Mushroom species such as the Ganoderma species (reishi), grifola (shiitake), cordyceps and lentinula (maitake) have been used and studied for their powerful medicinal properties and effectiveness against the treatment of a variety of diseases. Perhaps most well-known and best studied for their use in healthy cell growth, many fungi or medicinal mushrooms are also powerful immune tonics, possessing anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-parasitic properties. Many are anti-inflammatory, as well as possessing specific action to support cardiovascular health. Lastly, some medicinal mushrooms are known to be hepatoprotective, as well as glycemic herbs, helping to regulate blood sugar. No wonder they have such a long history of medicinal use!
Discover A Variety of Medicinal Mushrooms & How They Support Your Health
Reishi Mushroom Health Benefits
Reishi mushroom has several medicinal properties, perhaps none as well known or well studied as its immune-enhancing properties. The polysaccharide content of reishi mushroom is responsible for its immune-stimulatory effects and why it has potent anti-viral benefits, protecting against and treating flu viruses. It has been used to reduce symptoms such as sweating, insomnia, nausea and vomiting. Reishi has also been shown to slow blood clotting or inhibit the formation of blood platelets, as well as lowering blood pressure and possessing effective hepato-protective qualities. Reishi mushroom is to be used in short sessions, no longer than 6 months, as it could cause upset stomach, dry mouth, dizziness and nose bleeds.
Shiitake Medicinal Mushroom
Shiitake is also very well known for its effectiveness as an immune tonic. Again, a polysaccharide extract known as LEM has been deemed responsible for its action against various viral infections. There is also evidence to suggest that shiitake extract can help to lower cholesterol. A compound called eritadenine has been shown to possess these cholesterol-lowering properties. People taking blood thinners should only use Shiitake under medical supervision.
Cordyceps & Their Health Advantages
Cordyceps has an affinity for the lung and protecting/repairing lung function. This is why it is primarily indicated in cases of cough and phlegm, shortness of breath, COPD and asthma. It has also been used widely as an aphrodisiac for both men and women. Cordyceps also has an affinity for the kidney, which according to Traditional Chinese Medicine gets depleted as we age. For this reason, cordyceps is widely used in the older population to combat fatigue, low back pain and reduced kidney function. Again, as with most medicinal mushrooms, there is promising research dedicated to the use of Cordyceps for the inhibition and even reversal of unhealthy cell growth. It has also been used to effectively treat high cholesterol, as well as Hepatitis B. Be cautious when taking anti-diabetic or anti-retroviral medications in combination with cordyceps.
Maitake Mushrooms
In Japanese, maitake means "dancing mushroom". Another well-loved mushroom with a long history of use, maitake is also getting a lot of attention for its healthy cell growth properties. Maitake is also considered to have properties similar to alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, which impact how we digest carbohydrates and can help to lower blood sugar levels. It has also been shown to inhibit pro-inflammatory markers in the body.
Lion's Mane Medicinal Mushroom Benefits
Lion's mane or Hericium erinaceus is well known to both regulate blood sugar levels, as well as blood lipid levels. It is also a potent antioxidant. Animal studies have shown that it may also help to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, implicating it can offer neuroprotective support; however, further research is needed.
Chaga Mushroom
Unlike many of the other mushrooms mentioned to this point, Chaga seems to have its origins in Eastern Europe, as opposed to Asia. It has been found to grow, similar to a parasite, on the bark of birch trees. Chaga is high in both beta-glucan, as well as betulinic acid. It is extremely high in antioxidants thanks, in part to its high content of superoxide dismutase (SOD). Again, it has been shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects. It has been studied for its effectiveness in fighting some autoimmune conditions, including psoriasis. Chaga has been studied for its use in unhealthy cell growth in the breast, uterus, liver and intestines. It has also been shown to lower cholesterol and improve insulin resistance. Use with caution in young children, pregnant or nursing women, and those with severe liver or kidney disease. This can lead to hypoglycemia in individuals already taking diabetic medications. Speak with your healthcare professional before taking it.
Turkey Tail
Turkey Tail, scientifically known as Trametes versicolor, is most known for enhancing cognitive function. Studies have shown that it has the potential to improve memory and enhance concentration and focus. Additionally, Turkey Tail is rich in potent antioxidants that protect the body and skin from oxidative stress. It's these antioxidants that provide Turkey Tail with its skin enhancing benefits, including glowing skin.
Aside from its brain and skin support, Turkey Tail can also provide anti-inflammatory benefits which also improve gut health and immune health.
Shopping For Quality Medicinal Mushrooms
These mushrooms can all be found in supplement form at your local health food store. They are available in convenient capsule, powder or in loose, dried form to be made into tea or added to soups and other dishes. You can purchase these supplements as individual mushrooms or mushroom combination supplements which incorporate the various medicinal properties of each fungus into one combination.
