Medicinal Mushrooms in Oncology: An Update from Recent Publications (2016–2026)

Medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries in East Asian traditional medicine and are increasingly explored as complementary agents in integrative oncology. Their bioactive constituents—primarily β-D-glucan polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and proteoglycans—demonstrate immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and direct antitumor properties in preclinical models. This review synthesizes the clinical and translational evidence published from 2016 to 2026 on the role of medicinal mushrooms in cancer care.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the current role of medicinal mushrooms in oncology, including key mushroom species and compounds studied in cancer care, such as PSK and psilocybin
• Identify key safety considerations, contraindications, and potential drug interactions associated with medicinal mushroom use in oncology
• Explain the current regulatory status of psilocybin in Canada and distinguish between authorized access pathways, including clinical trials, the Special Access Program (SAP), and historical Section 56 exemptions
• Evaluate the emerging clinical evidence for psilocybin-assisted therapy in patients with cancer, including its potential effects on anxiety, depression, quality of life, pain, and existential or spiritual well-being
• Discuss the evolving Canadian policy and clinical landscape for psilocybin, including the CANMAT position, compassionate access, unregulated availability, and potential future integration into oncology and palliative care