Synopsis

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

Hericium mushroom, also known as Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), has garnered scientific interest for its potential to support cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, particularly in reducing side effects such as immunosuppression and neuropathy. Preclinical studies and a limited number of small human trials suggest that Hericium may offer immunomodulatory and neuroprotective effects. For example, extracts of Hericium have demonstrated the ability to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis and exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions, which are hypothesized to help mitigate chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in animal models. Additionally, some clinical studies have reported improvements in quality of life, fatigue, and immune markers in cancer patients who consumed Hericium-containing supplements alongside conventional treatments. However, these studies are generally small, not always placebo-controlled, and sometimes use mixed mushroom formulas, making it difficult to isolate the effects of Hericium alone. There is limited direct evidence from large-scale, well-controlled human trials specifically addressing chemotherapy side effects. Thus, while there is preliminary scientific validation and mechanistic plausibility for Hericium’s supportive role during chemotherapy, the overall strength of clinical evidence remains modest, warranting a rating of 2 out of 5. Further rigorous research is needed to establish efficacy and safety for this indication.

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