The Magic of Medicinal Mushrooms
Medicinal Mushrooms are seen as functional mushrooms due to their amazing properties that can promote healthful benefits. They really are incredible and have been used for centuries to support health. Each type of mushroom has its own unique medicinal properties. Below I dive into only some of the amazing mushrooms that are available.
What even are Mushrooms?
Mushrooms aren’t actually considered plants; they are actually fungi.
They are an integral part of keeping our environments healthy and thriving.
There are three important parts that make up a mushroom, the mycelium, the fruit body and spores.
The Mycelium
is the underground root system, it provides nutrients for plants and trees and vice versa with mushrooms. The mycelium assists in the decomposition of toxins and dead debris within forests, making it essential for soil health. They have the appearance of thin white pieces of string, if you dig your hand into the soil of a forest you may even find some!
The Fruit Body (Sporocarp)
has beta-glucans which are natural polysaccharides that support immunity. Essentially the fruiting body is what grows above ground and is the part of the mushroom that we eat. The fruit body is the reproductive formation of the mycelium.
Spores
are how mushrooms reproduce and are why if you walk through a forest you will see random mushy’s on your travels. Spores are usually released from under the top of the mushroom, picture the gills bit. The wind carries released spores, allowing them to reproduce in other areas.
Magic Mushrooms
Medicinal mushrooms truly are magic for the body, but they are not ‘magic mushrooms’ or psychedelic mushrooms. Many believe these to have their own powerful healing benefits and very promising research is emerging on their ability to assist depression, anxiety and PTSD.
But below we will only be covering nonpsychedelic mushrooms.
Chaga (Inonotus Obliquus)
Believed to be the king of mushrooms. It grows on the bark of the birch tree.
Benefits: anti-Inflammatory, rich in antioxidants, immunity, anti-viral, anti-tumour, aids digestion, blood sugar regulation, skin health, stress management.
Reishi (Ganoderma Lingzhi)
Considered the queen of the kingdom. Known for longevity it has been used for over 2000 years in Japan and China.
Benefits: immunity, stress management, sleep quality, improved mood, seasonal allergies, longevity, blood sugar regulation, liver/heart/kidneys/lung function.
Lion’s Mane (Hericium Erinaceus)
Name is derived from its furry appearance that really does look like a lion’s mane.
Benefits: nerve health, immunity, memory, enhances concentration, cognitive function, brain health, improved mood.
Cordyceps (Ophiocordyceps Sinensis)
Is known for its energy and stamina properties which makes it quite popular.
Benefits: energy, stamina, libido, adrenal support, coping with stress, immunity, improved mood.
Maitake (Grifola Frondose)
Grows at the base of trees, commonly the oak tree and is known as the sheep’s head due to its appearance.
Benefits: immunity, blood sugar regulations, weight loss support, anti-tumour, blood pressure, anti-inflammatory, rich in antioxidants.
Shiitake (Lentinula Edodes)
Popular due to its accessibility and affordability, it is commonly found in grocery stores.
Benefits: immunity, anti-viral, anti-tumour, blood pressure, skin health, anti-inflammatory, rich in antioxidants, cardiovascular and respiratory system.
Turkey Tail (Trametes Versicolor)
Is popular in cancer treatment supplementation.
Benefits: immunity, anti-viral, anti-tumour, anti-inflammatory, stress management, liver function, digestion, adjunct to chemotherapy treatment.
How do you have them?
Not all mushrooms come in an edible state, but some do, so of course if they are edible cooking them is a fantastic way to consume mushrooms.
Medicinal Mushrooms also come in the form of tinctures, extracts, powders, capsules, dried, fresh, teas and can be infused into foods and beverages.
Dosage (general guidelines)
Daily Maintenance: 1000-3000mg (1-3mg) per day
Therapeutic Dose: 3000-10,000 mg (3-10g) per day
Dosage is very personal, always refer to the label.
Working with a practitioner is best when it comes to all supplementations.
What to look out for
You will find that some mushrooms are super expensive, this is due to accessibility as some mushrooms must be grown wild and only grow in certain conditions at certain times of the year. Due to this, the cost will vary between mushroom types.
Ensure there are no fillers in products as well as additives, colours or preservatives.
Consider the extraction process. The ideal way to extract the full array of benefits from mushrooms is through dual extraction. The double extraction process usually involves extracting through hot water (enzymes and beta-glucans) and alcohol (triterpenes). Always check this on the label and see check how the company extracts its mushrooms to ensure you are paying for the full spectrum of benefits.
Consider how companies are sourcing their mushrooms and whether these practices are sustainable. If they are proud of their efforts this should be easily found on their website or products. Also see if the company is testing for heavy metals, pesticides, moulds & microbials which can leach from the soils.
Forest Foraging
If you’re keen pick your own mushy’s, please go with an expert guide. Google a local mycological group in your area to get in contact with a guide. This is important as yes, some look alike mushrooms are poisonous and should not be consumed. In my research it has also been apparent that if you are foraging that you should not harvest more than a third of the harvest to ensure its survival, this actually is applicable to all plants. You also have the option of doing your own home growing kits, which look like a lot of fun. And I have seen forest foraging tours being offered which I would love to do too.
There we have it, a mini guide to the magical kingdom of the mushroom!
I love using mushrooms to support general wellbeing and overall health for myself and my clients.
Are you up for trying medicinal mushrooms?
