Emma Wilson
Some mushrooms have a unique ability to “bleed” a red fluid. This phenomenon is commonly seen in the bleeding tooth fungus (Hydnellum peckii), which oozes a thick, blood-like substance from its cap. While the precise reason for this bleeding is not fully understood, it is believed to be a result of excess water absorption, creating pressure that forces the water out. This bleeding is only observed in young, growing mushrooms and is thought to be a natural defense mechanism due to its bitter taste. The latex substance dries and forms a protective coating, preventing bacteria and contaminants from entering the injury. The bleeding tooth fungus is found in forested regions across North America, Europe, Iran, South Korea, and the Appalachian Mountains. Its unusual appearance and potential medical benefits make it an intriguing species.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Bleeding Tooth Fungus |
| Scientific Name | Hydnellum Peckii |
| Appearance | Pale flesh dotted with deep pores |
| Colour | Red |
| Habitat | Found in forested regions in North America, Europe, Iran, South Korea |
| Uses | Has potential medical uses, used as a dye for textiles and cordage |
| Identification | The phenomenon of "bleeding" is used to identify the mushroom |
| Cause of Bleeding | Excess absorption of water |
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What You'll Learn
The 'bleeding' phenomenon
The "bleeding" phenomenon is observed in certain mushrooms, notably the Hydnellum peckii, also known as the bleeding tooth fungus. This distinctive mushroom exudes a red fluid, resembling blood, from its gills when cut or injured. The "bleeding" is not actually blood but a natural latex or sap produced by the mushroom. While the precise reason for this "bleeding" is not fully understood, it is believed to be a defence mechanism to protect the mushroom from bacteria and other contaminants. The latex dries and forms a protective coating around the injury.
The "bleeding" phenomenon is thought to be a result of excess water absorption by the mushroom. When the soil surrounding the fungus is too wet, the Hydnellum peckii absorbs the excess water, creating pressure that forces the water to "bleed out". This only occurs in young, growing mushrooms, as they need to expel the extra water to facilitate rapid growth. As the mushroom matures, it loses this "bleeding" ability and develops into a dull brown fungus.
The "bleeding" is not limited to the Hydnellum peckii, and other mushrooms exhibit similar behaviour. For example, the Lactarius deliciosus, or saffron milk cap, "bleeds" orange when cut, while the Lactarius indigo, or indigo milk cap, exhibits blue bruising and bleeding. The Mycena haematopus "bleeds" purple, and the Lactarius helvus, or maple syrup milky cap, produces a colourless latex that smells like maple syrup.
The colour change observed in bruising and bleeding mushrooms is due to a chemical reaction between the compounds in the mushroom and oxygen when the cell walls are broken. This colour change is an important feature to consider when identifying mushrooms, but it should not be the sole identification method. Combining it with other identification measures ensures accuracy and safety, especially since some mushrooms with blue bruising, such as boletes, can be dangerous.
The bleeding tooth fungus, in particular, has an unusual appearance with its pale flesh, deep pores, and small spines. It is native to the Pacific Northwest and can be found in forested regions in North America, Europe, Iran, South Korea, and recently, in Scotland. Despite its sinister look, the fungus is not poisonous, although it has an unpalatable bitter taste. Interestingly, its presence often indicates a rich biodiversity in the forest.
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Identifying mushrooms through 'bleeding'
While mushroom bruising and bleeding can be used as a supplementary tool to provide valuable insights into their species and safety, it should not be the sole identification technique. When foraging, prioritize your safety by avoiding mushrooms with potentially dangerous characteristics, such as blue bruising and red pore surfaces in boletes.
Mushroom bleeding refers to the exudation of a milky liquid substance when certain mushrooms are cut. This is not real blood but rather a natural latex generated when the mushroom is injured. The latex is believed to be a natural defence mechanism due to its bitter taste and its ability to dry and form a protective coating around the injury to prevent bacteria or any other contaminants from entering.
Some mushrooms that exhibit this bleeding phenomenon include:
- Lactarius deliciosus (saffron milk cap): When the gills of this mushroom are cut, it bleeds orange.
- Lactarius indigo (indigo milk cap): This mushroom bruises blue and also bleeds.
- Lactarius chrysorrheus: This mushroom bleeds white latex that dries to a deeper yellow.
- Mycena haematopus: This mushroom bleeds a purplish colour.
- Lactarius helvus (maple syrup milky cap): This mushroom bleeds a colourless latex that smells like maple syrup.
Additionally, the bleeding tooth fungus (Hydnellum peckii) is a unique species that oozes a red fluid, resembling blood. This "bleeding" phenomenon is caused by excess water inside the fungus, which creates pressure and forces the water to "bleed out". This only occurs when the fungus is young and growing, and it loses this characteristic as it matures. The presence of this fungus often indicates a rich biodiversity in the surrounding environment.
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The red colour
The red "blood" is not actually blood but rather a natural latex generated when the mushroom is cut into or injured. This latex substance is thought to be a defence mechanism of the mushroom due to its bitter taste and the protective coating it forms around the injury to prevent bacteria or other contaminants from entering.
The bleeding tooth fungus is found in forested regions, particularly in coniferous forests, and has a wide distribution in North America, especially in the Pacific Northwest, as well as in Europe, Iran, South Korea, and recently in Scotland. The presence of this fungus often indicates that the forest is rich in biodiversity.
While the appearance of the bleeding tooth fungus may be sinister and creepy, it is not dangerous and may even have potential health benefits. It is known to contain atromentin, which is similar to heparin, a widely used anticoagulant, and thelephoric acid, which may have applications in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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The bitter taste
Mushrooms that bleed a red fluid, such as the Hydnellum peckii, also known as the bleeding tooth fungus, have an unpalatable and bitter taste. This bitter taste may be the reason why the mushroom produces a latex substance when cut or injured, as the latex forms a protective coating around the injury to prevent bacteria or other contaminants from entering.
It is important to note that the bitterness of a mushroom can vary depending on its age and the region in which it is found. For example, the young, moist fruit bodies of the Hydnellum peckii have a bitter taste, while the mature mushrooms develop into bland brown fungi with unremarkable characteristics. Additionally, the related species H. pineticola, commonly found growing under conifers in northeastern North America, has an "unpleasant" taste, but it is not acrid.
In summary, the bitter taste of mushrooms like the bleeding tooth fungus can serve as a natural defence mechanism, deterring consumption while also providing potential health benefits that are currently being explored through trials and studies.
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The potential medical benefits
Mushrooms are a fungus that has been consumed by humans for their nutritional and health benefits. While most mushrooms are not harmful, some are toxic and unsafe for consumption. One such variety is the "bleeding" mushroom, also known as the "bleeding tooth fungus" (Hydnellum peckii). This unique fungus exudes a red fluid, resembling blood oozing from its pores. This "bleeding" phenomenon is caused by excess water absorption, resulting in pressure that forces the water out. Interestingly, this only occurs during the mushroom's adolescent stage, and it loses this characteristic as it matures.
Cancer Treatment
Mushrooms have been studied for their potential anticancer properties. Research suggests that consuming approximately 18 grams of mushrooms daily may reduce the risk of cancer by up to 45%. Certain mushroom species, such as G. lucidum, contain compounds with significant cytotoxic activities against cancer cell lines. Additionally, mushrooms are a rich source of ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant that prevents or slows down cellular damage, potentially warding off chronic diseases.
Cardiovascular Health
Some mushroom extracts have been found to exhibit antiplatelet effects, which could lead to a significant decrease in the risk of myocardial infarction and other cardiovascular events. For example, extracts of Hericium erinaceus and Phellinus baumii have been shown to impede collagen-induced platelet aggregation. These findings highlight the potential of mushrooms as functional foods for cardiovascular health.
Cholesterol Management
Shiitake mushrooms, in particular, are known for their cholesterol-lowering properties. They contain compounds that inhibit cholesterol production, block its absorption, and lower overall cholesterol levels in the blood. This makes mushrooms an excellent substitute for red meat, helping to minimize cholesterol, calories, and fat in the diet.
Immune System Support
Mushrooms are a source of various nutrients that support a healthy immune system. For instance, selenium helps produce antioxidant enzymes that prevent cell damage, and vitamin D boosts immune function and reduces inflammation. Additionally, medicinal mushrooms like reishi (or lingzhi) have been used for centuries in Asian countries to treat infections and enhance the immune system.
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Thelephoric acid, found in the bleeding tooth fungus, may have potential in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, research on the effects of mushroom consumption on mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a precursor to Alzheimer's, has shown promising results. Participants who consumed more than two cups of various mushroom types per week had a 50% lower risk of developing MCI.
Gut Health
Mushrooms are a source of prebiotics, specifically polysaccharides, which stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. These polysaccharides are not broken down by stomach acid, allowing them to reach the colon and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria.
While the focus is on the potential medical benefits of mushrooms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating any new dietary or medicinal substances, especially in the case of specific health conditions or concerns.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushrooms that "bleed" are oozing a natural latex substance, which is forced out through the mushroom by excess absorption of water. This substance is thought to be a natural defence mechanism due to its bitter taste and the protective coating it forms when dried.
No, bruising or bleeding colour alone is not a reliable method for determining the safety of a mushroom. When foraging, it is recommended to avoid mushrooms with potentially dangerous characteristics, such as blue bruising and red pore surfaces in boletes.
Some mushrooms that exhibit bruising and bleeding include Agaricus bisporus (white button mushroom), Lactarius deliciosus (saffron milk cap), and Mycena haematopus (blood-foot mushroom).
