Health & Well-Being A-Z

Black Hoof Mushroom

Sanghuang mushroom on mulberry tree
Description

Black hoof mushroom (Phellinus linteus) is an orange mushroom that grows on mulberry trees. It has been used as medicine for centuries in Japan, Korea, and China.

Chemicals in black hoof mushroom might block allergic reactions, prevent the growth of bacteria, and protect the liver from toxins. These chemicals might also increase the activity of the immune system in some people.

People use black hoof mushroom by mouth for allergies, arthritis, diabetes, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. There is also no good evidence to support using black hoof mushroom for COVID-19.

Is It Effective?

Effective

There is interest in using black hoof mushroom for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Is it Safe?

Safety

When taken by mouth: Black hoof mushroom is possibly safe for most people when taken in doses of 1-2 grams daily for up to 8 weeks.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if black hoof mushroom is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Autoimmune diseases: Early research suggests that black hoof mushroom might increase immune function. This might make autoimmune disease worse. People with disease such as multiple sclerosis (MS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) should use black hoof mushroom with caution or avoid it altogether.

Enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH): Black hoof mushroom might enlarge the prostate. People who already have this condition should avoid taking black hoof mushroom.

Drug interactions

Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) substrates)

Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Black hoof mushroom might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) substrates)

Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Black hoof mushroom might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

Medications that decrease the immune system (Immunosuppressants)

Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Black hoof mushroom can increase the activity of the immune system. Some medications, such as those used after a transplant, decrease the activity of the immune system. Taking black hoof mushroom along with these medications might decrease the effects of these medications.

Herb interactions

There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.

Food interactions

There are no known interactions with foods.

Dosage

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of black hoof mushroom might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.

Other names

Black Hoof Fungus, Meshima, Mesima, Meshimakobu, Phellinus linteus, Sanghuang, Sanghwang, Song Gen.

Disclaimer

Information on this website is for informational use only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While evidence-based, it is not guaranteed to be error-free and is not intended to meet any particular user’s needs or requirements or to cover all possible uses, safety concerns, interactions, outcomes, or adverse effects. Always check with your doctor or other medical professional before making healthcare decisions (including taking any medication) and do not delay or disregard seeking medical advice or treatment based on any information displayed on this website.

© TRC Healthcare 2024. All rights reserved. Use and/or distribution is permitted only pursuant to a valid license or other permission from TRC Healthcare.