Lueyang Polyporus

Lueyang Polyporus

Lueyang Polyporus is a protected geographical indication product.

　　Polyporus is a commonly used medicinal fungus in China with over 2,000 years of medicinal history, enjoying a prestigious reputation both domestically and internationally. The use of Polyporus in China dates back to ancient times. It was referred to as "Shi Ling" in the book Zhuangzi and classified as a mid-grade herb in the Divine Farmer’s Materia Medica. The Commentary on the Materia Medica states: “Maple Tree Polyporus, its outer black skin is removed and the remaining chunk resembles pig dung, hence the name. The ones with white flesh and solid texture are of better quality; when used, the black skin should be scraped off.” The Extended Interpretation of Materia Medica notes: “Polyporus has an especially effective diuretic function, but prolonged use will surely impair kidney qi and cause blurred vision.” The True Account of Materia Medica states: “Polyporus is used in all Four-Ingredient and Five-Ingredient Decoctions. Though similar in nature to Alisma, and entering the same bladder and kidney meridians, it clears heat, removes dampness, opens orifices, and promotes urination. However, as water is expelled, the spleen may become dry; as water is drained, qi may be depleted.” Lueyang Polyporus is large, columnar, sub-rounded or flat in shape, heavy, hard, with a black glossy skin, and a cross-section that is white or yellow-white. It contains ≥0.8% Polyporus polysaccharides, ≤9.0% total ash, ≤1.5% acid-insoluble ash, and ≤12.0% moisture. In 2009, Lueyang Polyporus was granted national geographical indication product protection.

　　The protected geographical indication area for Lueyang Polyporus covers the entire administrative region of Lueyang County, Shaanxi Province.