The power of medicinal mushrooms🍄

Medicinal mushrooms have been respected for centuries in traditional medicine, and modern research is uncovering the science behind their therapeutic properties. So, what’s better than adding one mushroom to your diet? The answer – adding 13 😉 Introducing CG’s new and EXCITING product, the Complete Mushroom Blend. Combining the benefits of various medicinal mushrooms can provide several potential health advantages, including immune support, antioxidant protection, brain health, heart health, blood sugar control, digestive support, and many more!

Lets delve into the proven benefits of some of the most notable mushrooms, including Reishi, Shiitake, Maitake, Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane), Cordyceps sinensis, Chaga, Coriolus versicolor (Turkey Tail), Agaricus blazei Murrill, Polyporus umbellatus (Umbrella Polypore), Auricularia polytricha, Coprinus (Shaggy Ink Cap), Tremella fuciformis (Snow Fungus), Pleurotus ostreatus (Oyster Mushroom).

1. Reishi

Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum) are scientifically proven to offer diverse health benefits. With over 200 triterpenes, they demonstrate potential hypoglycemic, liver-protective, and anti-inflammatory effects. Reishi are rich in antioxidants, making them excellent for anti-aging and skin-repair. Studies indicate immune system enhancement, increased blood cell counts, and serum protein levels. Active compounds like polysaccharides and triterpenoids support cardiovascular health, making Reishi a valuable supplement for overall well-being.¹² This mushroom is so powerful, it is often referred to as the “mushroom of immortality” or the “divine mushroom”, and is thought to have “spiritual potency”!³

2. Shiitake

Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) are a powerhouse of health benefits. Packed with bioactive compounds, they bolster the immune system through polysaccharides like lentinan, potentially preventing infections and even exhibiting disease-fighting properties. These mushrooms are a rich source of vitamins B and D, vital for energy metabolism and bone health. With beta-glucans aiding in lowering cholesterol levels, shiitake may reduce the risk of heart disease. They also support liver function, enhance detoxification processes, and combat oxidative stress, preventing chronic diseases. This superfood stands out for its unique blend of nutrients, offering protection against various health issues and promoting overall well-being.⁴

3. Maitake

Maitake mushrooms (Grifola frondosa) are celebrated for their health benefits. Boosting the immune system with immune-enhancing polysaccharides, they also contribute to heart health by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. Maitake’s positive effects on blood sugar and insulin sensitivity make it valuable for diabetes management. It may also improve fertility in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by addressing insulin resistance. Maitake mushrooms have great potential as a beneficial addition to a healthy diet.⁵ The term “Maitake” means “dancing mushroom” in Japanese. According to lore, the name originated from the joyous dances performed when this mushroom was discovered in the wild, due to its remarkable healing properties.⁶

4. Lion’s Mane

Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is recognised for its cognitive benefits, supporting brain health through neurogenesis and showing potential in Alzheimer’s patients. Beyond cognitive enhancement, it promotes digestive health by preventing ulcers and mitigating gut inflammation, potentially aiding conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Preliminary studies also suggest its success in reducing depression and anxiety symptoms, boosting the immune system, and demonstrating potential disease-fighting properties. Ongoing research explores its potential role in managing diabetes and reducing the risk of heart disease.⁷

5. Cordyceps sinensis

Cordyceps sinensis, a prized fungus in traditional Chinese medicine, may offer anti-inflammatory benefits for conditions such as asthma and arthritis. Its bioactive compound, cordycepin, is considered a potential nutraceutical. Research suggests it could enhance exercise performance by reducing inflammation and improving oxygen utilisation. Traditionally used for anti-ageing benefits like reducing fatigue and boosting libido, cordyceps also shows promise in disease-fighting effects and blood sugar regulation, showcasing its broad therapeutic potential.⁸

6. Chaga

Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) is renowned for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, disease-fighting potential, and the ability to lower blood sugar and improve cholesterol profiles. For centuries, people have utilised chaga mushrooms for medicinal purposes.⁹ Rich in antioxidants, chaga may alleviate inflammation-related issues like irritable bowel syndrome and support overall gut health. For those with insulin resistance or Type 2 diabetes, Chaga may help lower blood sugar levels. Its antioxidant content may also contribute to better cholesterol levels, supporting cardiovascular health.¹⁰

7. Turkey Tail

Turkey tail mushroom (Coriolus versicolor) promotes immune health by enhancing both innate and adaptive immune responses. Its polysaccharides stimulate B and T cell proliferation, suggesting potential benefits for weakened immune systems. B cells and T cells are types of white blood cells that play crucial roles in the immune system – B cells produce antibodies, while T cells coordinate immune responses and directly attack infected or abnormal cells. Turkey Tail is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may safeguard against oxidative stress and support a healthy inflammation response. Turkey tail also contributes to gut and liver health, enhances athletic performance, and has potential in balancing blood sugar levels.¹¹

8. Agaricus blazei Murrill

Agaricus blazei Murrill mushroom exhibits potential in managing diabetes, boosting immune function, and preventing Candida overgrowth, with demonstrated anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hypertriglyceridemic, and anti-hypercholesterolemic activities. Rich in immune-boosting beta-glucans, it stimulates macrophages (a type of white blood cell that cleans up debris and fights infections) and may enhance vaccine efficacy by increasing antibody and T-cell counts.¹² Agaricus blazei Murrill is recognised as one of the most important edible mushrooms, valued for both culinary and medicinal applications.¹³

9. Umbrella Polypore

The umbrella polypore mushroom (Polyporus umbellatus) is traditionally known for its diuretic effects, aiding conditions like edema, dysuria, nephritis, pyelonephritis and urologic calculi. It showcases antioxidant properties, protecting red blood cells and enhancing overall plasma antioxidant capacity. This mushroom supports immune system enhancement, induces mitogenic activity on lymphocytes, and has promising potential for promoting hair growth due to identified active components.¹⁴

10. Auricularia polytricha

Auricularia polytricha, commonly known as wood ear, is a rich source of antioxidants. It offers protection against oxidative stress, which contributes to the development of various chronic diseases. Studies suggest this mushroom has immunomodulatory properties, potentially enhancing the immune system. It also shows promise in anti-dementia effects, chronic disease prevention, and cardiovascular health (by supporting healthy cholesterol levels), along with anti-inflammatory properties useful for reducing inflammation-related conditions.¹⁵

11. Shaggy Ink Cap

Shaggy Ink Cap mushroom (Coprinus comatus) extends potential health benefits beyond culinary uses, providing essential nutrients for nutritional support. It is recognised for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may aid in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Some studies suggest Shaggy Ink Cap mushroom has antimicrobial properties, potentially inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms – and we are all about suppressing the pathogens at Chuckling Goat!¹⁶

12. Tremella

Tremella mushroom, or Snow Fungus, provides diverse health benefits and offers a range of promising skin benefits. It promotes skin hydration, UV damage reduction, skin barrier repair, and maintains overall skin health. Tremella mushroom provides antioxidant-rich support for overall health, immune-boosting beta-glucans, vitamin D for bone health and calcium absorption, and potential inflammation reduction. This mushroom may even support brain health by combating damaging radicals.¹⁷

13. Oyster

Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) offer a holistic approach to health. They are rich in antioxidants which aid in combatting oxidative stress, reducing cellular damage, and promoting overall well-being. Oyster mushrooms contain beta-glucans which contribute to cholesterol reduction, supporting cardiovascular health. Packed with essential nutrients like potassium, vitamin D, and B vitamins, these mushrooms enhance overall health. Their polysaccharides contribute to immune function, and the dietary fibre content promotes digestive health, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Remember, your good gut bugs LOVE fibre!¹⁸

Add these mushroom powders directly to your coffee or hot chocolate and reap the benefits! Or for a convenient and powerful health boost, add it directly to your Gut-Brain Health Smoothie. Check out What IS a gut health protocol, anyway? to understand what your gut needs to FLOURISH!

Questions? Contact one of our Nutritional Therapists via live chat from 8 am to 8 pm on weekdays for bespoke advice on gut wellness.