Black Hoof Mushroom

Phellinus linteus, commonly known as Black Hoof as of recent, has been used for centuries in eastern Asia in places such as Japan, China, and Korea.

As the names suggest, black hoof mushrooms are hoof-shaped, and quite bitter tasting.

They grow naturally in trunks of willow, paper mulberry, and elm trees that are more than 100 years old. Nurtured for anywhere between 30 and up to 40 years to make the fruiting body suitable for a variety of applications. Which explains its rarity.
Furthermore, its potential benefits make it a highly desired and snowball in popularity.

In some cultures around the world, Black Hoof Mushrooms are made into teas to strengthen one’s immune system and heal or prevent digestive complications.

Modern science has shown its benefits extending as far as to the promotion of healthy metabolic functions.
Phellinus linteus research found a compound is known as Hispolon naturally occurs in black hoof mushrooms, further boosting its benefits.

Especially keeping in mind that Hispolon supports balanced inflammation levels in rats in various trials. Hispolon was also found to promote apoptosis in harmful cells in selected in vitro studies.

Apoptosis is a natural process of programmed cell death that occurs in multicellular organisms.

Black hoof mushroom even contains beta-glucans that are known to help promote the health of the immune system! Besides, the benefits of the Black hoof mushroom also extend to the benefits of the brain and exercise. Small scale experiments have shown that a Black hoof mushroom supplement appears to have neuroprotective effects and promote endurance during physical activity.

Although less popular than the rest of the mushroom family, such as Lion’s Mane Mushroom or Cordyceps, it is nevertheless a fascinating nootropic to keep an eye on and learn about if or how it can benefit your day to day life.