Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.
Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION
Antrodia cinnamomea is a rare Taiwanese mushroom containing triterpenoids and polysaccharides that enhance immune function and liver detoxification. Its bioactive compounds activate macrophages and increase natural killer cell activity while supporting hepatic cytochrome P450 enzyme systems.
Reported Benefits (Provisional)
Origin & History
Antrodia cinnamomea, also known as Niu Zhang Zhi, is a rare medicinal mushroom native to Taiwan. It grows on the inner heartwood of the Cinnamomum kanehirae tree and is highly prized for its health-promoting properties.
Research Narrative (Provisional)
Research, including RCTs and meta-analyses, has shown that Antrodia cinnamomea may possess anti-cancer, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, more large-scale studies are needed to fully understand its efficacy.
Preparation & Dosage
Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.
Nutritional Profile
Antrodia cinnamomea is a medicinal fungus with a complex bioactive profile rather than a conventional macronutrient-dense food. Protein content ranges approximately 10-15% dry weight, with polysaccharides (primarily beta-glucans) comprising 20-30% dry weight, serving as the primary immunomodulatory fraction. Dietary fiber constitutes roughly 30-40% dry weight. Key bioactive compounds include triterpenoids (antcins A, B, C, H, K, and zhankuic acids) at concentrations of 0.5-2% dry weight, which are primary drivers of hepatoprotective and anti-cancer activity. Ergosterol (provitamin D2 precursor) is present at approximately 0.3-0.8% dry weight. Adenosine and cordycepin-like nucleosides contribute to immunomodulatory effects. Mineral content includes zinc (~15-25 mg/100g dry), selenium (~0.1-0.3 mg/100g dry), and potassium (~800-1200 mg/100g dry). The fruiting body grown on Cinnamomum kanehirai wood yields significantly higher triterpenoid concentrations compared to mycelium cultures. Bioavailability of triterpenoids is enhanced in lipid-soluble extracts; hot water extraction favors polysaccharide yield, while ethanol extraction (>70%) optimizes triterpenoid recovery.
Reported Mechanism (Provisional)
Antrodia cinnamomea's triterpenoids, particularly antcins A-K and zhankuic acids, modulate immune function by activating Toll-like receptors and enhancing macrophage phagocytosis. The polysaccharide fraction stimulates T-helper cell proliferation and increases interleukin-2 production. Its hepatoprotective effects occur through upregulation of glutathione S-transferase and enhancement of phase II detoxification enzymes.
Clinical Narrative (Provisional)
Most research consists of in vitro and animal studies, with limited human clinical trials available. A small pilot study (n=30) showed 35% reduction in oxidative stress markers after 8 weeks of supplementation. Animal studies demonstrate significant hepatoprotective effects against alcohol-induced liver damage and enhanced immune cell activity. Larger randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm therapeutic benefits in humans.
Also Known As
Research updates — and 25% off your first order
Join our list for source-aware wellness education, review-state updates, and product news — and unlock 25% off your first Hermetica order. Educational content is not medical advice. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.