Black fungus (Auricularia polytricha) is an edible wild mushroom sometimes known as tree ear or cloud ear fungus, given its dark, ear-like shape.
While predominantly found in China, it also thrives in tropical climates like the Pacific Islands, Nigeria, Hawaii, and India. It grows on tree trunks and fallen logs in the wild but can be cultivated as well (1).
Known for its jelly-like consistency and distinct chewiness, black fungus is a popular culinary ingredient across a range of Asian dishes. It has likewise been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years (2).
This article reviews the uses, nutrients, and benefits of black fungus, as well as any precautions you may need to take.
Black fungus is usually sold in dried form. Before you eat it, it needs to be reconstituted in warm water for at least 1 hour.
While soaking, the mushrooms expand 3–4 times in size. Keep this in mind when you’re cooking, as small amounts can go a long way.
While black fungus is marketed under several names, it’s technically different than the wood ear mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae), its botanical cousin. Nonetheless, these fungi boast similar nutrient profiles and culinary uses and are sometimes referred to interchangeably (1).
It’s a bit coarser than the wood ear mushroom and frequently used in soups. As it has a fairly neutral taste, it’s even added to Cantonese desserts. Like tofu, it absorbs the flavors of the dish it’s a part of.
Since the 19th century, black fungus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to alleviate symptoms of several conditions, including jaundice and sore throats (2).
As you can see, this mushroom is low in fat and calories but particularly high in fiber (3).
The same serving size offers small amounts of potassium, calcium, phosphorus, folate, and magnesium. These vitamins and minerals are vital to heart, brain, and bone health (3, 4, 5, 6).
Despite the multiple uses of black fungus in traditional Chinese medicine, scientific research on it is still in the beginning stages.
All the same, this mushroom has been noted for its potential immune-enhancing and antimicrobial properties (7, 8).
These beneficial plant compounds help combat oxidative stress in your body, which has been linked to inflammation and a range of diseases (9, 10).
What’s more, mushrooms often contain powerful polyphenol antioxidants. A diet high in polyphenols is associated with a lower risk of cancer and chronic conditions, including heart disease (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14).
The Mysterious World of Black Mushrooms
Black mushrooms hold an air of mystery and intrigue. With their dark coloring, they stand out against brighter capped mushrooms on the forest floor. But why are some mushrooms black? And are black mushrooms edible or poisonous? Let’s explore the shadowy realm of black fungi.
What Causes Black Mushrooms?
Many mushrooms start out lighter in color, then darken as they age. This happens through oxidation, similar to how cut apples turn brown. Enzymatic reactions cause melanin pigments to develop in mature mushroom caps and stems. Melanin protects the mushrooms from sun damage. Some mushrooms are naturally black from the start due to their genetics. The type of fungus and spores determine the color.
Black mushroom varieties exist among edible, poisonous, and gilled mushrooms. They grow on every continent except Antarctica. You can find them in forests, grasslands, and anywhere decaying organic matter exists. Temperature and moisture impact the worldwide distribution of black fungi.
Examples of Black Mushrooms
Over 100 species of black mushrooms exist. Here are some of the most common:
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Black trumpet (Craterellus cornucopioides) – Edible trumpet-shaped mushroom with a smoky flavor. Grows in clusters on decaying conifer wood.
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Morel (Morchella elata) – Prized edible morel with a nutty taste. Hollow cap overhangs a pitted stem. Found in hardwood forests.
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Elfin saddle (Helvella lacunosa) – Inedible fungus with a wrinkled black cap on a white stem. Grows in temperate zone woodlands.
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Ink cap (Coprinopsis atramentaria) – Poisonous mushroom that liquefies into black goo. Often grows on decaying tree stumps.
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Black chanterelle (Craterellus cinereus) – Edible mushroom with a funnel-shaped grayish-black cap and hollow stem. Grows in mossy conifer forests.
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Black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) – Rare edible truffle highly prized in French cuisine. Grows underground near oak and hazelnut tree roots.
As you can see, edible, inedible, and poisonous black mushroom species exist. Never eat a mushroom unless you have confirmed it’s edible.
Benefits and Dangers of Black Mushrooms
Many black mushroom species provide nutritional and medical benefits. For example, chaga mushrooms contain antioxidants and may help fight cancer. Morels contain protein and minerals. Some black mushrooms have psychoactive effects. The black truffle is a culinary delicacy.
On the flip side, eating poisonous black mushrooms can make you sick or even kill you. Signs of mushroom poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, liver damage, kidney failure, convulsions, or coma. Some mushrooms like the death cap are deadly. Seek emergency medical care if you have severe mushroom poisoning symptoms.
When in doubt, stick to sautéing black mushrooms from the grocery store. Unless you’re a trained mycologist, it’s best to avoid wild mushroom foraging. The stakes are too high if you accidentally eat a toxic fungus.
Black Mushrooms in Culture and Folklore
Black mushrooms hold significance in legends, fairy tales, and myths:
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Witches supposedly used black witch’s butter mushrooms to poison their enemies’ cows in medieval Europe.
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Folklore says black morels sprouted where forest fires burned or lightning struck the ground.
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Chinese medicine uses chaga mushrooms to boost immunity.
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Siberian shamans drank “magic mushrooms” like Psilocybe baeocystis to induce visions.
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Victorian England associated black mushrooms like ink caps with death and decay.
These mysterious black fungi fired up superstitions worldwide. Their connection to mysticism continues today in fantasy stories with black magic mushrooms.
The Next Time You See a Black Mushroom…
When you come across black mushrooms outdoors, regard them with care and curiosity. While some edible varieties exist, others could ruin your day. Enjoy searching for black truffles and morels, but don’t eat anything you’re unsure about. If you stick to safe identification, you can discover the wonder of black fungi. Just watch your step!
May lower your cholesterol
The polyphenols in mushrooms may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol (18).
In turn, lower LDL cholesterol may decrease your risk of heart disease.
One study in rabbits given wood ear mushrooms found that both total and LDL (bad) cholesterol decreased significantly (19).
Still, researchers weren’t sure exactly how the fungi exerted this effect, and a single animal study in wood ears doesn’t necessarily apply to people eating black fungus.
May promote gut and immune health
Similarly to various other mushrooms, black fungus boasts prebiotics — mainly in the form of beta glucan (15, 16, 17).
Prebiotics are a type of fiber that feeds your gut microbiome, or the friendly bacteria in your gut. These promote digestive health and maintain bowel regularity (15, 16, 17).
Interestingly, the gut microbiome is closely linked to immune health. Prebiotics like those in black fungus are thought to enhance your immune response to unfriendly pathogens that might otherwise make you sick (16).
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FAQ
Are black mushrooms safe to eat?
If they look pretty shriveled, it’s a safer bet to toss them than consume them. They’re becoming darker or have dark spots. Dark spots are a sign that your fungi are starting to go bad. Eating blackened mushrooms leads to fatal diseases like difficulty breathing, vomiting, paralysis.
What kind of mushrooms are black?
Black fungus (Auricularia polytricha) is an edible wild mushroom sometimes known as tree ear or cloud ear fungus, given its dark, ear-like shape. While predominantly found in China, it also thrives in tropical climates like the Pacific Islands, Nigeria, Hawaii, and India.
Is black fungus harmful to humans?
Black fungal disease, also known as mucormycosis, is a severe infection that can be life-threatening if not treated in a timely manner. Therefore, if someone experiences symptoms such as nasal obstruction, fever, or flu-like symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention.
Are black mushrooms the same as shiitake?
Dried shiitake mushrooms, also known as Chinese black mushrooms, forest mushrooms and dried Asian mushrooms, can be found at many supermarkets. They tend to be much less expensive than other dried mushrooms. If you buy them in Chinese grocery shops or discount stores, they usually cost even less.