Shiitake Mushrooms: A Cancer-Fighting Fungus

Kelley Herring

Shiitake Mushrooms: A Cancer-Fighting Fungus

Mushrooms have long been lauded for their medicinal properties. In fact, some varieties of mushroom – including shiitake mushrooms – have been used in Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years.

Shiitake Mushrooms Fight Cancer

A study published in the Journal of Complementary Medicine explored the anti-tumor activities of “mycochemicals” found in shiitake mushrooms.

Using two malignant human breast cancer cell lines and two myeloma cell lines, researchers found that the “mycochemicals” from shiitake mushroom caused apoptosis, or cell suicide, in 50% of the human tumors.

Maximizing The Power of Shiitakes

We’ve dug up some great dishes based on this fabulous fungus to help you get the cancer-fighting benefits of shiitake mushrooms.

Quinoa with Tempeh and Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake, Zucchini & Bell Pepper Stir Fry
Shiitake Mushroom & Rappini Stuffed Chicken Breasts

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References

Fang N, Li Q, Yu S, Zhang J, He L, Ronis MJ, Badger TM.Inhibition of growth and induction of apoptosis in human cancer cell lines by an ethyl acetate fraction from shiitake mushrooms.J Altern Complement Med. 2006 Mar;12(2):125-32 (PubMed)

About The Author

Kelley Herring

Kelley Herring, founder of Healing Gourmet, is a natural nutrition enthusiast with a background in biochemistry. Her passion is educating on how foods promote health and protect against disease and creating simple and delicious recipes for vibrant health and enjoyment.