On my walk into the yard the other day I came across a fungus that I knew I had seen in “The Laws Field Guide to the Sierra Nevada.” This is an excellent book, and when I got back to the house I looked up this growth so I could get some more information on this interesting looking thing. Sure enough there it was on page 9: Lion’s Mane!
Lion’s Mane Mushroom
Searching for information I found that this interesting looking fungus is a mushroom. It is found in the fall through the spring growing on oak. We have had this mushroom show up on one particular tree every year since we moved here.
This mushroom is edible and is said to have the texture of seafood when cooked. The Chinese use this mushroom as a substitute for lamb or pork. It is grown commercially on sterilized sawdust or on logs. You should be able to find this mushroom in Chinese grocery stores either dried or fresh.
The underside of the mushroom
This huge mushroom, which is about the size of my hand, also has medicinal qualities. Currently there are studies on this mushroom and it has been found to improve cognitive abilities. It also has been found to stimulate nerve cells and nerve growth. The studies are looking at the use of this mushroom in fighting dementia! Other studies indicate that this mushroom may reduce lipids in the blood and lower glucose levels.
How about running your fingers through this mane?
While I found this in my backyard, I am leery of trying it and think that I will opt for trying one of these purchased from the Chinese grocery in Sacramento! I hope that they have it! Have you tried this mushroom? I would love to hear what you think of it if you have!
Thanks for visiting today, and have a great Wednesday!
What a find! One would never imagine this to be a fungi by the looks. You did a terrific job showing the diversity of its anatomy. It would be a wonderful holistic alternative to chemical compounds if it could help so many ailments. That being said, I would like to try this Lions Mane hopefully the Chinese market carries fresh.
The Chinese have been using this for hundred’s of years…
reading this made me with i had access to some to experiment with in the kichten.. i pictured a smooth ‘mock crabmeat’ bisque. i was hungry before opening this, and now i am really hungry.
z
It is odd looking isn’t it? Congrats on the honorable mention in the last challenge from the Let’s Be Wild website!
you are amazing amiga! i did not know about the honorable mention! thanks for the heads up!!!! z
i went to the site and still don’t see the results for ‘now.’ ! you are amazing with your ‘staying on top of things’ skills!
It was the shot with the truck driving away…good photo!
I, too, would be apprehensive in trying it, just in case and because you never know. Best bet would to be as you mentioned – get it at the market. Good information and photos, thanks.