Evidence supporting the use of: Shiitake
For the health condition: Colds (antiviral)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) have a long history of use in traditional East Asian medicine, where they are believed to promote health and enhance resistance to illness, including colds. The traditional use stems from the mushroom’s reputation as a tonic and its inclusion in remedies for general immune support. Shiitake contains various bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides (notably lentinan), which are thought to modulate the immune system.

While some modern laboratory and animal studies indicate that shiitake extracts can stimulate certain immune responses and may possess antiviral properties, clinical evidence in humans specifically for the prevention or treatment of the common cold is limited and inconclusive. A small number of human studies suggest mild immune enhancement, but these do not directly demonstrate efficacy in treating or preventing colds. Thus, its use for colds is justified mainly by tradition, with only weak scientific support.

Overall, shiitake’s application for colds is rooted in traditional practice, with preliminary but insufficient scientific evidence to support robust antiviral effects in humans against common cold viruses.

More about Shiitake
More about Colds (antiviral)

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Products containing Shiitake

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