Evidence supporting the use of: Shiitake mushroom
For the health condition: Blood Clots (prevention of)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) have been investigated for their potential antithrombotic (blood clot-preventing) properties, largely due to the bioactive compound lentinan and other polysaccharides found in the mushroom. Laboratory and animal studies indicate that certain components in shiitake mushrooms, such as adenosine, can inhibit platelet aggregation—a key step in blood clot formation. For example, adenosine has been shown to have mild anticoagulant effects by inhibiting platelet function and dilating blood vessels. Additionally, some in vitro research has demonstrated that extracts of shiitake mushrooms can reduce blood viscosity and decrease the risk of clot formation.

However, clinical evidence in humans is limited. Most of the data come from preclinical studies, and there are very few clinical trials specifically investigating shiitake's effect on blood clot prevention in humans. Traditional use of shiitake in East Asian medicine focuses more on immune support and general health rather than specifically targeting blood clots. Overall, while there is a plausible scientific rationale and preliminary laboratory evidence suggesting shiitake mushrooms may help in the prevention of blood clots, the strength of evidence is low due to the lack of robust human studies. Therefore, its use for this purpose should be considered with caution, and not as a replacement for established medical therapies.

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