What is conk mushroom?

Conk mushroom, also known as the shelf fungus, is a type of bracket fungus that grows on trees, logs, and stumps. They belong to the family Polyporaceae and are commonly found in temperate regions around the world.

Conk mushrooms are woody and have a recognizable shape, often resembling a shelf or bracket. They can be various shades of brown or gray and have a rough, scaly texture on top. The underside of the mushroom is porous and produces spores.

These fungi can range in size from a few inches to several feet and can persist on trees for years, slowly decomposing the wood. Some conk mushrooms have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as liver disease, respiratory problems, and cancer.

However, not all conk mushrooms are safe to consume, and many can be toxic or cause allergic reactions. It is important to identify the species of mushroom before consuming or using it for medicinal purposes.