TOP 10 MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS
Medicinal mushrooms have been used for their healing properties for thousands of years. Egyptian regarded mushrooms as the “plant of immortality” primarily consumed by pharaohs and royalty. Chinese medicine embraced medicinal mushrooms since 100 BC, and they held significance in Mesoamerican cultures such as the Maya, Inca, Aztecs, and Olmecs.
Scientists and the Western world are finally starting to discover the amazing health benefits of medicinal mushrooms and that they are often safer and better tolerated, with fewer side-effects, than modern pharmaceuticals.
ADAPTOGENS
Mushrooms, known for a variety of health benefits, fall under the classification of “adaptogens”. These are herbal pharmaceuticals aiding the body in adapting and resisting stressors of all kinds, whether physical, chemical, or biological. Stress can adversely affect vital systems, and adaptogens help create and maintain balance (homeostasis) among the body’s essential systems.
Apart from medicinal mushrooms, other recognized adaptogens include green tea, ginseng, Ashwagandha, Cannabinoids, turmeric, elderberry, and licorice.
“Oxidative stress can damage DNA, leading to chronic health problems”
ANTIOXIDANTS FIGHT OXIDATIVE STRESS
Antioxidants, a type of adaptogen, combat oxidative stress—an imbalance between antioxidants and free radicals caused by factors like diet, alcohol, smoking, pharmaceuticals, pollution, pesticides, radiation, and chemicals.
Free radicals are like unbalanced molecules due to having an odd number of electrons. This instability allows them to easily latch onto stable molecules, stealing electrons and turning the once-stable molecule into a free radical. This process can harm cells and cause damage to DNA, leading to mutated cells and potential chronic health problems.
Our bodies naturally produce antioxidants, but we also need additional antioxidants for optimal health. Mushrooms, a natural source of antioxidants, provide two super antioxidants: Ergothioneine and Glutathione.
“Mushroom provide two super antioxidants: Ergothioneine and Glutathione”
ERGOTHIONEINE — “Superhero Antioxidant”
Ergothioneine, a bioactive amino acid acting as a “master antioxidant,” is present in all human tissues. It prioritizes vital organs and cells exposed to high oxidative stress, such as the liver, kidneys, red blood cells, and eye tissue. In 2010, researchers at Pennsylvania State University discovered that Ergothioneine levels in the late 1920s were nearly double compared to current levels. This finding suggests that the deficiencies of Ergothioneine in our diets may contribute, in part, to the rise in diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, neurodegenerative conditions, and other inflammatory diseases.
GLUTATHIONE — “The Protector”
Glutathione is found in every cell in the body, is unique in that it deals directly with the causes of oxidative stress by neutralizing and removing internal and external toxins, chemicals and pollutants before they can form into damaging free radicals. Our liver naturally produces Glutathione but that production decreases with age. Researchers have found links between low glutathione levels and age-related conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s and loss of hearing.
In addition to being adaptogens with powerful antioxidants medicinal mushrooms also provide a rich source of bioactive elements including Polysaccharides, Beta-glucans, amino acids, enzymes, prebiotics, vitamins and minerals. These components work synergistically to protect and enhance overall health.
TOP 10 MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS
CORDYCEPS (Energy & Stamina)
Cordyceps mushrooms (Cordyceps militaris), treasured in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, are now gaining attention for their potential to boost energy, focus, endurance, and recovery – a natural powerhouse for overall well-being.
Elevated Energy: Packed with bioactive compounds, Cordyceps is believed to enhance the efficiency of energy production within your body’s cells. By optimizing oxygen utilization and ATP production, Cordyceps may elevate physical performance and stamina, making it a go-to choice for athletes and anyone seeking a natural energy boost.
Enhance Focus and Mental Clarity: Believed to increase blood flow to the brain, promoting improved oxygenation and nutrient delivery to brain cells resulting in enhanced focus and mental clarity.
Boost Endurance: Utilizing its adaptogenic properties to regulate our body’s stress responses, Cordyceps may strengthen your body’s overall resilience to stress. This support contributes to your body’s natural ability to increase endurance, allowing you to push further and recover effectively from physical exertion and fatigue.
Accelerate Recovery: Cordyceps are thought to support muscle recovery by facilitating efficient nutrient absorption and minimizing inflammation.
RED REISHI (Stress Relief)
Red Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum), have been valued for centuries in traditional medicine for their numerous stress relieving benefits. Incorporating these mushrooms into your wellness routine may provide a natural and traditional remedy for stress management.
Adaptogens: Believe to function as an adaptogen, aiding the body in adapting to and coping with various stressors. This adaptogenic quality may contribute to a more resilient stress response.
Cortisol Regulation: With potential effects on cortisol levels, a hormone linked to stress, Red Reishi may play a role in regulating this key stress indicator to foster a balanced and controlled stress response.
Calms Nervous System: The bioactive compounds found in Red Reishi are thought to have a calming influence on the nervous system. This calming effect promotes relaxation, potentially alleviating symptoms of stress and anxiety.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Red Reishi’s anti-inflammatory properties may be instrumental in mitigating the physiological effects of chronic stress. By addressing inflammation, these mushrooms contribute to a holistic approach to stress management and well-being.
CHAGA (Anti-aging)
Chaga mushrooms (Inonotus obliquus), are a super mushroom that have been celebrated for their remarkable anti-aging properties. Rich in unique bioactive compounds known to reduce oxidative stress, protect DNA and boost immune system.
Antioxidant Powerhouse: Packed with antioxidants, including Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and melanin that help combat free radicals, which contribute to oxidative stress and are implicated in the aging process.
DNA Protection: Compounds found in Chaga, such as Betulinic Acid, have been studied for their potential to protect DNA from damage. Preserving the integrity of DNA is crucial for maintaining cellular function and minimizing the effects of aging.
Collagen Support: May promote collagen production, a protein essential for skin elasticity and hydration. Collagen contributes to maintaining youthful skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Adaptogenic Effects: Chaga is considered an adaptogen, helping the body adapt to stressors. By reducing the impact of stress, Chaga mushrooms indirectly support anti-aging processes, as chronic stress is known to accelerate aging.
LION’S MANE (Memory & Focus)
Lion’s Mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus), are renowned for their potential benefits to the brain, stomach and immune system.
Cognitive Enhancement: Studies have shown that Lion’s Mane mushrooms may stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein crucial for the growth, maintenance and health of brain cells leading to improved memory, enhanced focus and boosted problem-solving abilities.
Neuro-Protective: Promotes the health of brain cells, offering neuro-protective properties that can help prevent age-related cognitive decline, enhance mental functions, and serve as a safeguard against potential neuronal damage.
Stomach Health: By reducing inflammation these mushrooms emerge as champions in promoting stomach health by preventing potential intestinal tissue damage that may lead to conditions like stomach ulcers and inflammatory bowel diseases.
Immune System: These mushrooms demonstrate the ability to increase the intestinal immune system which serves as a defense against pathogens entering through the gut, mouth, or nose.
KING TRUMPET (Heart Health)
King Trumpet mushrooms (Pleurotus eryngii), have garnered attention as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with unique bioactive compounds known for their potential benefits for heart and cardiovascular health.
Superhero Antioxidant: Abundant in Ergothioneine, the “Superhero Antioxidant”, lasts in the body for around 30 days where it actively combats oxidative stress, fights toxic free radicals, protect cells from damage. This unique antioxidant has been associated with protecting blood vessels from oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to overall heart health.
Cholesterol Regulation: Contain compounds like statins and beta-glucans, which may play a role in regulating cholesterol levels. These compounds are believed to contribute to the reduction of LDL (bad) cholesterol, thereby potentially lowering the risk of cardiovascular issues.
Blood Pressure: King Trumpet mushrooms have been associated with positive effects on blood pressure regulation. Compounds like statins and other bioactive components present in these mushrooms may contribute to the dilation of blood vessels, aiding in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
TURKEY TAIL (Digestion Support)
Turkey Tail mushrooms (Trametes versicolor), have garnered attention for their potential health benefits, particularly in supporting digestion and maintaining a healthy stomach. Rich in bioactive compounds, these mushrooms unfold a wealth of medicinal properties.
Prebiotics for Digestive Harmony: Boasting unique compounds like Polysaccharides (PS), functioning as prebiotics that support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. In addition, they contain Polysaccharopeptides (PSP) and Beta-glucans known to boost the immune system—a crucial component for a healthy digestive system.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The inherent anti-inflammatory properties of Turkey Tail can be a soothing balm for the digestive system. Inflammation is often linked to digestive issues, and the anti-inflammatory effects of Turkey Tail can contribute to overall stomach health.
Antioxidant Support: With an abundance of antioxidants, including phenols and flavonoids, Turkey Tail mushrooms help neutralize free radicals in the digestive system. This antioxidant support contributes to stomach health, offering well-being.
Gastroprotective: Studies suggest that polysaccharides (including PS and PSP) and Beta-glucans found in Turkey Tail mushrooms may help protect the stomach lining and potentially prevent issues like gastric ulcers.
SHIITAKE (Immune Support)
Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes), are renowned for their remarkable immune-supportive properties. A 2015 study uncovered their potential to reduce inflammation, boost the immune system and combat diseases by providing essential vitamins, minerals and enzymes that increase cell reaction and improved gut immunity.
Immune Boosting Beta-Glucans: Shiitake mushrooms stand out as a rich source of Beta-glucans, believed to stimulate the immune system by enhancing white blood cell activity.
Antiviral Defense: Contain compounds like Lentinan and Eritadenine, which exhibit antiviral properties. Lentinan, in particular, has been studied for its potential to inhibit the replication of certain viruses, contributing to the mushrooms’ role in fortifying the body’s defenses against infections.
Vitamins and Minerals: Loaded with vital vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, selenium, and zinc, acknowledged for their pivotal roles in supporting immune function and adding to Shiitake’s overall immune-boosting characteristics.
Health Stomach: Prebiotic properties found in Shiitake mushrooms promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy stomach nurtures a favorable environment for immune support aiding in fortifying your body’s defenses.
MAITAKE (Cardiovascular)
Maitake mushrooms (Grifola frondosa), packed with unique bioactive compounds that make them a promising natural approach in supporting optimal blood pressure cardiovascular wellness.
Promotes healthy blood vessels: Contains bioactive compounds, Polysaccharides (PS) and Beta-Glucans, which may positively impact blood pressure regulation by promoting the dilation of blood vessels.
Rich in Potassium: Provides a good source of potassium, which contribute to maintaining proper fluid balance in the body, a key element in blood pressure regulation.
Antioxidant Properties: The presence of “Superhero Antioxidant” Ergothioneine, may help protect blood vessels from oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.
ANTRODIA (Liver & Kidneys)
Antrodia mushrooms (Antrodia camphorata), used in Chinese herbal medicine to treat hypertension, abdominal pain and asthma but is best known for its liver and kidney protective properties.
Liver Protectant: Bioactive compounds like triterpenoids and polysaccharides (PS) in these mushrooms act as a liver protectant and may help support liver health and contribute to detoxification processes.
Kidney Support: Research indicates that these mushroom’s bioactive compounds, Triterpenoids (TP) and Polysaccharides (PS), have a positive impact on kidney health, potentially aiding in the prevention of certain kidney-related conditions.
Antioxidant Defense: Rich in antioxidants, including Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Polysaccharides (PS) which play a pivotal role in neutralizing free radicals, safeguarding liver and kidney cells from oxidative stress, and promoting long-term organ health.
AGARICUS BLAZEI (Inflammation Support)
Agaricus Blazei mushrooms (Agaricus subrufescens), are rich in bioactive compounds, these mushrooms offer a natural and holistic approach to supporting the body’s response to inflammation.
Adaptogenic Effects: As an adaptogen it helps the body adapt to stressors. Chronic stress can contribute to inflammation, and the adaptogenic properties of these mushrooms may play a role in managing stress-related inflammation.
Beta-Glucans: Abundant in Beta-glucans, a type of polysaccharide (PS) known for its immunomodulatory properties may help regulate the immune system, potentially reducing inflammation by modulating immune responses.
Anti-Inflammatory Compounds: Studies suggest contain specific anti-inflammatory compounds, such as ergosterol (ES) and ergosterol peroxide (EP). These compounds may inhibit inflammatory pathways, contributing to a reduction in inflammation and associated symptoms.
Balanced Immune Response: Some research indicates that Agaricus blazei may manage cytokine protein production, influencing the communication between immune cells and helping to maintain a balanced immune response. This modulation can be beneficial in managing inflammation.
Neutralize Free Radicals: These mushrooms exhibit antioxidant properties, thanks to compounds like polyphenols. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which are involved in inflammatory processes, potentially reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
These statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
As with any supplement, consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable, especially for those with underlying health conditions or taking medications.
REFERENCES
http://www.functionalmushrooms.com/uncategorized/ergothioneine-unparalleled-health-benefits/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22230474/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5625788/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4206800/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3991026/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4684116/
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