When it comes to maintaining respiratory health, the Tiger Milk mushroom, scientifically termed as Lignosus rhinocerotis, stands out as a potent natural remedy. Reportedly, this unique mushroom species has demonstrated remarkable potential in alleviating respiratory disorders and boosting overall respiratory health.
Understanding Lignosus Rhinocerotis
Lignosus rhinocerotis, colloquially known as the Tiger Milk mushroom, is an essential medical product with a legacy of around 400 years. Its first mention dates back to “The Diary of John Evelyn”, where it was touted as an important remedy received from Jesuits of Japan and China.
The Importance of Lignosus
The Tiger Milk mushroom has gained significant attention for its therapeutic uses, especially in promoting respiratory health. It was successfully cultivated in 2009, making it commercially available and encouraging research on its potential health benefits.
Health Benefits of Lignosus Rhinocerotis
Over the years, studies have attributed a myriad of health benefits to Lignosus. It has been shown to possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-asthmatic properties. In addition, it can enhance immunomodulatory activities.
Lignosus and Respiratory Health
The Tiger Milk mushroom has been traditionally used by the indigenous communities in South East Asia regions to improve respiratory health. Recent scientific investigations have sought to validate these traditional claims.
Clinical Study on Lignosus Rhinocerotis
A clinical study involving 50 voluntary participants was conducted to investigate the beneficial effects of Tiger Milk mushroom on respiratory health. The participants were required to take 300 mg of the mushroom extract twice daily for three months. The study assessed various parameters, including levels of certain cytokines, total antioxidant capacity, and respiratory symptoms.
Impact on Respiratory Symptoms
The study observed a significant improvement in respiratory symptoms, as assessed by the Nasal Symptoms Questionnaire (NSQ) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). A drastic reduction in scores was recorded, indicating an alleviation in respiratory symptoms following the consumption of the mushroom extract.
Impact on Inflammation
The study also reported a significant reduction in the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and interleukin 8 (IL-8). The mushroom’s anti-inflammatory properties could potentially help in conserving lung function and preventing damage from pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Impact on Immunity
Notably, the study demonstrated a significant increase in the level of salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA), a first-line immunity defense in the respiratory tract. The Tiger Milk mushroom extract effectively enhanced the production of IgA, suggesting a strengthened respiratory immunity.
Impact on Antioxidant Status
The consumption of the mushroom extract led to a significant increase in the total antioxidant capacity of the participants. Moreover, it effectively reduced the production of malondialdehyde (MDA), a biomarker for lipid damage due to oxidative stress.
Lignosus Rhinocerotis: A Potential Adjuvant Therapy
Given the mushroom’s potential in improving overall respiratory health, immunity, and antioxidant status, it could be considered as a potential adjuvant therapy for managing respiratory diseases.
Conclusion
The Tiger Milk mushroom, or Lignosus, offers promising potential in promoting respiratory health. While its benefits have long been recognized in traditional medicine, modern scientific studies are now validating its therapeutic properties. However, more extensive and controlled trials are needed to establish its efficacy conclusively.