Synopsis

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

Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) have been traditionally consumed in East Asia for their nutritional and medicinal properties. In recent years, modern research has explored their potential role in supporting patients undergoing chemotherapy, particularly through the use of extracts like lentinan, a beta-glucan polysaccharide isolated from shiitake mushrooms.

Preclinical and a limited number of clinical studies suggest that lentinan may have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which could theoretically help patients cope with some of the side effects of chemotherapy such as immunosuppression and fatigue. For example, some clinical trials in Japan and China have examined lentinan as an adjunct to chemotherapy in cancer patients, reporting potential benefits like improved quality of life, reduced infection rates, and better tolerance of chemotherapy regimens. However, these studies are often small, not always double-blinded, and sometimes combine lentinan with other therapies, making it difficult to isolate its effects.

Overall, the scientific evidence supporting the use of shiitake mushroom or its extracts specifically for reducing chemotherapy side effects is still considered preliminary. While some immune and quality-of-life benefits are reported, these findings are not yet robust or consistent enough for widespread clinical recommendation. More large-scale, well-controlled trials are necessary to confirm these effects.

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