Phellinus linteus

Purported Benefits, Side Effects & More
Share
This information describes the common uses of Phellinus linteus, how it works, and its possible side effects.
Tell your healthcare providers about any dietary supplements you’re taking, such as herbs, vitamins, minerals, and natural or home remedies. This will help them manage your care and keep you safe.

What is it?

Although lab studies suggest anticancer properties with this medicinal mushroom, clinical trials are needed to confirm such effects.

P. linteus is a medicinal mushroom used in traditional medicine in Asia. Lab studies suggest compounds present in this mushroom may have anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties.

Data in humans are very limited, however. There is one study that suggests it maybe helpful as an add-on treatment in some pancreatic cancer patients. Well-designed trials are needed to confirm these effects.

What are the potential uses and benefits?

  • To inhibit tumor growth
    P. linteus has been shown in some lab studies to inhibit tumor growth. One study in pancreatic cancer patients suggest it may be helpful as an add-on therapy. There are also a few cases of regression of liver and prostate cancers. Well-designed studies are needed to confirm such effects.
  • To reduce inflammation
    Preclinical studies suggest anti-inflammatory effects, but data in humans are lacking.

What are the side effects?

Case report

P. linteus use resulted in worsening of an autoimmune skin condition called pemphigus that is characterized by blisters, itching, and burning.

If you have questions or concerns, contact your healthcare provider. A member of your care team will answer Monday through Friday from to Outside those hours, you can leave a message or talk with another MSK provider. There is always a doctor or nurse on call. If you’re not sure how to reach your healthcare provider, call 212-639-2000.
If you have questions or concerns, contact your healthcare provider. A member of your care team will answer Monday through Friday from to Outside those hours, you can leave a message or talk with another MSK provider. There is always a doctor or nurse on call. If you’re not sure how to reach your healthcare provider, call 212-639-2000.

For more resources, visit www.mskcc.org/pe to search our virtual library.

Phellinus linteus - Last updated on February 4, 2022
All rights owned and reserved by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center