Synopsis

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

Several types of medicinal mushrooms, particularly Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi), Coriolus versicolor (Turkey tail), and Lentinula edodes (Shiitake), have been studied for their potential benefits in supporting liver health and treating hepatitis, especially chronic hepatitis B and C. The rationale for their use is largely based on their bioactive polysaccharides, such as beta-glucans, and triterpenoids, which exhibit immunomodulatory, antiviral, and hepatoprotective properties. Clinical studies—although often small and sometimes lacking rigorous controls—have reported that certain mushroom extracts can improve liver function markers (e.g., ALT, AST), reduce viral load, and enhance immune responses in hepatitis patients. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in the journal Phytotherapy Research (2002) found that Reishi mushroom extract improved liver function in patients with hepatitis B. A 2011 meta-analysis (Jiang et al., Phytomedicine) of mushroom polysaccharides also suggested some benefit in hepatitis management. However, evidence is not uniformly robust, with most studies being preliminary, short-term, or conducted in combination with standard antiviral therapies. Traditional use of mushrooms for liver ailments is also recorded in Chinese and Japanese medicine. In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence supporting the use of certain medicinal mushrooms for hepatitis, more large-scale, well-controlled clinical trials are needed to fully validate their efficacy and safety.

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