Could There Be A Cure For Cancer In Mushrooms Of Bengal Forest?

Mushrooms found in the forests of Bankura and Birbhum in West Bengal could become a game-changer in cancer treatment.

- HEMANT KUMAR ROUT @Bhubaneswar

According to an article published in the science journal Nature, 'kurkure chhatu' (astraeus asiaticus), a wild edible mushroom commonly found in these regions, contains powerful bioactive compounds that can kill cancer cells while sparing the healthy ones. Researchers at the cancer research unit at the PG department of Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Kolkata, say they have discovered potent anticancer and antioxidant properties in astraeus asiaticus. They found that extracts from the mushroom, which has been traditionally consumed by locals for its unique taste, can significantly destroy cancer cells, particularly in cases of cervical, breast, and lung cancers and prevent the growth of cancerous tumors leaving normal cells unharmed.