MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Application of Medicinal Mushrooms for the Treatment of Peripheral Nerve Injury: A Systematic Review

Summary

This review examined whether medicinal mushrooms can help repair nerve injuries that often cause pain and disability. Researchers found that four types of mushrooms—particularly Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)—contain natural compounds that promote nerve healing and regeneration. These mushrooms appear to work by activating specific cellular pathways that help nerve cells survive and regrow. While animal studies show promising results, human clinical trials are needed before these mushroom-based treatments can be recommended for nerve injury patients.

Background

Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) causes significant morbidity and disability with limited effective treatment options. Current surgical and therapeutic approaches for nerve repair show unsatisfactory outcomes. Medicinal mushrooms have demonstrated neuroprotective and regenerative properties that warrant systematic evaluation.

Objective

This systematic review aimed to synthesize available evidence on the use of mushroom species and their bioactive components for treating peripheral nerve injuries. The review sought to identify effective mushroom candidates, characterize their bioactive compounds, and elucidate underlying mechanisms of action for potential clinical applications.

Results

Eleven studies investigating four mushroom species were included: Hericium erinaceus (n=5), Lignosus rhinocerotis (n=3), Amanita muscaria (n=2), and Flammulina velutipes (n=1). These mushrooms enhanced Schwann cell migration and promoted peripheral nerve repair through FGF-2 signaling, MAPK pathways, neurotrophic factors, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. H. erinaceus demonstrated the strongest evidence for clinical potential.

Conclusion

Medicinal mushrooms show promising neuroregenerative potential for peripheral nerve injury treatment. H. erinaceus emerged as the most promising candidate with safer bioactive components compared to other species. However, clinical trials are necessary to validate findings and develop effective therapeutics for managing peripheral nerve injuries.
  • Published in:Med Sci (Basel),
  • Study Type:Systematic Review,
  • Source: PMID: 41562932, DOI: 10.3390/medsci14010042
Scroll to Top