Evidence supporting the use of: Reishi mushroom
For the health condition: Infection (viral)

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Synopsis

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

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for supporting immune function and overall health, including fighting infections. Modern scientific research has begun to validate some of these traditional claims, particularly regarding its potential antiviral properties. Several laboratory (in vitro) studies have demonstrated that extracts from reishi mushroom can inhibit the replication of certain viruses, such as herpes simplex virus (HSV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and influenza. These effects are thought to be mediated by bioactive compounds like triterpenoids and polysaccharides, which may enhance immune responses and interfere with viral entry or replication.

However, most of the supporting evidence comes from preclinical research, including cell cultures and animal models. Clinical studies in humans are limited, and those that exist are often small, of low quality, or use reishi as part of a broader herbal regimen rather than as a single agent. Therefore, while there is a scientific rationale and some promising preliminary data, robust clinical evidence for reishi mushroom's effectiveness in treating or preventing viral infections is lacking. Overall, reishi mushroom shows potential due to its immune-modulating and antiviral effects, but more well-designed human studies are needed before it can be broadly recommended for viral infections.

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