Types of Red Mushroom Fungus
Red mushrooms have been popularized in contemporary culture because of the misconception regarding their edibility. Most red mushrooms are perfectly harmless, and some are even beneficial for human consumption. Throughout the globe, many of these mushrooms have been used medicinally for many years. Before consuming red, or any other fungus, it is important to know exactly what you are eating and whether it is detrimental to your health. Always consult an expert.
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Amanita Muscaria
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The Amanita muscaria, more commonly known as the fly agaric, is largely responsible for the misconception that all red mushrooms are harmful to humans. The Amanita genus contains mushrooms that are both poisonous and tolerable to the human body. Known in popular culture as the death cap, it is red and orange colored with specks of white, and its likeness has been used in many popular videogames and cartoons. Various species of Amanitas are thought to be responsible for nearly half of all human deaths that occurred as a result of mushroom consumption. The mushroom has been used as an intoxicant, in dedication ceremonies, medicinally and as an herb in nearly every corner of the globe. At maturity, the mushrooms tend to be relatively large, measuring up to 12 inches wide, and they come in a variety of red, orange and white colors.
The Bulk Red Belted Polypore
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The bulk red belted polypore is an orange-red and sometimes copper-colored fungus. It is usually found on dead conifers. The cap of the mushroom is thick and triangular with bands of red, orange and brown with a white edge. The mushroom is edible and has been used as a homeopathic treatment for a variety of ailments. The bulk red belted polypore has been said to have properties that help to fight cancer, relieve diarrhea and fever and help with the liver, urinary system and to reduce inflammation in the stomach. Proponents of the mushroom as an anticancer agent suggest cooking it in a pot with beet root, seaweed, cabbage, onion, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, brown rice and carrots. The soup should be consumed one week prior to surgery or as preventive care.
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The Red Waxy Cap Mushroom
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The red waxy cap mushroom (Hygrocybe coccinea) is vibrant in color with broad, round, symmetrical caps measuring 2.5 to 5 cm in diameter. They are usually found scattered or within small groups in conifer forests. The mushroom fruits during the colder months, from midwinter to early spring. Red waxy caps are said to be edible, though recipes on how to prepare them are difficult to come by. The mushroom is famous because of its vibrant, scarlet color and orange stripes on the underside of the cap.
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References
- Photo Credit red mushroom image by Du...¡an Zidar from Fotolia.com
