Medicinal mushrooms are fungi that have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their potential health-promoting properties. They contain bioactive compounds that can support various body functions.
What are some common types of medicinal mushrooms and their benefits?
Lion’s Mane: Known for its potential cognitive benefits, including improved memory and focus.
Reishi: Considered an “adaptogen” and used for immune support, stress reduction, and overall well-being.
Chaga: A potent antioxidant that support the immune system and fights inflammation. King of Ant oxidants
Cordyceps: Boost energy levels, beneficial in muscle recovery, and improve athletic performance.
Turkey Tail: Contains compounds that have anticancer properties and support the immune system. Rich in PSK PSP compounds that have anti-tumor properties
How can I incorporate medicinal mushrooms into my diet?
Medicinal mushrooms can be consumed in various forms, such as:
Extracts Powder / Liquid:Often used in supplements and can be found in capsule or liquid form. Powders or liquids can be added to soups, stews, sauces, drinks, or smoothies, or can be consumed directly in capsule form.
Natural State: Can be cooked and eaten, similar to culinary mushrooms.
Some medicinal mushrooms like Reishi, Turkey Tail and Chaga are highly fibrous and should be extracted for the bioavailability for the body. Some medicinal mushrooms like Shiitake, Morel, and Lion’s Mane, Black Fungus, White Fungus can be consumed fresh, dried, and can be cooked before consumption.
Are there any side effects or precautions to be aware of?
Generally, most of the medicinal/edible mushrooms are safe to be consumed, but some individuals may experience mild side effects like dizziness, stomach upset, or skin rashes. It’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications. When an individual starts consuming medicinal mushrooms for the first time, it might react to our immune system, so it may take 1-2 days to adapt to the body. An individual can change the timing of consumption from morning to evening or vice versa if facing any issues.
What are the benefits of medicinal mushrooms?
Immune System Support: They help in strengthening the immune system through various mechanisms, such as activating immune cells (macrophages, T-cells, NK cells) and modulating cytokine production.
Anti-cancer and Antitumor Potential: Some mushrooms, like Turkey Tail and Reishi, have been shown in laboratory and animal studies to potentially inhibit tumor growth and metastasis, and to have immunomodulatory effects that may aid in cancer treatment. Some studies show that Reishi mushroom has been useful in reducing the effects of chemotherapy and enhancing recovery.
Antioxidant Properties: Many medicinal mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, like Chaga, which can help combat oxidative stress and cellular damage.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Some mushrooms, like Reishi, Chaga, and Turkey Tail, have compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially helping to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Antidiabetic Properties: Studies indicate that certain mushrooms, such as Reishi and Chaga, help in managing blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity.
Neuro-protective Properties: Lion’s Mane helps in boosting the regeneration of neuron cells in the brain to improve cognitive function, memory, and nerve health.
How do medicinal mushrooms work?
The beneficial effects of medicinal mushrooms are attributed to their rich content of bioactive compounds like:
Polysaccharides: Particularly beta-glucans, these stimulate the immune system and exhibit antitumor, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties.
Triterpenes/Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-tumor properties, and modulate the immune system.
Proteins: Including fungal immunomodulatory proteins (FIPs) and lectins, some proteins have cytotoxic and anticancer properties, and can modulate the immune system.
Other compounds: Including phenols, sterols, vitamins (especially vitamins B and Vitamin D), and
Micronutrients that contribute to a variety of health benefits.
Whole mushrooms vs. mushroom extracts: what's the difference?
Whole Mushroom Powder: Made from dried and ground mushrooms, including the fruiting body and mycelium. Contains a broader range of nutrients and prebiotic fibres. Some Medicinal Mushrooms can be consumed directly, but some of them need to be extracted.
Mushroom Extracts: Involve processes that concentrate specific bioactive compounds (like beta-glucans and triterpenes) from the mushroom. Offers a higher dose of these specific compounds.
The choice between whole mushrooms and extracts depends on individual needs and desired benefits. Remember that quality varies between brands, so look for products with clear labelling and information on the concentration of key nutrients.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new dietary supplements or making significant changes to your diet, especially concerning medicinal mushrooms.
What is the most powerful functional mushroom?
Consuming mushroom extract supplements ensures they deliver more powerful and bioavailable benefits than edible mushrooms.
Reishi Mushrooms. …
Lion’s Mane Mushrooms. …
Shiitake Mushrooms. …
Chaga Mushrooms. …
Turkey Tail Mushrooms
Maitake Mushrooms.
What is the best way to take medicinal mushrooms?
It’s important to note that most functional mushrooms are not meant to be eaten raw, so the best way to reap the benefits of these fantastic fungi is to enjoy them as mushroom extract powder capsules and as a tincture (Liquid Extracts). You can also add them to your coffee, tea, or smoothies for their health-promoting benefits.
Researches shows that Fresh mushrooms degrade within day, even when refrigerated. Dried mushrooms stored at room temperature last 6-12 months but slowly lose potency. Extract powders or Liquid form, Vacuum-sealed, frozen mushrooms can retain potency for years.
Which mushroom relaxes you?
Reishi – Known as the “mushroom of longevity” and “King of Herbs”. Reishi has long been used to promote calm, balance the body, and support immunity.
Which mushroom is a superfood?
Adding any medicinal mushrooms to your diet is an easy way to enjoy a natural source of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Whether you eat them fresh, take them in supplement form, or use them in your favourite recipes, they’re a simple way to support your daily nutrition.
What is the king of medicinal mushrooms?
The chaga mushroom is praised for its high level of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory components, and immunity-boosting compounds. As a result, it is sometimes referred to as the “king of medicinal mushrooms.”
Why use medicinal mushrooms?
They have been used to treat infection for hundreds of years, mostly in Asia. Today, medicinal mushrooms are also used to treat lung diseases and cancer. For more than 30 years, medicinal mushrooms have been approved as an addition to standard cancer treatments in Japan and China. As they have the ability to protect our body from free radical cells, taking them as a food supplement helps in detoxifying and preventing our body from various dangerous critical illnesses.
How is mushroom extract made?
Mushroom extraction is done using hot water, alcohol, or both simultaneously in a dual extract process. Hot water extraction helps extracting water-soluble compounds from mushroom fruiting bodies like beta-glucans, polysaccharides. Some mushrooms require alcohol extraction to extract alcohol-soluble compounds. Once bio compounds are extracted, alcohol is evaporated. The final liquid is infused with excipients to reveal an extract powder.
Are medicinal mushrooms prebiotic?
Mushrooms are rich in carbohydrates, like chitin, hemicellulose, β and α-glucans, mannans, xylans, and galactans, which make them the right choice for prebiotics. Mushrooms act as a prebiotic to stimulate the growth of gut microbiota, conferring health benefits to the host.
