Birch Polypore vs Vana Tulsi

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Birch Polypore

Fomitopsis betulina

Antimicrobial

Ocimum gratissimum

Antimicrobial

Birch Polypore

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Vana Tulsi

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Bracket fungus of birch trees with evidence of use since Otzi the Iceman 5300 years ago as an antimicrobial and wound-healing herb.

Shrubby basil of Africa and Asia; one of three Tulsi varieties used in Ayurveda; also widely used across Africa for infections and malaria.

Active Compounds

piptamine, agaric acid, polyporenic acids, betulinic acid, terpenoids

eugenol, thymol, carvacrol, beta-caryophyllene, rosmarinic acid

Traditional Uses

Wound healing in ancient European tradition (Otzi finds), Antimicrobial and antiparasitic, Digestive conditions, Fatigue and adaptogenic use

Adaptogenic tonic in Ayurveda (Vana Tulsi variety), Malaria and fever across Africa, Wound healing in African medicine, Respiratory infections

Modern Uses

Antimicrobial, Antiparasitic, Wound healing, Immunomodulatory

Antimicrobial, Antifungal, Adaptogen, Anti-inflammatory

Adult Dosage

Dried mushroom tea 2 cups daily; 500mg-1g extract daily

2–4 g dried herb as tea; diluted essential oil; 2–3 mL tincture

Contraindications

Autoimmune conditions, Pregnancy in medicinal doses

Anticoagulant medications, Pregnancy in large doses

Side Effects

Mild digestive upset

Blood thinning, GI irritation in high doses

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E