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
Wood ear mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae) contains high concentrations of beta-glucans and adenosine compounds that modulate immune function and cardiovascular health. The polysaccharides activate macrophage cells while soluble fibers help reduce cholesterol absorption in the intestinal tract.
Reported Benefits (Provisional)
Origin & History
Auricularia auricula-judae, commonly known as Wood Ear or Mu Er, is a type of jelly fungus native to Asia and Europe. It typically grows on elder trees and is harvested for both culinary and medicinal purposes. The fungus is cultivated on logs or sawdust and is known for its gelatinous texture.
Research Narrative (Provisional)
Scientific studies on Auricularia auricula-judae have explored its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering effects. Some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) suggest promising results, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Preparation & Dosage
Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.
Nutritional Profile
Auricularia auricula-judae is approximately 87-93% water when fresh; dried weight composition includes carbohydrates (~65%), protein (~8-10%), fat (~0.5-1%), and dietary fiber (~19-29%). Key bioactive polysaccharides include beta-glucans (particularly beta-1,3/1,6-glucans at ~20-25% dry weight) and heteropolysaccharides, which are primary drivers of immunomodulatory activity. Protein content contains all essential amino acids, with lysine and leucine being notable. Micronutrients include iron (~185mg/100g dry weight — exceptionally high, though bioavailability is moderate due to non-heme form), potassium (~1,125mg/100g dry), calcium (~159mg/100g dry), phosphorus (~201mg/100g dry), and B-vitamins including riboflavin (B2) and niacin (B3). Also contains ergosterol (provitamin D2 precursor, converted upon UV exposure), tocopherols (vitamin E analogs), and adenosine — a bioactive nucleoside implicated in antiplatelet and cardiovascular effects. Dietary fiber includes both soluble (contributing prebiotic activity) and insoluble fractions. Bioavailability note: iron absorption is enhanced in acidic environments; pairing with vitamin C significantly improves uptake. Beta-glucan bioavailability depends on extraction method — hot water extraction yields most bioactive fractions.
Reported Mechanism (Provisional)
Beta-glucans in wood ear mushroom bind to dectin-1 receptors on macrophages, triggering cytokine release and enhanced phagocytic activity. Soluble dietary fibers form gels that bind bile acids in the intestine, forcing cholesterol conversion and reducing serum LDL levels. Adenosine compounds may also contribute to vasodilation and improved circulation.
Clinical Narrative (Provisional)
Small human studies (n=40-60) have demonstrated LDL cholesterol reductions of 10-15% after 6-8 weeks of consumption. In vitro studies show significant macrophage activation and cytokine production when exposed to wood ear polysaccharides. Animal studies suggest improved glucose tolerance and gut microbiome diversity, though human clinical data remains limited for these effects.
Also Known As
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