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
Wu Ling Shen (Xylaria nigripes) is a medicinal mushroom primarily used in traditional Chinese medicine for insomnia and trauma, exerting anti-inflammatory effects through its key compound, ergosterol peroxide, which inhibits iNOS and COX-2 expression.
Reported Benefits (Provisional)
Origin & History
Wu Ling Shen, scientifically known as Polyporus umbellatus and also called Zhu Ling or Umbrella Polypore, is a medicinal mushroom highly prized in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This rare, underground fungus grows symbiotically with tree roots in mountainous regions of Asia and Europe. Valued for its immune-boosting and diuretic properties, Wu Ling Shen supports kidney health, reduces inflammation, and promotes overall vitality.
Research Narrative (Provisional)
Studies document the immune-enhancing and kidney-supporting benefits of Wu Ling Shen, particularly its diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects. Research also explores its bioactive compounds and preliminary anticancer potential, primarily through in vitro and animal models. Further human clinical trials are needed to substantiate these findings.
Preparation & Dosage
Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.
Nutritional Profile
- Polysaccharides & Beta-glucans: Immune-boosting and detoxifying compounds. - Potassium, Magnesium, Selenium: Essential trace minerals supporting cardiovascular health, muscle function, and cellular repair. - Ergosterol & Triterpenes: Bioactive compounds enhancing therapeutic effects. - Antioxidants: Compounds that neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
Reported Mechanism (Provisional)
The primary bioactive compound, ergosterol peroxide (XN-CP2), mediates anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression. This action is achieved through modulation of the NF-κB signaling pathway. Ergostarien-3β-ol (XN-CP1) is a secondary compound also contributing to its anti-inflammatory properties, with hexane extracts demonstrating strong inhibition of nitric oxide production in LPS-treated macrophages.
Clinical Narrative (Provisional)
Research on Wu Ling Shen (Xylaria nigripes) is currently focused on preclinical studies, primarily utilizing in vitro and animal models. These studies have shown the mushroom's hexane extract strongly inhibits nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide-treated macrophages and suppresses inflammatory responses. While demonstrating preliminary anti-inflammatory potential, comprehensive human clinical trials are currently lacking to substantiate its traditional uses for insomnia and trauma.
Also Known As
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