This rare polypore has an incredibly strong anise / vanilla-like odor. Native Americans of the Northern Plains considered this mushroom to have healing and spiritual properties. Haploporus odorus fungus can be found growing on hardwood trees in northern boreal forests.  In North America, it prefers the Diamond Willow tree, which gives it the common name “Diamond Willow Fungus.”
 
One of the primary traditional uses of the diamond willow fungus is as medicine.  The mushroom was used to stop bleeding and to treat coughs, diarrhea, and dysentery. It is also traditionally used for treating migraines, toothaches, sinus infections, and anxiety.
 
Diamond willow fungus can be prepared as a tea, or as a smudge. It produces a very fragrant smoke when burnt.
 
To use: burn a small chunk and inhale the fragrant smoke approx 4 inches from the source.
 
For toothaches: soak a small piece in warm water, then squeeze the absorbed water onto the affected area. You may also chew on the soaked chunk.
For tea: simmer chunks in hot water on low heat in a pot for 10-15 minutes. Sweeten as desired. 
 
Note: Chunks may be used up to 3 times as a tea. After using / straining out chunks, freeze them for later re-use.