Common stinkhorn: photo, where it grows and what it looks like, where to collect it, properties and contraindications

The Veselka mushroom belongs to the Veselkov family, class Basidiomycetes. Its distinctive phallic shape has earned it many unflattering nicknames.

The base of this mushroom is cylindrical, white or yellowish, and up to 25 cm tall. Typically, mushroom pickers encounter young specimens no taller than 4-5 cm. The top of the stem is crowned by a bell-shaped cap up to 5 cm tall. It is covered in a dark olive-green mucus with a pungent carrion odor. This is why the stinking morel is sometimes called the "upstart" or "shameless" mushroom. This "aroma" is intended to attract flies and other insects, which then spread the mushroom's spores throughout the surrounding area.

During maturation, the ovoid body of the common stinkhorn is protected by a membrane, beneath which lies a mucous mass and an immature cap. This membrane then ruptures, prompting active growth.

Experts note that the phallus veselka is considered one of the fastest-growing mushrooms, growing at a rate of 5 mm per minute.

The history of the veselka mushroom

Early references to this mushroom variety can be found in the works of the 17th-century Dutch scientist Junius. He was the first to attempt to describe the genus Phallus. However, it was only 100 years later that the mycologist Micheli recognized that Phallus could indeed be classified as a mushroom genus. He included two species within it. They were named by another scientist, Carl Linnaeus, in 1753. Thus, the Phallus edulis and the Morchella edulis were born.

Where does the common stinkhorn grow?

The veselka mushroom prefers temperate climates, so it's not found in the forests of southern Russia. However, a huge number of mushrooms grow in the Caucasus, central Russia, the Far East, and Siberia. It prefers broadleaf forests, hiding in grass and fallen leaves. It doesn't survive cold winters under unfavorable conditions, so it's difficult to find a colony of mushrooms in the same place.

In some regions, for example in Sverdlovsk, Veselka is listed in the Red Book and is protected by the state.

What does the veselka mushroom look like?

The structure of the mushroom is quite unusual and unfamiliar to the human eye.

• The cap. This is the first part of the common stinkhorn mushroom to appear. Initially, the mushroom itself resembles a large, light-beige chestnut, containing mucus and underdeveloped parts. The shell then bursts, revealing the cap with a hole at the tip. It is bell-shaped and has a wrinkled skin covered in a slimy mass with a sharp, unpleasant odor.

• The stem grows rapidly, is tubular, and light-colored. It measures 3-4 cm in diameter and reaches up to 25 cm in length. However, the mushroom's primary beneficial properties are retained only until it hatches from the egg.

• The base. The most interesting part of the common stinkhorn is the base of the mushroom, called the hymenophore. It appears as a three-dimensional structure near the ground. When ripe, it begins to emit a pungent odor, signaling its readiness for reproduction.

Photo gallery of Veselka mushroom

False look-alikes of the veselka mushroom

The common veselka has several lookalikes that mushroom pickers often confuse with the original. These include:

• False morel. It's not dangerous to humans, but it's not recommended for consumption. Unlike the stinkhorn, its cap is white, not greenish-brown. Furthermore, the lookalike lacks the characteristic mucus on its surface.

• Adriana's veselka (Fish Veselka). It's edible, but doesn't offer the same wide range of health benefits. The stem and hymenophore are purple, while the original species is white.

• The morel is edible. Its main distinguishing feature is its cap, which is large compared to the stem and has a porous, spongy texture.

Important! Neither real nor false mushrooms should be eaten if they emit an unpleasant odor or if there is any suspicion of rotting.

When and how to assemble the veselka

Veselka mushrooms can only be harvested in the early stages of their development, when they resemble a ball. Harvesting usually begins with the first warm spell of spring. In northern regions, Veselka mushrooms are harvested in early June.

They are dug out of the ground with a small shovel, being careful not to damage either the fruit or the mycelium. The skin and flesh are very delicate, so it's important to work with extreme care to avoid damaging the mushroom. It's best to harvest no more than 2-3 specimens from a single family to avoid damaging the mycelium.

How to prepare common veselka

Once picked, the phallus can be eaten fresh, dried, or added to any dish. There's no need to wash the mushroom beforehand; simply remove the film and spore mucus. The mushroom's flavor is very similar to cabbage.

To dry, cut each mushroom in half, thread it on a thick thread, and hang it in a well-ventilated, dark room. This harvest can be stored in glass jars for up to two years.

Many traditional medicine practitioners use Veselka to prepare infusions, powder, and even juice.

Medicinal properties of the common stinkhorn mushroom

The most powerful medicinal property of the common stinkhorn is considered to be its ability to fight tumors. The mushroom contains unique components that inhibit the growth of harmful cells and, in some cases, destroy them entirely.

Mushroom extract is effective for thrombosis, gout, rheumatism, epilepsy, and various types of stress. It has been used since ancient times to treat typhoid.

Methods of using the veselka mushroom, folk recipes

Experienced specialists strongly recommend harvesting the stinkhorn while it's still in its shell. However, adult specimens are also suitable for some folk medicine recipes.

The information in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. Always consult a doctor and do not self-medicate.

In oncology

The phallus contains phytoncides, alkaloids, and polysaccharides with minerals, which, according to folk medicine, help in the fight against various tumors.

In this case, a tincture of stinkhorns is used to treat oncology:

• 50-60 g of chopped veselki
• Add 1 teaspoon of honey and aloe juice
• Transfer the mixture into a 250 ml jar and fill with vodka
• Store the container in a dark place for 10 days, then stir and leave for another week.
• The finished tincture should be stored in the refrigerator.

This tincture should only be used as part of a comprehensive cancer treatment. It is also effective for disease prevention.

You need to take 1 tablespoon per day for 2 weeks.

Respiratory disease

Respiratory tract diseases can be common among smokers, and they also have a seasonal pattern. If left untreated, coughing and congestion can become debilitating. In such cases, a phallus infusion prepared as follows can provide significant relief:

• 1 teaspoon powder
• 1 cup hot milk.

The medicine should be steeped for at least 5 minutes and consumed warm. It's best to take it at night, as relief will be felt in the morning.

Diabetes mellitus

According to the WHO, one in 11 people currently suffers from diabetes. Veselka tincture is widely used to combat the disease.

To prepare it, take 100 grams of peeled veselka mushrooms and add a glass of alcohol. It's crucial to use only young mushrooms, when they're still egg-shaped. There's no need to wash them; simply wipe them with a cloth.

The medicine should be infused in a cool, dark place for about 30 days, after which it can be used 2 times a day, 1 teaspoon in the morning and before bed.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

Veselki helps improve gastrointestinal function, eliminating the causes of discomfort and pain. The medicine is very simple to prepare:

• Young, finely chopped mushrooms are mixed with honey in equal quantities.
• The remedy is infused for 7 days.

The medicine is taken once a day, 1 teaspoon at a time, with warm water.

Varicose veins

Veselka tincture helps relieve heaviness in the legs and eliminate signs of varicose veins. Here's the recipe:

• Add 100 g of fresh, finely chopped mushrooms to 250 ml of alcohol.
• Infuse for 30 days.

Apply as a rub, pre-mixed with a small amount of any oil. Apply once a day, preferably afterward, covering your feet with a warm blanket.

Gout, rheumatism

For the treatment of gout and rheumatism, experts recommend using fresh mushroom mucilage rather than tinctures. Only mushrooms harvested in the earliest stages are suitable. They are cleaned of soil and cut to extract the mucilage. This mucilage is rubbed into the affected area, followed by a warm compress.

Cosmetology

In cosmetology, phalaenopsis is used as a tonic to treat acne and teenage breakouts. A tablespoon of dried mushrooms is steeped in 100 ml of alcohol for a month. Apply to affected areas twice daily for no more than 10 days.

To eliminate pigmentation and wrinkles, it is recommended to add sea buckthorn or almond oil to this solution; it is advisable to apply it at night.

Veselka mushroom contraindications

Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children under 5, should refrain from using veselka. It is not recommended for people with low blood pressure, autoimmune diseases, or scleroderma.

The veselka in the ointment can cause an allergic reaction, so it is best to test a small amount of the product on the bend of the elbow first.

In case of overdose or independent increase in the duration of the course, nausea and vomiting may occur.

Veselka is not a medicinal product or a cure-all. It can only be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, not as a substitute for other medications. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a doctor before use.

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How to cook the veselka mushroom

The vesselka mushroom is used not only for the preparation of traditional medicine preparations, but is also eaten.

Recipes

The flavor of veselka isn't particularly pronounced. But with the right combination, it will reveal itself in a new way.

• Dried veselka mushrooms. Before drying, remove any dirt from the mushrooms. It's best to use a cloth rather than water. The slimy skin is removed, and the body is cut into two halves, with a thread threaded through the halves. The mushrooms are hung to dry in a warm, well-ventilated area. In extreme cases, specialized devices for mushrooms and vegetables can be used. The finished mushrooms can be chopped and added as a seasoning to soups and vegetable platters. Whole mushrooms can be used as a pie filling.

• Mushroom puree. Mash boiled potatoes with a little butter. Peel and chop fresh young porcini mushrooms, and fry with onion and garlic until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Then mix with the mashed potatoes and serve with finely chopped herbs.
• Salad. Veselka mushrooms at the egg stage should be washed, peeled, and chopped. Add grated boiled egg, lettuce leaves, and yogurt or sour cream dressing. The mushrooms taste very similar to radishes or cabbage, but gourmets disagree on this point.

How to properly clean the common stinkhorn

Before eating, phallus mushrooms are always rinsed with water after cutting them in half to remove any remaining spores or sand. Mushrooms should only be picked for consumption until they release their characteristic odor. Washing off the earthy oil during cleaning is not recommended.

How and how long to cook veselka mushrooms

Veselka mushrooms cook very quickly and are added last to all dishes. For this purpose, the best mushrooms are those that are not egg-shaped, but rather those that have already hatched from their shells but have not yet reached sexual maturity.

Frying

Veselki lose their beneficial properties when cooked for a long time, so fry them for no longer than 3-4 minutes over medium heat, adding a little onion and garlic beforehand for a more pronounced flavor.

How to marinate and pickle mushroom Veselka

Mushrooms are not suitable for pickling, as they become slimy, acquire a sour taste and lose their properties.

Only veselka mushrooms in the "egg" stage are suitable for pickling, but even this method isn't very popular: the taste isn't the most pleasant, and the benefits aren't great. Drying the harvest is better, as it preserves more of its essential nutrients.

Veselka mushrooms are not traditionally preserved; they are only jarred in the form of alcohol tinctures used to treat various ailments.

How to freeze common phallus

The easiest way to freeze veselki mushrooms is in portions: wash, slice, and arrange them in containers. Flash freezing is best, as weak freezers can cause the mushrooms to lose their nutritional value.

How to grow a veselka mushroom at home or in your garden

Growing common stinkhorn mushroom at home isn't difficult, but it's entirely doable. All you need is a sawdust substrate and the mushroom's spores. It's important to note that the mycelium spreads quite quickly, so you'll need to monitor its development.

First, you need to obtain the planting material. Take the cap of an adult mushroom and place it in a bag with pine sawdust. This creates a greenhouse, which should be kept at a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius for several days. Then you can plant the resulting mycelium in sawdust mulch and wait for the mushrooms to appear.