What are the Side Effects of Tiger Milk Mushroom?

Tiger Milk Mushroom is one of the lost treasures in Malaysia, Indonesia, and other Asian countries. It has been widely used for its medicinal and pain-reliever properties for centuries. Even scientific research proves that tiger milk mushroom has many health benefits.

This mushroom, from which this milk is extracted, can be found in other places like Papua New Guinea and Australia. The origin of its name is curious. The mushroom was believed to grow when it touches the tigress milk.

The real name of this mushroom is Lignosus Rhinocerus, and as you may as noticed, it has nothing to do with tigers despite the name. Besides, it always grows alone. So, you will unlikely see many tiger milk mushrooms in groups in their natural habitat.

 

Types of tiger milk mushrooms

They are two main types of tiger milk mushroom and they are:

• Cultivated tiger milk mushroom

Cultivated tiger milk mushroom is a type of wild fungi that has been bred in captivity to produce different types of mushrooms.

The mushrooms that are produced by this fungus often have a nutty or even sweet flavor, and they can be used as ingredients for food or drinks.

• Wild tiger milk mushroom

Wild tiger milk mushroom (Lentinula edodes) is a common earthy-flavored gilled mushrooms found in the temperate regions of North America and Europe. It is also known by its scientific name, Lentinula edodes.

This mushroom has been used for centuries as a food supplement or medicinal herb, and it is currently being studied for potential uses in cancer treatment and wound healing.

Benefits of tiger milk mushrooms

For over 400 years, experts in Eastern Medicine have known of tiger milk mushrooms’ immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as their effectiveness against a variety of diseases and conditions.

These anti-inflammatory benefits are key in TMM alleviating skin allergies and eczema. They are also rich in antioxidants and polysaccharides, which help protect against disease and boost immune function.

Tiger milk mushroom has been used by Chinese doctors as a treatment for liver cancer, gastric ulcers, and chronic hepatitis.

While there are many claims made about tiger milk mushrooms’ healing properties, the most recent scientific studies point to their ability to support lung and respiratory health.

These studies are beginning to validate the traditional use of TMM to relieve respiratory issues such as asthma, chronic cough, and nasal and sinus problems as well as enhance the respiratory system’s defense against infectious disease.

Tiger milk mushrooms also contain antioxidants that help to protect against cellular damage and promote cancer prevention and treatment. These amazing fungi are also low in calories so they can be consumed as part of a healthy diet or on their own as a snack.

Along with it, Tiger Milk Mushroom can also improve your immune response by producing immune cells in your body to fight against foreign substances. It also helps with lung and respiratory issues such as sinus, allergies, and chronic cough.

In addition to these fantastic health benefits, tiger milk mushrooms have a rich taste that will excite your palette!

 

While tiger milk mushroom seems safe for babies and everybody in general, some studies suggest that they may have some side effects that are sometimes overlooked.

Note: Before you continue reading, it is important to make clear that there’s little evidence that proves tiger milk mushroom side effects are a fact. Consequently, it is safe to take tiger milk mushroom products to treat asthma and certain allergies.

 

Side effects of tiger milk mushroom

According to research, there are no visible or proven side effects found with the consumption of Tiger milk mushrooms. However, ensure that you use a high-quality, cultivated, and branded Tiger milk mushroom product.

When you use Tiger milk mushroom regularly, you might notice a slight increase in phlegm in your initial days. However, experts believe that your body’s natural response is to remove phlegm during the detoxication process.

Most tiger milk mushroom products are made with high-quality, natural ingredients. Also, they are already tested in the lab for safe consumption.

The side effects of Tiger milk mushroom may vary depending on the user’s weight, sex, age, and other factors. It has been found that some people develop symptoms such as heatiness, anxiety, restlessness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain/cramps after consuming tiger milk mushrooms.

Consuming beyond the dosage recommended may result in adverse interactions including toxicity (particularly with blood pressure) and impaired cognitive function.

However, if these symptoms don’t go away in a day or two or become severe, stop consuming it immediately and consult your doctor.

 

What Science Says

A 2017 study reviewed tiger milk mushrooms as highly sought after by the native communities in Malaysia to stave off hunger, relieve cough and asthma, and provide stamina.

It suggested that “L. rhinocerotic possessed several potential therapeutic properties that would be useful to human health. Further research is warranted to identify and isolate chemical components/bioactive components and their mode of action.”

The study did highlight, however, that there is a lack of clinical trials on humans. (Source: A Status Review of the Bioactive Activities of Tiger Milk Mushroom Lignosus rhinocerotic (Cooke) Ryvarden).

In 2021 Dr. Chung Keat Tan and colleagues published the results of their three-month clinical trial, in which they found that “TMM supplementation effectively improves respiratory health, immunity, and antioxidant status.” [Effect of tiger milk mushroom (Lignosus rhinoceros) supplementation on respiratory health, immunity, and antioxidant status: an open-label prospective study].

Dr. Tan points out that the indigenous communities in Southeast Asia and certain areas in China and Australia have used TMM to treat cough, asthma, bronchitis, arthritis, fever, food poisoning, wounds, digestion, and gastritis for years.

He also states that tiger milk mushrooms can significantly enhance the production of immunoglobulin A in the respiratory system. This is important as previous studies in the United States, France, and Singapore have shown this antibody can substantially reduce the risk of viral respiratory infections.

 

Can Tiger milk mushroom cause phlegm?

If you have never consumed tiger milk mushrooms, you might as well experience a slight increase in phlegm, which goes away after some days.

The phlegm is not caused by the milk per se, but it is a natural response from the body when getting rid of toxins. This problem can go on for several days, but if it does not stop, stop consumption and talk to your doctor.

The phlegm can be probably caused by the mushroom components. Since milk contains lots of antioxidants, the body responds in a way that can lead phlegm to appearing. But this is a natural response, and this effect goes away soon.

 

Tiger milk mushroom with other medications 

There is no definitive answer as to whether or not Tiger milk mushroom can be used together with other medicines, as each person’s response may vary.

If you are already taking some other medications for your health conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other health ailments, in that case, you need to consult a doctor before you start taking tiger milk mushroom products.

The doctor will examine your case and advise accordingly. Additionally, always consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about the safety of a particular product.

Tiger milk mushroom with concomitant medications 

If you take concomitant medicines as a part of the standard treatment for your respiratory diseases or conditions, Tiger Milk Mushroom can serve as a complementary supplement.

However, before you start using Tiger milk mushroom products, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

Tiger milk mushroom with pregnant and breastfeeding women 

Tiger Milk Mushroom is safe to consume during pregnancy, but it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or supplement regimen.

As with all substances that are ingested while pregnant, there is always the potential for harm if consumed in large quantities.

Tiger milk mushroom and diabetes 

Most tiger milk mushroom products contain zero sugar content, so yes, diabetics can use Tiger milk mushrooms. This mushroom is high in protein and minerals that are essential for people with diabetes.

It also has anti-inflammatory properties which may help to reduce the symptoms of diabetes like inflammation, pain, and diarrhea.

In addition, it contains thiamin (B1), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), magnesium, selenium, as well as manganese.

Together these nutrients support blood sugar control by helping to increase insulin production or reducing the amount of glucose that needs to be processed by the body.

 

Along with ongoing therapies 

If you are undergoing any therapies such as chemotherapy, electrotherapy, or radiotherapy, it is not safe to take tiger milk mushroom products.

However, you can start taking them once the treatment is over. It is better to consult your doctor before you start consuming tiger milk mushroom supplements.

If you notice any symptoms such as fever, severe cough, cold, rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, etc., you need to stop consuming Tiger Milk Mushroom supplement products instantly. You can consult a doctor, and he might help you decide better.

 

Can tiger milk mushrooms cause allergies?

Unfortunately, there’s some evidence that tiger milk mushrooms can cause allergies because they tend to contain high levels of histamine and other allergens, but this might happen in some cases only.

For example, if you consume much of it, you can encounter allergy-related issues. Either way, it is not something of concern.

If you think tiger milk mushroom is making you allergic, go to the doctor and he will tell you what to do. You’ll probably be told to warn off tiger milk.

Although this research seems clear, it does not give a definite result.

There haven’t been more studies that prove it can cause allergies.

So, you’ll need to go to the doctor to see if the mushroom is making you sick.

 

Pros and cons of tiger milk mushroom

Pros

1. TMM is a source of antioxidants, which helps boost your immune system and combat stress.

2. They have excellent anti-inflammatory properties.

3. As a general health tonic, TMM is a natural source of energy and can help boost your stamina and endurance.

4. They can also help enhance memory and cognitive function.

5. Used for centuries in traditional medicine, scientific studies are now beginning to corroborate TMM’s effectiveness in lung health.

Cons

1. As with any food, some people may be allergic to tiger milk mushrooms or feel some negative side effects when consuming large quantities. If you experience any adverse reactions, immediately stop using TMM and consult with your healthcare professional if necessary.

2. Tiger milk mushrooms are classed as a supplement, which is not regulated by the FDA. This means that there is no FDA guarantee of their safety or efficacy. Be sure to choose a product from a reputable company.

3. Although studies are underway (as mentioned above), current scientific research is limited on the health benefits of TMM.

As with any over-the-counter medication or supplement, you are considering taking for its potential health benefits, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure they are safe for you and will not interact with any medication you are currently taking.

When you begin taking TMM, start with a low dose and gradually increase to the recommended dosage.

 

Conclusion 

Tiger Milk Mushroom is considered a safe product to consume. Tiger milk mushroom side effects are rare and generally, go away in a couple of days. However, you can stop taking them if you find any severe symptoms.

It is recommended that you consult your doctor before taking Tiger milk mushroom products as they know your condition and are in a better position to advise you accordingly.