Safety and Efficacy of Longan and Lingzhi Mushroom Syrup on Immune and Inflammatory Responses in Healthy Volunteers

Safety and Efficacy of Longan and Lingzhi Mushroom Syrup on Immune and Inflammatory Responses in Healthy Volunteers

This study aimed to preliminarily determine safety and efficacy of longan and lingzhi mushroom syrup on immune and inflammatory responses. Apparently healthy Thai adults (N = 8) aged 18-60 years were recruited into a prospective, single-group study. All participants were assigned to consume 5 mL of longan and lingzhi mushroom syrup daily for 12 weeks. Blood concentrations of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), BUN (blood urea nitrogen), creatinine (Cr), immunoglobulins (IgG, IgM, IgA, and IgE), and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured at baseline (week 0), week 4, week 8, and week 12.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Apparently healthy adults at Mae Fah Luang University and Chulalongkorn University
2. aged 18-60 years
3. HbA1c < 7%

Exclusion Criteria:

1. self-reported immunodeficiency diseases, autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases, diabetes, thyroid diseases, cancer, hepatic- and/or renal dysfunction, uncontrollable illnesses and life-threatening diseases
2. being allergic to longan and lingzhi products
3. taking medications, herbs, and diet supplements affecting immune system, inflammatory response, and blood glucose a month before study enrollment
4. pregnant and breastfeeding women