Synopsis

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

Shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes) has a long history of use in traditional East Asian medicine, including in China and Japan, where it is employed as a general tonic to promote liver health and vitality. In traditional herbal systems, shiitake is often recommended as a dietary ingredient or decoction to support liver function and help with conditions involving the liver, such as hepatitis. This use is based on the mushroom’s perceived ability to “clear heat” and “detoxify,” according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, rather than specific clinical evidence.

From a scientific perspective, shiitake contains compounds such as lentinan (a polysaccharide), which have been studied for their immune-modulating and antiviral effects. Some preclinical studies suggest that these compounds may help protect liver cells or modulate immune responses relevant to hepatitis viruses. However, robust clinical evidence in humans is lacking, and most research has focused on cell cultures or animal models rather than actual hepatitis patients. Therefore, while there is a traditional rationale for using shiitake in liver support and hepatitis, scientific validation remains limited. The current evidence rating is 2, indicating mostly traditional use with some preliminary but inconclusive scientific support.

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