However, researchers state that reishi should be administered in combination with traditional treatment rather than replacing it ( 22).
These benefits included increasing the activity of the body’s white blood cells, which help fight cancer, and improving quality of life in cancer patients. What’s more, a detailed report of multiple studies indicated that the mushroom can beneficially affect cancer patients ( 22). Some research showed that one year of treatment with reishi decreased the number and size of tumors in the large intestine ( 21). Reishi mushroom has also been studied for its role in preventing or fighting colorectal cancer ( 2, 21). While one case study showed that molecules found in this mushroom may reverse prostate cancer in humans, a larger follow-up study did not support these findings ( 19, 20). Some research has investigated if reishi could be beneficial for prostate cancer due to its effects on the hormone testosterone ( 17, 18). Yet the results of these studies do not necessarily equate to effectiveness in animals or humans. In fact, one study of over 4,000 breast cancer survivors found that around 59% consumed reishi mushroom ( 13).Īdditionally, several test-tube studies have shown that it can lead to the death of cancer cells ( 14, 15, 16). Many people consume this fungus due to its potential cancer-fighting properties ( 11, 12). This may occur primarily in those who are ill, as mixed results have been seen in those who are healthy. Summary Reishi mushroom can enhance immune function through its effects on white blood cells, which help fight infection and cancer. More research is needed to determine the extent of the benefits in the healthy and ill. Overall, it is clear that reishi impacts white blood cells and immune function.
However, other research in healthy adults showed no improvement in immune function or inflammation after 4 weeks of taking reishi extract ( 10). In one study, the fungus improved lymphocyte function, which helps fight infections and cancer, in athletes exposed to stressful conditions ( 8, 9). Natural killer cells fight infections and cancer in the body ( 7).Īnother study found that reishi can increase the number of other white blood cells (lymphocytes) in those with colorectal cancer ( 2).Īlthough most immune system benefits of reishi mushroom have been seen in those who are ill, some evidence has shown that it can help healthy people, too. Research in cancer patients has shown that some of the molecules found in the mushroom can increase the activity of a type of white blood cell called natural killer cells ( 6). What’s more, these studies have found that some forms of reishi may alter inflammation pathways in white blood cells ( 5). While some details are still uncertain, test-tube studies have shown that reishi can affect the genes in white blood cells, which are critical parts of your immune system. One of the most important effects of the reishi mushroom is that it can boost your immune system ( 4).
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