Morel mushrooms, well-loved by foragers and chefs alike, might just have another use beyond their culinary appeal. A recent study has found that extracts from three different morel species can effectively inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells. The anti-cancer properties of these mushrooms offer a potential new avenue for developing natural and less toxic cancer treatments.
Researchers examined multiple species of the mushroom: Morchella esculenta, Morchella conica, and Morchella delicosa. These specimens were dried and turned into extracts using alcohol. Then, the extracts underwent chemical analysis to identify the different bioactive compounds present in them, including fatty acids, amino acids, and flavonoids, which are believed to help fight cancer.
Next, research applied the different morel extracts to breast cancer cells to evaluate their anti-cancer potential. Researchers found that all three mushroom extracts were effective at reducing cancer cell growth. The extracts had a dose-dependent effect, as higher concentrations led to a greater reduction in the number of cancer cells present. In many of the tests, Morchella delicosa had the strongest anti-cancer effects, with the most significant reduction in cancer cell viability (1).
Although mushrooms may appear as unassuming fungi, several species have been investigated in previous studies for their potent anti-cancer properties. For over 30 years, Japan and China have used mushrooms like Shiitake, Reishi, and Turkey Tail as adjunct treatments for cancer due to their immunomodulating and cancer-fighting effects. And, this isn’t the first time morels have shown promise as a cancer treatment.
Previous studies have examined the health benefits of morel mushrooms, including their potential anti-cancer properties (2). For instance, a study conducted last year uncovered that extracts from Morchella elata could reduce the growth of lymphoma and colon cancer cells by up to 80% (3). As more evidence unfolds, researchers are increasingly recognizing the potential of these delicious mushrooms as a valuable tool for fighting cancer.
However, as promising as the results are in these studies, more research is needed to truly determine its safety and efficacy for humans. Nonetheless, this dual approach of morels – as a gourmet ingredient and a natural medicine – highlights their remarkable versatility.
References
- Faiz Ul Haq, Muhammad Imran, Sidrah Saleem, Usman Aftab, Ayesha Muazzam, Ali Rafi, Muhsin Jamal, and Sher Zaman Safi. 2024. “Chemical Characterization and Cytotoxic Effect of Three Edible Fungi (Morchella) against Breast Cancer Cells: A Therapeutic Approach.” Maǧallaẗ Al-Kuwayt Li-l-ʿulūm, July, 100285–85. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.kjs.2024.100285.
- Li, Yitong, Hongyu Chen, and Xi Zhang. 2023. “Cultivation, Nutritional Value, Bioactive Compounds of Morels, and Their Health Benefits: A Systematic Review.” Frontiers in Nutrition 10 (March). https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2023.1159029.
- Ramya, Haridas, Korattuvalappil S. Ravikumar, Thekkuttparambil A. Ajith, Zuhara Fathimathu, and Kainoor Krishnankutty Janardhanan. 2023. “Anticancer Activity of the Bioactive Extract of the Morel Mushroom (Morchella Elata, Ascomycetes) from Kashmir Himalaya (India) and Identification of Major Bioactive Compounds.” International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms 25 (11): 41–52. https://doi.org/10.1615/IntJMedMushrooms.2023050169.
