Though you may think of mushrooms as just a toxic fungi that grows in decay, there are actually HUNDREDS of types that contain many beneficial factors!
There are plenty of mushrooms that contain healing, nutritional and medicinal properties. These mushrooms are valued for their health benefits.
Some examples of healing mushrooms & their benefits include but are not limited to:
Cordyceps
These have long been used in religious ceremonies and are believed to be linked to longevity and immortality.
They are said to be beneficial for enhancing "vigor and vitality".
Used to boost energy and strength by enhancing the production of ATP in the brain to deliver energy more efficiently.
Increases the amount of oxygen in the body to improve performance.
Improves immunity and improves sexual dysfunction. A strong cathartic that increases the excretion of waste products for better kidney function.
It also has been used as a tonic to treat cough, lung fatigue and respiratory diseases.
Lion's Mane
Used in traditional medicines for their spiritual benefits, such as bringing clarity, focus and a sense of calm. These reported spiritual benefits may be due to the bioactive compounds in the mushroom, which act on the body and mind.
Lion's Mane contains substances that promote neurogenesis, which boosts thinking and memory processes, and will help you balance your emotions and give you a general sense of good well-being.
Shown to be beneficial for a more restful sleep and optimizing energy. Has high nutritional contents.
Oyster
Prevents osteoporosis, arthritis and anemia by offering immune support.
Boosts vitamin D levels and bone mineral density. Helps maintain blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity.
Rich in antioxidants and provides protection against cancer.
Contains compounds like lovastatin which helps to lower cholesterol.
Good source of dietary fiber which promotes digestive health and prevents over-eating.
Maitake
Also called "hen of the woods", some compounds in this mushroom have been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and stimulate the immune system's response to cancer.
Contains beta-glucans that support the immune system helping to manage diabetes, gut health, and brain health.
Helps balance blood glucose, boosts immune function, maintains high cholesterol levels, reduces blood pressure, and promotes fertility.
May have blood thinning properties that could increase the risk of bleeding in people with bleeding disorders or those taking blood thinning medications.
Chaga
Has the ability to purify and cleanse the body, mind, and spirit, helping to bring one into a state of balance and harmony.
May help regulate the production of cytokines, supporting the immune system by helping cells communicate with one another. This could help fight infections, from minor colds to life threatening illnesses.
When the body is fighting an illness, inflammation supports the fight.
Turkey Tail
Certain polysaccharides strengthen the body to improve responses to cancer medicines and radiation. It is also used for muscle strength, fatigue, UTIs, and many other conditions as it balances blood sugar levels.
Rich in antioxidants that improve cognitive function, memory, and problem-solving. Helps with digestion and to create a healthy gut biome. Contains immune-boosting compounds that suppress inflammation.
Reishi
Filled with triterpenes, antioxidants and beta-glucans which play a role in overall skin and hair health.
Supports the immune system, reduces inflammation, promotes relaxation, improves sleep and manages stress and anxiety.
Additionally, Reishi mushrooms may promote heart health and blood pressure. Boosts cognitive development and is said to prevent disorders.
HIGH DOES OF REISHI MIGHT INCREASE THE RISK OF BLEEDING IN SOME PEOPLE WITH CERTAIN BLEEDING DISORDERS OR IF USED BEFORE OR DURING SURGERY.
