Survival and practical uses of Birch Polypore (Razor Strop)

Birch Polypore (Razor Strop) (Piptoporus betulinus)

Survival and practical Uses.

 Piptoporus is from the Greek piptein meaning “to fall,” and Latin porus for “pores.” Betulinus

refers of course to Betula spp., the birch upon which it commonly grows.

Wildcrafters may wish to note that forests rich in birch polypore and Fomes fomentarius are poor in Chaga (Inonotus obliquus), and vice versa. That is, it appears that once some fungi have set up home, others are less welcome. The wood decayed by the fungus has the distinct odor of green apples.

Traditional Woodland Cree of northern Alberta Tapping Birch Trees and making Syrup

Season of the Birch. An insightful glance into the traditional lifestyle of the Woodland Cree of northern Alberta. Narrated by Chief Dan George. Filmed in 1973

Attikamek Nation Birch Bark Canoe Building Video

Attikamek Nation - Birch Bark Canoe Building - Directed by Bernard Gosselin - 1971

Trappers Traders and Canoe Builders

Algonquin Indian Trappers use Deadfalls for Beaver trapping and build Birch Bark Canoe to get the pelts down the Hudson Bay - Vintage 1946 Film

Birch Polypore Mushroom Identification & Medicinal Benefits

Birch Polypore Mushroom 

The birch polypore (Fomitopsis betulina, Piptoporus betulinus) is a mushroom whose use by humans dates back at least 5,300 years. Since then, this species has been utilized as a food, medicine, styptic, polisher, razor strop, fire transporter, and more. In this video, we take a look at identifying features, as well as its impressive medicinal profile.

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