Ban Chang:Chang Heavy rain and flooding have not deterred the residents of Ban Chang District in Rayong province. Embracing the challenging weather, they are capitalizing on the situation by collecting and selling "bitter mushrooms" from local eucalyptus forests, generating over 1,000 baht a day.

According to Thai News Agency, the bitter mushrooms are non-poisonous, featuring thick stems and purple caps. Despite their bitter taste, they have become a valuable source of income for villagers dealing with the adverse weather conditions. The mushrooms are found in abundance at the base of eucalyptus trees, especially after the rains.

Tik, a 41-year-old street sweeper for Ban Chang Municipality, spends her weekends harvesting these mushrooms. She ventures into the eucalyptus forest, which spans over 100 acres, collecting mushrooms that shoot up after the rains. Her efforts yield more than 10 kilograms in the morning alone, providing her with a supplementary income of up to 2,000 baht on weekends as the mushrooms sell for 140-150 baht per kilogram. Tik markets them through online groups, receiving enthusiastic responses from buyers who either pick them up or request delivery.

Bitter mushrooms are seasonal and are particularly popular in northeastern and southern Thailand, often used in soups or minced dishes. To reduce their bitterness, they are typically boiled and the water is discarded, or boiled with tamarind leaves or bananas, enhancing their flavor.