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Indian Medicinal Mushrooms as a Source of Antioxidant and Antitumor Agents

Summary

This research explores how certain medicinal mushrooms found in South India can act as powerful antioxidants and potential cancer-fighting agents. The study found that four specific mushroom species – Ganoderma lucidum, Phellinus rimosus, Pleurotus florida, and Pleurotus pulmonaris – contain compounds that can protect cells from damage and potentially fight cancer cells. Impacts on everyday life: • These mushrooms could be developed into natural supplements for boosting immune system health • They might provide safer alternatives or complementary treatments for cancer therapy • The findings support the traditional use of medicinal mushrooms in natural medicine • These mushrooms could be incorporated into functional foods for health benefits • The research validates traditional medicine practices and their potential integration into modern healthcare

Background

Medicinal mushrooms have an established history of use in traditional oriental medicine, with approximately 700 species of higher Basidiomycetes possessing significant pharmacological activities. Scientific studies on medicinal mushrooms have expanded exponentially during the last two decades, particularly in Japan, Korea, China and the USA. Many traditionally used mushrooms have demonstrated significant medicinal properties, including antitumor, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and hypotensive activities.

Objective

To investigate and document the antioxidant and antitumor properties of selected medicinal mushrooms occurring in South India, specifically Ganoderma lucidum, Phellinus rimosus, Pleurotus florida and Pleurotus pulmonaris.

Results

All tested mushroom species showed significant antioxidant and antitumor activities. Phellinus rimosus extracts demonstrated strong radical scavenging properties and effectively inhibited tumor growth. Ganoderma lucidum extracts showed effective radical scavenging and significant antitumor properties. Pleurotus species exhibited notable antioxidant activity and profound antitumor effects against EAC cell line induced solid tumors in mice.

Conclusion

The investigated South Indian medicinal mushrooms possess significant antioxidant and antitumor properties, indicating their potential as valuable sources of therapeutic compounds. The studies also revealed significant antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic activities in these mushrooms. While these findings are promising, more intensive and extensive investigations are needed to fully exploit their therapeutic potential.
  • Published in:Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.3164/jcbn.40.157
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