Laura Smith
Medicinal mushrooms have been gaining increased attention from the health community for their immunity-enhancing benefits. Recent studies have found that certain mushroom extracts may be effective in treating HPV infections. One such extract is AHCC, derived from the shiitake mushroom, which has been found to eradicate HPV infections in some cases. Other mushroom species with potential anti-HPV properties include Cordyceps, Chaga, and Turkey Tail, which have been used in traditional medicine for their anticancer and immune-boosting effects. While these mushrooms show promising results, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before consuming any medicinal mushrooms for HPV treatment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mushrooms with anti-HPV properties | AHCC, T. versicolor, G. lucidum, Cordyceps, Chaga, Shiitake |
| AHCC base mushroom | Shiitake |
| AHCC mechanism of action | Increases the number and/or activity of Natural Killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells and cytokines, which help the body fight off infections and block tumor growth |
| AHCC studies | Phase II trial, Pilot clinical trial, University of Texas study |
| AHCC study results | 5 out of 10 women tested negative for HPV after 3 months of AHCC use, 3 with confirmed eradication after stopping AHCC, the remaining 2 needed 6 months of treatment |
| T. versicolor and G. lucidum study results | HPV was cleared in 87.8% of patients |
| Cordyceps | Used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for its anticancer activities, especially against leukemia |
| Chaga | Used in Siberian cultures for its effectiveness against lung, GI, cervical, and breast cancers; also able to lower blood sugar levels |
| Shiitake | Liver-protective and immune-supporting effects |
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What You'll Learn
- AHCC, an extract from the shiitake mushroom, may eradicate HPV
- Triterpenoids and polysaccharide peptides-enriched Ganoderma lucidum
- Cordyceps is used in traditional Chinese medicine
- Chaga has been used in Siberian cultures to combat cancer
- Turkey tails are studied for their ability to enhance immune function
AHCC, an extract from the shiitake mushroom, may eradicate HPV
AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound) is a medicinal mushroom supplement that has been studied for its potential health benefits, including boosting the immune system and protecting against cancer. It is an extract manufactured in Japan from shiitake mushrooms, specifically from the cells of the mycelia of shiitake mushrooms. The extract is then cultured for almost two months before undergoing separation, sterilisation, and freeze-drying. This unique fermentation process reduces the size of polysaccharides in the mushrooms, allowing them to be more easily absorbed in the body.
AHCC has been found to have immune-boosting properties, including increasing the number and activity of natural killer cells, dendritic cells, and T cells, which are vital components of the immune system. The supplement has been studied for its potential role in regulating the immune system and protecting against cancer and liver disease. While small studies have shown promising results, more extensive clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy of AHCC.
One of the most promising benefits of AHCC supplements is their potential to treat HPV (Human Papillomavirus). HPV is a virus that can cause cervical cancer and other cancers associated with the virus. AHCC has been found to suppress HPV infections in a small study of 41 females, suggesting that it may help clear HPV from the body. A Phase II clinical trial also demonstrated that AHCC supplementation may help prevent persistent HPV infections from progressing to cancer.
It is important to note that AHCC should not be considered a replacement for standard HPV treatment. While it may offer potential benefits, individuals should always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, especially if they have existing health conditions or are taking medications that could interact with the supplement. Additionally, the recommended dosage of AHCC may vary depending on individual needs, and it is important to be cautious if you have a mushroom allergy.
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Triterpenoids and polysaccharide peptides-enriched Ganoderma lucidum
A recent study examined the influence of triterpenoids and polysaccharide-enriched G. lucidum on antioxidation and hepatoprotective efficacy by suppressing oxidative stress. The study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial involving 42 healthy subjects (22 male and 20 female) who were divided into two groups. The results showed that G. lucidum had antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects.
G. lucidum is rich in various compounds, including triterpenoids, steroids, peptides, nucleotides, and polysaccharides. The pharmacological properties of G. lucidum are primarily influenced by triterpenoids and polysaccharides. The triterpenoids in G. lucidum have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antihyperlipidemic, and antioxidant properties.
In addition to its traditional uses, G. lucidum has also been studied for its potential antitumor effects, particularly against cervical cancer cells. Aqueous extracts from G. lucidum samples inhibited the proliferation of HeLA, SiHa, and C-33A cancer cells, with the highest cytotoxic effect observed in SiHa cells treated with G. lucidum from Mexico. The antitumor effect of G. lucidum is believed to be mediated through the induction of apoptosis.
Overall, triterpenoids and polysaccharide peptides-enriched Ganoderma lucidum is a promising medicinal mushroom with a wide range of potential health benefits, including antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and antitumor effects.
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Cordyceps is used in traditional Chinese medicine
Cordyceps is a fungus that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years. It is not a mushroom but a fungus that grows out of an infected insect. There are several species of cordyceps (over 750), and they can be found worldwide. The complete insect/fungus combination is traditionally used for medicinal purposes.
In traditional Chinese medicine, cordyceps is understood to tonify both Yin and Yang. Due to this balance, it can be taken safely over long periods and is commonly used as a tonic herb. It has been used to treat a wide range of ailments, including coughs, colds, respiratory infections, chronic autoimmune disorders, asthma, tuberculosis, and chronic bronchitis. It is also believed to help protect the lungs and kidneys and restore kidney and liver damage caused by toxicity.
Cordyceps is also used to treat reproductive problems caused by insufficient testosterone levels in males. It has been studied for its effects on many health conditions, but there is limited conclusive research on its health benefits. Some studies suggest that cordyceps may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, improve kidney health, and reduce blood sugar levels.
Cordyceps sinensis is a root-like structure with dark brown fruiting spores and white tendrils, and it is the most expensive mushroom in the world, sometimes referred to as "soft gold." Cordyceps militaris is the cultivated version, which is easier to grow in labs and contains higher amounts of cordycepin. It is considered a functional food with potential medicinal value.
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Chaga has been used in Siberian cultures to combat cancer
Chaga mushrooms, also known as Inonotus obliquus, are a type of fungus that grows primarily on birch trees in cold climates. Chaga has been used in Siberian cultures for over 50 years, specifically for its effectiveness against lung, GI, cervical, and breast cancers. In folk medicine, Chaga is used to treat various ailments and diseases, including cancer. It is often grated into a fine powder and brewed as an herbal tea or taken as a supplement. Chaga is packed with antioxidants, which can help to prevent cell damage caused by free radicals and may have anticancer effects.
Chaga mushrooms have been used for centuries in Siberia and other parts of Asia as a medicine to boost immunity and improve overall health. Its extract may fight cancer and improve immunity, chronic inflammation, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. Chaga is generally safe to consume, but it is important to consult a doctor before incorporating it into your diet, especially for those with conditions such as cancer, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
Chaga mushrooms have a unique appearance, resembling a dark clump of dirt with bright orange tissue beneath its exterior. They are known for their bitter taste, which is why they are often consumed as a tea rather than eaten whole. Chaga tea is packed with antioxidants and is believed to release the medicinal properties of the mushroom. In addition to its potential anticancer properties, Chaga has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antidiabetic, antioxidant, analgesic, and immunomodulating effects.
Chaga mushrooms may also help to improve exercise endurance and reduce fatigue. The polysaccharides found in Chaga have been shown to have inhibitory and pro-apoptotic effects against colon, lung, and liver cancer cells. While Chaga has been used traditionally in Siberian cultures to combat cancer, more human studies are needed to confirm these benefits and to determine optimal dosage.
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Turkey tails are studied for their ability to enhance immune function
Turkey tail mushrooms, or Trametes versicolor, are a type of medicinal mushroom with a long history of use in traditional medicine. They are commonly found in forests worldwide and are named for their colourful, fan-like shape, resembling a turkey's outspread tail. They have been studied for their ability to enhance immune function and exhibit a range of health benefits.
Turkey tail mushrooms are packed with antioxidants and other health-promoting compounds. They contain components such as polysaccharides, ergothioneine, krestin, sterols, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, and melanin. These molecules help protect the immune system by reducing inflammation, activating immune cells, and maintaining healthy gut bacteria. Research suggests that the antioxidants and immune-boosting properties of turkey tail mushrooms may help support overall health and protect against inflammation, age-related diseases, and various types of cancer.
Several studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of turkey tail mushrooms on immune function. A clinical trial in 2012 found that breast cancer patients who took capsules of powdered turkey tail mushrooms recovered immune function more quickly after radiation therapy than those who did not take the capsules. Another study found that turkey tail mushrooms appeared to boost the efficacy of chemotherapy in breast cancer patients. Additionally, a test-tube study found that PSK, a polysaccharopeptide found in turkey tail mushrooms, inhibited the growth and spread of human colon cancer cells.
Turkey tail mushrooms have also been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years to treat various health conditions. They are known to have anti-tumour properties and have been used as a supportive therapy in cancer treatment in Japan for decades. Modern research confirms that compounds found in turkey tail mushrooms act as nonspecific immune modulators, either stimulating or suppressing immune function in a general way. Overall, turkey tail mushrooms have been studied for their potential to enhance immune function and exhibit promising results in various areas of health and disease treatment.
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Frequently asked questions
AHCC, an extract from the shiitake mushroom, has been clinically proven to help eradicate HPV. Other mushroom species with anti-cancer properties include cordyceps, chaga, and turkey tails.
AHCC stands for Active Hexose Correlated Compound.
AHCC works by improving the innate immune system. It increases the number and/or activity of Natural Killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells, and cytokines, which help the body fight off infections and block tumour growth.
In a study conducted by Smith and colleagues, participants took 3g of AHCC orally once a day for up to 6 months.
AHCC is available from multiple nutritional supplement companies. However, it is important to purchase genuine AHCC products to ensure safety and efficacy.
