• Reishi mushrooms and cancer
• Strengthened immunity thanks to Reishi mushrooms

Reishi mushrooms have been known for centuries and are part of the natural medicine landscape of the Far East. They have even achieved the status of a symbol of immortality and are attributed properties that stimulate the immune system and even prevent the onset of cancer. For this reason, they have been the subject of intensive research in recent years to verify their true abilities. Reishi mushrooms are now quite well known.

Reishi mushrooms and cancer

Research conducted on reishi mushrooms proves their potential for therapeutic use in the prevention and treatment of cancer. Researchers from Bellarmine University and the Cancer Research Laboratory at the Methodist Research Institute in the US discovered compounds in reishi mushrooms that can fight cancer cells. During the research phase, it was discovered that reishi contains polysaccharides and saponins that reduce the proliferation of cancer cells in the lungs. Reishi extracts also inhibit the proliferation of prostate cancer cells. So far, only the potential that can be exploited in the future has been recognized.

Strengthened immunity thanks to Reishi mushrooms

Beta-glucan, found in reishi mushrooms, is responsible for strengthening the body. Its positive effect on immunity is due to the fact that it increases the number of macrophages and T lymphocytes. Professor Takashi of Mizuno University in Shizuoka argues that mushrooms should be consumed when our body is immunocompromised. On the other hand, Dr. Andrew Weil, who works daily at the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine, sees reishi mushrooms as a product that could be the answer to chronic fatigue syndrome.

In 2006, research results using reishi mushrooms were published in the Journal of Asian Natural Products Research. The research concerned diabetic kidney disease. It was found that reishi mushrooms have the potential to halt and even prevent the progression of diabetic kidney complications. The volunteers underwent an eight-week study. After this period, it was observed that markers of oxidative stress in the kidneys, as well as blood sugar and triglyceride levels, significantly decreased.

Reishi mushrooms are readily available as dietary supplements , allowing us to strengthen our bodies during less favorable, colder periods. However, we must remember to maintain adequate safety. Read the package insert carefully, and when taking Reishi mushrooms in capsule or powder form, do not exceed the recommended dose.