Evidence supporting the use of: Reishi mushroom
For the health condition: Melanoma

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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 general immune support and as a health tonic. In recent decades, scientific interest has grown regarding its potential anticancer properties, including for melanoma. Laboratory (in vitro) studies have demonstrated that various extracts and compounds from reishi mushroom can inhibit the proliferation of melanoma cell lines and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in these cells. Some research has also shown that reishi may modulate immune responses, which could theoretically help the body target and combat melanoma cells more effectively. Animal studies have further supported these findings, showing reduced tumor growth and metastasis in melanoma models treated with reishi extracts. However, while these preclinical studies are promising, high-quality clinical trials in humans with melanoma are very limited or lacking. There is insufficient evidence to recommend reishi mushroom as a standalone or primary treatment for melanoma. Instead, it is sometimes used as an adjunct to conventional therapies, with the idea that it may support immune function or help mitigate side effects. In summary, there is scientific rationale and preclinical evidence supporting reishi’s potential role against melanoma, but robust human data are still lacking, making the evidence modest (rated 2/5).

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