All posts by admin

Historical

Discovering the Diversity of Mushrooms in the Adirondacks: The Legacy of Howard J. Banker

Leave a comment

One of the most significant mycologists to conduct research in the Adirondacks was Howard James Banker (1883-1972), an American mycologist who specialized in the study of macrofungi. Banker made important contributions to the understanding of the diversity and ecology of mushrooms in the Adirondacks and other regions of North America.

Howard J. Banker

Howard J. Banker was born in Newark, New Jersey, and spent much of his childhood exploring the forests around his home. He earned a degree in botany from Rutgers University in 1906 and went on to pursue graduate studies in mycology at Cornell University. In 1913, he joined the faculty at the University of Kansas, where he would spend most of his career.

Banker was a prolific researcher and writer, publishing numerous papers and books on the diversity and ecology of macrofungi. He was particularly interested in the taxonomy and systematics of mushrooms and was instrumental in the development of new methods for identifying and classifying fungi.

Research in the Adirondacks

Banker conducted several expeditions to the Adirondacks between 1921 and 1932, where he collected and studied a wide variety of mushrooms. His research in the region led to the discovery of several new species of mushrooms, including Tricholoma atrosquamosum, Inocybe jacksonii, and Paxillus allardii.

One of Banker’s most significant contributions to the study of mushrooms in the Adirondacks was his work on the genus Russula. He collected and identified dozens of species of Russula from the region, many of which were new to science. Banker’s research on Russula helped to establish the taxonomy and systematics of the genus and remains an important reference for mycologists today.

Banker’s Legacy

Howard J. Banker was a prominent figure in the field of mycology and made significant contributions to our understanding of the diversity and ecology of mushrooms in the Adirondacks and other regions of North America. His work on the genus Russula and his discovery of several new species of mushrooms in the Adirondacks helped to establish the foundation of modern mycology.

Sources:

  • Banker, H. J. (1928). Studies in the genus Russula. III. The subgenus Compactae. Mycologia, 20(6), 295-322.
  • Banker, H. J. (1932). The Russulae of the Adirondacks. Mycologia, 24(2), 94-108.
  • Banker, H. J. (1943). The North American species of Tricholoma. Annals of the Missouri Botanical Garden, 30(4), 325-441.
Historical

The Use of Amanita Muscaria by Native Americans in the Adirondacks: Exploring Historical and Ethnographic Evidence

Leave a comment

Amanita muscaria, also known as fly agaric, is a species of mushroom with a long history of use in various cultures, including Native American tribes. In this blog post, we will explore the scientific research on the use of Amanita muscaria by Native Americans in the Adirondacks region.

First, it is important to note that the use of Amanita muscaria by Native American tribes is not well-documented. However, some historical and ethnographic evidence suggests that the mushroom was used for various purposes, including spiritual and medicinal practices.

In his book “Soma: Divine Mushroom of Immortality,” R. Gordon Wasson documented his research on the use of psychoactive mushrooms in different cultures. He argued that Amanita muscaria was the likely candidate for the ancient Vedic ritual drink soma, which was consumed by the Indo-European peoples of ancient India. Wasson also suggested that the use of psychoactive mushrooms in different cultures, including Native American tribes, may have been linked to the widespread distribution of Amanita muscaria.

In the Adirondacks region specifically, there is some evidence to suggest that the Iroquois tribes used Amanita muscaria in their spiritual practices. In a paper published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, authors Sullivan and Hagen argued that the use of Amanita muscaria was documented in the Iroquois myth of the Sky Woman, which describes the creation of the world and the emergence of plants and animals. The authors also suggest that the Iroquois may have used Amanita muscaria for healing and visionary purposes.

In addition to the Iroquois, there are reports of other Native American tribes using Amanita muscaria. For example, the Koryak people of Siberia, who have a close cultural relationship with some Native American tribes, have a long history of using Amanita muscaria for spiritual purposes.

It is important to note that the use of Amanita muscaria can be dangerous, as it contains psychoactive compounds that can cause hallucinations, nausea, and other adverse effects. Therefore, it is essential to approach any use of the mushroom with caution and under the guidance of an experienced practitioner.

In conclusion, while the scientific research on the use of Amanita muscaria by Native Americans in the Adirondacks region is limited, there is some historical and ethnographic evidence to suggest that the mushroom was used for spiritual and medicinal purposes. As with any psychoactive substance, it is important to approach the use of Amanita muscaria with caution and under the guidance of an experienced practitioner.

Sources:

Sullivan, K. M., & Hagen, E. H. (2002). Psychotropic substances in the mythology and rituals of the Iroquois and neighbouring Northeastern tribes. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 80(2-3), 181-188.

Wasson, R. G. (1980). Soma: Divine Mushroom of Immortality. Ethno-Mycological Studies, 1, 1-148

Hiking, Historical, Observations

Chaga: A Medicinal Fungi of the Adirondacks

Leave a comment

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a type of fungi that is found on birch trees in cold regions, including the Adirondack Park. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. In this blog post, we will discuss where to find chaga in the Adirondacks, its history of use in the region, and potential medicinal uses.

Where to Find Chaga in the Adirondacks

Chaga is typically found on birch trees, particularly in areas where the tree has been injured or damaged. It appears as a dark, irregular growth on the tree, often resembling burnt charcoal. Some good places to find chaga in the Adirondacks include the Saranac Lake Wild Forest, the Lake George Wild Forest, and the Vanderwhacker Mountain Wild Forest.

History of Use in the Adirondacks

Chaga has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Siberia, where it is known as the “Mushroom of Immortality.” In the Adirondacks, chaga has been used by Native Americans for generations as a health tonic. It was also used during the Civil War as a substitute for coffee. In recent years, chaga has gained popularity as a natural health supplement and has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including inflammation, immune system disorders, and even cancer.

Potential Medicinal Uses of Chaga

Chaga is a rich source of antioxidants, polysaccharides, and other bioactive compounds that are thought to provide its potential health benefits. Some of the potential medicinal uses of chaga include:

  1. Immune System Support: Chaga has been shown to stimulate the immune system, which may help to fight off infections and diseases.
  2. Anti-Inflammatory: Chaga contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help to reduce inflammation in the body, which is a common factor in many chronic diseases.
  3. Anti-Cancer: Some studies have suggested that chaga may have anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed in this area.
  4. Anti-Aging: Chaga is a rich source of antioxidants, which may help to protect the body against oxidative stress and cellular damage, both of which contribute to the aging process.

Conclusion

Chaga is a fascinating and potentially beneficial fungi that is found in the Adirondacks. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and modern research has begun to explore its potential medicinal uses. If you are interested in exploring the potential health benefits of chaga, be sure to properly identify it before harvesting and always respect the environment by leaving no trace.

References:

  • Adirondack Mountain Club. (2022). Hiking Trails of the Adirondacks.
  • Brekhman, I. I., & Dardymov, I. V. (1969). New Substances of Plant Origin Which Increase Nonspecific Resistance. Annual Review of Pharmacology, 9(1), 419-430.
  • Chen, Y., Wang, Y., & Zhang, J. (2015). The Potential of Mushroom Compounds as Immunomodulators in Cancer Immunotherapy: A Review. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, 17(12), 1227-1240.
  • Shikov, A. N., Pozharitskaya, O. N., Makarov, V. G., & Wagner, H. (2014). Medicinal Plants of the Russian Pharmacopoeia; their history and applications. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 154(3), 481-536.
  • Wachtel-Gal

Historical

William A. Murrill: The Mycologist Who Advanced Our Understanding of Mushrooms in the Adirondacks

2 Comments

Mushrooms have played a crucial role in the history of mycology, and the Adirondack Mountains have long been a popular destination for mycologists due to the region’s exceptional biodiversity of fungi. One notable mycologist who conducted significant research in the Adirondacks was William Alphonso Murrill, an influential American botanist who specialized in mycology.

William A. Murrill was born on October 13, 1869, near Lynchburg, Virginia. He earned a B.Sc. degree from Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College (now Virginia Tech) in 1887, followed by another B.Sc. in 1889 and an M.A. in 1891 from Randolph-Macon College. Murrill completed his Ph.D. at Cornell University in 1900 under the mentorship of George F. Atkinson, a prominent mycologist.

In 1904, Murrill joined the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) as Assistant Curator and was promoted to Assistant Director in 1908. During his tenure at NYBG, Murrill significantly advanced the study of fungi, describing approximately 1,453 new species and varieties across several fungal groups, including Agaricales, Boletales, and Polyporales. He also co-founded the journal Mycologia and served as its first editor for sixteen years, greatly influencing the dissemination of mycological knowledge.

Murrill’s extensive fieldwork included numerous trips throughout North America, Europe, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Specifically, in the early 1900s, he conducted detailed studies in the Adirondack Mountains of northern New York. Known for their remarkable fungal biodiversity, the Adirondacks have over 3,000 documented mushroom species. During these expeditions, Murrill often stayed at the Saranac Inn, centrally located within the region, allowing him optimal access for collecting and studying diverse fungi.

His diligent research resulted in the collection of approximately 70,000 fungal specimens, 1,400 of which remain preserved at the New York Botanical Garden. These specimens continue to serve as a crucial resource for ongoing scientific study.

Murrill’s insights laid essential groundwork for modern mycology, highlighting fungi’s ecological importance and potential applications in medicine, ecology, and industry. His systematic approach to fungal taxonomy and classification remains influential today.

William Alphonso Murrill passed away on December 25, 1957, in Gainesville, Florida, where he had continued his mycological research at the University of Florida. His legacy endures through the continued study and appreciation of fungi and their integral roles in ecosystems.

References:

Historical

The Iroquois Myth of the Sky Woman and the Possible Connection to Amanita Muscaria Mushrooms

Leave a comment

The Iroquois people have a rich history and culture, full of myths and legends that have been passed down from generation to generation. One of the most prominent myths is that of the Sky Woman, which tells the story of how the earth was created.

According to the Iroquois myth, the world was once covered entirely by water, and there was no land for any living creatures to inhabit. The Sky Woman, who lived in the sky world, fell through a hole in the sky and landed in the water. The animals of the water worked together to bring her up to the surface, and they placed her on the back of a turtle, which then grew into the land that we now know as North America.

While there is no direct mention of the use of mushrooms in the Sky Woman myth, some researchers have suggested that there may be a connection between the myth and the use of Amanita muscaria by the Iroquois people.

Amanita muscaria, also known as the fly agaric mushroom, is a well-known psychoactive mushroom that has been used in shamanic rituals by many indigenous cultures throughout the world. The mushroom contains various compounds that can cause hallucinations, altered states of consciousness, and other psychological effects.

One theory suggests that the Iroquois people may have used Amanita muscaria in their shamanic practices and that the myth of the Sky Woman may have been influenced by their experiences with the mushroom. Some researchers have pointed out that the red and white colors of the mushroom are similar to the colors used in traditional Iroquois clothing and art, and that the shape of the mushroom’s cap resembles the dome of a traditional Iroquois longhouse.

While there is no concrete evidence to support this theory, it is an interesting possibility to consider. The use of psychoactive mushrooms in indigenous cultures is a topic of ongoing research and discussion, and it is important to approach this topic with cultural sensitivity and respect.

In conclusion, the Iroquois myth of the Sky Woman is a fascinating story that has been passed down through generations of Iroquois people. While there is no direct connection between the myth and the use of Amanita muscaria, some researchers have suggested that there may be a possible link. As with any topic related to indigenous culture and practices, it is important to approach this subject with respect and sensitivity.

Sources:

  • Furst, P. T. (1976). Hallucinogens and culture. Novato, CA: Chandler & Sharp Publishers.
  • Ott, J. (1976). Hallucinogenic plants of North America. Berkeley, CA: Wingbow Press.
  • Wasson, R. G. (1972). Soma: Divine mushroom of immortality. New York, NY: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.
Books, Historical

The Ecological and Medical Potential of Fungi in the Adirondacks: A Look at the Research of Mycologist Paul Stamets

Leave a comment

Paul Stamets is a renowned mycologist who has conducted extensive research on the fungi found in various ecosystems, including the Adirondacks. His research has focused on the ecological roles of fungi as well as their potential uses in human health and medicine. In this blog post, we will explore some of his notable research in the Adirondacks and its implications.

One of Stamets’ areas of interest is the use of fungi for ecological restoration. He has conducted research on the use of mycelium, the vegetative part of fungi, in bioremediation of contaminated soil. In the Adirondacks, he has worked on projects to restore forests damaged by acid rain and other pollutants. His team has found that mycelium can help break down toxic substances in soil and improve the health of trees and other plants (Stamets, 2005).

Stamets has also researched the medicinal properties of various mushrooms found in the Adirondacks. For example, he has studied the Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus), which is found in the Adirondacks and other forests around the world. He has found that this mushroom contains compounds known as erinacines, which have neuroprotective properties. In one study, researchers found that an extract of Lion’s Mane mushrooms improved cognitive function in mice with Alzheimer’s disease (Mori et al., 2008). Stamets has also researched the Turkey Tail mushroom (Trametes versicolor), which has immune-boosting properties and may have potential as a natural treatment for cancer (Liu et al., 2012).

In addition to his research, Stamets has been a vocal advocate for the importance of fungi in maintaining healthy ecosystems. He has spoken at conferences and written books on the subject, including “Mycelium Running: How Mushrooms Can Help Save the World.” In this book, he argues that fungi play a crucial role in the health of ecosystems and that their potential uses in medicine and bioremediation are only beginning to be explored.

In conclusion, Paul Stamets is a mycologist who has conducted extensive research on the fungi found in the Adirondacks and their potential uses in ecological restoration and human health. His research on the use of mycelium in bioremediation and the medicinal properties of mushrooms such as Lion’s Mane and Turkey Tail highlights the importance of further exploration of the ecological and medical potential of fungi.

Sources:

  • Mori, K., Obara, Y., Hirota, M., Azumi, Y., Kinugasa, S., Inatomi, S., & Nakahata, N. (2008). Nerve growth factor-inducing activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 31(9), 1727-1732. doi: 10.1248/bpb.31.1727
  • Liu, J., et al. (2012). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase II trial of the polysaccharide-enriched extract of Trametes versicolor in patients with metastatic breast cancer. Oncologist, 17(6), 816-822. doi: 10.1634/theoncologist.2011-0388
  • Stamets, P. (2005). Mycelium and soil restoration. In Proceedings of the Northeast Organic Farming Association Conference. Retrieved from https://namyco.org/selection_of_mushrooms_for_color.php
  • Stamets, P. (2011). Mycelium running: How mushrooms can help save the world. Ten Speed Press.
Historical, Observations

The Medicinal and Spiritual Use of Fungi in Traditional Native American Medicine in the Adirondacks

Leave a comment

The use of fungi in traditional Native American medicine dates back centuries, and the Adirondack region of New York State was no exception. The native tribes of the Adirondacks, including the Mohawk, Oneida, and Iroquois, used various fungi for medicinal and spiritual purposes.

One of the most significant fungi used by Native Americans in the Adirondacks was Chaga (Inonotus obliquus). It was considered a powerful medicinal mushroom and was used to treat various ailments such as gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory issues, and even cancer. Native Americans would harvest Chaga by hand and brew it into a tea or soup for consumption.

Another fungus used by Native Americans in the Adirondacks was the Tinder Polypore (Fomes fomentarius). It was used to start fires, as it contains a material that is highly flammable and can burn for extended periods. The mushroom was also used for medicinal purposes, as it has antibacterial and antifungal properties.

The Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma tsugae) was also used by Native Americans in the Adirondacks for its medicinal properties. It was believed to boost the immune system and was used to treat ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory issues.

The Native Americans in the Adirondacks also had spiritual beliefs associated with fungi. The Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria) was considered a sacred mushroom and was used in spiritual ceremonies. It was believed to have hallucinogenic properties that could provide insight and visions.

While traditional Native American knowledge of fungi in the Adirondacks was passed down orally and is not always documented in written records, some scientific research has been conducted to validate their use. For example, a study conducted in 2012 found that Chaga extract exhibited anticancer properties and may be a useful therapeutic agent in cancer treatment (Shibnev et al., 2012). Another study in 2018 found that Reishi mushroom extract had anti-inflammatory effects and may be useful in treating various inflammatory disorders (Jayachandran et al., 2018).

In conclusion, the use of fungi in traditional Native American medicine is an important part of the cultural heritage of the Adirondacks. While much of the knowledge is passed down through oral tradition and may not be documented, scientific research has validated some of the medicinal properties associated with these fungi. The Adirondacks are a rich source of biodiversity, and the traditional knowledge of fungi use by Native Americans highlights the importance of preserving this cultural and natural heritage.

References:

Jayachandran, M., Xiao, J., & Xu, B. (2018). A Critical Review on Health Promoting Benefits of Edible Mushrooms through Gut Microbiota. International journal of molecular sciences, 19(10), 2959.

Shibnev, V. A., Mishin, D. V., Garaev, T. M., Finogenova, N. P., Botikov, A. G., & Deryabin, P. G. (2012). Anticancer and immunomodulatory properties of mushroom extracts from Inonotus obliquus in vitro and in vivo. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 143(1), 345-349.

Hiking, Observations

Where to Find Specific Fungi in the Adirondacks: A Guide for Mushroom Enthusiasts

Leave a comment

The Adirondack Park is a great place for mushroom enthusiasts to explore, with a wide variety of fungal species growing in different areas of the park. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best places to find specific fungi in the Adirondacks.

  1. Chanterelles

Chanterelles are a popular edible mushroom, and the Adirondacks are a great place to find them. They are typically found in hardwood forests, particularly around oak, beech, and birch trees. Look for them in the summer and fall months, usually after periods of rainfall. Some good places to find chanterelles in the Adirondacks include the Hoffman Notch Wilderness Area, the High Peaks Wilderness Area, and the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area.

  1. Morels

Morels are another popular edible mushroom that can be found in the Adirondacks. They typically grow in disturbed areas, such as burned or logged areas, as well as in forest edges and near water sources. Morels are most commonly found in the spring, usually around May. Some good places to find morels in the Adirondacks include the Saranac Lake Wild Forest, the Five Ponds Wilderness Area, and the Silver Lake Wilderness Area.

  1. Reishi Mushrooms

Reishi mushrooms are a medicinal mushroom that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. They are typically found growing on dead or dying hardwood trees, particularly oak and maple trees. Look for them in the fall months, usually around October. Some good places to find reishi mushrooms in the Adirondacks include the Adirondack Mountain Club’s Heart Lake Property, the Giant Mountain Wilderness Area, and the McKenzie Mountain Wilderness Area.

  1. Turkey Tail Fungi

Turkey tail fungi are a common decomposer fungi that can be found growing on dead logs and stumps. They are typically found in mature hardwood forests, particularly around oak and beech trees. Look for them in the fall and winter months. Some good places to find turkey tail fungi in the Adirondacks include the Jay Mountain Wilderness Area, the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness Area, and the Silver Lake Wilderness Area.

  1. Chaga Mushrooms

Chaga mushrooms are another medicinal mushroom that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. They are typically found growing on birch trees, particularly in areas where the tree has been injured or damaged. Look for them in the fall and winter months. Some good places to find chaga mushrooms in the Adirondacks include the Saranac Lake Wild Forest, the Lake George Wild Forest, and the Vanderwhacker Mountain Wild Forest.

Conclusion

The Adirondacks offer a great opportunity for mushroom enthusiasts to explore and discover a wide variety of fungal species. Whether you are looking for edible mushrooms or medicinal mushrooms, the Adirondacks have something to offer. Keep in mind that some species are protected, and harvesting them may require a permit. Always be sure to properly identify any mushrooms before consuming them, and always respect the environment by leaving no trace. Happy hunting!

References:

  • Adirondack Mountain Club. (2022). Hiking Trails of the Adirondacks. Retrieved from https://www.adk.org/
  • New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. (2022). Rules and Regulations for the Forest Preserve. Retrieved from https://namyco.org/selection_of_mushrooms_for_color.php
  • Roody, W. C. (2003). Mushrooms of West Virginia and the Central Appalachians. University Press of Kentucky.
Historical

Charles H. Peck: The Fascinating Life of a Prominent Mycologist and Adirondack Explorer.

Leave a comment

In the late 1800s, a man by the name of Charles H. Peck became one of the most prominent mycologists of his time. Born in Sand Lake, New York in 1833, Peck’s fascination with mushrooms began as a young man when he discovered the edible puffball mushroom growing in his backyard.

After studying botany at Union College, Peck began working for the New York State Museum in Albany. It was there that he began collecting and studying mushrooms in earnest. Peck soon became known as a leading authority on North American fungi and went on to publish over 400 scientific papers on the subject.

Peck’s research took him all over the country, but he had a particular interest in the Adirondacks. In 1879, he published a comprehensive study of the mushrooms found in the region, which he had been working on for several years. The study, titled “Report of the Botanist: Cryptogamic Flora of the Adirondack Region,” remains a valuable resource for mycologists and mushroom enthusiasts to this day.

Peck’s work in the Adirondacks was not without its challenges, however. In his report, he describes the difficulty of traversing the region’s rugged terrain and the often-unpredictable weather conditions. He also recounts encounters with bears and other wildlife while out collecting specimens.

Despite these challenges, Peck continued to return to the Adirondacks year after year. In addition to his scientific work, he also found great pleasure in the region’s natural beauty and often wrote about the scenery and wildlife he encountered during his expeditions.

Peck passed away in 1917, but his legacy lives on through his extensive body of research and the many specimens he collected over the years. Today, the Adirondacks remain an important destination for mycologists and mushroom enthusiasts alike, offering a rich diversity of fungi for study and exploration.

Sources:

  • Peck, C. H. (1879). Report of the Botanist: Cryptogamic Flora of the Adirondack Region. Annual Report of the New York State Museum of Natural History, 32, 29-191.
  • New York State Museum. (n.d.). Charles H. Peck Papers. Retrieved from https://www.nysm.nysed.gov/staff-publications/charles-h-peck-papers
  • Mycological Society of America. (1968). Charles Horton Peck. Mycologia, 60(3), 451-457.