Medicinal Mushrooms have been used for thousands of years, in a variety of ways to improve or balance our health. The Benefits of Medicinal mushrooms are far reaching and have the capacity to help modulate our bodies to perform optimally, build immunity, and deal with higher levels of stress. There are several different types, and having an understanding of the best uses for each can help you decide which might work best for your health concern, or use case. These are not the same mushrooms your tend to find at the grocery store, and are more used for there medicinal/therapeutic effects.
Medicinal Mushrooms are used in the form of extracts, tea or powders and range in the dosages, so it will be up to your to research proper dosages. Many of these mushrooms are also classified as immunomodulating, and adaptogens which help the body modulate immune responses, and adapt to stress (of all kinds) which can help promote balance within the body and mind.
Because of this effect there are multitude of benefits beyond the treatment of acute disease, and therefor see many people including athletes, retirees, health conscious individuals and practitioners take or suggest use.
In this article we will go over the most popular strains and some of the benefits associated with them.
Lion’s Mane is a powerful nootrophic, meaning it has protective effects on the brain while promoting healthy cognitive function. It is mainly used to improve memory and concentration, enhance mood; however, also supports the immune system. Many use Lions Mane in combination of herbs that support memory and learning like gotu kola, or ginkgo biloba
If taken consistently over time, reishi mushrooms can provide significant support to the immune system due to their positive effect on white blood cells. In traditional Chinese medicine they have been used to promote relaxation and quality of sleep, while also reducing anxiety, stress, symptoms of fatigue. As will many of the medicinal mushrooms it is good to be consistent with your dosing.
Cordyceps are often used to support athletic performance as they naturally promote ATP production, support cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation and improve oxygen uptake. Like the other medicinal mushrooms, they also have powerful immunomodulating effects. These are popular with hikers, endurance athletes, and competitive sports as they can add the edge to improve your performance.
Turkey Tail mushroom is packed with antioxidants, that help reduce inflammation on a cellular level and provide longevity. There are also a complex spectrum of beta-glucans that support immune function, and supporting a proper immune response. They are also packed with prebiotics, which support a healthy digestive system by nourishing the beneficial gut bacteria.
Chaga is a great source of antioxidants, providing support for the immune system, longevity, and digestive protection. It also has been shown to improve the body’s response to stress and promotes relaxation. It is also a great source of minerals such as zinc, potassium, calcium, and selenium. Many people will brew this as a tea base to add with coffee, herbs and spices. Some make a healthy elixir with it.
Along with the many immune supporting effects, this mushroom has shown to have anti-viral properties as well, helping to ward off pathogens. Maitake also supports a healthy stress response in the body, improves blood sugar regulation, and reduces insulin levels. You can normally find this mushroom in immune boosting formulas, or a combination with other medicinal mushrooms.
Medicinal mushrooms all provide antioxidants and immune system support, however to get the most benefit different varieties have some specific health benefits that may be worth noting above. You can normally find formulas containing a mixture, or capsule and powders on there own. Check out the medicinal mushrooms section of OptimizeNutrition.ca for some great options!
Thanks for reading our article… Here at Optimize Coaching we strive to help our clients build a strong foundation of nutritional knowledge and guide them to increased health and performance. If you are interested in learning more information regarding health, nutrition or supplement book an appointment with one of our practitioners today.
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