The Magic of Functional Mushrooms

BY SASHA PARKIN, Nutritional Therapist at Wild Nutrition

 

Medicinal mushrooms have been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine throughout Asia for a vast array of health needs. Here in the West, the use of functional mushrooms within the medical community and for consumers alike has become increasingly popular in recent years. 

Over 650 bioactive extracts from mushrooms have been shown to benefit immunity, many of them are polysaccharides including the popular 1-3, 1-6 beta-glucans. These compounds are known as immunomodulators which means they can regulate the immune system and therefore exert many health benefits. 

 

Seven mushrooms we love and why

Cordyceps (Cordyceps species)

Our co-founder Charlie Norton says it best: “Cordyceps has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine and is another of Mother Nature's marvels”. This remarkable fungus is highly sought after for its numerous health benefits, including:

• Immune modulation: supporting the body's ability to achieve balance in the immune system
• Energy production: enhances energy levels and overall vitality
• Respiratory health: promotes optimal lung function and respiratory health
• Metabolic health: aiding in the regulation of insulin release and improves insulin sensitivity
• Inflammation management: helps to manage and reduce inflammation within the body
• Fertility support: improves libido, addresses erectile dysfunction, and aids in the production of estrogen, benefiting both men and women.

 

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

Affectionately known as the "mushroom of immortality," Reishi is a soothing traditional remedy celebrated for its remarkable health benefits. This natural marvel supports:

• Nervous system health: offering a calming effect that promotes restful sleep and relaxation
• Immuno-modulation: Reishi’s anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties make it an excellent ally against allergies and a subject of interest in studies on autoimmune disorders. 
• Respiratory health: with its immunomodulating effect, Reishi is wonderful for respiratory health and can help strengthen respiratory function
• Cardiovascular health: Reishi can help to relax blood vessels, contributing to overall cardiovascular well-being.

 

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

Another mushroom powerhouse, Lion’s Mane has long been used in traditional medicine to help support clarity. Its many benefits include:

• Nervous system support: this mushroom is renowned for its ability to support nerve health and function. It aids in the repair and regeneration of nerve cells, contributing to improved cognitive function, memory, and overall mental clarity. 

• Antimicrobial & immune support: Lion's Mane is celebrated for its powerful antimicrobial properties. By enhancing immune function, this mushroom helps maintain the body's internal balance and resilience.

• Stimulation of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF): Lion's Mane stimulates NGF production which is crucial for neural growth, maintenance, and brain health. This promotes neural regeneration and enhances mental acuity.

• Soothing menopausal symptoms: Lion's Mane offers potential benefits for women experiencing menopausal symptoms, providing gentle yet effective support during life's transitional phases.

 

Tremella (Tremella fuciformis)

Tremella is hailed as nature's beauty elixir, revered for its remarkable anti-aging properties. It works wonders by increasing the activity of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) in the brain and liver, essential enzymes that combat oxidative stress and promote cellular rejuvenation. By nourishing from within, Tremella helps restore youthful vitality and radiance to the skin. Many of its other benefits include:

• Nourishment for the nervous system: it promotes nerve growth and assists in learning and memory processes, enhancing cognitive function and mental acuity. By nurturing the delicate neural pathways of the brain, Tremella supports our innate capacity for learning and growth, a testament to nature's boundless wisdom.

• Moisturising marvel: Tremella's moisturising properties have made it a coveted ingredient in cosmetics. Its ability to deeply hydrate and plump the skin has earned it the nickname "nature's hyaluronic acid." Providing intense hydration and promoting skin elasticity, it leaves the skin supple, smooth, and glowing. 

• Anti-inflammatory support: its benefits extend beyond beauty, offering potent anti-inflammatory properties that promote overall wellbeing. By soothing inflammation and calming the body's natural response to stress, Tremella helps restore balance and harmony, allowing optimal health to flourish.

 

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

Traditionally brewed as a hot beverage, Chaga’s appearance is likened to burnt caramel with a subtle earthy flavour profile. Its potential benefits include:

• Digestive support: Chaga exhibits bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides and polyphenols that bring anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies suggest that these compounds may modulate gut microbiota composition, promoting intestinal health and mitigating digestive disturbances.

• Psoriasis relief: Chaga's bioactive constituents, including triterpenoids and betulinic acid, possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. These compounds have shown promise in pre-clinical models for reducing inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis, by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting healthy skin barrier function.

• Immune support: this mushroom’s immunomodulatory properties are attributed to its beta-glucans - polysaccharides that stimulate immune cell activity. Research indicates that Chaga may enhance innate and adaptive immune responses, bolstering defence mechanisms against pathogens and environmental stressors.

 

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)

Shiitake is another functional mushroom rich in polysaccharides. They can help in a number of ways:

• Cholesterol: within the intricate labyrinth of its cellular structure lies an abundance of bioactive compounds. Among them, polysaccharides such as beta-glucans reign supreme, wielding the power to modulate lipid metabolism. Scientific studies suggest that Shiitake mushroom consumption may contribute to cholesterol management, promoting cardiovascular health and vitality.
  

• Anti-viral: thanks to its symphony of bioactive molecules, including lentinan and eritadenine which exhibit antiviral activity against a spectrum of pathogens. This supports the body's natural defences against viral invaders.

 

Maitake (Grifola frondosa)

Maitake earned its nickname the ‘dancing mushroom’ as people in Japan would historically dance for joy when they found it. Its beneficial properties include: 

• Blood sugar regulation: studies highlight the potential of Maitake mushroom in blood sugar regulation, offering hope to individuals navigating the complexities of metabolic balance. Through mechanisms yet to be fully understood, Maitake demonstrates a modulating ability in glucose levels, providing potential support for those seeking balance in their metabolic journey.

• Management of insulin resistance: nature's pharmacy presents Maitake as a potent ally in the battle against insulin resistance as part of the aforementioned blood sugar support. Through its intricate interplay with cellular signalling pathways, this mushroom shows promise in mitigating the dysregulation of insulin function.

If you want to read more about mushrooms, check out our other blog post: Why you should be including medicinal mushrooms in your diet

 

Disclaimer: this article has been written for education purposes, but should not be used as medical advice. If you are on any medication or have health concerns, please speak with your healthcare provider to assess the right treatment to support your health journey.