It’s not just hype—medicinal mushrooms, such as reishi, cordyceps, shiitake, maitake, chaga, lion's mane, and turkey tail, have been favoured for centuries in global medicine, from traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine to Native American and even Eastern European Folk medicine.

Promoting vitality and strengthening the mind, body, and spirit with immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, energy-enhancing, and cognitive-supporting properties, medicinal mushrooms offer a natural boost to your overall health. 

Who doesn’t want to feel relaxed, energised and enlightened? It’s easy to see why these powerful blends have remained prominent throughout the centuries. However, you might be feeling a little curious about how to incorporate medicinal mushrooms in to your life. 

Let’s break it down! 

Although we love a good mushroom-packed meal, just to be clear, we’re not talking about mushrooms you use in the kitchen. Medicinal mushrooms are fungi known for their health-promoting properties. Unlike mushrooms found in the fresh food aisle, known for their yummy taste, medicinal mushrooms are loved for their therapeutic health benefits.

It’s also important not to get medicinal mushrooms confused with psychoactive mushrooms, which contain compounds, like psilocybin, that carry mind-altering effects. Medicinal mushrooms do not include this psychedelic compound and are safe and legal to consume. 

Instead, they contain bioactive compounds that promote good health, such as polysaccharides, beta-glucans, triterpenoids, and antioxidants. These contribute to various health benefits, including immune modulation, anti-inflammatory effects, neuroprotection, and adaptogenic properties, which help the body resist stress and maintain balance.

There are many different types of medicinal mushrooms, each with unique health benefits. By examining each one individually, we can truly appreciate the remarkable properties and benefits they offer in traditional medicine.

Health Benefits of Medicinal Mushrooms

Immune Support
The most popular benefit of medicinal mushrooms is their immune support. These fungi naturally contain compounds like polysaccharides and beta-glucans, which are well-known for enhancing immune function.

Studies conducted on reishi mushrooms have shown that they amplify the activity of naturally killer (NK) cells. These cells play a huge role in the body’s defence against tumours and viral infections.

Turkey Tail has also been shown in research to contain polysaccharopeptides (PSP) and polysaccharide-K (PSK), which have immune-modulating properties.

Cognitive Health
Certain medicinal mushrooms have been found to support brain health and vastly help improve cognitive function.

Research suggests that lion’s mane can help stimulate the healthy production of nerve growth factor (NGF). This is essential for the growth of new, and the maintenance of existing neurons — allowing our minds clear up and improve memory. 

Energy Enhancement
Medicinal mushrooms can boost energy levels and improve overall physical performance, making them super popular among athletes and those in dire need of a daily energy boost.

Studies have shown that cordyceps can improve exercise performance by increasing the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy carrier in cells.

Shiitake is also known for supporting general vitality and energy due to its rich nutrient profile and ability to improve circulation.

Stress Relief
The best part! Many medicinal mushrooms have adaptogenic properties, which help you manage stress, promote relaxation, and maintain some sort of mental balance in your busy life.

Known as the "mushroom of immortality," reishi reduces stress, improves sleep, and promotes relaxation. Research supports its potential to lower anxiety and improve overall mental health. 

Studiesconducted on poria, a medicinal mushroomcommonly found in traditional Chinesemedicine herb blends and used for its calming effects, have shown that it helps reduce stress and improve sleep quality.

How to Use Medicinal Mushrooms

The good news is, incorporating medicinal mushrooms into your daily routine is far simpler than you might think!

Infusing medicinal mushroom powders into your morning pick me ups, like coffee or smoothies, or throwing them into recipes like soups, oatmeal, or baked goods is super easy. 

Supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, or powders are another convenient way to reap all the endless benefits of medicinal mushrooms, as these can also be added to smoothies, coffee, or food. 

For those who enjoy cooking, fresh or dried mushrooms can be included in soups, stews, sauces, and even baked goods! The many options to implement medicinal mushrooms into your diet throughout your day is almost endless. 

Potential Side Effects and Considerations

While there are many wonderful health benefits from medicinal mushrooms, as with any natural remedy, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and interactions with other medications. 

Known side effects include mild digestive discomfort, and allergic reactions.

Interactions with medications such as blood thinners, immunosuppressants, and diabetes medications should be carefully considered. 

Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have autoimmune diseases, low blood pressure, or bleeding disorders should consult with their healthcare provider before using medicinal mushrooms. 

By understanding these potential risks, you can make informed decisions and use medicinal mushrooms safely and effectively.