Fungi naturally produce many compounds that kill harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This review explores how these fungal compounds could replace antibiotics that no longer work due to drug resistance. These natural substances could be used not only as medicines but also in cosmetic products to prevent bacterial growth and improve skin health.
This study compared white and brown varieties of beech mushrooms, which are popular edible mushrooms in South Korea. Brown beech mushrooms were found to have higher levels of beneficial compounds called phenolics, which give them a more bitter taste and brown color. The research showed that brown mushrooms have stronger health-promoting properties, including better abilities to fight bacteria, reduce inflammation, and combat oxidative stress, making them potentially more valuable as functional foods for health and nutrition.
This review examines how natural products from plants, fungi, and marine organisms can help treat liver cancer more safely and effectively than current drugs. These natural compounds work through multiple pathways such as triggering cancer cell death, stopping cell growth, and boosting the immune system. The research found that seven categories of natural products show promise, with sources ranging from ginseng and turmeric to mushrooms and seaweed, offering potential new treatment options that could reduce side effects and drug resistance.
This study tested whether tiny doses of a prebiotic called galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) could be effective when taken in capsule form instead of large sachets. Researchers used a specially designed laboratory system to simulate how these compounds work in the human gut. Even at the lowest dose tested (0.5 g), the GOS successfully increased beneficial gut bacteria and produced helpful compounds that support digestive health, while producing minimal gas.
Plant-based foods rich in polyphenols like berries, tea, and cocoa offer significant health benefits through interactions with gut bacteria. These bacteria break down polyphenols into active compounds that can help prevent heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. However, people respond differently to these foods based on their unique gut bacteria composition, suggesting the future of nutrition will be personalized based on individual microbial profiles.
This research shows that a beneficial bacteria called Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus can help treat skin problems caused by chromate exposure, a common hazard for construction workers and factory employees. The bacteria work by reducing toxic chromate to a less harmful form through a special protein called flavin reductase. When tested on mice with chromate-induced skin damage, the probiotic treatment significantly improved skin healing and reduced inflammation. This suggests these beneficial bacteria could offer a safe, natural treatment for occupational skin conditions caused by heavy metal exposure.
Many cancer patients use herbal supplements and natural products alongside their cancer treatments without telling their doctors, which can be dangerous. Some natural products like St. John’s Wort and grapefruit juice significantly alter how the body processes cancer medications, potentially making treatments ineffective or toxic. The review provides guidance on which natural products are safe to use with cancer therapy and which should be avoided completely, emphasizing the importance of open communication between patients and healthcare providers.
This research analyzed over 3,300 scientific papers published between 2015-2025 to understand how traditional Chinese medicine helps fight viral infections by boosting the immune system. The study found that research on this topic has grown significantly, especially during disease outbreaks like COVID-19, with China leading in research publications. Key findings show that traditional Chinese herbal compounds work through multiple mechanisms including directly fighting viruses, reducing excessive inflammation, and enhancing vaccine effectiveness. The research points toward promising future applications of traditional Chinese medicine when combined with modern medical approaches.
This review examines how Bacillus bacteria, when added to animal feed, can improve the health and growth of chickens and pigs. These bacteria work by producing beneficial compounds that strengthen the gut, improve digestion, reduce harmful bacteria, and boost the immune system. Bacillus probiotics offer a natural alternative to antibiotics, helping reduce antibiotic resistance while keeping animals healthier and more productive.
A study tested whether a supplement made from Reishi mushroom could boost immune system function in healthy adults. Over 84 days, people taking the Reishi β-glucan supplement showed significant improvements in immune cells and antibodies compared to those taking a placebo. The supplement was safe and well-tolerated with no negative side effects, suggesting it may help strengthen the body’s natural defenses against infections.