- from folk medicine to clinical use.

The () mushroom was traditionally used to treat various gastrointestinal diseases. For many years, mounting evidence has indicated the potential of extracts for treatment of viral and parasitic infections. Furthermore, substances from have been shown to stimulate the immune system. The most promising finding was the demonstration that has hypoglycemic and insulin sensitivity potential. This review summarizes the therapeutic potential of extracts in counteracting the progression of cancers and diabetes mellitus as well as their antiviral and antiparasitic activities and antioxidant role. As shown by literature data, various authors have tried to determine the molecular mechanism of action of extracts. Two mechanisms of action of extracts are currently emerging. The first is associated with the broad-sense impact on antioxidant enzymes and the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The other is related to peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) effects. This receptor may be a key factor in the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activity of extracts. It can be concluded that fits the definition of functional food and has a potentially positive effect on health beyond basic nutrition; however, studies that meet the evidence-based medicine (EBM) criteria are needed.