Birch Polypore
FamilyFomitopsidaceae
EdibilityMedicinal
HabitatBirch trees
SeasonYear-round
About the Birch Polypore
The Iceman Otzi, preserved in ice for 5,300 years, carried birch polypore - likely as medicine. They produce betulinic acid from birch compounds, being studied for anti-tumor properties. Their white pore surface on the underside is distinctive. A single bracket can live for years. Traditional uses include wound dressing and sharpening razors. Otzi also carried tinder polypore for fire-starting.
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