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antrodia camphorata

Q: Is Antrodia camphorata safe?

Preclinical studies suggest it's generally safe, but human clinical trials are needed to confirm its safety profile comprehensively.

Q: When and how should I take it?

Early life supplementation has shown benefits in animal models, but human timing and administration protocols are not established.

Q: What results can I expect?

Anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects have been observed in preclinical studies, but human outcomes need further research.

Q: Is Antrodia camphorata a substitute for medical treatment?

No, it is not a substitute for medical treatment and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Also known as: Niuchangchih, Antrodia cinnamomea, Antrodia camphorata

Overview

Antrodia camphorata, also known as Niuchangchih, is a unique mushroom indigenous to Taiwan, exclusively found on the brown heartwood of Cinnamomum kanehirae Hayata at altitudes between 450 and 2000 meters. Traditionally used in Eastern medicine for liver diseases, food and drug intoxication, abdominal pain, hypertension, and itchy skin, modern research is increasingly focused on its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. This mushroom is rich in bioactive compounds, including terpenoids, benzenoids, lignans, benzoquinone derivatives, succinic and maleic derivatives, and polysaccharides. While preclinical studies are extensive, human clinical trials are limited, highlighting the need for more research to confirm the efficacy and safety of A. camphorata extracts. The available evidence primarily consists of animal models and in vitro experiments, with a scarcity of systematic reviews or meta-analyses from high-quality databases.

Benefits

Antrodia camphorata extracts have demonstrated anti-cancer effects by inhibiting the invasiveness and metastasis of cancer cells, including liver and breast cancer, through mechanisms like angiogenesis inhibition and apoptosis induction. In a murine model of MPTP-induced dopaminergic degeneration, A. camphorata significantly reduced neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, improving markers of Parkinson's disease. Supplementation during early life reduced intestinal tumorigenesis and mitigated inflammatory responses in APC1638N mice, with tumor incidence reduced from 50% to 8% in female mice (p < 0.10). Crude extracts have also shown vasorelaxation effects, and the mushroom is suggested as a potential synergizer in the treatment of immune-related diseases. These benefits suggest potential long-term protective effects, particularly in specific populations and conditions.

How it works

Antrodia camphorata acts through multiple biological pathways, including the inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-17A), and modulation of the gut microbiota. It induces apoptosis in cancer cells and inhibits angiogenesis, contributing to its anti-cancer effects. The mushroom interacts with the gastrointestinal system by altering the gut microbiota composition and reducing inflammatory responses. It also interacts with the nervous system by reducing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in models of neurodegenerative diseases. A. camphorata targets various molecular pathways, including the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and reduces the expression of p-GSK-3β and active β-catenin. It also affects the transcription factor Nrf2, which mediates its effects on oxidative stress.

Side effects

Preclinical studies suggest that Antrodia camphorata is generally safe when administered in tested doses; however, comprehensive data on common, uncommon, and rare side effects in humans are lacking due to the limited number of clinical trials. There is also limited information on potential drug interactions. Given its broad range of bioactivities, caution should be exercised when using A. camphorata with other medications, especially those affecting the liver or immune system. No specific contraindications have been identified, but pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with severe health conditions should consult healthcare providers before use. Children and elderly individuals may require special consideration due to the lack of specific studies in these populations. Human clinical trials are necessary to fully assess its safety profile.

Dosage

The optimal dosage range of Antrodia camphorata in humans is not established. Preclinical studies have used doses ranging from 10 to 100 mg/kg in animal models, with doses as low as 10 mg/kg showing significant effects in reducing oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. The maximum safe dose has not been determined in humans. No specific timing recommendations are available, but early life supplementation has shown long-term benefits in animal models. Crude extracts and bioactive compounds have been studied, but the most effective form for human use is not established. Oral administration has been effective in preclinical studies, but factors affecting absorption in humans are not well understood. No specific cofactors have been identified as necessary for the efficacy of A. camphorata.

FAQs

Is Antrodia camphorata safe?

Preclinical studies suggest it's generally safe, but human clinical trials are needed to confirm its safety profile comprehensively.

When and how should I take it?

Early life supplementation has shown benefits in animal models, but human timing and administration protocols are not established.

What results can I expect?

Anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects have been observed in preclinical studies, but human outcomes need further research.

Is Antrodia camphorata a substitute for medical treatment?

No, it is not a substitute for medical treatment and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Research Sources

https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/15/2408 – This animal study on APC1638N mice found that early-life supplementation with Antrodia camphorata reduced intestinal tumorigenesis and altered gut microbiota. The study highlights the potential of A. camphorata in modulating gut health and preventing tumor development, particularly in female mice, with statistically significant findings (p < 0.10).
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19687189/ – This preclinical study using a mice model of MPTP-induced dopaminergic degeneration demonstrated that Antrodia camphorata reduced neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, improving markers of Parkinson's disease. The study suggests that A. camphorata's effects are mediated by the transcription factor Nrf2, which plays a crucial role in oxidative stress response, with significant findings (p < 0.05).
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10252478/ – This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the bioactivities of Antrodia camphorata, including its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and vasorelaxation effects. The review summarizes extensive preclinical evidence, highlighting the potential therapeutic applications of A. camphorata based on its diverse pharmacological properties.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1093/ecam/nep108 – This study investigates the vasorelaxation effects of crude extracts of Antrodia camphorata. The research provides insights into the potential cardiovascular benefits of A. camphorata, suggesting its possible use in managing hypertension and improving vascular function, although the specific mechanisms require further elucidation.