Asian Mushrooms

In Asia, more than 100 species of mushrooms have been used to help treat cancer, infections, and other conditions. Even today, in China and Japan, medicinal mushrooms are routinely used either alone, or in combination with chemotherapy and radiation in cancer treatment. There are many varieties that have been studied and that are marketed for their anti-cancer properties.  A few of these varieties include reishi, turkey tail, chaga, maitake, and shitake.  These mushrooms have been shown to help activate the immune system, which may explain their cancer-fighting properties.  They appear to be non-toxic and generally well-tolerated when taken in supplement form.

Doses of medicinal mushrooms vary depending on variety and formulation.  Turkey Tail and reishi have been studied in breast and other solid tumor cancer patients and have been shown to be safe and well-tolerated. Medicinal mushrooms can be purchased as individual species, in capsules, tinctures, teas, or in combination formulas.

Concerns
Some experts avoid the use of medicinal mushrooms with blood or bone marrow cancers such as lymphoma, leukemia or myeloma. This is because of concern of activation of the immune system.  More studies are needed to ensure safety in all cancer types.

Caution is advised in the use of botanicals that are produced abroad as quality control and good manufacturing Practices (GMP) often cannot be assured.  Look for GMP on the label, or ask your integrative provider for a trusted brand.

As Food

Mushrooms tend to be rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, and many also boost the immune response by increasing natural killer cell activity. Several delicious species, including shiitake, enoki, maitake, oyster and porcini mushrooms can be found at Asian or other specialty markets in most major cities. If you can’t find fresh mushrooms, dried mushrooms can be rinsed and soaked in hot water to soften and rehydrate before using. Mushroom teas, such as chaga, or blended varieties are now more readily available too. Some mushrooms, such as maitake, are best absorbed with vitamin C (so don’t be afraid include to use some citrus or peppers with your mushrooms).