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Organic Wood Ear Mushroom

Also known as: Auricularia auricula-judae, Wood Ear Mushroom, Wood Ear, Jelly Ear, Jew’s Ear, Cloud Ear Mushroom

Overview

Wood Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae) is a wood-decaying fungus commonly found on dead or decaying wood, particularly elder trees. It is a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. The mushroom is valued for its purported medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and glycemic control effects. It is rich in dietary fiber, iron, protein, vitamins B1 and B2, and bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides and antioxidants. Research on Wood Ear Mushroom is moderately mature, with several in vitro and animal studies supporting its bioactivity, and emerging human clinical evidence. The available evidence includes some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews/meta-analyses focusing on its antioxidant and glycemic effects. It is available in dried form and as a supplement.

Benefits

Wood Ear Mushroom exhibits significant antioxidant properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress, as demonstrated in in vitro and some human studies. Some evidence suggests it may improve blood sugar regulation, potentially beneficial for diabetes management. These findings are supported by systematic reviews and meta-analyses of RCTs, though effect sizes are not well established and require further large-scale RCTs. The mushroom also offers nutritional benefits from its fiber and micronutrient content. Individuals with metabolic syndrome or diabetes may particularly benefit from its glycemic effects. Consistent intake over weeks to months is likely required to observe antioxidant and glycemic effects.

How it works

The antioxidant activity of Wood Ear Mushroom is likely due to phenolic compounds and polysaccharides scavenging free radicals. Its glycemic effects may involve modulation of carbohydrate metabolism enzymes. It impacts oxidative stress pathways and glucose metabolism. Polysaccharides and phenolics have variable bioavailability, and drying and preparation methods affect bioactive compound retention. Polysaccharides may also modulate immune and metabolic pathways, though the exact molecular targets are not fully elucidated.

Side effects

Wood Ear Mushroom is generally regarded as safe when consumed as food or supplement. Common side effects are rare, with mild gastrointestinal discomfort being possible. There are no significant reports of uncommon or rare side effects in high-quality studies. No well-documented drug interactions exist, but caution is advised in individuals on anticoagulant therapy due to the potential blood-thinning effects of some mushrooms. There are no established contraindications. Limited data are available for pregnant or breastfeeding women, so standard dietary caution is advised.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Wood Ear Mushroom is not firmly established, but culinary use typically provides nutritional benefits. Clinical studies vary, but standardized extracts or dried powders used in trials range from 1 to 3 grams daily. The maximum safe dose is not well defined, but no toxicity has been reported at typical dietary or supplement doses. Regular daily intake is likely needed for measurable effects. Dried fruiting bodies are preferred for consistent bioactive content. Air-drying preserves bioactives better than heat drying.

FAQs

Is Organic Wood Ear Mushroom safe?

Yes, it is generally safe when consumed as food or supplement.

How long before benefits appear?

Benefits such as antioxidant effects may require weeks of consistent intake.

Can it help with blood sugar?

Some evidence supports modest glycemic control benefits.

Is it better cooked or raw?

Cooking is typical; drying methods affect bioactive retention.

Are supplements standardized?

Few standardized extracts exist; quality varies.

Research Sources

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/12/24/12671 – This systematic review and meta-analysis analyzed the nutrient profiles and antioxidant activities of Wood Ear Mushroom, highlighting its high fiber and iron content and significant antioxidant capacity. The meta-analysis of RCTs showed modest improvements in glycemic markers in diabetic subjects consuming Wood Ear extracts, but the study acknowledges limitations including small sample sizes and heterogeneity in study designs.
https://www.mdpi.com/2309-608X/7/9/728 – This narrative review summarized antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties of Wood Ear Mushroom, emphasizing its polysaccharides and phenolic compounds. It referenced several RCTs demonstrating antioxidant benefits but noted the need for larger, well-controlled trials to confirm clinical efficacy, indicating that while promising, more robust research is needed.
https://www.goodeggs.com/farwestfungi/organic-dried-wood-ear-mushrooms/5c9bed9dd76936000e7a065f – This is a product page for organic dried wood ear mushrooms. It provides information about the product's source and preparation, but does not contain research data.
https://www.realmushrooms.com/7-medicinal-mushroom-benefits-for-health/ – This is a blog post discussing the benefits of medicinal mushrooms. It mentions wood ear mushroom, but does not provide specific research data or citations.
https://tnsroindia.org.in/JOURNAL/issue85/ISSUE%2085%20-%20AUG%202024%20-%20FULL%20TEXT%20PART%2003.pdf – This research paper discusses the nutritional and medicinal properties of various edible mushrooms, including wood ear. It highlights the mushroom's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as its potential to improve blood sugar control. The paper also emphasizes the need for further research to confirm these benefits and determine optimal dosages.