This article explores the fascinating history of wood ear mushrooms, from ancient use in Traditional Chinese Medicine to their place on modern dining tables.
Origins and Natural Habitat
The earliest known use of wood ear mushrooms dates back thousands of years, with their natural habitat primarily in humid, forested regions of Asia, especially in China, India, Thailand, and Japan. The Auricularia auricula-judae species, sometimes called Jew’s ear, is widespread in Europe, while Auricularia polytricha is more common in Asia.
These mushrooms typically grow on the decaying wood of broadleaf trees, particularly elder trees (Sambucus spp.), which contributed to the naming of Auricularia auricula-judae, linking it to the legend of Judas Iscariot who was said to have hanged himself on an elder tree.
Use in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Wood ear mushrooms have been a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over 1,500 years. Ancient Chinese herbal texts, such as the "Bencao Gangmu" (Compendium of Materia Medica) compiled by Li Shizhen in the Ming Dynasty (16th century), mention these mushrooms as valuable remedies for various ailments.
In TCM, wood ear mushrooms are believed to:
- Improve blood circulation
- Nourish the lungs
- Moisturize dryness in the body
- Reduce cholesterol
- Detoxify the body
They were commonly prescribed for issues like hemorrhoids, dysentery, and high blood pressure. Even today, they remain a popular health food in China, often consumed for their supposed benefits in preventing cardiovascular disease. shutdown123