Antrodia camphorata

BotanicalMedicinal mushroom

What is it

Antrodia camphorata (also Antrodia cinnamomea, or Niu Chang Chih) is a rare medicinal mushroom native to Taiwan, growing on the camphor tree. It is used in traditional Taiwanese medicine for liver support and is one of the most expensive medicinal mushrooms.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Liver protection / hepatitis support

Mixed Evidence

Some Taiwanese clinical trials suggest hepatoprotective effects in alcohol-induced liver injury and hepatitis, but study quality is variable and results have not been broadly replicated.

Cancer adjunct

Mixed Evidence

Preclinical anticancer activity is well-documented. Limited human clinical data exist; should not replace standard cancer therapy.

How it works

Antrodia camphorata contains polysaccharides, triterpenoids (antroquinonol, antcin compounds), ergostane derivatives, and other bioactive compounds. The triterpenoids in particular have demonstrated hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor activities in preclinical studies. Proposed mechanisms include modulation of NF-kB signaling, induction of phase II detoxification enzymes, and activation of apoptosis pathways in cancer cells. Some clinical trials, particularly in Taiwan, have investigated effects in hepatitis, alcohol-induced liver injury, and as cancer adjunct.

Dosage

Doses in studies and traditional use vary widely: 1.5-3 g/day of fruiting body powder, or proportionally smaller doses of concentrated extracts. Standardization is inconsistent across products.

When and how to take it

WHEN: Typically taken once or twice daily with or without food. HOW: As capsules, powder, or liquid extract per product instructions.

3 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Wild fruiting body

Limited supply due to slow growth and habitat restrictions.

Most prized form, very expensive

Cultivated mycelium

Solid-state or liquid fermentation.

More available but different compound profile

Standardized triterpenoid extract

Higher potency, easier dosing.

Concentrated active compounds

Safety

Generally well tolerated in available trials. Rare reports of liver enzyme elevations and mild GI symptoms. Wild vs cultivated material differs in composition. Quality and purity vary significantly between products.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and lactation. People with liver disease should consult a clinician before use (despite hepatoprotective claims, some products have been associated with liver injury). Cancer patients should not use as substitute for or alongside chemotherapy without oncologist guidance.

Interactions

Theoretical interactions with hepatically metabolized drugs (may affect CYP enzymes), immunosuppressants, and chemotherapy. Limited clinical data.

Frequently asked questions

Is Antrodia camphorata safe for the liver?⌄

While traditionally used for liver support, some Antrodia products have been associated with liver enzyme elevation. Quality and source matter; consult a clinician if you have liver disease.

Why is Antrodia so expensive?⌄

Wild Antrodia grows only on the inner cavity of one Taiwanese tree species, takes years to develop, and is increasingly rare. Cultivated alternatives are more affordable.

References

Antrodia camphorata on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Antrodia camphorata on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Antrodia camphorata (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.