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Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Zhu Ling Chinese Mushroom Sold as Antibiotic

By Dr. Markho Rafael

The medicinal mushroom Zhu Ling is prevalent in pharmacies throughout China. Available in the form of dried thin slivers, it's sold as a remedy for urinary tract infections and tumors, and as an antibiotic and diuretic. [300]

Growing below ground on decaying roots and other wood debris, this mushroom can remain in wet soil for over a year without rotting - a testament to its powerful antimicrobial properties.

In accordance with the use of Zhu Ling in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a contemporary study concluded that it had an inhibitory effect on Chlamydia. [302]

Other modern studies have found Zhu Ling useful against parasites, hepatitis B and for strengthening the immune system. [303, 304] It's also been reported to have an effect on certain types of cancer in conjunction with standard cancer treatment, [305, 306, 307, 308] including bladder and liver cancer, [309] as well as leukemia. [310, 311] Used as an adjunct to chemotherapy and radiation, it appears to help speed up immune system recovery. [312] Two papers published in 1991 and 1994 also presented findings that Zhu Ling administered after chemotherapy and radiation helped lower cancer recurrence rates by 68% and 50% respectively. [313, 314]

In terms of its anti-parasitic effects, lab tests have shown Zhu Ling to be 100% effective against both Brucella spp. (brucellosis) and Plasmodium falciparum (malaria). [310] However, it has not yet to our knowledge been tested on live patients afflicted with malaria.

Tests on live subjects with brucellosis have been conducted, showing an improvement in immune system function. [315, 316] Immune system suppression is a characteristic symptom of brucellosis.

Traditional Chinese Medicine also prescribes Zhu Ling for the treatment of hepatitis B. Several research papers have affirmed this use of Zhu Ling. [317, 318] However, a 2001 study by Liu et al. reported that although useful against hepatitis B, Zhu Ling's effect was not strong enough to be used as a standalone treatment. [319, 320] Another research article also reported positive findings with toxic hepatitis. [321]

A 2008 paper reported Zhu Ling being powerfully anti-inflammatory, [322] which could make it useful in a large number of conditions involving inflammation.

One contemporary research paper published findings that Zhu Ling helped balance urine output by increasing low urine production and decreasing excessive production. [301]

A logical conclusion from this is that Zhu Ling could be conveniently given to patients waiting to provide a urine sample in order to expedite the process. [300]

Medicinal mushroom expert Paul Stamets (Mycelium Running) also lists lung conditions and viruses as areas of therapeutic use for Zhu Ling. [134]

Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Never use any medicinal mushroom or herb without prior approval by medical doctor.

Credits: Thank you, Paul Stamets, for research references. - 17273

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