Review: Reishi Mushroom and Cancer Immunotherapy Research
A 2020 review published in Frontiers in Pharmacology compiled research on Reishi mushroom’s potential role in cancer immunotherapy—using the immune system to fight cancer.
Study Design
This comprehensive review examined existing research on Reishi compounds and cancer, analyzing studies from cell cultures, animal models, and limited human research. The focus was on how Reishi might support immune function in the context of cancer.
Key Findings
Reishi compounds, particularly polysaccharides and triterpenes, show various anti-cancer activities in research settings. These include immune system activation, direct effects on cancer cells, and potential to enhance conventional cancer treatments. The mechanisms involve multiple pathways related to immune cell activation and tumor cell behavior.
Important Context
This is an area of active research, and most studies are preclinical—conducted in cell cultures and animal models rather than human clinical trials. The evidence does not support using Reishi as a cancer treatment.
What This Means
This research suggests potential supportive roles that deserve further clinical investigation. Some cancer patients use Reishi as a complementary therapy under medical supervision, but it should never replace conventional cancer treatment.
Limitations to Consider
Cancer is a serious medical condition requiring professional medical management. Preclinical results often don’t translate to clinical effectiveness in humans. Individual cancers behave differently, and what works in one context may not apply broadly.
Citation
Ríos, J.L. (2020). Ganoderma: A Cancer Immunotherapy Review. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 11, 1344.