Giant Puffball (Mushroom) Spore Powder

Dried, mature giant puffball spore powder (historical method)

A mature puffball, once its interior had turned to fine, dry, dust-like spore powder, was collected.

The dry powder was squeezed or dusted directly onto a bleeding wound.

It was left in place to help slow the bleeding, sometimes combined with cobwebs for extra effect.

MODERN SAFETY NOTE: This is a historical folk practice, not a modern first-aid recommendation. Correctly identifying a genuinely mature, safe puffball is difficult, and applying uncontrolled fungal material to an open wound carries real infection risk by today's medical standards. No modern clinical trials support its safety or effectiveness. For any real bleeding wound, use a clean sterile dressing and direct pressure, and seek medical care for anything beyond a minor cut.

This entry is documented for historical/cultural reference only.