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A Review: The Bioactivities and Pharmacological Applications of Phellinus linteus

Summary

This research reviews the medicinal mushroom Phellinus linteus, which has been used in traditional Asian medicine for thousands of years. The study shows this mushroom contains powerful compounds that can fight cancer, reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and help manage diabetes. Here’s how this research impacts everyday life: • Could lead to new natural cancer treatments with fewer side effects than conventional chemotherapy • May help develop better treatments for type 2 diabetes and blood sugar control • Shows promise in protecting liver health and treating liver diseases • Could provide natural alternatives for reducing inflammation and boosting immune system function • Demonstrates the ongoing value of studying traditional medicines for modern medical applications

Background

Phellinus linteus is a popular medicinal mushroom widely used in China, Korea, Japan, and other Asian countries for over 2000 years. It was first recorded in Shen Nong’s Herbal Classic during the Han dynasty and has traditionally been used to treat various conditions including hemostasis, blood-arthralgia, abdominal pain, and chronic diarrhea according to traditional Chinese medicine theory.

Objective

This review aims to present a comprehensive and updated summary of the bioactive components, biological activities, pharmacological applications, possible molecular mechanisms, and safety of P. linteus. The goal is to provide helpful references and promising directions for further studies of this medicinal mushroom.

Results

The review found that P. linteus contains various bioactive components including polysaccharides, triterpenoids, phenylpropanoids, and furans. It demonstrates multiple biological activities including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidative, antimicrobial, antiviral, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective and neuroprotective effects. The mechanisms of action were found to work through multiple pathways including cell cycle regulation, apoptosis induction, and modulation of various signaling pathways.

Conclusion

P. linteus shows significant potential as a therapeutic agent due to its diverse bioactive compounds and broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. While it demonstrates promise particularly in cancer treatment, diabetes management, and liver protection, more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action, standardize pharmaceutical preparations, and conduct thorough safety evaluations for clinical applications.
  • Published in:Molecules,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.3390/molecules24101888
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