Umbrella Polypore
Scientific name: Polyporus umbellatus
Synonyms:
Zhu Ling, Umbrella Polypore, Chinese Sclerotium
Distribution and habitat in nature: The oak mushroom grows on calcium-rich soils, from dead roots, trunks, or tree stumps. It is particularly common on birch, maple, willow, spruce, and beech trees. It is widespread in North America, Asia, the Caucasus, Western and Eastern Siberia, Pakistan, and Central to Eastern Europe.
Ingredients: It contains various bioactive substances that give it its health-promoting properties. Polysaccharides, especially β-glucans, are particularly important as they can strengthen the immune system and have an antioxidant effect. The mushroom also contains sterols such as ergosterol and polyporusterone, which have anti-inflammatory and possibly also tumor-inhibiting effects. The oak mushroom also contains triterpenes and other secondary plant substances that promote urine excretion and support organ function. In addition, the mushroom provides minerals and fiber that support general health and digestion.
Suitable substrate:
Hardwood (birch, maple, beech, oak), used shiitake, maitake, and reishi substrates.
Usage:
Edible mushroom, medicinal mushroom
The Eichhase is a rare medicinal and edible mushroom that is traditionally used primarily in Chinese medicine. It has been used there for centuries—especially to promote urination and support kidney and bladder function. It is also traditionally used to treat water retention (edema) and skin problems.
Taxonomy:
Kingdom: Fungi
Class: Agaricomycetes
Subclass: uncertain / incertae sedis
Order: Polyporales
Family: Polyporaceae
Genus: Polyporus
Species: Oak hare
Spores: 7 - 10 x 3 - 4 µ. white, cylindrical, fine
