What Are the Medical Uses of Phellinus Linteus?

Phellinus linteus, also known as mesima or black hoof fungus, is a species of mushroom that has traditionally been used as an anti-cancer drug. Preliminary medical studies suggest that this mushroom can effectively kill cancerous cells without damaging other cells in an organism. Though more studies are needed to determine its effectiveness, initial results are promising. This mushroom is also traditionally used to treat gastrointestinal problems.

Recent medical studies have shown that Phellinus linteus may be effective at treating cancer. It has the potential to suppress tumor growth and may keep cancer from metastasizing, or spreading to other parts of the body. The chemicals in this mushroom are toxic to cancerous cells but do not harm normal cells. They are believed to be effective against cancers of the lung, breast, prostate, and skin and can be safely used to supplement or enhance the effectiveness of traditional cancer treatments.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that Phellinus linteus may be responsible for the sudden and spontaneous regression of a number of types of cancer. Patients diagnosed with lung and skin cancer have occasionally shown complete recovery, possibly due to the use of Phellinus linteus. Though complete recovery is extremely rare, treatment with Phellinus linteus does not seem to have any adverse effects, so taking this medication along with other cancer treatments is not likely to cause harm to a patient.

Treatment with Phellinus linteus can be given as an immune booster as well. It has been shown to greatly increase the activity of white blood cells, which can help fight illness and infection. This mushroom is also known to be an antioxidant, a substance that increases immune function.

Mouth and stomach ulcers can be treated withPhellinus linteus. It can reduce swelling and increase immune function in these illnesses, helping the body's own immune system to effectively combat the disorders. The anti-inflammatory properties of the mushroom can reduce swelling in other parts of the body as well.

The medical properties of Phellinus linteus have been known to doctors from Korea, Japan, China, and neighboring countries for centuries. Though this mushroom has been used medicinally for a long time, it was only in the 1990s and 2000s that testing was begun to determine its effectiveness and its mechanism of action in the treatment of various disorders. As of 2011, it has not been accepted as an official treatment for any condition, though medical professionals are hopeful that further studies will confirm its cancer fighting properties.