Evidence supporting the use of: Lentinan
For the health condition: Lymphoma

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Synopsis

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

Lentinan is a polysaccharide extracted from the shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes) and is classified as a biological response modifier. Its use in oncology, including lymphoma, is primarily supported by scientific research, particularly from studies conducted in Japan and China. Lentinan has been investigated for its potential to enhance immune function, specifically by stimulating macrophages, T lymphocytes, and natural killer cells, and by modulating cytokine production. These immunomodulatory effects are thought to potentially aid the body’s ability to combat cancer cells.

Clinical research on lentinan in lymphoma is limited and largely consists of small-scale studies, case reports, and preclinical models. Most robust human data pertain to its use as an adjunctive therapy in gastric and colorectal cancers, where it has been shown to improve quality of life and, in some cases, survival when combined with chemotherapy. For lymphoma specifically, there are few clinical trials and only modest evidence suggesting benefit in terms of immune activation or symptom relief. The overall evidence base is therefore weak, and major guidelines do not currently recommend lentinan as a standard treatment for lymphoma. Nevertheless, lentinan is sometimes used in integrative oncology settings in Asia, reflecting both its scientific rationale and regional clinical experience. Larger, high-quality clinical trials are needed to establish its efficacy and safety in lymphoma patients.

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