Mushroom · Mushroom/Fungi

Meshima (Phellinus linteus)

Provisional Moderate Scorebotanical

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

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

Provisional Summary

Meshima (Phellinus linteus) is a medicinal mushroom containing beta-glucans and hispidin that enhances immune function through natural killer cell activation. It demonstrates anti-cancer properties by inducing apoptosis in tumor cells and modulating inflammatory pathways.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryMushroom

GroupMushroom/Fungi

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary KeywordMeshima benefits

Meshima close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in immunostimulant, antitumor, antioxidant

Meshima (Phellinus linteus) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Boosts immune function by enhancing natural killer cell activity, which strengthens the body's defense against pathogens. This is crucial for disease prevention. - Exhibits anti-cancer properties by inducing apoptosis in cancer cells, which can inhibit tumor growth. This is important for cancer prevention strategies. - Supports liver health by promoting detoxification, which aids in the removal of harmful substances. This is beneficial for metabolic health. - Provides antioxidant protection by neutralizing free radicals, which helps prevent cellular damage. This is vital for maintaining vitality. - Reduces inflammation by modulating cytokine production, which can alleviate chronic inflammatory conditions. This is beneficial for joint health. - Enhances cardiovascular health by improving blood lipid profiles, which can reduce the risk of heart disease. This is crucial for heart health. - Supports digestive health by promoting a healthy gut microbiome, which aids in nutrient absorption. This is important for overall well-being.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Meshima, or Phellinus linteus, is a medicinal mushroom native to Asia, particularly Korea, China, and Japan. It is cultivated on hardwood logs and harvested for its potent medicinal compounds.

“Meshima has been used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries, particularly in Korea and Japan, for its purported health benefits.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Meshima has been studied in vitro and in animal models for its immune-boosting and anti-cancer properties. Human clinical trials are limited but ongoing.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Rich in polysaccharides and polyphenols. - Contains beta-glucans and triterpenoids. - Low in calories and fat.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Meshima's beta-glucans bind to dectin-1 receptors on immune cells, triggering cytokine production and enhancing natural killer cell cytotoxicity. The hispidin compounds inhibit NF-κB signaling pathways, reducing inflammatory markers like TNF-α and IL-6. These mechanisms collectively strengthen immune surveillance while promoting cancer cell death through mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Human studies on Meshima are limited, with most research conducted in animal models and cell cultures. A small clinical trial with 20 cancer patients showed 35% increase in NK cell activity after 8 weeks of supplementation. Animal studies demonstrate significant tumor growth inhibition (40-60% reduction) in various cancer models. More robust human clinical trials are needed to establish definitive therapeutic benefits.

Also Known As

Phellinus linteusSong GenSanghwangMeshimakobuBlack Hoof MushroomWild Mulberry SanghuangKorean Meshima

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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