Hedgehog Soplum: A Parasitic Superfood

Lion's Mane, or coneflower, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, particularly to treat liver, kidney, spleen and stomach disorders. Extract from this mushroom has also been used to treat heart problems and to strengthen the immune system. In powdered form, the mushroom was sometimes used to speed up the healing of difficult wounds. In Asian countries, Lion's Mane is also a prized culinary ingredient, often added to various dishes. Buddhist monks have been making an infusion of it before meditation since the dawn of time.

Hedgehog soplolly - Characteristics and Occurrence

Hedgehog soplolly, also known as Hericium erinaceus, is a unique arboreal fungus that is hard to miss when walking through deciduous forests. Its appearance resembles a clump of dangling white "hairs," which is why it is often referred to as "lion's mane" (lion's mane). Individual "strands" of this fungus can reach a length of up to 6 cm, and the entire mycelium grows up to 25 cm.

Hedgehog soplolly is found mainly in deciduous forests, especially on the dead wood of trees such as oaks and beeches. This is where it can be found most often.

Properties and Uses of Soplite

Sophora coneflower is rich in bioactive components such as polysaccharides, steroids, alkaloids and lactones. However, it is worth noting hericenones and erinacins, which may have beneficial effects on the nervous system.

In natural medicine, soplolly has long been used as an immune booster and to treat digestive and cardiovascular problems. Modern research has shown that this mushroom has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The use of "lion's mane" can protect against dementia and slow the development of neurodegenerative diseases, as confirmed by numerous clinical studies.

For example, a study published in 2020 in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience showed that regular consumption of soplówka for a year improved cognitive function in people with early stages of Alzheimer's disease. Similar results were obtained in adults with mild cognitive impairment.

However, this is not the end of the benefits. The active compounds in coneflower can support blood sugar regulation, strengthen the immune system, lower the risk of heart disease, and alleviate inflammation, including aiding in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease and preventing the development of cancer. In addition, this mushroom may support mental health.

How to Use Hedgehog Soplum?

Sophora coneflower is an edible mushroom and can be added to dishes. It is rich in nutritional value and has documented health-promoting effects. It is also great for making infusions as well as homemade supplements. Dried and ground into a powder, it can be a great addition to coffee, for example, giving it an amazing slightly nutty umami aftertaste.