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On the Occurrence, Origin, and Intake of the Nuclides, 210Po and 210Pb, in Sclerotia of Wolfiporia cocos Collected in China

Summary

This research examined radioactive elements in Wolfiporia cocos, a medicinal mushroom widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. The study found that while the mushroom does contain some radioactive materials (210Po and 210Pb), the levels are low enough to be safe for human consumption. This has important implications for everyday life: • Confirms the radiological safety of this commonly used traditional medicine ingredient • Provides reassurance for consumers using W. cocos supplements • Demonstrates the importance of testing natural health products for safety • Shows how traditional medicines can be validated using modern scientific methods • Helps inform regulations and guidelines for medicinal mushroom products

Background

Wolfiporia cocos is one of the earliest and most commonly utilized fungi in traditional Chinese medicine. Its sclerotium has medicinal value and is also used as a dietary supplement. The fungus grows underground on pine tree roots and forms large coconut-shaped sclerotia. While studies exist on mineral composition and contaminants in W. cocos, data on radionuclides content is scarce.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the occurrence and spatial variability of two radionuclides, 210Po and 210Pb, in shell and core parts of W. cocos sclerotia collected across Yunnan province in China. The research focused on understanding the distribution patterns, assessing potential intake levels, and evaluating hypothetical effective exposure doses from these radionuclides that could be received by consumers.

Results

The mean values of 210Po activity concentration were 0.36 Bq kg−1 dry weight in the core and 12.0 Bq kg−1 dw in the shell. For 210Pb, activities were 0.43 and 9.84 Bq kg−1 dw respectively. Higher activities were found in external parts compared to inner parts. The potential effective radiation doses from core layers ranged from 0.13 to 3.43 µSv kg−1 dw from 210Po decay and from 0.11 to 1.52 µSv kg−1 dw from 210Pb decay.

Conclusion

This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of 210Po and 210Pb occurrence in W. cocos sclerotia. The radionuclide concentrations varied widely but were correlated. Higher activities in external versus inner parts likely resulted from radionuclide dilution during growth rather than selective bioconcentration. From a radiological protection perspective, consumption of W. cocos appears safe, as it would not significantly increase effective radiation doses from these isotopes.
  • Published in:Environmental Science and Pollution Research International,
  • Study Type:Environmental Analysis,
  • Source: 10.1007/s11356-021-18313-5
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