Coriolus (Coriolus versicolor) is a mushroom. It contains polysaccharide peptide (PSP) and polysaccharide krestin (PSK), which are used as medicine.
Coriolus mushroom grows on stumps and the decomposing wood of trees. The PSP and PSK in coriolus mushroom might help slow cancer growth and boost the immune system.
People use coriolus mushroom to improve response to cancer medicines and radiation. It is also used for muscle strength, fatigue, UTIs, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
- Cancer.  Taking PSK, a constituent of coriolus mushroom, as an adjunct to standard cancer therapy may improve response rates and survival in some patients with cancer. Very limited data suggests that whole coriolus mushroom is not beneficial.
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When taken by mouth: Coriolus mushroom is likely safe for most people. For most healthy adults, it is well-tolerated. Some people who are receiving chemotherapy and a substance extracted from coriolus mushroom called polysaccharide krestin (PSK) have reported nausea, vomiting, low white blood cell counts, and liver problems. But it is unclear if these side effects were due to the chemotherapy or PSK.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if coriolus mushroom is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.There are no known interactions with medications. Before taking this product, talk with your health professional if you take any medications.
There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.
There are no known interactions with foods.
Coriolus mushroom contains polysaccharide krestin (PSK) and polysaccharide peptide (PSP). Some supplements contain just these chemicals, but the whole mushroom is also sometimes used. PSK has most often been used by adults in a dose of 3 grams by mouth daily for up to 36 months. Whole coriolus mushroom has been used in a dose of 2.4 grams by mouth daily for up to 12 weeks. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.
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