fungi

Medicinal uses of Birch Polypore, Fomitopsis betulina

March 15, 2025 - By Rosa Wilde

Scientific name: Fomitopsis betulina, (formerly Piptoporus betulinus)

Common name: Birch polypore

Walter Baxter / *Birch Polypore (Piptoporus betulinus)* / CC BY-SA 2.0

Medicinal uses of birch polypore

Birch polypore has several medicinal uses. It can be used as a natural bandage due to its antimicrobial properties, preventing wounds from becoming infected. The fungus contains compounds that can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.

To use birch polypore as a plaster, cut a long strip from the underside of the mushroom and apply it directly to the wound. If applying to a finger, wrap it around itself, its natural texture makes it self-adhesive. Otherwise, cover with a bandage or strip of cloth.

Birch Polypore is also used to strengthen the immune system. It can be brewed into a tea to help with colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. In the past, its immune-boosting properties were particularly valued during harsh winters when illnesses were common.

Additionally, the mushroom has been used to support digestive health. It was traditionally consumed as a tea to aid digestion, reduce gut inflammation, and address parasitic infections. It has also been used as a vermifuge to help expel intestinal worms.

The famous Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,300-year-old mummy found in the Alps, was discovered carrying pieces of Birch Polypore. Researchers believe he may have used it as a medicine to combat intestinal parasites or as an antimicrobial agent for wound care.

Potential applications in medical research: Fomitopsis betulina contains compounds with antimicrobial, antiviral, and anticancer properties. Studies have explored its potential for boosting immunity, fighting infections, and supporting gut health. Some research suggests it may have applications in managing Lyme disease and inhibiting tumor growth.

underside of birch polypore, broken away from host tree, by gailhampshire from Cradley, Malvern, U.K, CC BY 2.0

Constituents:

Fomitopsis betulina is known to contain, among other constituents:

Betulinic acid – a triterpenoid with antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties
Polysaccharides – including beta-glucans, which support immune function
Triterpenes – compounds with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects
Phenolic compounds – known for their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties

Further research is ongoing to determine the full spectrum of bioactive compounds in this fungus.

Culinary uses

Birch polypore is generally not consumed as food due to its tough texture and bitter taste. Instead, it is commonly prepared as a tea or tincture for medicinal purposes.

To make tea, slices of the fungus are simmered in water for an extended period. Some people also grind it into powder for use in extracts.

Foraging notes

Habitat:

In the wild, Fomitopsis betulina exclusively grows on birch trees, particularly on dead or dying trunks and branches. It thrives in temperate forests with an abundance of birch trees.

Lairich Rig / *Birch Polypore (Piptoporus betulinus)* / CC BY-SA 2.0

Distribution:

Found throughout the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America, where birch forests are common.

Sustainability:

Relatively abundant in areas with birch trees. Sustainable foraging practices involve harvesting only a portion of the fungus to allow continued growth and regeneration.

When to harvest:

Birch polypore can be harvested year-round, but it is best collected in autumn and winter when the fruiting bodies are mature and firm.

Polypore fungus (Piptoporus betulinus) by Captainpixel

Key identifiers:

Semi-circular, hoof-shaped fruiting body attached to birch trees
White to light brown upper surface that darkens with age
Pore surface underneath is white and does not bruise when touched
Tough, leathery texture
Often found in tiered formations along the trunk

Senses:

Has a mild, earthy scent and a tough, corky texture when fresh. As it dries, it becomes even harder and more brittle.

Possible lookalikes:

Fomes fomentarius (tinder fungus/hoof fungus) – similar shape but darker grey to black in colour; also grows on birch and other hardwoods
Piptoporus quercinus (oak polypore) – grows on oak trees rather than birch
Ganoderma species (reishi-like fungi) – typically more varnished in appearance

Life history:

Birch Polypore is a parasitic and saprophytic fungus, meaning it grows on both living and dead birch trees. It plays a role in breaking down wood and recycling nutrients in the forest ecosystem

gailhampshire from Cradley, Malvern, U.K, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Classification

Taxonomy:

Fomitopsis betulina belongs to the family Fomitopsidaceae, order Polyporales, class Agaricomycetes, and phylum Basidiomycota.

Etymology:

The genus name Fomitopsis is derived from the Latin fomes, “tinder,” due to its historical use as a fire starter.

The species name betulina refers to its exclusive association with birch (Betula species).

Fun facts:

Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,300-year-old mummy discovered in the Alps, carried pieces of birch polypore, likely for medicinal purposes.
In the past, it was used as a natural razor strop to sharpen blades.
It has been used traditionally to make bandages due to its antimicrobial properties.
The dried fungus was also employed as a fire starter, as it catches a spark easily and burns slowly.