Auricularia Polytricha Mushroom
Also known as: Auricularia polytricha, Cloud ear mushroom, Wood ear mushroom, Black fungus, Auricularia cornea
Overview
Auricularia polytricha, commonly known as cloud ear or wood ear mushroom, is an edible fungus widely cultivated and consumed in Asia. It grows on decaying wood and is valued for its culinary and potential medicinal properties. This mushroom contains bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides (notably β-glucans), flavonoids, phenols, and glycoproteins, which contribute to its purported health benefits. Research suggests antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anticancer effects, primarily based on preclinical studies. While it is a common food ingredient, it is also used as a dietary supplement. The available evidence is largely preclinical, with limited human clinical trials, highlighting the need for further research to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans. It is a source of potassium, iron, zinc, and other minerals.
Benefits
Auricularia polytricha exhibits several potential health benefits, primarily supported by preclinical research. In vitro studies demonstrate significant antioxidant activity, including free radical scavenging and metal chelating capabilities. Animal studies suggest immunomodulatory effects, indicating enhanced immune response, although human data are lacking. Furthermore, in vitro and animal studies suggest anticancer potential, with inhibitory effects observed on tumor cell lines through modulation of microRNAs (miRNA-9, miRNA-217, miRNA-210, miRNA-200c, miRNA-132) and induction of apoptosis. A glycoprotein from *A. polytricha* has also shown lead adsorption and detoxification in animal models. While these findings are promising, the clinical significance in humans remains uncertain due to the limited number of human RCTs. More research is needed to confirm these benefits in human populations.
How it works
Auricularia polytricha exerts its effects through several biological pathways. Its polysaccharides, particularly β-glucans, activate immune cells such as macrophages and natural killer cells via pattern recognition receptors, leading to immunomodulation. The flavonoids and phenols present in the mushroom act as antioxidants by scavenging reactive oxygen species and chelating metals. Additionally, the anticancer effects are believed to involve the modulation of microRNAs and the induction of apoptosis in tumor cells. While the absorption and bioavailability of polysaccharides and glycoproteins are limited, they may exert effects via the gut microbiota or local immune modulation. These mechanisms contribute to the mushroom's potential health benefits, though further research is needed to fully elucidate their interactions within the human body.
Side effects
Auricularia polytricha is generally recognized as safe when consumed as food. However, there is limited data on the long-term effects or high-dose supplementation. Common or uncommon side effects have not been reported in the available literature. Rare allergic reactions are possible but not well documented. No significant drug interactions have been reported, although there is a theoretical risk of additive effects with immunomodulatory or anticoagulant drugs due to its polysaccharide content. There are no established contraindications, but caution is advised for individuals with known mushroom allergies. Safety in specific populations such as pregnant or lactating women and children has not been established, warranting caution in these groups. Further research is needed to comprehensively assess the safety profile of Auricularia polytricha supplementation.
Dosage
There is no established minimum effective dose, optimal dosage range, or maximum safe dose for Auricularia polytricha in humans. Typical culinary use involves 5–15 g of dried mushroom per serving. There is no data on optimal timing of consumption. It can be consumed as dried or fresh mushroom, powdered extracts, or isolated polysaccharides, but bioavailability may vary. Polysaccharides and glycoproteins are likely poorly absorbed, and their effects may be mediated via the gut or local immune modulation. No required cofactors have been identified. Due to the lack of human data, it is important to exercise caution and avoid excessive doses when using Auricularia polytricha as a supplement.
FAQs
Is Auricularia polytricha safe to consume?
It is generally safe as a food ingredient. However, caution is advised when using it as a supplement due to the limited number of human clinical trials. Start with small doses to assess tolerance.
How should I take Auricularia polytricha?
There are no specific recommendations for timing or administration. It can be consumed with meals. Follow product-specific instructions if using a supplement form. Culinary use is typically 5-15g dried mushroom.
What are the expected benefits of Auricularia polytricha?
Preclinical data suggest antioxidant and immunomodulatory benefits. However, human effects are uncertain. It is not a cure for any disease, and benefits are supportive, not proven in humans.
Can Auricularia polytricha cure cancer?
No, it is not a cure for cancer. While preclinical studies show anticancer potential, these findings have not been confirmed in human clinical trials. It should not be used as a replacement for conventional cancer treatments.
Are there any drug interactions with Auricularia polytricha?
No significant interactions have been reported, but there is a theoretical risk of additive effects with immunomodulatory or anticoagulant drugs. Consult with a healthcare professional if you are taking such medications.
Research Sources
- https://wjarr.com/sites/default/files/WJARR-2023-0152.pdf – This systematic review of 36 articles, primarily preclinical studies, highlights that *Auricularia polytricha* contains bioactive polysaccharides (β-glucans) with immunomodulatory and anticancer effects in vitro and in animal models. The review also notes the mushroom's ability to modulate microRNAs associated with improved prognosis in colorectal cancer. The study is limited by the lack of human RCTs, which restricts its clinical relevance.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1144346/full – This experimental animal study found that a novel glycoprotein derived from *A. polytricha* demonstrated lead adsorption and detoxification capabilities. The study suggests a potential role for the mushroom in detoxification processes. However, the findings are based solely on animal data, and the relevance to human health remains unclear.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/12/24/12671 – This observational study analyzed the nutrient composition of *Auricularia* species, revealing that they are rich in potassium, iron, zinc, and other minerals, and exhibit high antioxidant activity. The study provides valuable information about the nutritional content of the mushroom. However, it does not assess clinical outcomes or efficacy in humans.
- https://www.mycosphere.org/pdf/MYCOSPHERE_10_1_10.pdf – This paper discusses the taxonomy and morphology of Auricularia species. It provides detailed information on the classification and physical characteristics of the mushroom. This information is useful for identification and understanding the biological context of Auricularia polytricha.
