Moc nhi (cat mushroom) is considered a nutritious food in Vietnam. They are considered medicinal food because they are both delicious and have healing properties. However, fresh moc nhi is toxic.
Moc nhi is a food that is considered to have similar components to aspirin, which helps prevent blood clotting. They are not only delicious but also nutritious and have beauty benefits. Moc nhi helps boost immunity due to its polysaccharides, reduces constipation, and prevents cardiovascular diseases effectively. In moc nhi, the older the mushroom is, the richer it is in vitamin K, calcium, and nutrients, which helps reduce blood clotting and prevent blood clots. The gel-like substance in moc nhi helps remove impurities in the digestive system, thus cleaning the digestive tract.
Fresh moc nhi is highly toxic
Normally, other natural foods are preferred to be eaten fresh, but moc nhi is the opposite. Fresh moc nhi is highly toxic due to the presence of morpholine. Eating fresh moc nhi can cause poisoning, itching, swelling, skin necrosis, and even death. This substance is light-sensitive, so the symptoms worsen when exposed to light. And because it is light-sensitive, moc nhi needs to be dried in the sun before consumption.
When using dried moc nhi, you should also note:
Soak in cold water: Dried moc nhi needs to be soaked in water until it expands before use. Many people use hot water to soak it because they are in a hurry. This is not good. The toxic substance morpholine has been decomposed during drying, but residue may still remain. Therefore, soaking in cold water allows enough time for this substance to dissolve into the water, reducing the risk of harm to the body.
Furthermore, soaking in boiling water causes moc nhi to expand quickly on the outside while the inside is not fully soaked, resulting in less appetizing texture compared to soaking in cold water.
Black moc nhi is believed to be better than pale moc nhi. However, moc nhi has a blood-activating and stagnation-resolving effect, so pregnant women should not eat too much to avoid affecting the fetus.
Soaking moc nhi for too long is also not good because they will become spoiled and lose their fragrance. Soaking for too long can cause protein in moc nhi to decompose, leading to bacterial attacks and harm. People with poor digestion should also avoid eating moc nhi as it can cause stomach coldness and worsen the condition. Those with allergies should be cautious and consume a moderate amount to avoid allergies and itching.