Be careful when collecting mushrooms: This is how you can recognize the deadly death cap mushroom

Be careful when collecting mushrooms: This is how you can recognize the deadly death cap mushroom

Autumn is mushroom time: the colorful forests invite you to collect fresh mushrooms. But in the midst of the anticipation of the culinary delights, caution is advised. The green death cap mushroom, scientifically known as Amanita phalloides, is one of the most dangerous mushrooms found in this country. What is particularly alarming is the fact that around 90 percent of deaths from mushroom poisoning in Europe can be attributed to it. All the more reason to pay attention and familiarize yourself with the appearance of this deadly fungus.

Experts from the German Society for Mycology explain how you can safely identify the green death cap mushroom. This mushroom has a characteristic greenish color, although this can become fainter towards the edges. Its hat initially has a hemispherical shape, but flattens over time and can reach up to 12 centimeters in diameter. The stem measures up to 10 centimeters in length and has a diameter of about 2 centimeters. Another important feature is the smell of the mushroom; it is reminiscent of artificial honey or a sweet invert sugar cream. These aromas can be misleading for many collectors, as the green death cap is often confused with edible varieties such as mushrooms or green scallops - a combination that can have fatal consequences.

Symptoms of poisoning

The treachery of the green death cap mushroom is particularly evident in the symptoms of poisoning. According to the German Liver Foundation, you don't notice anything at first; the symptoms of poisoning only appear after several hours. The poison contained in the mushroom, the so-called amatoxins, already has time to spread throughout the body. This is particularly dangerous for children and the elderly.

The symptoms are often similar to those of a harmless gastrointestinal infection: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain can be the first signs. Within 24 hours, the toxins cause significant damage to the liver. This can lead to blood clotting disorders and kidney dysfunction. In the worst case, vital liver functions can fail, meaning that only a transplant can help.

What to do in an emergency

If you suspect you have consumed the green death cap, it is crucial to act quickly. At the first signs of poisoning, medical help should be sought immediately. Obtaining information about the emergency doctor or contacting the poison control center is essential. Information about this can be found on the website of the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety, among others.

It is important not to use any self-treatment or home remedies. Fungal remains or possibly vomit should be saved to make them available to the doctor - this makes diagnosis and subsequent treatment much easier.

Preventive measures when picking mushrooms

One of the best ways to prevent mushroom poisoning is through knowledge and preparation. Before you start collecting mushrooms, you should thoroughly familiarize yourself with different types of mushrooms and not rely solely on apps or books. Even if mushrooms show visible damage from maggots or snails, that doesn't mean they are non-toxic.

If in doubt, it is advisable to consult an expert. Mushroom experts can examine the collected mushrooms and give the green light for consumption. One idea where you can find such experts is the website of the German Society for Mycology, which provides helpful contacts. However, the safest way to consume mushrooms is to buy them commercially, where the chances of accidentally encountering a poisonous mushroom are significantly lower.