Rationalization of Mushroom-Based Preventive and Therapeutic Approaches to COVID-19: Review

Area of Science:

• Integrative medicine and mycology
• Infectious disease research

Background:

• The emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to a global health crisis.
• COVID-19 is frequently associated with various comorbidities, complicating patient management.
• Effective therapeutic strategies targeting both severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its associated conditions are urgently needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential of edible and medicinal mushrooms in combating SARS-CoV-2.
• To explore mushroom-based treatments for COVID-19 manifestations and comorbidities.
• To identify promising mushroom species for anti-COVID-19 applications.

Main Methods:

• This study is a state-of-the-art review, synthesizing existing literature.
• It focuses on the therapeutic properties of various mushroom species.
• The review examines their relevance to COVID-19 and associated health concerns.

Main Results:

• Edible and medicinal mushrooms possess properties that may aid in treating COVID-19.
• Specific mushroom compounds show potential for addressing COVID-19 pathomanifestations.
• Reishi or lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum) is highlighted as a particularly suitable candidate for anti-COVID-19 therapy.

Conclusions:

• Mushroom-based therapeutic approaches offer a novel avenue for managing COVID-19.
• Ganoderma lucidum presents significant potential as an anti-COVID agent.
• Further research into mushroom-derived therapies could contribute to global health strategies against COVID-19.