top of page

Xylaria Sclerotia 乌灵参 Cultivation

Wu Ling Shen (乌灵参), scientifically known as Xylaria nigripes, is a medicinal fungus from the Xylariaceae family. It is distinguished by its sclerotium—a hardened mass of fungal mycelium—which has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries. Wu Ling Shen is valued for its potential neuroprotective, sedative, and immune-modulating properties.

Xylaria nigripes naturally thrives on decaying wood, particularly tree stumps and roots, in tropical and subtropical regions. The fungus develops dark, elongated, club-shaped fruiting bodies, while its sclerotia appear as irregularly shaped, hardened structures embedded in decomposing wood. These sclerotia are the primary medicinal component.

By utilizing our own cultivation methods, we can produce Wu Ling Shen (乌灵参) with greater consistency and controlled quality, ensuring a more reliable supply for medicinal use.

Simplified Steps in our cultivation methods:
 

  • 1. Culture Preparation

    • Obtain or isolate a Xylaria nigripes strain.

    • Grow it on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) in a dark place.

  • 2. Substrate Preparation

    • Mix sawdust, rice bran, and other organic materials.

    • Sterilize to remove contaminants.

  • 3. Inoculation & Incubation

    • Add mycelium to the sterilized substrate.

    • Pack into containers and incubate in the dark at 25-28°C for several weeks.

  • 4. Sclerotia Formation

    • Lower the temperature to 20-22°C and maintain high humidity.

    • Wait several weeks to months for sclerotia to develop.

 

  • 5. Harvesting & Drying

    • Collect mature sclerotia.

    • Dry thoroughly to prevent mold and preserve quality.

06.JPG

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Applications of Xylaria sclerotia (Wu Ling Shen 乌灵参):

  1. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM):

    • Wu Ling Shen (乌灵参) has been used for centuries in TCM to promote general health, improve vitality, and prevent various diseases. It is typically consumed as a tonic or health supplement.

    • The dried sclerotia can be made into powder, capsules, tinctures, or teas. It can be used alone or as part of a blend with other herbs to enhance its effects.

  2. Immune System Support:

    • Wu Ling Shen (乌灵参) is often used as a immune-boosting tonic. It is believed to enhance the body’s natural defenses, helping to protect against infections and improve overall resistance to disease.

    • Its immune-modulating effects are attributed to its bioactive compounds, which help stimulate the immune system.

  3. Energy and Vitality:

    • This fungus is considered an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress and improves energy levels. It is traditionally used to combat fatigue, increase stamina, and promote overall vitality.

    • It is often included in tonics aimed at boosting energy and reducing weakness in people who feel tired or depleted, particularly in older adults.

  4. Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic:

    • Wu Ling Shen (乌灵参)  is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties that make it useful for conditions like arthritis, joint pain, and muscle aches.

    • Its anti-inflammatory action helps reduce swelling, pain, and discomfort associated with inflammation-related conditions.

  5. Antioxidant and Anti-aging:

    • Wu Ling Shen (乌灵参) contains compounds that exhibit antioxidant effects, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body.

    • These antioxidants may play a role in slowing the aging process, promoting skin health, and protecting against oxidative damage to cells and tissues.

  6. Liver and Kidney Health:

    • It is also believed to have benefits for liver and kidney health in TCM. Wu Ling Shen (乌灵参) is sometimes used as part of remedies aimed at detoxifying the body or improving the function of these organs.

    • It is considered to promote blood circulation and improve metabolism.

 

Benefits of Xylaria sclerotia (Wu Ling Shen 乌灵参):

  1. Boosts Immune Function:

    • One of the main benefits of Wu Ling Shen (乌灵参) is its ability to enhance the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and diseases. It can be especially helpful in preventing common illnesses and maintaining long-term health.

  2. Increases Energy and Reduces Fatigue:

    • The adaptogenic nature of Wu Ling Shen (乌灵参) makes it beneficial for increasing energy levels and combating chronic fatigue. It is commonly used by individuals seeking to improve stamina and endurance, especially those with weakened vitality or after illness.

  3. Anti-inflammatory Effects:

    • The fungus is used for its anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce symptoms associated with arthritis, muscle pain, and other inflammatory disorders. It can act as a natural alternative to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

  4. Promotes Longevity and Anti-aging:

    • Due to its antioxidant properties, Wu Ling Shen (乌灵参) is believed to have anti-aging benefits. It helps protect cells from oxidative stress, potentially slowing down the aging process and supporting healthy skin, hair, and nails.

  5. Supports Liver and Kidney Health:

    • Wu Ling Shen (乌灵参) is thought to aid in detoxification and the overall health of the liver and kidneys. It is sometimes used as part of herbal treatments for improving the body's natural cleansing processes.

  6. Improves Circulation:

    • Some traditional uses of Wu Ling Shen (乌灵参) include improving blood circulation, which can have a positive effect on overall health and energy. It may help in conditions related to poor circulation, such as cold extremities or sluggish metabolism.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

References :
(1) CN1699549A - Xylaria nigripes and its purification, separation ....
     https://patents.google.com/patent/CN1699549A/en.
(2) Xylaria Sclerotia Formed Within Termite Nests: A Review of Their ....
     https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/978-3-031-41648-4_14?pdf=chapter%20toc.
(3) Xylaria Sclerotia Formed Within Termite Nests: A Review of Their ....
     https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-41648-4_14.
(4) undefined. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-41648-4_14.
(5) Formation of Sclerotia and Production of Indoloterpenes by.
     https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0094857

1) MUSHROOM WORLD ACADEMY PTE LTD​

2) ECS GLOBAL PTE LTD

3) P’BIO PTE. LTD 

ABOUT US >

Mushroom World Academy is dedicated to revolutionizing the agritech industry through innovative practices and education.

 

Our mission is to provide comprehensive resources and expertise to empower individuals and businesses in the field of mushroom cultivation and agritech.

 

With a focus on sustainability and cutting-edge research, we are committed to advancing the science of fungi cultivation.

MWA QR Code White BG.png

A: 3A Pasir Ris Drive 6, Singapore 519422

© 2025 by Mushroom World Academy
Powered and secured by Wix

bottom of page