Turkey tail mushrooms are a type of wild mushroom that has gained popularity in the medical world due to its numerous benefits for cancer patients and the general population. Scientists refer to these mushrooms for cancer by three different scientific names: Trametes versicolor, Coriolus versicolor, and Polyporus versicolor. In many Asian countries, people refer to turkey tail mushrooms as Yun Zhi, and they have been used for decades as part of standard cancer treatment.

https://www.lungcancercenter.com/news/turkey-tail-mushroom-cancer/

Researchers have found that Turkey tail may improve endurance and combat fatigue to improve sports performance. Turkey tail extract was found to improve strength and endurance in a study that used mice. Additionally, the extract decreased the physical exhaustion and their blood sugar levels both before and after activity. I recommend you to consult your doctor before consuming excess of Turkey tail mushroom for these benefits.

https://pharmeasy.in/blog/benefits-of-turkey-tail-mushroom-a-research-supported-health-exploration/

Modern research confirms that compounds found in turkey tail mushrooms have an effect on the immune system. More precisely, they act as nonspecific immune modulators. That’s a fancy way of saying that something either stimulates or suppresses immune function in a general way. In turkey tail mushrooms, the effect is to bolster immune function. A clinical trial conducted in 2012 found that breast cancer patients who took capsules of powdered turkey tail mushrooms recovered immune function after radiation therapy more quickly than those who didn’t take the capsules. Another study into breast cancer patients found the mushrooms appeared to boost the efficacy of chemotherapy. Other research suggests that compounds found in turkey tail mushrooms also have anti-tumor properties.

https://www.uclahealth.org/news/turkey-tail-mushrooms-act-as-nonspecific-immune-modulators

Could eating a mushroom daily prevent frequent doctor visits? Preliminary research suggests that Shiitake mushrooms may enhance immune function. Globally, there are thousands of mushroom species, but only about 20 are commonly used in cooking. Native to Asia, Shiitake mushrooms are grown both for their flavor and health benefits.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/04/150416112826.htm

Shiitake mushrooms are used in traditional Asian medicine for their potential health benefits, particularly in cancer prevention and treatment. They contain a compound called lentinan, which may help extend the survival of cancer patients when used with chemotherapy. Shiitake is also believed to boost the immune system and lower cholesterol. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects. For more detailed information, you can visit the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center page on Shiitake mushrooms.

https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/shiitake-mushroom

A study tested the immune effects of shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) in 52 adults over 4 weeks. Results showed improved cell activation and proliferation, higher secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) indicating better gut immunity, and reduced inflammation as indicated by lower C-reactive protein (CRP). Changes in cytokine levels suggested a healthier, less inflammatory state. This suggests regular consumption of shiitake mushrooms can boost human immune function.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25866155/

Maitake mushrooms are used in traditional Asian medicine to help manage diabetes, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, boost immunity, and treat cancer. While safe in food, maitake supplements can interact with certain medications, like blood thinners and diabetes drugs, and should be used under medical supervision. For more details, you can visit the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center page on Maitake.

https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/maitake

Grifola frondosa, known as hen-of-the-woods or maitake, is an edible mushroom valued for its nutritional and medicinal benefits. This review summarizes research on its bioactive components, including polysaccharides like β-glucans and proteins, which exhibit antitumor, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties. The mushroom's diverse bioactive molecules make it promising for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical uses. Further research is necessary to better understand its bioactivity mechanisms and potential applications.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7824844/

This study investigates the immune-stimulating effects of glucans from Maitake and Shiitake mushrooms, comparing them to AHCC. After 14 days of oral intake, the combination of Maitake and Shiitake glucans significantly enhanced immune responses, including phagocytosis, NK cell activity, and cytokine secretion, outperforming AHCC. The findings suggest these natural glucans strongly activate both cellular and humoral immunity.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4202470/

The Chaga mushroom, found on birch trees in cold climates, is used in folk medicine and consumed mostly as tea due to its bitter taste. It is claimed to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. While generally considered safe, it's advised to consult healthcare providers before using Chaga supplements, especially with certain medications like blood thinners. The full details and further information can be found on the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center website below.

https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/chaga-mushroom

This study examines the Chaga mushroom's potential in cancer treatment. Researchers found that its extract significantly reduces tumor size and metastasis in mice. Results suggest Chaga could help manage cancer by affecting energy metabolism.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4946216/

Recent Developments in Inonotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom) Polysaccharides: Isolation, Structural Characteristics, Biological Activities and Application

Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) is used as medicine and health food in various countries. Its main component, Inonotus obliquus polysaccharide (IOPS), has anti-tumor, antioxidant, and other health benefits. This review covers the extraction and benefits of IOPS, suggesting its potential in treating cancer and diabetes.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8124789/

6 Benefits of Cordyceps, All Backed by Science

The Healthline article discusses the potential benefits of Cordyceps, a medicinal mushroom. It mentions that Cordyceps may boost athletic performance, support heart health, regulate blood sugar levels, and improve immunity. The article also provides information on potential side effects, dosage recommendations, and ways to incorporate Cordyceps into your diet. Overall, it offers a comprehensive overview of Cordyceps and its potential health effects.

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cordyceps-benefits

Cordyceps militaris as a Bio Functional Food Source: Pharmacological Potential, Anti-Inflammatory Actions and Related Molecular Mechanisms

Cordyceps militaris, a type of medicinal mushroom, is rich in important compounds like polysaccharides. Researchers are interested in its potential to prevent inflammatory diseases, so they've been reviewing scientific literature on the subject. Recent studies show that C. militaris can help reduce inflammation in both lab experiments and animal studies.

Inflammation plays a role in many diseases, including cancer and allergies. C. militaris has shown promise in inhibiting inflammation and regulating inflammatory processes, making it a potential functional food for managing inflammatory conditions.

This study aims to provide a better understanding of how C. militaris fights inflammation and lays the groundwork for future research on its medical applications. It's hoped that this research will lead to the development of new anti-inflammatory drugs using C. militaris and its components.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8875674/

A brief review on the medicinal uses of Cordyceps militaris

Cordyceps, a popular Chinese medicinal mushroom, is traditionally made by drying a fungus that grows on caterpillars. It's been used for centuries to boost vitality and overall health. This fungus is packed with various compounds like cordycepin, cordymin, polysaccharides, and more, which give it its medicinal properties.

Studies have shown that Cordyceps militaris, a type of Cordyceps fungus, has many health benefits, including anti-cancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting effects. It's also been found to have positive impacts on aging, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, brain health, and fertility. Because of these benefits, Cordyceps militaris is considered a valuable dietary supplement.

Growing mushrooms like Cordyceps militaris on domestic waste has become popular, promoting sustainability in the mushroom industry worldwide.

Cordyceps extract can be beneficial for health when added to the diet. However, using mushroom extracts in therapy can be challenging due to the many bioactive chemicals they contain. Among these compounds, cordycepin stands out for its therapeutic potential. Recent research even suggests that cordycepin may have effectiveness against the SARS-CoV-2 strain of COVID-19. This review sets the stage for clinical use of Cordyceps extract and outlines future research directions.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667142523000143

The book "Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects" is a detailed resource available on the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) website. It covers a wide range of topics related to herbal medicine, including its scientific basis and how it's used in treating various health conditions. Whether you're curious about the science behind herbal remedies or want to explore their practical applications, this book provides valuable insights.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92757/

The page from the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center’s website is about Reishi Mushroom, also known as Ganoderma lucidum. It explains that Reishi Mushroom has been traditionally used in Asian cultures for various health purposes. It mentions that some studies suggest it might have benefits for the immune system, as well as potential anti-cancer properties. However, it also notes that more research is needed to confirm these effects. The page also highlights potential side effects and interactions with medications, advising caution and consultation with a healthcare provider before using Reishi Mushroom supplements.

https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/reishi-mushroom

Ganoderma lucidum, a type of mushroom used in Chinese medicine for ages, has gained attention for its health benefits. Studies suggest it has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting effects. Recent research has looked into its potential in managing diabetes, obesity, and even fighting infections like the coronavirus.

G. lucidum contains compounds called triterpenoids, which seem to help with diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood sugar levels. They also aid in weight loss and boost the immune system. Another component, polysaccharides, enhances the body's immune response by activating certain white blood cells.

While lab studies show G. lucidum might inhibit coronavirus infection, human trials are needed to confirm this. So, while it shows promise, it's too soon to say if it can effectively prevent or treat coronavirus in people.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10094145/

Research suggests that Hericium erinaceus offers a range of benefits, including fighting cancer, boosting the immune system, lowering cholesterol levels, and protecting the brain. It's also been shown to have antimicrobial, blood pressure-lowering, blood sugar-regulating, and wound-healing properties. This review article gives an overview of recent research on Hericium erinaceus and explores the bioactive compounds responsible for its many health benefits.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23735479/

Researchers studied compounds from the Hericium erinaceus mushroom to see how they affect nerve cell growth. They found that these compounds, called hericenones, don't directly make nerve cells grow longer projections. However, when combined with a small amount of a protein called nerve growth factor (NGF), they help nerve cells grow similar to when they're exposed to higher levels of NGF alone.

One particular compound, hericenone E, was very good at increasing NGF production. They also discovered that nerve cell growth involves specific pathways within the cells. Think of them as cellular roadmaps that guide growth. These pathways are called the MEK/ERK and PI3K/Akt pathways. So, hericenone E helps nerve cells grow by teaming up with NGF and influencing these specific pathways.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25288148/

Researchers looked at how certain substances from a medicinal mushroom called Hericium erinaceus could affect nerve cells. They found that these substances can help nerve cells grow and develop by promoting the production of a key protein called nerve growth factor (NGF). In their experiment, they combined extracts from the mushroom with NGF and tested how well they helped nerve cells grow long extensions called neurites. They found that the combination of mushroom extract and NGF worked best, increasing neurite growth by over 60%.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24266378/