Instructions for using the Phallus impudicus L. mushroom
What Is the Stinkhorn Mushroom?
The common stinkhorn (Phallus impudicus L.) has long attracted attention. Its unusual phallic shape and strong smell, which appears as it grows, surprised people and gave rise to many legends. One of its folk names is “witch's egg.”
At first, the stinkhorn really is egg-shaped, roughly 3×4 to 5×6 cm. The fruiting body is covered by a dense, slimy membrane. As it matures, the membrane bursts and a stem with a characteristic cap grows out of it very quickly. The unpleasant smell has a simple scientific explanation: it attracts insects that spread the spores.
We harvest stinkhorn in Ukraine, dry it, and offer it as powder and capsules: buy Phallus impudicus capsules.
Composition
Phallus impudicus contains a number of biologically active compounds, including:
- polysaccharides and glucans;
- polyphenols;
- phytosterols;
- phospholipids.
Why Stinkhorn Is of Interest
Interest in stinkhorn is mainly related to its composition. The mushroom contains polysaccharides (including beta-glucans), polyphenols, phytosterols, and phospholipids. These compounds are typical of many functional mushrooms and are actively studied by scientists.
What researchers are studying
- Antioxidant activity. In laboratory studies, Phallus impudicus extracts showed antioxidant properties.
- Polysaccharides. Mushroom beta-glucans are being studied for their possible interaction with the immune system.
Most of this data comes from laboratory or animal studies. There are not yet enough clinical studies in humans, so the mushroom's effects cannot be considered proven.
Traditional use
Stinkhorn has long been used in European and Eastern folk traditions as a general tonic food. In Eastern tradition, it had a reputation as an aphrodisiac. These are historical beliefs, not scientifically confirmed properties.
How to Use Stinkhorn
Take one capsule (0.5 g) or the equivalent amount of powder twice a day, in the morning and evening, 30 minutes before meals. The course lasts 3 months, followed by a break. Please also follow the recommendations on the product packaging.
Contraindications and Precautions
Do not use stinkhorn:
- if you have an individual intolerance to its components;
- if you are pregnant or breastfeeding;
- if you are under 18;
- if you have low blood pressure (hypotension).
Use with caution if you have an autoimmune condition or take medication regularly, and talk to your doctor first. This product is not a medicine and is not intended to treat or prevent any disease.
Where to Buy Stinkhorn
Dried stinkhorn harvested in Ukraine is available in our store as powder or capsules: Phallus impudicus capsules. You can view our product certificates online. For other questions, see our FAQ.
Sources
- Antioxidant, anti-cholinesterase, and inflammation inhibitory activities of fruiting bodies of Phallus impudicus var. impudicus L. // Journal of Mushroom, 2019. DOI: 10.14480/JM.2019.17.3.152
- Common stinkhorn on Wikipedia: Phallus impudicus
