreatus on
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
will reveal that these fungi are being studied for many other medicinal properties as well.
Oyster mushrooms are cream colored and fruit on wood in shelf like clusters. They have gills. While the mushrooms themselves are found growing on wood, the mycelium is found in soil too. In fact, soil is often inoculated with Pleurotus ostreatus to control plant killing nematodes and for mycoremediation. To see an example of mycoremediation, watch the video below.
Oyster mushrooms come in many colors and are relatively easy to cultivate. If you are interested in growing your own, The Necessary Mercantile in Chuchville, VA has ready to grow kits called "Shroom Blooms" for sale.
Photo by Jack Wilson
Lion's Mane
Hericium erinaceus
Lion's Mane mushrooms should be appearing soon here in the Shenandoah Valley. They will be spotted growing on dead and dying hardwood trees (Saprophytic). Unlike most other fungi, Lion's Mane will grow on Black Walnut trees.
They are white and have an unusual shape. They are covered with teeth (sometimes called spines), which look like draped white hairs. There are other similar species in the Hericium genus but there are no lookalikes for the Lion's Mane. When cooked with butter, Lion's Mane tastes similar to lobster or crab. If you're interested in tasting some that have been cultivated, The Necessary Mercantile in Chuchville, VA has dehydrated mushrooms for sale.
Research has demonstrated that Lion's Mane may protect against dementia, reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, and help repair nerve damage. It also has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting abilities and been shown to lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, ulcers and diabetes in animals.
GIANT PUFFBALL
Calvatia gigantea
In a previous fungi post, we learned about the Lattice Puffball. This week, we will discuss the more popular and edible Giant Puffball. Calvatia gigantea is a harbinger that autumn is approaching. When the leaves begin to turn, you will find these fungi growing in meadows and along wooded edges.
Giant Puffballs grow from the soil, but are actually saprobic. This means that they are breaking down organic material. They are easily recognized by their smooth white exterior. Often, they appear more like a partially deflated ball than a perfect sphere, but never like an inverted pear.
The interior is white, turning yellow-green with age, and finally brown as it dissolves into trillions of spores. The shape, color, and texture is very similar to buffalo mozzarella cheese.
Calvatia gigantea
In a previous fungi post, we learned about the Lattice Puffball. This week, we will discuss the more popular and edible Giant Puffball. Calvatia gigantea is a harbinger that autumn is approaching. When the leaves begin to turn, you will find these fungi growing in meadows and along wooded edges.
Giant Puffballs grow from the soil, but are actually saprobic. This means that they are breaking down organic material. They are easily recognized by their smooth white exterior. Often, they appear more like a partially deflated ball than a perfect sphere, but never like an inverted pear.
The interior is white, turning yellow-green with age, and finally brown as it dissolves into trillions of spores. The shape, color, and texture is very similar to buffalo mozzarella cheese.
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Jack Among The Jack O'Lanterns
(Omphalotus illudens)
Jack is lying among Jack O'Lantern mushrooms. These pretty orange mushrooms grow on decaying wood (saprophytic). You can see that they are growing out of a stump and rotting roots. The mushrooms growing out of the roots appear to be growing in the soil because the wood is buried. This phenomenon can lead some enthusiasts to mistake Jack Lanterns for delicious Chanterelle mushrooms. If you eat Jack Lanterns you will regret it. They will cause extreme digestive distress. So how do you tell the difference? Chanterelles always grow on soil and Jack Lanterns always grow on wood. Jack Lanterns have gills while Chanterelles have ridges. Chanterelles have a distinctive apricot-like aroma while Jack Lanterns do not. One other interesting characteristic of Ompholotus illudens is that it glows in the dark (bioluminescent). The mushroom on Jack's chest is a Puffball. We will discuss that mushroom in a future post.
(Omphalotus illudens)
Jack is lying among Jack O'Lantern mushrooms. These pretty orange mushrooms grow on decaying wood (saprophytic). You can see that they are growing out of a stump and rotting roots. The mushrooms growing out of the roots appear to be growing in the soil because the wood is buried. This phenomenon can lead some enthusiasts to mistake Jack Lanterns for delicious Chanterelle mushrooms. If you eat Jack Lanterns you will regret it. They will cause extreme digestive distress. So how do you tell the difference? Chanterelles always grow on soil and Jack Lanterns always grow on wood. Jack Lanterns have gills while Chanterelles have ridges. Chanterelles have a distinctive apricot-like aroma while Jack Lanterns do not. One other interesting characteristic of Ompholotus illudens is that it glows in the dark (bioluminescent). The mushroom on Jack's chest is a Puffball. We will discuss that mushroom in a future post.
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Old Man of the Woods Mushroom
(Strobilomyces spp.) The Old Man of the Woods is a wonderfully photogenic mushroom in the Bolete family. It is found on the forest floor (mycorrhizal with Oaks). The cap and the stem are covered in shaggy scales . The reproductive surface is pores. This is an edible mushroom but we do not eat them or tell others to. This tasteless beauty is a treat for your camera only. |
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Chanterelle
(Cantharellus cibarius)
Chanterelle mushrooms are one of the choice edibles that grow wild in our region. They are easy to spot in the forest due to their yellow to orange color. They are mycorrhizal with coniferous trees. They always will be growing on the soil and never found growing out of wood. When you slice or tear them open, the interior is white. They have ridges on the underside of the cap. This is different than the normal pores, teeth, or gills. The ridges look similar to gills, however they are much more rigid. Gills are more fragile and break easily if you brush your finger across them. Another identifier is the fragrance. If you smell a Chanterelle, you will notice a mild apricot-like aroma.
(Cantharellus cibarius)
Chanterelle mushrooms are one of the choice edibles that grow wild in our region. They are easy to spot in the forest due to their yellow to orange color. They are mycorrhizal with coniferous trees. They always will be growing on the soil and never found growing out of wood. When you slice or tear them open, the interior is white. They have ridges on the underside of the cap. This is different than the normal pores, teeth, or gills. The ridges look similar to gills, however they are much more rigid. Gills are more fragile and break easily if you brush your finger across them. Another identifier is the fragrance. If you smell a Chanterelle, you will notice a mild apricot-like aroma.
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Turkey Tails are one of the great medicinal mushrooms and quite common in our woods.
The second pic shows False Turkey Tails (Stereum Ostrea).
They are beautiful and harmless, but not what we are looking for.
You can buy dried, locally harvested Turkey Tails and the Necessary Mercantile.
We’ve also posted suggestions on how to process them into an extract.
Jack’s quick and happy method for extracting Turkey Tails.
I. Add dry or fresh Turkey Tail to your evening libation - Enjoy
II. In the morning, move the Turkey Tail to your morning tea or coffee
The second pic shows False Turkey Tails (Stereum Ostrea).
They are beautiful and harmless, but not what we are looking for.
You can buy dried, locally harvested Turkey Tails and the Necessary Mercantile.
We’ve also posted suggestions on how to process them into an extract.
Jack’s quick and happy method for extracting Turkey Tails.
I. Add dry or fresh Turkey Tail to your evening libation - Enjoy
II. In the morning, move the Turkey Tail to your morning tea or coffee