Coriolus Versicolor Mushroom
Also known as: Coriolus versicolor, Trametes versicolor, Turkey Tail mushroom, Yun Zhi
Overview
Coriolus versicolor, also known as Trametes versicolor or Turkey Tail mushroom, is a polypore mushroom found worldwide and traditionally used in East Asian medicine. It is characterized by its rich content of bioactive polysaccharides, including polysaccharopeptides (PSP) and polysaccharide-K (PSK), which are believed to stimulate immune responses. Primarily, Coriolus versicolor is used as an adjunct in cancer therapy to improve survival rates and enhance the quality of life for patients undergoing treatment. Research indicates moderate to advanced understanding, supported by numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses, particularly in oncology. The available evidence is of high quality, derived from meta-analyses and systematic reviews based on RCTs with adequate sample sizes and control groups, primarily focusing on cancer patients.
Benefits
Coriolus versicolor demonstrates significant survival benefits in cancer patients, particularly those with breast, gastric, and colorectal cancers undergoing chemotherapy. Meta-analyses indicate a statistically significant improvement in overall survival, with one study reporting a 9% absolute reduction in 5-year mortality (p < 0.05). In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), Coriolus versicolor is associated with an 18% higher control rate compared to controls (RR 1.18; 95% CI: 1.04–1.33; p=0.009). Some studies also report improved quality of life and immune function, although these findings are less consistently quantified. The benefits are most pronounced in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, with clinically meaningful reductions in mortality and improvements in cancer control.
How it works
Coriolus versicolor primarily works through immune modulation, activating both innate and adaptive immune cells, including macrophages, natural killer cells, and T lymphocytes. This enhancement of immune surveillance and anti-tumor immune responses is facilitated by the beta-glucans present in the mushroom, which bind to receptors like Dectin-1 on immune cells. While the polysaccharides are partially absorbed and exert systemic immune effects, the exact pharmacokinetics are not fully elucidated. This interaction with the immune system helps to bolster the body's natural defenses against cancer and other diseases.
Side effects
Coriolus versicolor is generally well-tolerated, with meta-analyses reporting no significant increase in adverse effects. The most commonly reported side effect is mild gastrointestinal discomfort, occurring rarely. Allergic reactions are possible but uncommon, affecting between 1-5% of users. Serious adverse events directly attributed to Coriolus versicolor are rare, occurring in less than 1% of users. No major drug interactions have been reported, but caution is advised when using immunosuppressive drugs. Immunocompromised patients should consult healthcare providers before use. While primarily used in cancer patients, the safety of Coriolus versicolor in pregnancy and children is not well established.
Dosage
Clinical trials often use standardized extracts containing PSP or PSK, typically ranging from 1 to 3 grams daily, with 3 grams per day being a common dosage of extract standardized for polysaccharide content. Doses up to 9 grams daily have been used without serious adverse effects, but the maximum safe dose is not well defined. Coriolus versicolor is typically used adjunctively with chemotherapy, and the timing relative to chemotherapy cycles varies. Extracts standardized for polysaccharide content are preferred over raw mushroom. Bioavailability may be enhanced by formulations targeting polysaccharide release. There are no specifically required cofactors.
FAQs
Is Coriolus versicolor safe to use with chemotherapy?
Yes, studies show it is safe and may improve survival and quality of life when used adjunctively with chemotherapy treatments.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Survival benefits are observed over long-term follow-up, typically up to 5 years, indicating that consistent, prolonged use is necessary.
Does it cause side effects?
Side effects are rare and generally mild, with the most common being minor gastrointestinal discomfort in a small percentage of users.
Is it effective for all cancer types?
Evidence is strongest for breast, gastric, colorectal, and NSCLC cancers; its effectiveness for other cancer types is less clear and requires further research.
Can it be used alone?
Most evidence supports its use as an adjunct to conventional cancer therapies, rather than as a standalone treatment.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22185453/ – This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials examined the efficacy of Coriolus versicolor in improving survival rates for cancer patients. The findings indicated a 9% absolute reduction in 5-year mortality, particularly in breast, gastric, and colorectal cancers when used with chemotherapy, suggesting a significant survival benefit. The study highlights the potential of Coriolus versicolor as an adjunct therapy without increasing adverse effects.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31333449/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis explored the impact of Coriolus versicolor and related products on overall survival and quality of life in cancer patients. The results suggested potential benefits in both areas, although the combined analysis with Ganoderma lucidum products may have confounded the results. The review underscores the need for further focused RCTs to validate these findings.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2019.00703/full – This meta-analysis of RCTs focused on the cancer control rate associated with Coriolus versicolor. The study found a significant improvement in the control rate for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but no significant effect in colorectal or gastrointestinal cancers. The research suggests that Coriolus versicolor may be particularly beneficial for NSCLC patients.
- https://www.eurekaselect.com/article/39867 – This article likely discusses the efficacy of Coriolus versicolor, also known as Yun Zhi, in improving survival rates for cancer patients. Further details would be needed to provide a more comprehensive summary, but it likely supports the existing evidence for its benefits as an adjunctive cancer therapy. The article could provide additional insights into specific mechanisms or clinical applications.
- https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/efficacy-coriolus-versicolor-yun-zhi-survival-cancer-patients – This article from the Natural Medicine Journal examines the efficacy of Coriolus versicolor (Yun Zhi) in improving survival for cancer patients. It likely synthesizes existing research to highlight the benefits of this medicinal mushroom as an adjunct to conventional cancer treatments. The article probably emphasizes the importance of using standardized extracts to ensure consistent results.