For mushroom hunters in the temperate regions of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, nothing signifies the beginning of spring more than the first appearance of morel mushrooms These organisms are arguably considered among the most prized edible fungi on the planet, and it’s not uncommon to see them fetching a price of a few hundred dollars per dried pound in the market.

While morels are some of the easiest mushrooms to identify, a few look-alikes exist… some of them being,  a bit toxic. 

While most morel enthusiasts cherish this particular mushroom for its exceptional taste and culinary applicability, less attention is given to its physiological effects on the body.  This is unfortunate, because, like many members of the fungal kingdom, morel mushrooms possess important nutritional and medicinal properties that can play key roles in optimizing the health of those who consume them.

Health benefits

Rich Source of Vitamin D

We all know that Vitamin D is naturally obtained from sunlight. Very less food have vitamin D but these mushrooms have 100 international units of vitamin D. Vitamin D is required for absorption of calcium in the body and also for proper immune function. When a person takes appropriate amount of vitamin D, his chances of getting osteoporosis, high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis and cancer decreases.

Rich Source of Phosphorus and Iron

Morel mushrooms are rich source of iron and phosphorus. Phosphorus plays important role in formation of strong bones. It also helps in transportation of oxygen. One cup of morels contain 8 milligrams of iron. Iron is important for formation of red blood cells. Hence, consuming sufficient amount of iron prevents anaemia.

It has Less Calories and Fat

One cup of morels have only 20 calories and 0.4 grams of fat. On the other hand, it has 1.8 grams of fibre and 3.4 grams of carbohydrates. Morels can be used to make nutritious soups, as a toping in pastas and much more.

Rich Source of Antioxidants

Antioxidants helps in keeping free radicles away and hence give protection against many diseases including ageing. It also helps in preventing heart diseases and cancer.

Rich Source of B Vitamins

One cup of morels provide 8 percent of daily recommendation of vitamin B-6 and niacin and 11 percent of riboflavin. Vitamin B-6 removes substance from the blood that is responsible for higher cardiovascular disease risk. Niacin lowers the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. The conversion of food into energy also takes place in presence of B vitamins.

Protect from Side Effects of Drugs

It is a well known fact that pharmaceutical drugs have side effects. They may affect internal defence system and may induce kidney failure. According to researches, aqueous ethanol which is extracted from morel mushrooms can enhance internal antioxidant defence system and can hence protect from toxicity that is caused due to various drugs.