In China, digestive tract cancer accounts for about 40% of all cancers, and its mortality rate is as high as 50%. According to data for 2020, 41.5% of all new cancer cases in the country were related to the digestive organs.
The main difficulty in diagnosing these tumors is their hidden development. They grow slowly and do not cause pain or other noticeable symptoms for a long time. Because of this, the disease is often detected at a late stage, when treatment becomes more difficult. The first warning signs, such as indigestion, abdominal pain and weight loss, usually appear when the tumor has already developed significantly. At this stage, the cancer can spread to other organs, which worsens the prognosis and complicates therapy.
The mushroom Hericium erinaceus (scalloped hedgehog) helps in the treatment of tumors of the digestive system. It slows down the growth of cancer cells by inhibiting the synthesis of their DNA and RNA, and also promotes their destruction. It is a natural remedy with a powerful therapeutic effect. Back in 1977, pills were created on its basis, which are used to treat stomach, esophageal cancer and other cancers of the digestive tract.
Antitumor properties of Hericium erinaceus
The main active ingredient of the mushroom is its polysaccharide, which has pronounced anticancer properties. The study of scientists notes that this effect is associated with β-glucans – compounds that are part of the polysaccharide. The most important role is played by β- (1-3)-glucan, which contains a glycan backbone and β- (1-6)-side chains.
The polysaccharides of Hericium erinaceus enhance the body’s immune defense. They activate macrophages (cells that absorb harmful microorganisms), increase the level of white blood cells, stimulate the production of immunoglobulins and accelerate the transformation of lymphocytes. This makes the body more resistant to disease and improves its response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Thus, the mushroom not only slows down the growth of tumors, but also reduces their ability to further multiply.
Studies on the effectiveness of Hericium erinaceus
Experiments showed that polysaccharides of Hericium erinaceus inhibited the growth of sarcoma S-180 with an efficiency of 59.1-66.5%. It was also found that the weight of the thymus and spleen, organs that play a key role in the immune system, increased in mice treated with the mushroom extract.
Additional studies have shown that the polysaccharide Hericium erinaceus also works against Lewis lung cancer. Researchers found that it reduces tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels and increases interleukin-2 (IL-2) levels. This balance helps to effectively inhibit the growth of tumor cells.
In addition, the mushroom’s polysaccharides help restore the immune system in cancer patients, shrink tumors, improve overall physical condition and speed up the healing process.
Clinical trials
Several hospitals in Shanghai (including Xuhui and Yangpu District Central Hospital and Shanghai Cancer Hospital) conducted studies involving 166 patients with advanced stages of stomach and esophageal cancer. They took pills based on Hericium erinaceus for two months.
Results:
- 15.7% of patients showed marked improvement: tumors more than halved, pain decreased, and appetite improved.
- 53.6% of patients recorded partial improvement: tumors shrank by less than half, but their overall condition improved.
- The overall efficacy rate was 69.3%, confirming the significant therapeutic potential of Hericium erinaceus in the treatment of gastric and esophageal cancer.
Improved tolerance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy
Clinical trials have shown that the use of Hericium erinaceus polysaccharide in combination with radio- and chemotherapy increases treatment efficacy by up to 85.2%. In addition, patients experienced a reduction in side effects such as vomiting, fever, diarrhea, dizziness and anorexia. These findings confirm that the mushroom helps patients better tolerate chemotherapy and complete the course.
Research Perspectives
Currently, scientists continue to study the antitumor polysaccharides of Hericium erinaceus to uncover their active components, mechanisms of action, and ability to inhibit metastasis. It is expected that in the future this research will help to develop new, even more effective drugs for the treatment of cancer.
Here’s a disclaimer to add to the article:
Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Before using any Hericium erinaceus-based products, or if you have cancer or any other health problems, you should consult a qualified physician. Self-medication can be dangerous to your health.
