Fomes fomentarius (L. : Fr.) Fr. : un champignon aux multiples usages

This paper reviews the uses of Fomes fomentarius (Tinder Polypore) through the centuries. This fungus was indeed used by man from Prehistoric times up until World War One. Its cotton-like flesh is well known as « amadou » (tinder). The authors point out the varied uses of this fungus: fire production, styptic dressing, medicine, clothes, fishing articles, decorative items, etc., as well as its symbolic and legendary role. Our own experiments on fire production and clothing fabrication demonstrate the efficiency of traditional techniques. The different uses of F. fomentarius are reported as daily know-how for mankind over the ages.