Polyporus: benefits, dosage, contraindications

Updated on 19 March 2025

Polyporus umbellatus, also known as "Grifola Umbellata," is a rare medicinal mushroom that primarily grows in the temperate regions of Asia and Europe. Used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, it is valued for its unique therapeutic properties, particularly in supporting renal and immune health. Polyporus umbellatus is mainly recognized for its diuretic, purifying, and immunomodulating effects. Its richness in polysaccharides and beta-glucans helps stimulate the immune system while protecting cells from oxidative damage. It also presents antiproliferative activity and helps reduce edema linked to cancer treatments. A recent study highlighted the benefits of Polyporus umbellatus in managing edemas associated with oncological treatments. The daily administration of 400 mg of Polyporus umbellatus extract led to a significant improvement in water retention and reduced side effects related to conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy.

Other name(s)

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Scientific name(s)

Polyporus Umbellatus

Family or group:

Mushrooms

Indications

Rating methodology

EFSA approval.

Several clinical trials (> 2) randomized controlled with double blind, including a significant number of patients (>100) with consistently positive outcomes for the indication.

Several clinical trials (> 2) randomized controlled with double blind, and including a significant number of patients (>100) with positive outcomes for the indication.

One or more randomized studies or multiple cohorts or epidemiological studies with positive outcomes for the indication.

Clinical studies exist but are uncontrolled, with conclusions that may be positive or contradictory.

Lack of clinical studies to date that can demonstrate the indication.

Edema
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Traditionally, Polyporus umbellatus is used in Chinese medicine to treat edemas. Ancient writings, such as the Shen Nong's Herbal Classic, describe its efficacy in reducing water retention by stimulating the elimination of body fluids, without major side effects. Formulas like Wulingsan often include this mushroom to support renal function.

Posologie

Oral

5 - 20 mg/kg

Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and quality control of Polyporus umbellatus (Pers.) Fries: a review

Cancer
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Polysaccharides extracted from Polyporus umbellatus (PUPs) have shown inhibitory effects on tumor cell growth, notably sarcoma 180. Their anticancer activity is attributed to their ability to stimulate immune responses and induce apoptosis of cancer cells. Some isolated compounds, such as polyporusterones (A, B, C) and ergone, have demonstrated cytotoxic activities against human tumor cell lines, especially liver (Hep3B) and colon (HT-29) cancers. In animal models, extracts of Polyporus umbellatus significantly reduced tumor size and prolonged survival. These results indicate a promising potential of Polyporus umbellatus as a complementary agent in cancer treatment.

Posologie

Oral

5 - 20 mg/kg

Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and quality control of Polyporus umbellatus (Pers.) Fries: a review

Properties

Anticancer

Polyporus umbellatus contains bioactive polysaccharides (PUPs) notable for their antitumor activity. These polysaccharides act by inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and stimulating the immune system. In vivo studies have shown that doses of 200 to 400 mg/kg significantly reduce tumor size and prolong the survival of mice with hepatomas. These effects are attributed to the modulation of pro-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory signaling pathways.

Usages associés

Cancer

Polysaccharides from Polyporus umbellatus: A review on their extraction, modification, structure, and bioactivities

Diuretic

Traditionally used in Chinese medicine for its diuretic properties, Polyporus umbellatus promotes the elimination of excess body fluids and the reduction of edemas. A recent clinical study confirmed this effect, showing that a dose of 400 mg/day improves renal function and decreases edema markers without notable side effects. This effect is particularly beneficial for patients with mild renal insufficiency or edemas related to oncological treatments.

Usages associés

Edema

Polysaccharides from Polyporus umbellatus: A review on their extraction, modification, structure, and bioactivities

Safety dosage

Adult: 400 mg (standardized extract)

Available formulations generally recommend 400 mg to 1 g/day of concentrated extract, taken in one or two doses.

Precautions

Pregnant woman: avoid

The use of Polyporus umbellatus in pregnant women is not recommended due to the lack of specific clinical data on its safety.

Breastfeeding woman: avoid

The use of Polyporus umbellatus in breastfeeding women is not recommended due to the lack of specific clinical data on its safety.

Conseil scientifique