Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Mushrooms and Chemotherapy Side Effects: Scientific Evidence

Medicinal mushrooms, particularly species like Coriolus versicolor (Turkey Tail), Lentinula edodes (Shiitake), and Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi), have been studied for their potential to support patients undergoing chemotherapy. Research has focused on mushroom-derived polysaccharides, such as polysaccharide-K (PSK) and polysaccharide-peptide (PSP), which are believed to modulate immune function.

Several clinical trials, especially in Japan and China, have reported that these compounds can help reduce some chemotherapy side effects, such as fatigue, loss of appetite, and immune suppression. For example, PSK is an approved adjunct cancer therapy in Japan, commonly used alongside chemotherapy for cancers like gastric and colorectal cancer. Studies suggest that PSK may improve quality of life, reduce infection rates, and potentially prolong survival when combined with conventional treatments. However, the effects on specific chemotherapy side effects, such as nausea or mucositis, are less consistently reported and often modest.

Overall, the evidence for using medicinal mushrooms to reduce chemotherapy side effects is promising but not definitive. Most trials have methodological limitations, such as small sample sizes or lack of blinding. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses indicate that while mushrooms may offer supportive benefits, more rigorous research is needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in this context.

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