The therapeutic benefits of medicinal mushrooms

Medicinal mushrooms or medicinal mushrooms, have been used for thousands of years for their therapeutic properties. These unique species have a rich flavour and texture but also valuable properties! In fact, they can help improve our health and well-being. We will share with you the many therapeutic benefits of medicinal mushrooms in this article, so you will discover how they can support our bodies.

What are medicinal mushrooms?

Medicinal mushrooms belong to a specific group of fungi that have been used for centuries in various cultures for their beneficial effects on the human body. Examples of well-known medicinal mushrooms include reishi, cordyceps, lion’s mane and chaga. Each mushroom has its own unique composition of bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides, terpenoids and flavonoids, which are responsible for their therapeutic properties.

Immune system support

One of the main benefits of medicinal mushrooms is their ability to support the immune system. They contain natural immunomodulatory substances that can boost the activity of immune cells, improving our body’s ability to fight off pathogens. This property makes medicinal mushrooms useful in preventing and treating infections, such as colds and flu. Medicinal mushrooms, such as the Reishi mushroom, Cordyceps and Shiitake, are known for their ability to boost the immune system^[1] . They contain substances called polysaccharides that stimulate immune cell production and can reduce inflammation.

Anti-inflammatory properties

Inflammation plays an important role in several chronic conditions, including arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and heart disease. Medicinal mushrooms can help reduce inflammation thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties. They contain substances that inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, making them potentially beneficial in treating inflammation-related conditions.

Promoting mental health

Besides physical health benefits, medicinal mushrooms can also support our mental health. Some mushrooms, such as lion’s mane, have nootropic properties, meaning they can improve cognitive function^[2] . These mushrooms are often used to boost memory, concentration and overall brain function. Moreover, medicinal mushrooms can reduce stress and improve mood, which can contribute to better emotional balance.

Stress relief using mushrooms

Stress is a common problem in our busy lives. Fortunately, medicinal mushrooms can offer a natural and effective way to relieve stress. Lion’s Mane mushroom, for example, is known to stimulate the production of the protein BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), which can help reduce anxiety and depression^[3] .

Next to that, several mushrooms contain adaptogens, such as the Reishi mushroom, which can help your body adapt to stressful situations. So if you are looking for a natural way to lower your stress levels, consider adding mushrooms to your daily routine.

Digestive support

Healthy digestion is indispensable for optimal health. Medicinal mushrooms, such as reishi and cordyceps, have known traditional use as remedies for various digestive complaints. They contain substances that aid digestion, balance intestinal flora and can reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Due to these properties, medicinal mushrooms can contribute to healthy digestion and better nutrient absorption.

Sources:

^[1] https://www.metagenicsinstitute.com.au/tech-data/cordyceps-coriolus-reishi-immune

^[2] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lions-mane-mushroom

^[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10675414/