Mushrooms are increasingly capturing the attention of researchers due to their potential to combat cancer and various other illnesses and diseases. Emerging evidence suggests that certain compounds found in mushrooms may offer therapeutic benefits. While not all mushrooms are created equal, medicinal mushrooms, those known for their bioactive compounds, have shown particular promise. Shiitake and lion's mane are among the most popular medicinal mushrooms, but others like chaga, reishi, cordyceps and turkey tail have been shown to have similar benefits.
These mushrooms contain a variety of bioactive compounds with potential cancer-fighting agents including:
Polysaccharides: Complex carbohydrates that stimulate the immune system, enhance the activity of immune cells, and inhibit tumor growth.
Proteins: Essential amino acids with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties..
Vitamins and Minerals: Great source of nutrients like vitamin B (B2, B3, and B5), selenium, copper, and potassium.
Antioxidants: Contains a unique antioxidant, Ergothioneine, that protect cells from oxidative stress.
Lectins: Proteins that bind to specific sugars on the surface of cells, potentially affecting cell growth and immune function.
Triterpenoids: Compounds with anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and cholesterol-lowering properties.
Clinical trials and research are currently underway to explore the efficacy and safety of mushroom-based therapies in cancer patients, and whether or not certain species like reishi and shiitake may inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Dr. Gary E. Deng, MD, PhD, an Integrative Medicine Specialist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK), says that while there are many studies underway, each patient has different “physical, mental, [and social needs]. The immune system is very complex, there’s not one master switch. It depends on good nutrients, exercise [and] sleep.”
While mushrooms aren’t a cure-all, they certainly contribute to health benefits. We’ve incorporated shiitake and lion's mane mushrooms in a hearty and umami stir fry recipe. This dish is perfect for boosting your mood and supporting your immune system, especially during the colder months.
Stir-Fry Shiitake and Lion's Mane Mushrooms
Ingredients:
1 pound shiitake mushrooms, sliced
1/2 pound lion's mane mushrooms, torn into bite-sized pieces
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch piece of ginger, grated
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsbp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp vegetable oil
Your choice of vegetables*
Instructions:
Clean mushrooms and any other produce.
Slice the shiitake mushrooms and tear the Lion's Mane into bite-sized pieces.
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Stir to combine.**
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
Add garlic and ginger, stir. Cook until fragrant.
Add the shiitake and lion's mane mushrooms, cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add your chosen vegetables, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
Pour the sauce over the vegetables and mushrooms, and cook for another minute until the sauce thickens.***
Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes:
*We recommend using vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, carrots, water chestnuts etc.
**For a more flavorful dish, you can marinate the mushrooms in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil for 15-30 minutes before cooking.
***You may add chili oil if you'd prefer a bit of spice in your dish.
References
Chang S, Buswell J. Medicinal Mushrooms: Past, Present and Future. Adv Biochem Eng Biotechnol. 2023;184:1-27. doi:10.1007/10_2021_197
Gariboldi MB, Marras E, Ferrario N, et al. Anti-Cancer Potential of Edible/Medicinal Mushrooms in Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(12):10120. Published 2023 Jun 14. doi:10.3390/ijms241210120
Luo J, Ganesan K, Xu B. Unlocking the Power: New Insights into the Anti-Aging Properties of Mushrooms. J Fungi (Basel). 2024;10(3):215. Published 2024 Mar 14. doi:10.3390/jof10030215
Wagner, S. Do Mushroom Supplements Boost Immunity Against Cancer? Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Published October 22, 2024. Accessed December 17, 2024.
Wang Z, Wang R, Na Z, et al. Network Pharmacology Analysis of Liquid-Cultured Armillaria ostoyae Mycelial Metabolites and Their Molecular Mechanism of Action against Gastric Cancer. Molecules. 2024;29(7):1668. Published 2024 Apr 8. doi:10.3390/molecules29071668