Fungi are among the most diverse groups of organisms on Earth, with the ability to adapt to various environmental challenges. They serve a crucial ecological role as decomposers, obtaining nutrients from the plant matter they live on. This adaptability is the reason why medicinal mushrooms are nutritional powerhouses that offer a myriad of health benefits, some of which come from unique compounds. Let us delve into some of the most popular mushrooms and their associated health benefits.
Reishi Mushroom: The Mushroom of Immortality
Reishi mushroom, also known as Lingzhi or Ganoderma lucidum, is a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine often referred to as the "Mushroom of Immortality" due to its long-standing reputation for promoting longevity and overall well-being. Wild Lingzhi has strict requirements on the growth environment, including temperature and humidity, and can only be parasitic on specific tree species. Hence, wild Lingzhi is rare in number and its planting is precious.
In western research, Reishi mushroom is rich in triterpenoids and polysaccharides, which impart antioxidant effects to support a healthy immune response. It is also traditionally used as an adaptogen to help increase energy and resistance to stress. A six-month clinical study1 demonstrated antioxidants benefits after supplementation with Reishi mushroom.
Cordyceps Mushroom: The Caterpillar Fungus
Cordyceps is a genus of parasitic fungi that targets insects. Wild cordyceps is increasingly scarce in their natural habitat, making their price extremely high for clinical practice. Most supplemental cordyceps in the market today are using cordyceps sustainably cultivated in the laboratory, which offer similar benefits to wild cordyceps but at a more affordable price. Additionally, natural Cordyceps is often adulterated due to its increasing rarity and high market value.
Out of all the medicinal mushrooms, Cordyceps is the most stimulating and warming in a traditional context. It has an affinity to the kidneys and lungs, traditionally used to support respiratory system and reduce fatigue. Research has found that cordyceps contain active compound, cordycepin, to support stamina, increase energy and reduce fatigue. Cordycepin works like cellular batteries as it helps to increase ATP production, which is the energy currency of the cell, thereby improving oxygen utilization and endurance. A randomized controlled trial2 showed improved exercise performance in healthy older subjects after taking cordyceps supplement for 12 weeks, supporting the long-held belief in China that Cordyceps has the potential to increase resistance to fatigue.
Turkey Tail Mushroom: The Mushroom of Multiple Colours
Turkey Tail Mushroom (Trametes versicolor or Coriolus versicolor) or Yunzhi get their name from their striking resemblance to the colourful tail feathers of wild turkeys. They are considered as cousin of Lingzhi as they are also rich in polysaccharides and beta-glucans, to support the immune system. Turkey tail mushroom is also rich in antioxidants to help combat oxidative stress in the body and reduce damage caused by free radicals.
A randomized clinical trial3 investigating the effect of turkey tail mushroom on gut microbiome found that the active compound in the mushroom extract acts as a prebiotic, modulating human intestinal microbiome composition. Gut microbes have vital functions on immune functions and protecting against pathogenic microorganisms.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom: The Mushroom for the Mind
Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) offers potential support in brain and cognitive function. Studies suggest that Lion's Mane Mushroom contains compounds, hericenones and erinacines, which may help induce Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) synthesis in nerve cells.
A study4 conducted in adults with mild memory problems associated with aging found that those taking Lion’s Mane extract had better brain function compared with those who did not ingest the mushroom.
Holistic Way Premium Gold Royal Imperial Lingzhi Blend combines the above four types of medicinal mushrooms to support the immune system, alleviate general weakness and fatigue, and support stamina and vitality. The key active compounds found in mushrooms, which research has linked to health benefits, are present in higher concentrations in the fruiting bodies rather than in the mycelium, the root system of the mushroom. Therefore, Holistic Way uses only the fruiting bodies of the mushroom to maximize the nutritional benefits of these fungi.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are medicinal mushrooms safe for everyone?
While medicinal mushrooms are generally safe for most people, those with certain conditions (e.g., autoimmune diseases), allergies, or those taking specific medications should consult their physician before use.
Are there any side effects of taking medicinal mushrooms?
Some people may experience mild side effects like digestive upset, dry mouth, or skin rashes. Taking with food will help to alleviate these side effects.
How long does it take to see the benefits of medicinal mushrooms?
The time it takes to see benefits can vary depending on the individual and the health condition being addressed. Some people may notice improvements within a few weeks, while others may take longer.
References
- Chiu, H. F., et al. (2017). Triterpenoids and polysaccharide peptides-enriched Ganoderma lucidum: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled crossover study of its antioxidation and hepatoprotective efficacy in healthy volunteers. Pharmaceutical biology, 55(1), 1041-1046.
- Chen, S., et al. (2010). Effect of Cs-4®(Cordyceps sinensis) on exercise performance in healthy older subjects: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The Journal of alternative and complementary medicine, 16(5), 585-590.
- Pallav, K., et al. (2014). Effects of polysaccharopeptide from Trametes versicolor and amoxicillin on the gut microbiome of healthy volunteers: a randomized clinical trial. Gut microbes, 5(4), 458-467.
- Mori, K., et al. (2009). Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: A double‐blind placebo‐controlled clinical trial. Phytotherapy Research: An International Journal Devoted to Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluation of Natural Product Derivatives, 23(3), 367-372.