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The false aspen polypore (Phellinus tremulae) is a perennial organism that has been parasitizing trees for several decades. Belongs to the Hymenochaetae family, genus Phellinus. Its other names:
- Fomes igniarius, 1935;
- Fomes tremulae, 1940;
- Ochroporus tremulae, 1984
Important! Aspen polypore causes yellow heart rot with a characteristic odor, gradually killing host trees and causing the formation of windbreaks.
Aspen polypore - a dangerous biotrophic fungus
What does the aspen fungus look like?
First, in places where the bark is damaged or broken, rounded reddish-brown, orange or gray-gray spots of irregular shape appear, quite small, with a diameter of 0.5 to 15 cm. They are tightly pressed to the bark and have a glossy bubbly surface.
Aspen polypore in the early stages of development
Then the fruiting body acquires a hoof-shaped, thickened disc-shaped or tortoiseshell shape. The stem is missing, the mushroom grows sideways to the surface of the tree, very tightly. It takes considerable force to tear it off.The width of the cap varies from 5 to 20 cm, the thickness at the base is up to 12 cm, and the length can be up to 26 cm. The upper part is flat or sloping, with distinct concentric relief stripes of varying widths. The crust is glossy, dry, smooth, and with age becomes covered with a network of rather deep cracks. The color is gray-greenish, black, ash, dirty beige.
The edge can be sharp, rounded or roller-shaped. It has a lighter color - whitish-gray, yellowish, red. The heminophore is tubular, finely porous. The surface is silky, glossy, lumpy or evenly rounded. The color changes as it matures from buffy-red and brownish-red to light gray with brown spots in old age. The spores are whitish or yellowish.
The pulp is woody, brownish-brown or reddish-dark. The lower spongy layer can be relatively thin or have a pillow-like shape, spread along the substrate.
The aspen tinder fungus sometimes looks like a sloppy, flattened, broken growth on a tree trunk
Where does the aspen fungus grow?
Aspen polypore is a pathogenic fungus that specializes primarily in aspen trees. It affects trees over 25 years old; in old aspen forests it can spread at high speed, infecting up to 85% of the forest area. The mycelium grows inside the tree, occupying the entire central part and forming growths on broken branches and along the entire length of the trunk.
Fruiting bodies are found in aspen forests, old plantings and parks in Russia and Europe, Asia and America. They grow on living weakened or damaged trees, old stumps, fallen trunks, and dead wood.This perennial can be seen throughout the year. Active development of the mycelium begins in May and continues until autumn frosts in October-November.
In unfavorable years, the development of the mycelium stops, and the few fruiting bodies grow deformed.
In rare cases, aspen polypore grows on poplars
Is it possible to eat the aspen fungus?
The aspen tinder fungus is classified as an inedible species. Its pulp is bitter, corky, hard, and has no culinary value. The biologically active substances contained in the fruiting body allow it to be used for medicinal purposes.
Medicinal properties and uses of aspen polypore
Aspen polypore is used in folk medicine as a remedy for diseases of the genitourinary system. It helps with the following problems:
- inflammation of the prostate gland;
- urinary incontinence, cirrhosis and hepatitis of the liver;
- to remove waste and toxins from the body, normalize metabolism;
- in inflammatory processes and diabetes mellitus.
To prepare a healing infusion, you need to chop fresh mushrooms.
- For 40 g of raw material, take 0.6 liters of water, bring to a boil over low heat and cook for 20-25 minutes.
- Close tightly and leave for at least 4 hours.
Take 1 tbsp. l. 40-50 minutes before each meal. For enuresis - 40 ml of decoction before bedtime. The course of treatment is 2 weeks, then you need to take a break for at least 7 days. Treatment can be continued until 900 g of mushroom is used.
The decoction can be used for external compresses.They perfectly relieve pain and inflammation in joints and gout. Promote the healing of trophic ulcers, boils and wounds. Gargling and mouthwash are also indicated for stomatitis, ulcers, inflammation and sore throats.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nfa8XjTmTQ
Contraindications to the use of aspen polypore
In addition to its medicinal properties, aspen polypore also has contraindications. People prone to allergic reactions should use medications based on it with great caution: rashes, itching, and hives are possible. The use of tinder fungus is also prohibited in the following cases:
- pregnant and lactating women;
- children under 12 years of age;
- persons suffering from urolithiasis;
- for diarrhea, intestinal disorders.
Incorrect treatment and excess dosages can cause dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
Original growth similar to elephant legs
Conclusion
The aspen polypore is a parasitic wood fungus and lives exclusively on mature aspens. It is widespread throughout the Northern Hemisphere, including the territory of the Russian Federation. The fruit body is inedible due to its tough, woody pulp and bitter taste. Does not contain toxic substances. Aspen polypore is used in folk medicine and has a number of contraindications. Before using decoctions and infusions with it, you should consult a specialist.
