Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics, 397(2), 354-359. It may help lower cholesterol and protect your liver and brain, but more research is needed.Active oxygen and free radicals are increasingly being recognized as being responsible for the pathogenesis of certain human diseases, including cancer, aging and chronic arterial disease ( Moskovitz et al., 2002 Moskovitz, J., Yim, M. summaryīlack fungus offers powerful antioxidants and gut-healthy prebiotics. Researchers linked this effect to the mushroom’s potent antioxidant properties ( 22).Īll the same, studies are lacking. In a rat study, a solution of water and powdered black fungus helped reverse and protect the liver from damage caused by an overdose of acetaminophen, which is often marketed as Tylenol in the United States ( 22). May protect your liverīlack fungus may safeguard your liver from harm by certain substances. While these findings are promising, human research is needed. These proteins are toxic to the brain and have been linked to degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s ( 21). One test-tube study revealed that wood ear mushrooms and other fungi inhibited the activity of beta secretase, an enzyme that releases beta amyloid proteins ( 21). Mushrooms are thought to preserve healthy brain function ( 17, 20). Still, researchers weren’t sure exactly how the fungi exerted this effect, and a single animal study in wood ears doesn’t necessarily apply to people eating black fungus. One study in rabbits given wood ear mushrooms found that both total and LDL (bad) cholesterol decreased significantly ( 19). In turn, lower LDL cholesterol may decrease your risk of heart disease. The polyphenols in mushrooms may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol ( 18). Prebiotics like those in black fungus are thought to enhance your immune response to unfriendly pathogens that might otherwise make you sick ( 16). Interestingly, the gut microbiome is closely linked to immune health. These promote digestive health and maintain bowel regularity ( 15, 16, 17). Prebiotics are a type of fiber that feeds your gut microbiome, or the friendly bacteria in your gut. Similarly to various other mushrooms, black fungus boasts prebiotics - mainly in the form of beta glucan ( 15, 16, 17). A diet high in polyphenols is associated with a lower risk of cancer and chronic conditions, including heart disease ( 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14). What’s more, mushrooms often contain powerful polyphenol antioxidants. These beneficial plant compounds help combat oxidative stress in your body, which has been linked to inflammation and a range of diseases ( 9, 10). Mushrooms, including Auricularia species, are generally high in antioxidants. Just keep in mind that human research is limited, and further studies are needed. It’s quite popular in Asia, where it’s regularly added to soups, and it has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine.ĭespite the multiple uses of black fungus in traditional Chinese medicine, scientific research on it is still in the beginning stages.Īll the same, this mushroom has been noted for its potential immune-enhancing and antimicrobial properties ( 7, 8). summaryīlack fungus is fairly neutral in taste and can take on many flavors. Since the 19th century, black fungus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to alleviate symptoms of several conditions, including jaundice and sore throats ( 2). Like tofu, it absorbs the flavors of the dish it’s a part of. As it has a fairly neutral taste, it’s even added to Cantonese desserts. It’s a bit coarser than the wood ear mushroom and frequently used in soups. Nonetheless, these fungi boast similar nutrient profiles and culinary uses and are sometimes referred to interchangeably ( 1).īlack fungus is a popular ingredient in Malaysian, Chinese, and Maori cuisine. While black fungus is marketed under several names, it’s technically different than the wood ear mushroom ( Auricularia auricula-judae), its botanical cousin. Keep this in mind when you’re cooking, as small amounts can go a long way. While soaking, the mushrooms expand 3–4 times in size. Before you eat it, it needs to be reconstituted in warm water for at least 1 hour. Black fungus is usually sold in dried form.
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