Name: Wood ear, Auricularia auricula-judae
Other names:Black fungus, Jelly ear fungus, Judas ear, Jew’s ear
Family: Auriculariaceae
Harvest months: throughout the year, but most commonly from apr-jun
Usable plant parts: everything
Appearance: The entire fruiting body is a thin, irregular disc (may be ear-shaped) that has a rubbery texture.
There are no gills or stem.
The color is usually pinkish or yellowish brown.
Habitant: Widespread worldwide, grows primarily on damaged wood, especially elderberry
Risk of confusion: Umbilicaria mammulata
Toxicity: non-toxic
Warning: Should not be taken with blood thinners. Pregnant or nursing women should avoid it as it may have contraceptive effects.
Ingredients: polysaccharides, bioactive phenols, adenosine
Properties: tinitus, migraine, tension headache, anti-cholesterol, anticoagulant , antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory
Helps with: Hemorrhoids, uterine bleeding, moisten mucous membranes, high blood pressure, relieve irritating coughs