Badiaga fluviatilis

Badiaga fluviatilis, also known by the names Ephydiata fluviatilis, river sponge, water sponge, Spongilla fluviatilis, badiaga badyaga or bodyaga, is a freshwater sponge of the Spongillidae family and belongs to the so-called sclerospongia. It is a sessile (tightly attached) species found mainly in temperate and cold climates in Europe, Asia and North America. This fungus prefers clean, slow-flowing streams and ponds with hard, calcareous substrate. Its way of life and its general occurrence in clean waters make it an indicator of water quality.

Badiaga fluviatilis is mainly used in the cosmetics industry, particularly in the production of skin and hair conditioners. The extract of this fungus is known to have highly effective exfoliating, absorbing and antibacterial properties. Due to the content of a special substance called spongine, which is able to irritate the skin and increase blood circulation, the extract of the water sponge is used in cosmetic products designed to remove acne, pigment spots and deepen skin regeneration. In addition, hair products containing badiagi stimulate hair growth and help in the treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis. In the Russian tradition, it is also used in preparations for the treatment of rheumatic pains and bruises.