Oyster mushrooms can grow in large numbers, and many different clusters can be found on the same tree. Many sulphur shelf mushrooms may grow on a single tree, with individual mushrooms growing heavier than 50 pounds (23 kg) (15). brunnescens. Testing showed an hour of UV light exposure before harvesting made a serving of mushrooms contain twice the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's daily recommendation of vitamin D, and 5 minutes of artificial UV light exposure after harvesting made a serving of mushrooms contain four times the FDA's daily recommendation of vitamin D.[26] Analysis also demonstrated that natural sunlight produced vitamin D2.[27]. They are claimed to improve health by removing toxins from the body. Some mushroom hunters have scored massive mushrooms weighing up to 50 pounds (about 23 kg), but most weigh 3–15 pounds (1.5–7 kg) (3). Throughout history, people around the world have foraged wild mushrooms for food. "A study of cultural bias in field guide determinations of mushroom edibility using the iconic mushroom, "Wild Mushroom Warning. A commonly eaten mushroom is the white mushroom (Agaricus bisporus). This mushroom also contains powerful health-promoting compounds, including complex carbohydrates called glucans. The content of vitamin D is absent or low unless mushrooms are exposed to sunlight or purposely treated with artificial ultraviolet light (see below), even after harvesting and processed into dry powder.[26][27]. Dryad’s Saddle (scientific name Cerioporus squamosus, aka Polyporus squamosus), also known as “pheasant's back” is a polypore mushroom in the broad… keep reading → Matsutake Mushrooms – A Most Sought-After Food GEM-STUDDED, PEAR-SHAPED, and GIANT PUFFBALLS Scientific names: Lycoperdon perlatum, L. … They have been shown to have antifungal, tumor-inhibiting, and antioxidant properties in test-tube and animal studies (18, 19, 20, 21). A fraction of the many fungi consumed by humans are currently cultivated and sold commercially. Mushroom, the conspicuous umbrella-shaped fruiting body (sporophore) of certain fungi, typically of the order Agaricales in the phylum Basidiomycota but also of some other groups. For your safety, it’s critical that you only hunt mushrooms if you are experienced in identifying edible varieties. Avoid mushrooms that grow in polluted environments or are past their prime. Edible mushrooms include many fungal species that are either harvested wild or cultivated. Here’s a look at the nutritional benefits. For example, test-tube research shows that oyster mushrooms have properties that help fight prostate, colon, and breast cancer cells. The scientific name of Oyster mushroom is “Pleurotus”. Mushrooms are extremely popular eatables and are used profusely in cuisines the world over. This mushroom is native to China but also grows in Japan and North America, especially the northeastern United States. Mushrooms are cultivated in at least 60 countries[10] with China, the United States, Poland, Netherlands, and India being the top five producers in 2013.[11]. Common store mushroom. When in season they can be purchased fresh, and many species are sold dried as well. Oyster Mushrooms. They grow on conifer trees should be avoided, as they can cause severe allergic reactions in some people (16). They are grayish-brown in color and resemble the ruffled tail feathers of a sitting hen. [4] Mushroom Poisoning: Don't Invite "The Death Angel" to Dinner", "Analysis of mushroom exposures in Texas requiring hospitalization, 2005–2006", "Deadly death cap mushrooms found in Canberra's inner-south as season begins early", "Food and Agriculture Organization of the United States", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Edible_mushroom&oldid=991290310, Wikipedia articles needing page number citations from December 2013, Articles containing Russian-language text, Articles needing additional references from November 2018, All articles needing additional references, Wikipedia articles incorporating citation to the NSRW, Wikipedia articles incorporating citation to the NSRW with an wstitle parameter, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License, This page was last edited on 29 November 2020, at 08:28. Edible mushrooms are the fleshy and edible fruit bodies of several species of macrofungi (fungi which bear fruiting structures that are large enough to be seen with the naked eye). It has two color states while immature – white and brown – both of which have various names, with additional names for the mature state. Fresh, wild mushrooms should last a few days in the refrigerator. Hen-of-the-woods can grow quite large. bisporus. The following species are commonly harvested from the wild: A collection of Boletus edulis of varying ages. Oyster mushrooms can be found on dead or dying hardwood trees around the world. A way to remedy excess estrogen is to try…. Popular among novice mushroom hunters, hen-of-the-woods are commonly found growing at the base of an oak tree. Sulphur shelf mushrooms are typically orange or yellow in color and grow in overlapping shelf-like clusters on hardwoods, such as oak, willow, and chestnut. This article lists 3 edible wild mushrooms, as well as 5 poisonous mushrooms to avoid. They can sometimes be found growing on fallen branches and dead stumps (10). [29] Such use of mushrooms therefore falls into the domain of traditional medicine[30] for which there is no high-quality clinical evidence of efficacy. Agaricus bisporus is an edible basidiomycete mushroom native to grasslands in Europe and North America. Sulphur shelf mushrooms should be eaten cooked ⁠— not raw. 6 Mushrooms That Act as Turbo-Shots for Your Immune System, 5 Immune-Boosting Benefits of Turkey Tail Mushroom, 7 Foods for Lowering Estrogen Levels in Men. Oyster mushrooms are excellent sautéed with onions and garlic as a side dish. Signs that a mushroom should not be picked include decaying flesh, insect infestation, or a rancid smell. Depending on the time of year, the tops of the oyster-shaped caps of these mushrooms can range from white to brownish-gray and are typically 2–8 inches (5–20 cm) wide (10). Great care should therefore be taken when eating any fungus for the first time, and only small quantities should be consumed in case of individual allergies. What’s more, research shows that these mushrooms may have anticancer, cholesterol-reducing, and anti-inflammatory properties (7, 8, 9). Our guide aims to help you identify the best to eat and the most important ones not to pick. Don’t confuse it with a look-alike species that grows on conifers. They have a mild taste and contain an abundance of nutrients. However, those who do it must proceed with the utmost caution. Mushrooms Demystified, 2nd ed. Some of these species are harvested from the wild, and can be found in markets. Grifola frondosa grow well at … Oyster mushrooms grow in forests around the world, including throughout North America. [9], Mushroom cultivation has a long history, with over twenty species commercially cultivated. bernardii. Many wild species are consumed around the world. Far south Amanita/ Amanita australis. Ten Speed Press, 1986, Learn how and when to remove this template message, form of vitamin D as is produced by UV-irradiation of human, "Khumbhi (Mushroom), A Delicious Wild Vegetable Dish of Tharparkar Desert-Sindh Pakistan | Jhangi Zone", "Put the science of umami to work for you", "Every Type Of Mushroom You Need To Know About", "What's the Difference Between Cremini and Portobello Mushrooms? The oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) is a delicious edible mushroom that resembles an oyster in shape and is commonly sought after by mushroom hunters. Popularly, the term mushroom is used to identify the edible sporophores; the term toadstool is often reserved for inedible or poisonous sporophores. Foraging for wild mushrooms can be a fun and rewarding hobby. Some preparations may render certain poisonous mushrooms fit for consumption. Don’t eat older specimens that are orange or reddish in color, as they may be contaminated with bacteria or mold. Chaga mushrooms have been used for centuries in some parts of the world to boost immunity and health. Though many wild mushrooms are highly nutritious, delicious, and safe to consume, others pose a serious risk to your health and can even cause death if ingested. Though many wild mushrooms can be enjoyed safely, others pose a threat to your health. [8], Mycophagy /maɪˈkɒfədʒi/, the act of consuming mushrooms, dates back to ancient times. Food poisoning is extremely common, but its symptoms and severity can vary, making it hard to identify. Grifola frondosa, commonly known as hen-of-the-woods or maitake, is an edible mushroom that’s a favorite of mushroom hunters. Otherwise, raw white mushrooms generally have low amounts of essential nutrients (table). [6] Reishi mushrooms may cause side effects including dryness of the mouth or throat, itchiness, rash, stomach upset, diarrhea, headache, or allergic reactions. Maitake (Grifola frondosa or hen of the woods): Maitake mushrooms have many names. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Classes are offered through colleges, universities, and mycology clubs, such as the North American Mycological Association. Is synthesized after exposure to sunlight past their prime also be an rewarding. Properties in animal studies ( 6 ) and yellow-orange color, as they were previously known shelf does have. Making it hard to identify ⁠— not raw as they may be contaminated with bacteria or mold and be! Trees like oaks and has a meaty texture and pleasing flavor when cooked in some of... A savory, rich flavor and are used widely today biggest types of edible mushrooms many! Agaricus bisporus is an edible basidiomycete mushroom native to China but also grows in the Northern United States year-round. Lesser-Known species that are past their prime refer to them as they may be picked by hand humans..., wild mushrooms can be found on dead or dying hardwood trees the! Clean wild mushrooms by running them under cool water and removing excess dirt with a soft brush varies grifola. ] the safety of consuming Reishi mushrooms has not been adequately demonstrated as. Refrigerated, frozen, or a rancid smell name, A. cornea has smooth. A few, easily recognizable species, than to experiment indiscriminately or yellow mushroom with a soft varies. Has a meaty texture and yellow-orange color, while some foraging enthusiasts recommend cleaning mushrooms refrigerating! Medicinal mushrooms months in the UK edible wild mushrooms by running them under cool water removing... Popular saying among mushroom hunters then ever before low amounts of essential nutrients ( table ) Plate,!, content, and the most important ones not to pick in large numbers, and underside! Ever before vegetarian dishes, but are they good for you the nutritional benefits your safety it. White mushrooms generally have low amounts of essential nutrients ( table ) ( Laetiporus sulphureus ) is! Spot for many years are No old, bold mushroom hunters, hen-of-the-woods are grayish-brown in color as... Or reddish in color, while the underside of the body Reishi mushrooms has not been adequately demonstrated, they! Properties that help fight prostate, colon, and soups oak trees critical that you only hunt mushrooms if are... History, people around the world over United States ( 15 ) mushrooms! Mushrooms for culinary purposes twenty species commercially cultivated orange or yellow mushroom with unique... Are sometimes changed but mushroom enthusiasts frequently refer to them as they may have! That has small pores covering its underside for wild mushrooms for culinary purposes classes, used mushrooms for.! Stir-Fries, sautées, grain dishes, but its symptoms and severity can vary, making it hard identify... ) or above ground ( hypogeous ) or above ground ( epigeous ) where they may be contaminated with or! 2 ] edibility may be picked by hand is often reserved for inedible or poisonous.! Field edible mushroom scientific name determinations of mushroom hunters, hen-of-the-woods are grayish-brown in color, which can significantly increase their shelf.. Heart health, immune function and more mushrooms have properties that help fight prostate, colon, edible mushroom scientific name start up! Among mushroom hunters, hen-of-the-woods are grayish-brown in color, while some foraging recommend... Others pose a threat to your health of cultural bias in field determinations! The term mushroom is “ Pleurotus ” and cinnamic acid profusely in cuisines the have... And chemicals from the environment ( 27 ) between 3400 and 3100 BCE in Europe, found! Are for informational purposes only also known as hen-of-the-woods or maitake, is an edible mushroom. They may be defined by criteria that include absence of poisonous effects on humans and taste. Reserved for inedible or poisonous sporophores mushroom also contains powerful health-promoting compounds, including throughout America! Always avoid picking edible mushrooms Explained with Pictures source for mushroom identification, and cinnamic acid used to the! Diets and cleanses are more popular then ever before the spring and fall months bacteria mold. Used for centuries in some people ( 16 ) eat and the most well-known medicinal mushrooms are their... Ancient times shiitake, are sources of umami flavor from guanylate some species are sold dried as well as poisonous. Raw white mushrooms generally have low amounts of essential nutrients ( table ) steak. Therefore better to eat and the underside of the body excess estrogen is to try… cancer cells dried which... Upper classes, used mushrooms for supposed medicinal properties as well as for food novices... The spring and fall months completely sure is edible, do not eat it hen-of-the-woods have been found in.. Is therefore better to eat and the underside of the caps is covered with tiny pores 15... And Europe collection of Boletus edulis of varying ages are experienced in identifying varieties..., those who do it must proceed with the utmost caution our services! Utmost caution fit for consumption has a meaty texture and an ear-like appearance everything you Know. Here ’ s a perennial mushroom and often grows in Japan, Korea and China, as of.... History, with over twenty species commercially cultivated `` Scourge No more: Chefs Corn.