Fu LingAlternative Nutrition TherapyBy Christine Batten and Ryan Thibodaux
What is Fu Ling?Wolfporia extensa
A wood decay fungusFound worldwideAlso known as:
Hoelen PoriaTuckahoeChina Root Indian Bread
Finding Fu Ling
Grows almost entirely undergroundMost commonly in pine forestsCan be up to 20 pounds!
Historical Uses of Fu Ling?Traditional Chinese Medicine
As a medicinal mushroomAlso used as food in China
Mixed with rice into cakes
By Native AmericansAs a food source“Indian Bread”
By African Slaves in North AmericaAs a food source in times of scarcity
Nutrient Composition of Fu Ling
Macronutrient distribution not clearly establishedSupplement makers claim, per 100 g:
1.2 g protein0.5 g fat80.9 g carbohydrate1.7 g cellulose (fiber)4.27 mg vitamin E12.6 ug selenium
In line with other mushrooms (e.g. shiitake)
Nutrient Composition of Fu Ling
Abundance of micronutrients is verifiedK, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn and Zn
Metabolite constitutionDependent on growing location6.9mg/g of polysaccharide10.1mg/g triterpinoids (potential anticancer agent)4.3 mg/g flavonoids (phytochemicals)28.7mg/g saponins (may lower cholesterol)64.2mg/g mannitol (a sugar alcohol and diuretic)
Fu Ling in Chinese MedicineUsed as an “herb” for thousands of years
9-15g decocted into a teaExtracts sold in pill form
Used in numerous herb formulas
Combinations of multiple herbs
Fu Ling in Herbal FormulasBa Zhen Wan
To treat anxietyBao He San
Aids digestion after overeatingThe “food coma” formula
Bao Ji WanRecovery from excessive alcohol consumption
Claims of Chinese Medicine“Promotes urination and drains dampness”
Acts as a diuretic and relieves water retention
“Harmonizes the Middle Jiao”The midsection of the body responsible for digestion
“Quiets the heart and calms the spirit”Provides a tranquilizing/calming effect
“A superb yin tonic”Aids the body in recovering from general illness
The Science of Fu LingStill developing, but…Confirmation that Fu Ling “presents a remarkable diuretic effect.”
Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012Significant anti-hyperglycemic effect due to triterpenic acids
Blood sugars lowered in diabetic ratsInsulin sensitivity increased
Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011
The Science of Fu LingThree new triterpenoids just discovered!
Doubles known number in Fu Ling from 3 to 6Further research needed…
Chemistry Central Journal, 2012
Fu Ling and CancerMay reverse multidrug resistanceTriterpenoids increased cytotoxicity in KBV200 (cancer) cells
Planta Medica, 2012
The Science of Fu LingFu Ling and Renal Disease
Effective at decreasing urinary protein lossInhibits auqaporin channels in the kidneys, reducing hypertonic stress
Japanese Journal of Pharmacology, 1982
A University of Valencia meta-analysis concludes that Fu Ling:
Contains effective anti-inflammatory compoundsEnhances secretion of immune stimulators/inhibits secretion of immune suppressorsProvides antitumor activity by inhibiting angiogenesis
Planta Medica, 2011
Side Effects and Drug Interactions
No documented adverse side effects have been documented
In part due to insufficient human testingShould not be used with antidiuretic drugs
Due to Fu Ling’s diuretic propertiesPregnant women urged to consult a doctor or licensed herbalist before taking Fu Ling
Thank You!
Christine Batten & Ryan Thibodaux