How do mushrooms poison?

Answer 1

Mushroom poisoning refers to harmful effects from ingestion of toxic substances present in a mushroom. These symptoms can vary from slight gastrointestinal discomfort to death in about 10 days. The toxins present are secondary metabolites produced by the fungus. Mushroom poisoning is usually the result of ingestion of wild mushrooms after misidentification of a toxic mushroom as an edible species. The most common reason for this misidentification is close resemblance in terms of colour and general morphology of the toxic mushrooms species with edible species. To prevent mushroom poisoning, mushroom gatherers familiarize themselves with the mushrooms they intend to collect, as well as with any similar-looking toxic species. The safety of eating wild mushrooms may depend on methods of preparation for cooking.

Answer 2

Mushrooms are comprised of many cells that are either poisonous by themselves or produce poisonous chemicals as their byproducts. It is upon consumption that the chemicals of the mushroom absorb through our stomach and into our blood streams. While some chemicals are digested easily, some chemical compounds can cause reactions to the stomach, liver or brain of humans. There are hundreds of mushroom types in existence, all evolved to live in different climates, and also a wide array of symptoms. It is the ones that cause bad reactions we consider poisonous. Never eat a mushroom you find outside as they may be poisonous. Mushrooms bought in the grocery store have been grown in closely watched conditions to ensure that the mushrooms are safe to eat.