Polyporus umbellatus (Chuling Sclerotium)

Polyporus umbellatus, commonly called chuling, is a medicinal fungus that forms dense underground sclerotia associated with the roots of certain trees. The dried sclerotium has a long history of use in traditional Chinese herbal practice and contains polysaccharides, sterols, and other naturally occurring fungal compounds.

In equine products, Polyporus umbellatus is used as a specialty botanical or fungal ingredient rather than as a conventional nutrient source. Traditional applications are associated with fluid balance and urinary support, although controlled research in horses is lacking. Because standardized composition and equine safety data are limited, it is generally most appropriate in professionally formulated products at conservative inclusion levels.