Ultimate Guide To Tiger Milk Mushroom: Benefits & Side Effects

Have you heard of tiger milk mushroom?

The rare and mysterious mushroom have been revered in Malaysia for centuries for its health promoting properties, but is now becoming known in the West as a powerful functional mushroom that particularly benefits the respiratory system and brain.

This article will cover all you need to know about tiger milk mushroom, including its health benefits, side effects, and where to buy it.

What is Tiger Milk mushroom?

Tiger Milk Mushroom, scientifically known as Lignosus rhinocerus, is a rare and medicinal mushroom native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea. 

It's prized for its health benefits and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

It was even used to relieve the chronic cough of Malaysia’s 4^th& 7^th Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad.

More recently, it’s becoming known in the west as a powerful functional mushroom that offers some unique health benefits, particulary for the respiratory system and brain. 

Origins and legend

The name "Tiger Milk Mushroom" comes from an ancient legend that claims the mushroom grows where the milk of a tiger's mother falls to the ground. 

While this is a charming story, it doesn’t appear to be true. Although tiger milk mushroom is very rare to find in nature as it grows individually rather than in groups, there is no evidence that its growing pattern is related to tigers. 

Appearance

Tiger Milk Mushroom has a unique and distinct appearance. It has a small cap that is convex, but it flattens out as the mushroom ages. 

The stem, called the stipe, is long and slender, often reaching up to 15 centimetres in length.

This stem connects the cap to an underground part called the sclerotium. The sclerotium is irregularly shaped and varies greatly in size. 

It is the most important part of the mushroom for medicinal purposes because it stores nutrients and is packed with beneficial compounds.

The sclerotium is what we use our tiger milk extract capsules. 

Tiger milk mushroom benefits

Tiger Milk Mushroom is gaining a lot of attention for its numerous health benefits, which include:

• Brain health: Like lion's mane mushroom, tiger milk mushroom has neuroprotective properties and promotes cognitive health. Instead of directly stimulating NGF, the bioactive compounds in tiger milk mushroom attach to TrkA receptors, leading to increased neuroplasticity.

• Immune system: Tiger milk contains compounds like polysaccharides, which have been shown to support the body's immune response, helping to fight off illnesses.

• Anti-Inflammatory properties: The mushroom is used to reduce inflammation and treat conditions like asthma and allergies. A 2019 study by researchers in Malaysia found that 75% of around 100 participants with asthma, persistent coughs, sinus issues, and joint pains experienced benefits from Tiger Milk Mushroom. 

• Respiratory health: It's commonly used to alleviate respiratory issues, such as coughs and bronchitis. This 2021 study found tiger milk extract supplementation effectively improves respiratory health, immunity and antioxidant status.

• General wellbeing: Traditionally, it’s been used as a tonic to improve overall health and vitality.

Uses in traditional medicine

Traditionally, Tiger Milk Mushroom has been a staple in traditional medicine in Southeast Asia for centuries, valued for its health benefits.

One of its primary uses is as a remedy for respiratory conditions. People have used it to treat ailments such as asthma, persistent coughs, and bronchitis. 

Its anti-inflammatory properties are believed to help soothe the respiratory tract and alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions.

Additionally, Tiger Milk Mushroom has been employed to support the immune system. Traditional healers would use it as a tonic to enhance overall health and vitality, believing it could help the body fend off infections and illnesses.

The mushroom is also used to address joint pains and inflammation. People suffering from conditions like arthritis would turn to Tiger Milk Mushroom for relief, relying on its natural anti-inflammatory properties to reduce pain and swelling in the joints.

In traditional practices, the mushroom was prepared in various forms. The dried sclerotia would be ground into a fine powder and consumed directly or added to food and drinks. 

It could also be sliced and boiled to make a medicinal tea, which was consumed to harness its health benefits.

Tiger milk mushroom's side effects

Tiger Milk Mushroom is generally considered safe for consumption, but like any supplement, it may cause side effects in some individuals. 

According to available research, including information from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), potential side effects can include:

• Allergic reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions, such as skin rashes or itching, particularly if they have a sensitivity to mushrooms.

• Gastrointestinal issues: Mild digestive issues like stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhoea can occur, especially when first starting the supplement.

• Interaction with medications: Tiger milk mushroom may interact with certain medications, particularly those that affect the immune system. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before adding it to your regimen if you are on any medication.

Most side effects are mild and temporary, but it’s always best to start with a small dose to see how your body reacts. 

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, discontinue use and seek medical advice.

Tiger milk mushroom and neuroplasticity

Tiger milk mushroom has shown potential effects on neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to reorganise itself by forming new neural connections.

These new connections can improve the brain’s ability to learn and remember. 

The mushroom can also to reduce brain inflammation and protect cells against damage. 

While more studies are needed, early findings show that tiger milk mushroom could be a powerful way to protect the brain and enhance cognition.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3235797/

Best tiger milk supplement (UK)

1. Mushies Tiger Milk Mushroom Capsules

These high-strength capsules from Mushies are among the best Tiger Milk Mushroom supplements available in the UK. 

They offer a potent dose of the mushroom's beneficial compounds, designed to support brain health, immune function, reduce inflammation, and improve overall well-being. 

The capsules are made with high-quality, pure tiger milk mushroom sclerotia extract, ensuring maximum efficacy.

2. Tiger Milk Mushroom Capsules from Time Health

Time Health’s Tiger Milk Mushroom Capsules are another top choice in the UK market. 

These capsules are formulated to enhance respiratory health, boost the immune system, and support joint health. 

They use a standardised extract of Tiger Milk Mushroom, ensuring consistent quality and effectiveness in every dose.

3. Manitari Tiger Milk Mushroom Powder

Manitari offers a versatile tiger milk mushroom powder that can be easily incorporated into your daily routine. 

This supplement is ideal for those who prefer to mix their supplements into smoothies, teas, or other beverages. 

The powder form allows for flexible dosing and is made from high-quality, organic tiger milk mushroom, providing all the health benefits of this potent fungus.

Final thoughts 

Tiger milk mushroom stands out as a functional mushroom with a rich history and a promising future. 

From its traditional uses in treating respiratory ailments and boosting the immune system to its modern applications in enhancing brain health and overall well-being, this remarkable fungus offers numerous benefits. 

Early research is promising, and as it continues, tiger milk mushroom is likely to gain further recognition as a powerful natural remedy. 

Buy high strength tiger milk capsules here.