Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae): Benefits, Nutrition & Uses

The Wood Ear mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae) is one of nature’s most fascinating fungi, known for its ear-like shape, silky texture, and impressive health benefits. Commonly found on decaying trees in Asia and Europe, this edible mushroom has been prized in traditional cuisines and medicines for centuries.

What Is the Wood Ear Mushroom?

Also known as Jelly Ear, Tree Ear, or Black Fungus, the Wood Ear mushroom has a distinctive cup-shaped, wavy cap that closely resembles a human ear. The cap measures between 2–15 cm (0.8–6 inches) across and ranges in color from tan to brown. Its surface is smooth, rubbery, and sometimes slightly veined.

Unlike most mushrooms, the Wood Ear lacks a stem — it grows directly attached to the wood of its host tree, often at a central or lateral point. The fruiting body is thin and delicate, requiring careful handling to prevent breakage.

Common Names

The Wood Ear mushroom is known by several names around the world:

• Jelly Ear

• Wood Ear

• Judas’s Ear — a reference to the legend that Judas Iscariot hanged himself from an elder tree, where this fungus often grows

• Tree Ear Fungus

• Black Fungus

• Kikurage (Japan)

• Hei Mu Er (China)

Note: The historical term “Jew’s Ear” is now considered offensive and is no longer used.

Habitat

Wood Ear mushrooms thrive on deciduous trees and shrubs, especially elder, maple, and beech. They are saprophytic, meaning they grow on dead or decaying wood, helping decompose organic matter and recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Culinary Uses

In Asian cuisine, Wood Ear mushrooms are celebrated for their crunchy texture and ability to absorb flavors. They are commonly found in:

• Dumplings (especially in China and Japan)

• Hot and sour soups

• Noodle dishes

• Stews and stir-fries

They are often sold dried and need to be soaked in warm water before cooking.

Nutritional Profile

Wood Ear mushrooms are low in calories but rich in fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Chemical Composition (per 100g dried weight):

• 65% carbohydrates

• 10% protein

• 25% fats, ash, and other compounds

Vitamins (per 100g raw):

• 7% DV of Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)

• 16% DV of Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

• 40% DV of Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

• 6% DV of Vitamin B6

• 5% DV of Vitamin B9 (Folate)

Minerals (per 100g):

• 32% DV of Copper

• 5% DV of Iron

• 8% DV of Magnesium

• 16% DV of Selenium

• 6% DV of Zinc

Wood Ear mushrooms are also a good source of soluble dietary fiber, omega fatty acids (like linoleic acid), and antioxidants.

Health Benefits of Wood Ear Mushroom

Modern research supports the therapeutic potential of Auricularia auricula-judae. Here are its key health-promoting properties:

1. Antimicrobial Activity

Wood Ear mushrooms exhibit anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-parasitic properties, effective against harmful microbes such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

2. Anti-Tumor and Anti-Inflammatory Effects

They contain bioactive compounds that demonstrate anti-tumor and immunomodulatory properties, helping reduce inflammation and strengthen immune defense.

3. Cardiovascular and Blood Health

These mushrooms act as natural anticoagulants, promoting healthy blood circulation and reducing the risk of clot formation, contributing to overall heart health.

4. Supports Diabetes Management

Their water-soluble dietary fiber may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

5. Promotes Gut and Liver Health

Rich in prebiotic fiber, Wood Ear mushrooms support healthy gut microbiota and aid liver detoxification.

6. Enhances Skin, Brain, and Wound Healing

Bioactive components in the mushroom support skin repair, wound healing, and cognitive function, making it a valuable functional food.

7. Weight Control

Low in calories but high in fiber, Wood Ear mushrooms promote satiety and aid in weight management.

Interesting Fact

Did you know there is a mushroom that looks exactly like a human ear? It’s the Auricularia auricula-judae. Beyond its unique appearance, it’s loaded with antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and beneficial fiber.

References

• Echt_judasoor_(Auricularia_auricula-judae)_Familie_Auriculariaceae_op_een_dode_tak_03.jpg. (n.d.). Retrieved September 19, 2025, from Wikimedia Commons

• Islam, T., Yao, F., Kang, W., Lu, L., & Xu, B. (2022). A systematic study on mycochemical profiles, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities of 30 varieties of Jew’s ear (Auricularia auricula-judae). Food Science and Human Wellness, 11(4), 781–794. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fshw.2022.03.005

• Liang, C. H., Wu, C. Y., Lu, P. L., Kuo, Y. C., & Liang, Z. C. (2019). Biological efficiency and nutritional value of the culinary-medicinal mushroom Auricularia cultivated on sawdust with grass plant supplements. Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, 26(2), 263–269. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2016.10.017