Tiger milk mushroom, known in Chinese as 虎乳芝 and in Malay as cendawan susu rimau, is one of Malaysia's most distinctive native mushrooms. It has a long local history, a striking name and a growing following in Asia. This guide covers what it is, where it comes from and how you can try it.
What is tiger milk mushroom?
Tiger milk mushroom is the common name for several species in the genus Lignosus, most often Lignosus rhinocerus. The part people use is not the cap you might picture. It is the sclerotium, a dense, woody lump that forms underground, usually near the roots of trees in tropical rainforest. Once dried, it looks like a pale, firm, cream-coloured nugget.
It is native to the rainforests of Malaysia and is also found in parts of Southeast Asia and southern China.
Why is it called "tiger milk"?
Local folklore says the mushroom grew where a tigress dropped her milk while feeding her cubs in the forest. The story is a legend, not science, but it explains why the mushroom has been treated with respect for generations. Orang Asli and other forest communities have long known and used it.
How has it traditionally been used?
In Malaysia, tiger milk mushroom has traditionally been sliced, boiled and drunk as a tea or decoction. Today it is also made into powders and capsules. Because it was gathered from the wild and was hard to find, it was once rare and valued. Cultivation in Malaysia now makes it far easier to get.
Traditional use is not the same as proven effect, and this guide does not make any health claims about it. If you have a medical condition, are pregnant or take medication, speak to your doctor before adding any new supplement to your diet.
What does tiger milk mushroom taste like?
On its own, dried tiger milk mushroom is mild and earthy, with a slightly woody, bitter edge. Most people find it easier to enjoy when it is blended into something else. That is why it works well with dark chocolate and cocoa, whose rich, roasted flavour balances the earthiness.
How to try tiger milk mushroom
- In chocolate. Our ImmunoLux 80% dark chocolate pairs tiger milk mushroom with reishi, and ShroomGuard includes it in a five-mushroom blend. Both are sweetened with monk fruit and have no added sugar.
- In a hot drink. ShroomKoko is a cocoa mix with tiger milk mushroom, lion's mane, cordyceps and black fungus. Stir one sachet into hot water or milk, or pour it over ice.
- As a tea or in soup. Dried slices are sold in some Chinese medical halls and health shops. Follow the seller's directions.
Why we pair mushrooms with Malaysian cacao
At VIVE we make dark chocolate from Malaysian cacao, so it felt natural to work with a Malaysian mushroom too. Both come from the same warm, humid climate and have a story rooted in the local land. You can read more about our cacao in What Makes Malaysian Cacao So Special?
Browse the full mushroom chocolate range to compare the bars and drinks.
Frequently asked questions
What is the scientific name of tiger milk mushroom?
The most common species is Lignosus rhinocerus. Related species include Lignosus tigris and Lignosus cameronensis.
Is tiger milk mushroom only found in Malaysia?
No. It also grows in other parts of Southeast Asia and southern China, but it is closely linked with Malaysian rainforests and local tradition.
Can you taste tiger milk mushroom in chocolate?
Only slightly. In our bars the dark chocolate is the main flavour, with a mild, earthy note at the end.
Is tiger milk mushroom safe for everyone?
Most people tolerate mushrooms well, but this is a food, not a medicine. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, allergic to mushrooms or taking medication, check with your doctor first.
Where can I buy tiger milk mushroom chocolate?
You can buy it online from VIVE's mushroom chocolate collection. Orders over RM100 ship free in Malaysia.