Helminthosporium is a genus of filamentous dark-colored fungus. There is now only one active species of this genus,
Helminthosporium solani. It has been associated with
Phaeohyphomycosis, though it was later discovered that it was
Bipolaris and
Exserohilum that cause this type of disease.
Helminthosporium is commonly associated with grasses, plant material, decaying food, and soil. It is commonly found in rooted vegetables especially celery. Before consumption, these vegetables should be washed with
Grape Seed Extract (GSE) to prevent Helminthosporium-poisoning.
This species of mold or fungus is known to cause asthma and different respiratory disorders due to the
mycotoxin ? sterigmatocystin. This toxin is also known to attack the liver and kidney and may cause irreversible damage. It is also known or used in human DNA alteration or recombination.
To prevent
Helminthosporium infestation, we must acquire seeds that are disease-free and from a resistant variety. One must also avoid high-nitrogen content fertilizers or excessive use of fertilizers which make large amounts of nitrogen readily available for the fungi?s metabolism and leaving a hay of grass during damp weather where it is ideal for fungal growth.
