Polysaccharides, particularly those derived from medicinal mushrooms (such as Ganoderma lucidum or reishi, and Lentinus edodes or shiitake), have been studied for their potential hepatoprotective and immunomodulatory effects, which are relevant to hepatitis—a disease characterized by liver inflammation, often of viral origin. Scientific research, mostly preclinical (laboratory and animal studies), has shown that certain polysaccharides can reduce liver inflammation, decrease fibrosis, and modulate immune responses, potentially benefiting liver health and viral hepatitis outcomes.

For example, studies have suggested that beta-glucans (a class of polysaccharides) can stimulate the activity of macrophages and natural killer cells, enhancing antiviral immune responses. Some clinical trials, primarily in China and Japan, have reported improvements in liver enzyme profiles and general symptoms in hepatitis patients treated with mushroom-derived polysaccharides or related extracts. However, these trials are often small, not well-controlled, and sometimes lack rigorous methodology.

Overall, while there is a scientific rationale for investigating polysaccharides in hepatitis treatment, and some encouraging preliminary results, the clinical evidence remains limited and of low quality. Thus, scientific support exists but is not strong. More rigorous, large-scale clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety for this use.