Hericium americanum – Bear’s Head Tooth

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Bear’s head tooth (Hericium americanum) is an edible and medicinal mushroom that is closely related to lion’s mane (Hericium erinceus). It fruits from late August to early November.
Bear’s head tooth can be found as a parasite or saprobe on hardwood trees, especially beech, oak, and maple. It is often found in damaged parts of the bark.
The mushroom has numerous branches of inch-long teeth. It is white at first, becoming yellowish or brownish with age.
Bear’s head tooth is a choice edible, comparable to crab or steak when cooked. It can be sautéed in butter, added to soup, or turned into “crab” cakes.
 
Hericium mushrooms are known to improve sleep, memory, and focus. They are adaptogenic, helping our body respond to stress and reduce anxiety. They also have nerve regenerating properties that could help to treat stroke and Multiple Sclerosis.

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Written by Amy Demers, founder of the Connecticut Foraging Club. To learn more about foraging in Connecticut, check out our upcoming classes.

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