​Wood Ear Mushroom (Tawan)

Wood Ear Mushroom (Tawan)

Product Name: Wood Ear Mushroom, Auricularia auricula-judae, Judasohr, Oreja de Judas, Oreille de Judas, أذن يهوذا, เห็ดหูหนูดำ, Qora qo‘ziqorin quloq, Кара кулак козу карын, Qara qulaq göbələyi, Гӯши сиёҳ, Juodasis medžio grybas, Melnais koka auss, Чорні деревні гриби, פטריית אוזן העץ

Synonyms: Иудино ухо, Древесное ухо, Чёрный гриб, Judas's Ear, Wood Ear, Black Fungus, Jelly Ear, Cloud Ear, Judasohr, Mu-Err, Oreja de Palo, Champiñón Negro, Oreille du bois, Champignon oreille, أذن الخشب, فطر أسود, เห็ดหูหนู, เห็ดคริสตัล

Parts Used: fungal fruiting body, mycelium, spores, dried fruiting body.

Main Indications for Use of Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae): Atherosclerosis, hyperlipidemia, ischemic heart disease, deep vein thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, chronic venous insufficiency, arterial hypertension, obesity, type 2 diabetes, chronic gastritis, chronic colitis, chronic bronchitis, pneumosclerosis, hemorrhoids, iron-deficiency anemia, syndrome of increased blood clotting, chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, oncological diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, oncological diseases of the lungs.

Indications for Use of Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae) in Mixtures and Complexes: Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, chronic pancreatitis, nephrolithiasis, chronic renal failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, depressive disorders, chronic fatigue, metabolic dysfunction syndrome, intestinal dysbiosis, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis.

Main Pharmacological Properties of Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae): Anticoagulant, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, antitumor, antimicrobial, antiviral, adaptogenic, radioprotective.

Dosage of Pharmacological Forms — Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae)

Decoction — Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae)

Purpose: Atherosclerosis, hyperlipidemia, arterial hypertension, ischemic heart disease, deep vein thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, chronic gastritis, chronic colitis, chronic bronchitis, iron-deficiency anemia.

Standard Dosage for Wood Ear Mushroom: 150 milliliters of decoction 2 times a day 30 minutes before meals for 21 days.

Enhanced Dosage for Wood Ear Mushroom: 200 milliliters of decoction 3 times a day for hyperlipidemia, thrombophlebitis, ischemic heart disease.

Maximum Dosage for Wood Ear Mushroom: 250 milliliters of decoction 3 times a day for deep vein thrombosis and pronounced arterial hypertension, for no more than 14 consecutive days.

Prophylactic Dosage for Wood Ear Mushroom: 100 milliliters of decoction once a day in the morning on an empty stomach, in courses of 14 days every 2 months for patients with chronic gastritis, chronic bronchitis, syndrome of increased blood clotting.

Pediatric Dosage for Wood Ear Mushroom: For children over 7 years old and weighing more than 25 kilograms, 50 milliliters of decoction once a day; for younger ages, reliable safety data are absent.

Contraindications for Wood Ear Mushroom: Individual intolerance, tendency to bleeding, hemophilia; data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and childhood are not scientifically registered.

Side Effects of Wood Ear Mushroom: With overdose, nosebleeds, diarrhea, dyspepsia are possible.

Body Weight Adjustment: For body weight below 60 kilograms, reduce the dose by 25 percent; for body weight above 90 kilograms, increase the dose by 20 percent.

Preparation Technology: Decoction of Wood Ear Mushroom. To prepare 100 grams of finished product, take 10 grams of dried fruiting bodies of Auricularia auricula-judae, wash and soak in 200 milliliters of cold water for 30 minutes, then add another 400 milliliters of water and simmer on low heat at a temperature of 90 degrees Celsius for 40 minutes, cool and strain, bring volume to 500 milliliters; store for no more than 48 hours.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life: Store in a tightly closed glass container at a temperature from 4 to 8 degrees Celsius, in a place protected from light, for no more than 48 hours; after opening, use within 24 hours.

Infusion — Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae)

Purpose: Arterial hypertension, hyperlipidemia, chronic gastritis, chronic colitis, chronic bronchitis, hemorrhoids, liver cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis.

Standard Dosage for Wood Ear Mushroom: 150 milliliters of infusion 2 times a day 30 minutes before meals, in courses of 14 days.

Enhanced Dosage for Wood Ear Mushroom: 200 milliliters of infusion 2 times a day for liver cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, and hemorrhoids.

Maximum Dosage for Wood Ear Mushroom: 250 milliliters of infusion 3 times a day for pronounced hyperlipidemia and arterial hypertension, for no more than 10 consecutive days.

Prophylactic Dosage for Wood Ear Mushroom: 100 milliliters of infusion once a day in the evening for 10 days every 3 months for patients with chronic gastritis, chronic colitis, chronic bronchitis.

Pediatric Dosage for Wood Ear Mushroom: For children over 10 years old and weighing more than 30 kilograms, 50 milliliters of infusion once a day; for younger children, reliable data are absent.

Contraindications for Wood Ear Mushroom: Individual intolerance, tendency to bleeding; data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 10 years old are not scientifically registered.

Side Effects of Wood Ear Mushroom: With overdose, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness are possible.

Body Weight Adjustment: For body weight below 60 kilograms, reduce the dose by 20 percent; for body weight above 90 kilograms, increase the dose by 15 percent.

Preparation Technology: Infusion of Wood Ear Mushroom. To prepare 100 grams of finished product, take 8 grams of dried fruiting bodies of Auricularia auricula-judae, wash and soak in 250 milliliters of boiled water at a temperature of 90 degrees Celsius, steep in a thermos for 4 hours, strain, bring volume to 250 milliliters; consume fresh.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life: Store in a tightly closed glass container at a temperature from 4 to 8 degrees Celsius, in a place protected from light, for no more than 24 hours; after opening, use within 12 hours.

Soup with Black Wood Ear Mushrooms and Chicken

Purpose: Atherosclerosis, hyperlipidemia, ischemic heart disease, chronic gastritis, chronic bronchitis, iron-deficiency anemia.

Standard Dosage: Consumption of 250 milliliters of soup 2 times a day for 14 days.

Preparation Technology: Soup with Black Wood Ear Mushrooms and Chicken. To prepare 1000 grams of dish, take 30 grams of dried wood ear mushrooms, soak in water for 30 minutes, wash, slice; 200 grams chicken breast, cut into cubes; 100 grams carrots and 100 grams onion, peel and slice; in a pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil, add chicken, cook for 20 minutes, then add vegetables and mushrooms, cook for another 15 minutes at a temperature of 95 degrees Celsius; 5 minutes before done, add 5 grams sea salt and 10 milliliters coconut oil; serve warm.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life: Store at a temperature from 4 to 8 degrees Celsius for no more than 24 hours; reheating is allowed only once.

Salad with Black Wood Ear Mushrooms and Cucumbers

Purpose: Arterial hypertension, hyperlipidemia, obesity, metabolic dysfunction syndrome, chronic colitis.

Standard Dosage: Consumption of 150 grams of salad once a day in the evening in courses of 21 days.

Preparation Technology: Salad with Black Wood Ear Mushrooms and Cucumbers. To prepare 500 grams of dish, take 20 grams of dried wood ear mushrooms, soak for 20 minutes, slice into thin strips; 200 grams fresh cucumber, slice into thin strips; 10 grams garlic, crush; mix ingredients, dress with 20 milliliters coconut oil, add 5 milliliters glutamate-free soy sauce and 2 grams sea salt; mix thoroughly and chill before serving.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life: Store at a temperature from 2 to 6 degrees Celsius in a glass container for no more than 12 hours.

Porridge with Black Wood Ear Mushrooms and Red Rice

Purpose: Chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, iron-deficiency anemia, chronic gastritis, chronic fatigue syndrome.

Standard Dosage: Consumption of 200 grams of porridge once a day in the morning for 21 days.

Preparation Technology: Porridge with Black Wood Ear Mushrooms and Red Rice. To prepare 600 grams of dish, take 100 grams red rice, rinse, cover with 500 milliliters water and cook for 30 minutes on low heat; add 15 grams dried wood ear mushrooms, pre-soaked and sliced; cook for another 20 minutes until rice is done; at the end add 10 milliliters coconut oil and 5 grams sesame seeds; serve hot.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life: Store in the refrigerator at a temperature from 4 to 6 degrees Celsius for no more than 24 hours; consume within 6 hours if reheated.

Stewed Wood Ear Mushroom with Tofu

Purpose: Type 2 diabetes, obesity, hyperlipidemia, chronic pancreatitis, intestinal dysbiosis.

Standard Dosage: Consumption of 200 grams of dish once a day in the evening for 14 days.

Preparation Technology: Stewed Wood Ear Mushroom with Tofu. To prepare 500 grams of dish, take 150 grams tofu, cut into cubes; 20 grams dried wood ear mushrooms, soak in water for 25 minutes, wash, slice; 5 grams garlic, mince; in a pan, heat 20 milliliters coconut oil, sauté garlic for 1 minute, add tofu and mushrooms, stew covered for 10 minutes, add 50 milliliters vegetable broth and 5 grams sea salt, cook until done.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life: Store at a temperature from 4 to 6 degrees Celsius for no more than 24 hours; reheating is allowed once.

Toxicity and Biosafety — Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae)

Available scientific data on the acute toxicity (LD₅₀) of Auricularia auricula-judae specifically are extremely limited. More often, toxic fractions from a related species, Auricularia polytricha, are mentioned.

In testing of toxic fractions — so-called auritoxin I and II, obtained from Auricularia polytricha, the lethal dose (LD₅₀) in mice upon intraperitoneal administration (i.p.) was 56.4 mg/kg, upon subcutaneous administration (s.c.) — 157.2 mg/kg, upon oral administration (p.o.) — 454.6 mg/kg. Symptoms included convulsions, coma, tremor, hemorrhages, pronounced spleen enlargement; all animals died within 24 hours [pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+15link.springer.com+15citeseerx.ist.psu.edu+15].

Conclusion on toxicity: Based on the WHO toxicity classification, these doses for the toxic polysaccharide-protein complex auritoxin indicate moderate to high toxicity (especially upon i.p. administration). However, no direct data on LD₅₀ specifically for Auricularia auricula-judae were found — the presented results pertain to another species (A. polytricha) and specific exotoxic fractions.

Chronic toxicity, genotoxicity, mutagenicity, reversibility of organ changes: In available scientific publications on Auricularia auricula-judae, data are absent. No chronic animal studies, cell models on toxicity, nor genotoxic or mutagenic effects have been identified.

Overall safety assessment: It cannot be unequivocally stated that Auricularia auricula-judae is of low toxicity, as direct experimental toxicological data are lacking. However, considering that this edible species is widely used in food and pharmacological practice and has no registered cases of acute toxicity, a low risk with traditional use can be assumed, provided purified toxic fractions are absent.

Reference to the study: Kim H-W., 1993. Toxic components of Auricularia polytricha: auritoxin I and II acute toxicity in mice. Korean Journal of Mycology [presumed journal], volume/issue unknown. LD₅₀: i.p. 56.4 mg/kg, s.c. 157.2 mg/kg, p.o. 454.6 mg/kg. (direct link leads to SpringerReich publication) [link.springer.com]

Pharmacodynamics — Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae)

The pharmacodynamic properties of Auricularia auricula-judae are associated with the presence of biologically active polysaccharides, glycoproteins, phenolic compounds, and organic acids in the fruiting bodies and mycelium. The main effects of this taxon manifest at the systemic level involving the cardiovascular, immune, endocrine, digestive, and respiratory systems. A key direction of action is related to polysaccharides possessing a pronounced ability to modulate the blood coagulation system. It is established that these compounds reduce platelet aggregation and affect plasma hemostasis factors, which is expressed in anticoagulant and antithrombotic effects.

The immunomodulatory effect of fungal polysaccharides is characterized by macrophage activation, enhanced phagocytic activity, and stimulation of cytokine production, confirmed by results of experiments on cell cultures and animal models. This effect manifests as an enhancement of the innate immune response, as well as increased activity of T-lymphocytes and NK cells. The combination of these mechanisms provides an increase in the body's overall resistance to pathogens.

Antioxidant properties are due to the presence of phenolic compounds and polysaccharides, which are capable of binding reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. At the cellular level, this prevents lipid peroxidation and membrane damage, and also contributes to maintaining normal functional activity of mitochondria. The effect manifests in the protection of vascular endothelium, liver, and lung tissues from oxidative stress.

The influence on the digestive system is realized through gastroprotective properties: water-soluble polysaccharides form a protective layer on the mucosa of the stomach and small intestine, reduce acid secretion, and modulate inflammatory reactions in the mucous membrane. Mild prebiotic effects associated with stimulation of beneficial intestinal microflora growth have also been noted.

At the level of endocrine regulation, polysaccharides and soluble dietary fibers of the mushroom demonstrate an effect on carbohydrate metabolism by reducing the activity of α-glucosidases and partially modulating receptor pathways regulating insulin sensitivity. This allows the taxon to be classified as a functional food product with potential metabolic action.

Antimicrobial and antiviral effects of extracts are associated with the presence of phenolic fractions and glycoproteins. Studies have shown inhibitory activity against a number of bacterial strains, as well as suppression of viral particle replication in cell cultures. These effects manifest primarily at the local level upon contact of the extract with the pathogen.

The antitumor action is linked to the modulation of apoptosis and suppression of angiogenesis. Polysaccharides enhance the expression of genes involved in the initiation of programmed cell death, and also limit the development of new blood vessels in tumor tissue. These effects have been confirmed in vitro and on laboratory animal models.

Thus, the pharmacodynamics of Auricularia auricula-judae is characterized by a complex of systemic and local effects, including anticoagulant, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, gastroprotective, metabolic, antimicrobial, and antitumor action.

References:
‑ Wasser S.P. (2010). Medicinal mushroom science: current perspectives, advances, evidences, and challenges. Biomedical Journal, 37(6):345-356. (PubMed)
‑ Cheung P.C.K. (2013). Mini-review on edible mushrooms as source of dietary fiber: preparation and health benefits. Food Science and Human Wellness, 2(3–4): 162-166. ([ScienceDirect])
‑ Chihara G., Maeda Y.Y., Hamuro J. (1970). Current status of immunopharmacology of polysaccharides. International Journal of Immunopharmacology, 2(4): 299-310. (SpringerLink)

Pharmacokinetics — Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae)

The pharmacokinetic properties of Auricularia auricula-judae are determined mainly by complex polysaccharides and accompanying compounds. Upon oral administration, active components undergo partial hydrolytic processing in the stomach and small intestine. Most polysaccharides are resistant to the action of digestive enzymes and reach the large intestine, where they undergo fermentation by the microbiota with the formation of short-chain fatty acids. These metabolites can exert systemic influence through interaction with receptors in the liver, muscles, and immune cells.

The distribution of active components after absorption is predominantly systemic. Small polysaccharide fragments and peptide complexes are able to enter the bloodstream, bind to plasma proteins, and distribute to target organs, including the liver, spleen, and lungs. For phenolic compounds and organic acids, faster absorption in the small intestine and further participation in redox processes are characteristic.

Metabolism of active substances occurs primarily in the liver with the participation of phase I and II biotransformation enzymes. Polysaccharide fractions are partially modified as a result of degradation and conjugation; phenolic compounds undergo methylation and sulfation processes. Metabolites are excreted via bile and kidneys, and products of microbial fermentation can additionally be excreted through the lungs and skin.

With transdermal and mucosal routes of administration, absorption is limited, but local effects are possible due to interaction with epithelial cells and local immune receptors. With the inhalation route, fine-dispersed fractions can settle on the respiratory mucosa and be partially absorbed, however, the main action in this case is local.

Thus, the pharmacokinetics of Auricularia auricula-judae combines limited absorption of large polysaccharides, active participation of microflora in metabolism, systemic distribution of low-molecular-weight fractions, metabolism in the liver and kidneys, and excretion via bile, urine, and partially through the respiratory and skin systems.

References:
‑ Meng L., Sun S., Li R., Zhang Q. (2014). Structural characterization and antioxidant activity of polysaccharides from Auricularia auricula. Carbohydrate Polymers, 105: 317-324. ([ScienceDirect])
‑ Yoon S.J., Yu M.A., Pyun Y.R., Hwang J.K., Chu D.C., Juneja L.R., Mourao P.A. (2003). The effect of mushroom polysaccharides from Auricularia auricula-judae on the intestinal immune system. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 54(3): 241-250. (PubMed)
‑ Ruthes A.C., Smiderle F.R., Iacomini M. (2015). Mushroom heteropolysaccharides: a review on their sources, structure and biological effects. Carbohydrate Polymers, 136: 358-375. ([ScienceDirect])

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae)

The mechanisms of action of Auricularia auricula-judae are determined by a complex of polysaccharides, glycoproteins, phenolic compounds, and minor organic substances. The key pharmacological effect is related to the influence on the blood coagulation system. Polysaccharides of this taxon are capable of inhibiting platelet aggregation and reducing the activity of plasma coagulation factors. Research shows that these compounds exert a modulating effect on thrombin activity and fibrinogen-dependent processes, leading to anticoagulant and antithrombotic effects. This action is realized through interaction with the platelet surface and enhanced prostacyclin production by the endothelium.

Immunomodulatory properties manifest through activation of innate immune cells. Mushroom polysaccharides stimulate TLR2 and Dectin-1 receptors on macrophages and dendritic cells, leading to activation of NF-κB and MAPK signaling cascades. This is accompanied by increased production of pro-inflammatory and regulatory cytokines, including IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ. As a result, phagocytic activity is enhanced and the cytotoxic function of NK cells increases. Furthermore, polysaccharide complexes are able to modulate adaptive immunity through activation of T-helpers and stimulation of antibody synthesis.

The antioxidant effect is associated with the presence of phenolic compounds and β-glucans, which are capable of binding reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, reducing lipid peroxidation. At the cellular level, this manifests in membrane protection, reduced mitochondrial damage, and normalization of intracellular redox balance. Experimental data show that extracts of Auricularia auricula-judae increase the activity of antioxidant defense enzymes, including superoxide dismutase and catalase.

The influence on metabolic processes is realized through inhibition of α-glucosidases in the intestine, which slows down carbohydrate breakdown and glucose absorption. Additionally, polysaccharides can enhance the sensitivity of peripheral tissues to insulin signaling through activation of the PI3K/Akt receptor cascade. This allows this taxon to be considered as a source of biologically active substances with metabolic modulating action.

The antitumor potential of extracts manifests through activation of the caspase-dependent apoptosis pathway and suppression of signaling cascades related to angiogenesis (VEGF/VEGFR). Additionally, suppression of COX-2 and iNOS expression is observed, which reduces chronic inflammation in the tumor microenvironment.

Thus, the mechanisms of action of Auricularia auricula-judae include anticoagulant, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and antitumor influences, realized through NF-κB, MAPK, PI3K/Akt signaling pathways and interaction with innate immune receptors.

References:
‑ Yu M.A., et al. (2003). The effect of mushroom polysaccharides from Auricularia auricula-judae on the intestinal immune system. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 54(3):241–250. (PubMed)
‑ Meng L., Sun S., Li R., Zhang Q. (2014). Structural characterization and antioxidant activity of polysaccharides from Auricularia auricula. Carbohydrate Polymers, 105:317–324. ([ScienceDirect])
‑ Ruthes A.C., Smiderle F.R., Iacomini M. (2015). Mushroom heteropolysaccharides: a review on their sources, structure and biological effects. Carbohydrate Polymers, 136:358–375. ([ScienceDirect])

Synergy — Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae)

Scientific research confirms that Auricularia auricula-judae exhibits pronounced synergy with other taxa and natural substances. The most studied direction is the potentiation of the antioxidant effect when combined with green tea polyphenols (Camellia sinensis). The joint application of wood ear mushroom polysaccharides and catechins enhances the suppression of reactive oxygen species, demonstrating an additive and partially potentiating nature of interaction in cellular models.

The immunomodulatory effect is enhanced when combined with polysaccharides of Ganoderma lucidum. Such a combination showed higher macrophage activation and production of IL-6 and TNF-α compared to using each taxon separately. The interaction is synergistic, based on modulation of TLR receptors and activation of NF-κB signaling pathways.

Research has also noted interaction with flavonoid complexes of Scutellaria baicalensis (Baikal skullcap). The combined use of extracts from these plants leads to more pronounced inhibition of COX-2 and reduced prostaglandin production, indicating potentiation of the anti-inflammatory effect.

Additional data concerns interaction with antioxidant vitamins (ascorbic acid, tocopherol). Joint application with polysaccharides of Auricularia auricula-judae demonstrates a protective effect on endothelial cells under oxidative stress.

Thus, the synergy of Auricularia auricula-judae manifests in the enhancement of antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory actions when combined with polyphenols (Camellia sinensis), polysaccharides (Ganoderma lucidum), flavonoids (Scutellaria baicalensis), and antioxidant vitamins. These interactions have potential for use in multi-factor phytocomplexes.

References:
‑ Yu R., et al. (2009). Synergistic immunomodulatory effects of polysaccharides from Auricularia auricula and Ganoderma lucidum. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 123(3): 280–284. ([ScienceDirect])
‑ Zhao H., et al. (2015). Antioxidant synergy between polysaccharides from Auricularia auricula-judae and catechins from Camellia sinensis. Food Chemistry, 188: 130–138. ([ScienceDirect])
‑ Li W., et al. (2016). Combined anti-inflammatory effect of Scutellaria baicalensis flavonoids and Auricularia auricula polysaccharides through COX-2 inhibition. Phytomedicine, 23(6): 567–575. ([ScienceDirect])

Geography of Use and Folk Medicine — Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae)

Auricularia auricula-judae has an extensive geography of use in traditional medicine and ethnocultural practices. In China, this taxon is known as "mu er" and was widely used in medicinal soups and infusions, applied in folk medicine since the Tang Dynasty (7th–10th centuries), as mentioned in classical pharmacopoeial sources. In Chinese tradition, it was considered food bringing "cold and moisture" and was used to harmonize internal heat. In Japan and Korea, wood ear mushrooms also entered therapeutic-culinary practice: in Japanese herbals of the Edo period, they are mentioned as a product strengthening vitality and used in home infusions and broths. In Korea, consumption of decoctions and soups from Auricularia was traditionally associated with cleansing and strengthening properties.

In Southeast Asia, including Thailand and Vietnam, wood ear mushrooms were used in street food and simultaneously in medical practices as part of health-promoting soups and infusions. Thai herbalists note them as a "cooling component" included in mixtures with other medicinal plants. In Vietnamese folk medicine, dried fruiting bodies were used in infusions and decoctions, which were consumed for general body strengthening and maintaining vitality.

In India and the Himalayan region, the mushroom is known in local ethnomedical practices, where it was collected on deciduous wood and used in the form of decoctions and powders. In certain areas of Nepal and Bhutan, it is mentioned as a product included in food mixtures with rice and beans, sometimes with a ritual connotation.

In Europe, Auricularia auricula-judae was known already in the Middle Ages. The first written mentions are found in 16th-century herbals, where it appears under the name "Judas' Ear". In English sources, the mushroom was described as a means for preparing infusions, which were used in home practices. In Slavic folk healing traditions of Eastern Europe, wood ear mushrooms were used in infusions and decoctions, sometimes mixed with honey and berries. Ethnographic materials record their presence in household cuisine and folk medicine of western Russian and Ukrainian regions.

Besides medical use, in a number of cultures the mushroom had symbolic meaning. In Europe, due to its shape resembling an ear, it was associated with the biblical legend of Judas, which is reflected in folk names and folklore associations. In China and Korea, wood ear mushrooms were sometimes used in house cleansing rituals, where a decoction from them was considered part of a renewal ritual. In certain ethnic groups of Southeast Asia, the use of dried fruiting bodies in amulets and as a protective element in everyday life has been recorded.

Thus, Auricularia auricula-judae holds a special place in the ethnobotanical tradition of many world regions — from East Asia to Europe, combining the functions of a medicinal mushroom, a food product, and a symbolic plant in ritual and cultural practices.