This humble mushroom may hold powerful promise for patients undergoing chemotherapy or looking to support their immune systems naturally. Let's explore what science says.

What Is Coriolus versicolor?

Coriolus versicolor is a multi-colored mushroom found on tree trunks worldwide. It's famous in Traditional Chinese Medicine and first appeared in records during the Ming Dynasty. In Japan, it became the source of a medicinal tea called Saru-no-koshikake, used by cancer patients.

Modern scientists have since isolated two key protein-bound polysaccharides from the mushroom—PSK (Polysaccharide-K) and PSP (Polysaccharide-Peptide)—that have demonstrated impressive anti-cancer and immune-modulating properties.

What Makes It Special?

Studies from institutions like MD Anderson Cancer Center and the National Cancer Institute show that PSK and PSP can:

• Support immune system recovery after chemotherapy
• Increase levels of immune cells like T-cells, B-cells, and natural killer cells
• Act as antioxidants and reduce damage from free radicals
• Inhibit tumor growth and metastasis in lab and animal studies
• Improve disease-free and overall survival when used with standard treatments

In fact, PSK is approved in Japan as a complementary treatment for several cancers, including colorectal, gastric, and lung cancers.

Key Research Highlights

🧪 Polysaccharide-K (PSK)

• Anti-cancer activity: Shown to reduce tumor size and prevent metastasis in animal models.
• Immune boosting: Helps restore immune function suppressed by chemotherapy.
• Survival benefits: Clinical trials in Japan found longer disease-free survival when PSK was added to chemotherapy for colorectal and gastric cancers.
• Low toxicity: Unlike traditional chemotherapy, PSK showed minimal side effects—mostly mild gastrointestinal issues and nail discoloration.

🧪 Polysaccharide-Peptide (PSP)

• Immune stimulation: One human trial showed PSP improved white blood cell count, immunoglobulin levels, and neutrophils in lung cancer patients.
• Antioxidant effects: PSP is a potent scavenger of damaging free radicals.
• Anti-tumor action: PSP suppressed the growth of multiple cancer cell lines in laboratory settings.

Clinical Trials: What Do They Show?

Out of 40 human studies reviewed, the majority focused on PSK and its role in cancer care:

• Multiple randomized clinical trials (RCTs) showed improved survival and disease outcomes when PSK was added to standard chemotherapy.
• One double-blind RCT of PSP in lung cancer patients found stronger immune responses and better patient retention due to slower disease progression.

Importantly, these benefits were observed without significant additional side effects.

Is It Safe?

Yes. Both PSK and PSP have excellent safety profiles:

• No damage to vital organs in animal models
• No adverse genetic effects detected
• No interference with liver metabolism of common chemotherapy drugs

Side effects, when present, were minor and manageable.

The Bottom Line

Coriolus versicolor isn't a replacement for chemotherapy or surgery—but when used alongside conventional cancer treatments, it may enhance immune response, reduce tumor progression, and even improve survival outcomes.

Backed by decades of research and clinical use in countries like Japan and China, this natural therapy is gaining recognition as a powerful ally in cancer care.

If you're interested in incorporating Coriolus versicolor or PSK/PSP supplements into your wellness plan, talk to your oncologist or a healthcare provider familiar with integrative medicine. As always, natural doesn't mean risk-free, so personalized guidance is key.

References: MD Anderson Cancer Center: Complementary/Integrative Medicine Education Resources (CIMER) Journal articles reviewed from 1980–2005 focusing on PSK and PSP clinical effects

Link to full article: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://mushroomstudies.co/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/University-of-Texas-MD-Anderson-Cancer-Center-report.pdf


Ready to Support Your Immune Health Naturally?

If you are interested in Coriolus Versicolor with PSK and PSP, our supplement is just a click away. We have Coriolus Versicolor supplements for pets and humans. Link:  Healthy Products