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Medicinal mushroom: boon for therapeutic applications
Vivek Kumar Chaturvedi1, Sonam Agarwal1, Krishna Kumar Gupta1
11Centre of Biotechnology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Sciences (IIDS), University of Allahabad, Allahabad, 211002 India.
3 Biotech
|August 4, 2018
Summary
Medicinal mushrooms offer rich nutraceuticals and bioactive compounds like beta-glucans. These functional foods provide diverse health benefits, including anti-diabetic and anti-cancer properties, aiding drug development.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Nutraceutical Science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Medicinal mushrooms are nutrient-dense fungi with significant nutraceutical value.
- They contain bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides (beta-glucans), triterpenes, and phenolic compounds.
- These mushrooms are recognized for their potential as functional foods and natural drug sources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of the medicinal properties of various fungi.
- To highlight the therapeutic applications of bioactive metabolites found in medicinal mushrooms.
- To guide researchers in identifying novel compounds for drug development against serious diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific studies on medicinal mushrooms.
- Analysis of the chemical composition and bioactive components of various species.
- Compilation of reported therapeutic effects and health benefits.
Main Results:
- Medicinal mushrooms are rich in fiber, low in fat, and contain valuable compounds like eritadenine and chitosan.
- Polysaccharide-protein complexes and beta-glucans exhibit significant therapeutic potential.
- Reported benefits include anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-obesity, immunomodulatory, cholesterol-lowering, and anti-aging effects.
Conclusions:
- Medicinal mushrooms represent a valuable source of bioactive compounds with broad therapeutic applications.
- Further research into mushroom metabolites can lead to the development of new drugs for various life-threatening conditions.
- Their unique taste, aroma, and nutritional profile support their role as functional foods for improved health.
Keywords:
Bioactive compoundsHigher basidiomycetesMedicinal mushroomsPharmacological activityPolysaccharidesMore Related Videos
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