Meshima (Phellinus linteus): Hispolon, Interfungin A and the Rare Korean Functional Mushroom

Phellinus linteus — known as Meshima in Japanese (meaning "island mushroom," named after Meshima Island in Japan where it was traditionally harvested) — is one of the rarest and most potent functional mushrooms in the world. It grows on mulberry trees (Morus species) in East Asia, and its rarity has made it one of the most expensive functional mushrooms by weight.

Unique Bioactive Compounds

Hispolon

Hispolon is a polyphenolic compound unique to Phellinus linteus. It is a yellow pigment with a chalcone-like structure that has been the subject of considerable scientific interest. Hispolon is one of the key markers that distinguishes genuine Phellinus linteus from other Phellinus species.

Interfungin A

Interfungin A is a unique compound isolated from Phellinus linteus that belongs to the hispolon family of compounds. It is considered one of the most bioactive compounds in Meshima.

Polysaccharides (PL-2 and Others)

Phellinus linteus contains unique polysaccharides, including PL-2 — a branched (1→3)-β-D-glucan with (1→6) branch points that has been the subject of extensive research. These polysaccharides are the primary quality marker in standardised Meshima extracts.

Protocatechuic Acid

Protocatechuic acid is a phenolic acid found in significant quantities in Phellinus linteus. It is a metabolite of anthocyanins and is found in many plants and fungi with antioxidant properties.

Bioactive Compounds at a Glance

Traditional Use

In Korean traditional medicine (Hanbang), Phellinus linteus is known as Sang Hwang (상황버섯) — "mulberry yellow mushroom" — and has been used for centuries as a premium tonic. It is one of the most revered functional fungi in Korean tradition, historically reserved for royalty and the very wealthy due to its extreme rarity.

In Japan, it is known as Meshimakobu and has been used in traditional Kampo medicine as a tonic for vitality and longevity.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is known as Sāng Huáng (桑黄) and has been documented in Chinese herbals since the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD).

Rarity and Sourcing

Wild Phellinus linteus is extremely rare — it grows slowly on mulberry trees and can take decades to reach a harvestable size. Commercial cultivation has been developed but remains challenging and expensive. This rarity contributes to its premium status and price point.

Quality Markers

• Species verification — Phellinus linteus specifically (not other Phellinus species)
• Mulberry tree source — Meshima grown on mulberry has the most complete bioactive profile
• Hispolon content — should be specified or verifiable
• Polysaccharide standardisation — ≥20–30%

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This article is for informational purposes only. Food supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.