We all know that edible mushrooms are very nutritious and can uplift the taste of any dish. But can these provide any health benefits? Gladly, this remarkable family of fungi also carries innumerable healing properties. History shows that people across Asia have been reaping the benefits of medicinal mushrooms for a long time. From boosting the immune system to enhancing mood and energy levels, they have proven their competence.
However, can they do more? Today, research is exploring another aspect of their curative nature: the ability of a mushroom to fight cancer. According to Dr. Gary Deng, an Integrative Medicine Specialist, this is a good area for biological research. In this blog, we will explore how mushrooms have the potential to subside cancer effects.
What are Medicinal Mushrooms?
Mushrooms are a sub-category of the fungi family. Fungi, rich in bioactive compounds, have garnered significant interest from pharmaceutical companies in their quest for new developments. Currently, they are being studied for their efficacy against infectious diseases, and mental disorders like Alzheimer's, and even cancer.
Medicinal mushrooms such as these are called ‘functional mushrooms. Primarily, these include all those mushrooms that reflect something more than simple nutritional benefits. They have instinctive remedial properties that are helping science and medicine. For example, the discovery of penicillin and other antibiotics is attributed to the contributions of such fungi. Moreover, they have also been found in some chemotherapy agents.
Common Examples of Functional Mushrooms
Certain mushrooms serve as staples in culinary practices. However, researchers are now concentrating on the bioactive compounds present in these mushrooms. Some examples of these functional or medicinal mushrooms include:
Turkey tail mushroom
Chaga mushroom
Penicillium
Common earthball
Shiitake mushroom
Reishi mushroom
Hen-of-the-wood
Maitake mushroom
Cordyceps mushroom
Lion's mane mushroom
What Compounds in Mushrooms Help Stand Against Cancer?
Now that we know mushrooms carry some remarkable medicinal properties, let’s see what compounds drive them.
1. Polysaccharides: Immune System Boosters
Polysaccharides, particularly beta-glucans, are a class of compounds found in the cell walls of various mushrooms. They are best known for their immune-enhancing properties. Studies have shown that beta-glucans can activate white blood cells, such as macrophages and T-cells, which play a critical role in fighting infections and abnormal cell growth—key players in cancer defense.
These compounds may help the body recognize and destroy cancer cells more efficiently. For example, the reishi mushroom contains significant amounts of beta-glucans, which research suggests can help slow down the spread of cancer cells by stimulating the immune system.
2. Terpenoids: Fighting Cancer at the Cellular Level
Mushrooms like turkey tails and cordyceps contain another powerful class of bioactive compounds called terpenoids. Generally, these compounds are known for their ability to affect gene expression, cell signaling, and even apoptosis (programmed cell death).
For example, cordycepin, a compound found in cordyceps mushrooms, has been shown in studies to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Research suggests that cordycepin can disrupt DNA replication within cancer cells, ultimately slowing their growth. Similarly, certain terpenoids in turkey tail mushrooms have been found to inhibit the proliferation of breast cancer cells.
3. Lectins: Targeting Cancer Cells
Lectins are carbohydrate-binding proteins that have been found in many mushrooms, including the shiitake mushroom. What makes lectins particularly interesting is their ability to bind to specific molecules on the surface of cancer cells, preventing them from spreading. They also have anti-tumor properties and can enhance immune function. Studies have shown that shiitake lectins can cause apoptosis in cancer cells, particularly in the context of lung and colorectal cancer.
4. Phenolic Compounds: Guardians of Antioxidant Defense
Phenolic compounds, found in mushrooms such as maitake, serve as antioxidants that assist in mitigating oxidative stress within the body. This oxidative stress is associated with the onset of various cancers. Moreover, it has the potential to harm DNA and facilitate tumor development. By fighting free radicals, phenolic compounds play a crucial role in safeguarding healthy cells from the damage that may contribute to cancer.
Maitake mushrooms have garnered attention for their ability to bolster the body’s defenses against oxidative stress. Research indicates that these mushrooms not only possess significant antioxidant properties but may also stimulate immune responses that are beneficial in the fight against cancer.
Are They Effective Against Different Types of Cancer?
So, are these properties only effective against a specific cancer type or do they work for multiple types? Luckily, they work for most types of cancer. For instance, reishi mushrooms carry remarkable anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Consequently, they are very efficient in targeting lung, breast, and liver cancer, where immune support is vital.
Alternatively, turkey tail mushrooms may be used to improve side effects and survival rates in patients with breast and colorectal cancer. This is mostly due to the presence of polysaccharide-K (PSK), which helps strengthen the body’s defenses. Shiitake mushrooms exhibit anti-tumor characteristics, particularly in the context of liver cancer. This effect is attributed to their lectins and polysaccharides, which enhance the activity of immune cells in combating cancer cells.
Furthermore, maitake mushrooms are particularly effective in breast, lung, and ovarian cancers. Mainly, this results from their ability to suppress tumor growth and enhance the effects of conventional treatments.
Read Also: Natural Pain Relief for Cancer: Effective Strategies and Remedies
Conclusion: A Natural Weapon in the Battle Against Cancer
While we are still in the early stages of understanding the power of medicinal mushrooms, the research is promising. In the long run, these mushrooms may prove to be beneficial in combating chronic illnesses, including cancer. This way, they may seamlessly secure an important spot in the field of biological science. As Replenish Nutra continues to investigate the role of mushrooms in oncology supportive care, we are finding more about their immune-boosting and anti-tumor effects.
We are exploring how mushrooms like turkey tail aim to subdue the symptoms of different types of cancer and enhance the effectiveness of conventional treatments. Moreover, we are interested to see how bioactive compounds found in these mushrooms, such as polysaccharides and terpenoids, can strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and even help inhibit cancer cell growth.
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