John Miller
Mushrooms have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, particularly in Asia. In recent times, the use of mushrooms in treating cancer has gained popularity. Mushrooms are now being studied for their potential to affect the immune system and their ability to stop or slow the growth of tumours or kill tumour cells. Turkey tail, shiitake, and maitake mushrooms are among the most commonly studied mushrooms for their potential in cancer treatment. While there is ongoing research and some positive indications, there is currently insufficient evidence to conclude that any type of mushroom can prevent, cure, or treat cancer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Medicinal mushrooms used to treat cancer | Ganoderma lucidum (reishi), Trametes versicolor or Coriolus versicolor (turkey tail), Lentinus edodes (shiitake), Grifola frondosa (maitake) |
| Turkey tail mushroom | Used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat lung diseases; used in Japan to strengthen the immune system when given with standard cancer treatment |
| Polysaccharide K (PSK) | Best-known active compound in turkey tail mushrooms; approved mushroom product used to treat cancer in Japan; taken as tea or in capsule form |
| PSK laboratory and animal studies | Tested effects on the immune system, including immune cells called natural killer cells and T-cells |
| PSK clinical trials | Used as adjuvant therapy in patients with gastric cancer; may help repair immune cell damage caused by chemotherapy and strengthen the immune system |
| Shiitake mushrooms | Native to East Asia; valued in some cultures as an anticancer agent; contain beta glucan, a complex sugar compound that may stimulate the immune system and slow the growth of some cancer cells |
| Maitake mushrooms | Used in Japan and China to treat diabetes and hypertension; contain beta-glucan, a complex sugar; D-fraction is a bioactive extract widely studied as an adjuvant therapy with antitumor effects; reduces side effects of chemotherapy and is most effective against breast, prostate, and liver cancer |
| Agaricus sylvaticus mushrooms | Brazilian study found that people who had the mushroom as part of their diet after bowel cancer surgery had a better quality of life compared to those who didn't |
| Lentinan | Polysaccharide extract of shiitake mushrooms that has been tested in several human trials; showed an increase in natural killer cell activity and tumor response |
| Mushroom supplements | No substances from mushroom products sold as dietary supplements have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a treatment for cancer or any other medical condition |
| Mushroom benefits | Packed with vitamin D, which is essential for the immune system; may boost energy and immunity, improve digestion and mood, and improve quality of life for cancer patients |
| Limitations of mushroom studies | Most studies conducted in Asia; may not be applicable to patients in other regions due to potential metabolic differences |
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What You'll Learn
- Turkey tail mushrooms and their use in traditional Chinese medicine
- Shiitake mushrooms and their effect on the immune system
- Maitake mushrooms and their ability to reduce chemotherapy side effects
- Reishi mushrooms and their potential as a cancer treatment
- Lion's mane mushrooms and their impact on cognitive function
Turkey tail mushrooms and their use in traditional Chinese medicine
Turkey tail mushrooms, scientifically known as Trametes versicolor or Coriolus versicolor, are characterised by their rings of brown and tan, resembling the tail feathers of a turkey. They are one of the 100 species of mushrooms that have been researched for their medicinal properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, they are known as Yun Zhi, and in Japan, they are called kawaratake, or "cloud mushrooms".
Turkey tail mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, dating as far back as the 15th century during the Ming Dynasty in China. They are often brewed into medicinal teas, believed to promote general health, strength, and longevity. The mushroom contains compounds known as polysaccharopeptide (PSP) and polysaccharide-K (PSK), which are associated with immune-boosting properties. These polysaccharides help prime the immune system by promoting the growth of white blood cells that fight infection and enhance immunity. Turkey tail mushrooms are also used to treat lung diseases and have been shown to reduce inflammation.
In Japan, turkey tail mushrooms are used alongside standard cancer treatment to strengthen the immune system. Polysaccharide K (PSK) is the most well-known active compound in turkey tail mushrooms, and it is approved in Japan as a mushroom product to treat cancer. PSK can be consumed as tea or in capsule form. Laboratory and animal studies have been conducted to understand the effects of PSK on the immune system, including its impact on immune cells such as natural killer cells and T-cells.
While turkey tail mushrooms have been studied for their potential benefits in cancer treatment, it is important to note that they do not treat cancer on their own. Instead, they may serve as a complementary treatment in conjunction with other medical therapies and under medical supervision. Turkey tail mushrooms have been found to contribute to increased levels of cancer-fighting cells in the immune system, and they may help inhibit colon cancer cell growth and prevent the invasion of healthy cells. Additionally, PSK derived from turkey tail mushrooms has been shown to reduce the side effects of oral chemotherapy for colorectal cancer and improve survival rates in people with gastrointestinal cancer.
Turkey tail mushrooms are widely available in various parts of the world and have been used in traditional herbal medicine for a long time. However, it is always recommended to consult a doctor before consuming these mushrooms and to purchase them from reputable sources to ensure safety and purity.
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Shiitake mushrooms and their effect on the immune system
Shiitake mushrooms, or Lentinus edodes, are a type of edible fungus native to Japan and China. They are the second most commonly consumed mushrooms worldwide and are valued for their rich taste and supposed health benefits.
Shiitake mushrooms are low in calories but contain many vitamins, minerals, and bioactive plant compounds, including polysaccharides, terpenoids, sterols, and lipids. Some of these compounds have been shown to have immune-boosting, cholesterol-lowering, and anticancer effects. The amount of bioactive compounds present in shiitake mushrooms depends on how and where they are grown, stored, and prepared.
One of the key compounds found in shiitake mushrooms is lentinan, a polysaccharide that may help fight cancer. Lentinan has been shown to stimulate the immune system and improve quality of life in cancer patients when used alongside chemotherapy and other major cancer treatments. In laboratory studies, lentinan appears to slow the growth of some cancer cells. It is also believed to trigger certain cells and proteins in the body to attack cancer cells.
In a randomized dietary intervention study, consuming dried shiitake mushrooms for 4 weeks resulted in increased ex vivo proliferation of γδ-T and NK-T cells, suggesting improved cell effector function. The study also found increased sIgA, implying improved gut immunity, and reduced CRP, suggesting lower inflammation.
While shiitake mushrooms have been shown to have immune-boosting properties, it is important to note that they may not be safe for everyone. For example, people with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) should avoid shiitake mushrooms as they may increase the symptoms of these conditions by overactivating the immune system. Similarly, those taking medications that decrease immune system activity, such as post-transplant medications, should exercise caution when consuming shiitake mushrooms as they may interfere with the effectiveness of these medications.
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Maitake mushrooms and their ability to reduce chemotherapy side effects
Mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat illnesses for centuries. They have also been used to treat infections for hundreds of years, mostly in Asia. In Japan and China, mushrooms have been safely used as an addition to standard cancer treatments for over 30 years. There are more than 100 types of mushrooms used to treat cancer in Asia. Some common ones are Ganoderma lucidum (reishi), Trametes versicolor or Coriolus versicolor (turkey tail), Lentinus edodes (shiitake), and Grifola frondosa (maitake).
Maitake mushrooms, also known as Grifola frondosa, are edible and medicinal fungi that grow wild in Japan, China, and North America. Maitake means "dancing mushroom" in Japanese, as people would dance with joy upon finding it. Maitake mushrooms are used in Japan and China to treat diabetes and hypertension. They contain a complex sugar called beta-glucan, which may have properties that help hydrate the skin, promote collagen production, and improve skin health.
Various studies have explored the effect of maitake mushrooms on cholesterol metabolism and blood pressure. Research on rats found that maitake mushrooms helped lower triglyceride, cholesterol, and phospholipid levels in their blood. Other animal research also found that maitake mushrooms may support the liver's ability to metabolize cholesterol and lower systolic blood pressure. Maitake mushrooms have also been found to contain antioxidants like fatty acids and polyphenols, which may improve skin health.
Maitake mushrooms have been found to have potential benefits in cancer treatment. Studies have shown that maitake extracts like D-fraction may help reduce tumor size and improve outcomes for different cancers. Maitake may also help boost the immune system by activating important cells that can help fight off cancerous cells. Additional components may influence genes involved in cancer growth and promote cancer cell death. Maitake D-fraction acts as a biologic response modifier, providing T-cell-dependent immune enhancement and activation, resulting in an enhanced antitumor effect. When maitake D-fraction was given to patients receiving chemotherapy for various cancers, response rates increased from 12% to 28%, and chemotherapy side effects were reduced.
While maitake mushrooms have shown potential in cancer treatment, it is important to note that there is currently no evidence that they can cure cancer. Most studies conducted on maitake mushrooms are outdated, and more research in humans is needed. It is always a good idea to consult a doctor before incorporating maitake mushrooms or any other medicinal mushrooms into your diet or treatment plan.
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Reishi mushrooms and their potential as a cancer treatment
Reishi mushrooms, also known as Ganoderma lucidum, have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years. They are believed to have various health-promoting effects and are used as an immunostimulant by patients with AIDS and cancer.
Reishi mushrooms are one of the many types of medicinal mushrooms being studied for their potential as a cancer treatment. In Asia, there are more than 100 types of mushrooms used to treat cancer, and reishi is one of the more common ones. Medicinal mushrooms have been approved as an addition to standard cancer treatments in Japan and China for more than 30 years.
Laboratory and animal studies have been conducted to test the effects of reishi mushrooms on tumors, including lung cancer. Studies suggest that reishi mushrooms may help strengthen the immune system in patients with lung cancer and improve immune response. In a study conducted in Japan, an extract of the mushroom G. lucidum mycelia (MAK) was given to patients with benign colorectal tumors. After 12 months, a follow-up colonoscopy showed that the number and size of the tumors had decreased in the group that received MAK.
Reishi mushrooms contain active compounds such as beta-glucan polysaccharides and triterpenes, which have been shown to have immunomodulatory, renoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties. In addition, reishi mushroom spore powder was found to elevate the level of the serum tumor marker CA72-4, which is associated with several malignancies, including gastrointestinal, ovarian, endometrial, and lung cancers. A cross-sectional survey among Chinese cancer patients using Reishi products found that more than half of the participants reported improvements in nausea, fatigue, poor appetite, and depression.
While reishi mushrooms have shown potential in laboratory and animal studies, as well as some human trials, further research is needed to determine their effectiveness as a cancer treatment. The FDA has not approved the use of reishi mushrooms as a treatment for cancer, and there is currently insufficient evidence to support their use as a standalone therapy. However, they may have a role as an adjuvant therapy in combination with standard cancer treatments.
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Lion's mane mushrooms and their impact on cognitive function
Mushrooms are part of the fungus family and have been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat illnesses for hundreds of years, especially in Asia. They have been used to treat infections and lung diseases, and more recently, they are being used to treat cancer. Although mushrooms cannot cure or prevent cancer, they are being studied for their potential to affect the immune system and stop or slow the growth of tumors or kill cancer cells.
One type of mushroom that has been studied for its medicinal properties is Lion's Mane, also known as Hericium erinaceus. Research shows that Lion's Mane mushrooms contain powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, which may help reduce the impact of illnesses. They have been found to reduce markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in rodents and may be useful in managing inflammatory bowel disease, liver damage, and stroke.
Lion's Mane mushrooms have also been studied for their impact on cognitive function and mood. A 2020 study found that daily supplementation with 1 gram of Lion's Mane mushroom for 49 weeks significantly improved cognitive test scores in people with mild Alzheimer's disease compared to a placebo. Another study found that taking three 400-mg capsules daily for 8 weeks helped relieve depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders in overweight and obese adults.
Lion's Mane mushrooms are considered safe for consumption, but some people may experience allergies or adverse reactions. It is always recommended to speak with a doctor before consuming any new substance, especially if you have existing health conditions.
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Frequently asked questions
Medicinal mushrooms are mushrooms that are used as medicine. They have been used to treat infection for hundreds of years, mostly in Asia. Today, medicinal mushrooms are also used to treat lung diseases and cancer.
Mushrooms cannot cure or prevent cancer. However, they have been used safely in Asia for a long time, either alone or combined with radiation or chemotherapy.
The different types of mushrooms used to treat cancer include Ganoderma lucidum (reishi), Trametes versicolor or Coriolus versicolor (turkey tail), Lentinus edodes (shiitake), and Grifola frondosa (maitake).
Mushrooms contain biologically active polysaccharides in their fruit bodies or mycelia. The -glucans of mushrooms resemble bacterial cell walls and complex with complement on macrophages to activate an immune response, triggering the release of various cytokines that are active in tumor inhibition.
