Mushroom season. Fans from all over Spain are already invading the mountains and forests in search of their favorite species. Experts easily recognize mushrooms that can be poisonous or even deadly; But those who enter this exciting world should be warned about the existence of many species that are truly dangerous to humans. Actually, According to official statistics, an average of three people die every year in Spain from eating poisonous mushrooms.
It is necessary to make sure which mushrooms are collected and go to a specialist if necessary. When in doubt, you should avoid consuming questionable species. This is a list of some of the most poisonous mushrooms in Spain, but of course there are a few more.
1- ‘Amanita phalloides’ (Green Oronja/Green Hemlock)
It is known by many popular names in Spain: green oronja, green hemlock, mortal oronja, death mushroom… It is undoubtedly the paragon of the deadly mushroom and the queen of poisonous mushrooms. It is responsible for 90 percent of deaths caused by consumption of poisonous mushrooms.. Its poison is so strong that even a single sample consumed can cause death.
It grows throughout the Iberian Peninsula and in all types of forests. The poison of this mushroom attacks and destroys the central nervous system, liver and muscle cells. The most common symptoms are nausea and vomiting, bloody diarrhea and cramps.
Immediate hospitalization is required.
It is white at birth, and its cap acquires olive green and yellowish tones as it grows.
2- ‘Amanita verna’ (White Oronja/White Hemlock)
It is especially dangerous because Because of its color, it is easily confused with Paris mushroom or wild mushroom., two harmless and tasty mushrooms. It is found evenly distributed in Spanish pastures and pine forests.
It is characterized by its white color and round cap, which opens as it grows.
Additionally, the following are taken into account: phalloidsIt is one of the most poisonous mushrooms in the world. Like its cousin, it contains a lethal dose of alpha-amanitin, which causes liver failure if not treated immediately. After eating this mushroom, the first symptoms appear 6 to 24 hours later.
3 – ‘Amanita muscaria’ (flyswatter)
It can be seen in our fields and forests from late summer to early autumn. It is not fatal, but it is very toxic because its neurotoxic effects are very aggressive. In addition to the nervous system, the liver and digestive system will also be seriously affected by this fungus.
The fly swatter has the ability to paralyze insects that come into contact with it, hence its popular name. It is a remarkable mushroom that, according to mythology, is inhabited by dwarves.
It also has hallucinogenic properties.
4- ‘Cortinarius orellanus’
Symptoms indicating orellanin poisoning are: similar to ordinary flu; namely: nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, headache. After them, kidney failure occurs: thirst, frequent urination, kidney pain.
The first symptoms appear two or three days after taking the drug, and in some cases they can last much longer, up to three weeks. It can be fatal.
like that C. orellanusaspect spesiosissimus And cinnamon They contain orellanin, a substance that is highly nephrotoxic in humans.
5- ‘Boletus satanas’ (Devil’s mushroom)
Although not fatal, It is very poisonous, especially when eaten raw. It then causes gastrointestinal upset, vomiting and diarrhea. It occurs as soon as it is swallowed. It is not digested when cooked.
It usually grows in forest clearings, next to the roots of holm, beech and oak trees. It is rare, but usually always grows in the same areas, especially in the mid-altitude regions of the mountains or the highest parts of the plains.
It is a large mushroom, its name derived partly from the fact that in later stages of life it takes on a reddish color throughout and becomes blue-tinged to the touch, mainly on the underside. The flesh is compact and white or yellowish. When cut, it takes on a grayish tint and then a bluish tint. Its smell is unpleasant and its taste is sweet.
6- ‘Gyromitra esculenta’ (hood mushroom/false morel)
For decades Gyromitra esculenta It was considered edible. But there is nothing but reality. It is a very poisonous species when consumed naturally, that is, raw. It can even be fatal.
You can see this mushroom in rocky places and under pine trees in spring. It prefers high places above 800 meters above sea level. It has an irregular shape and protrusions that resemble the brain. It is very similar to morel.
An invaluable aid in detecting poisonous mushrooms are mobile applications that have been circulating among hobbyists for years. It wouldn’t hurt to install one on our phone when we go to the countryside. You can find them here.
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