What are the Best Medicinal Mushrooms?
There are many medicinal mushrooms out there, and with so many to choose from we’re here to let you know about the best ones and why we think so! We’ve got a list of our top 5 favorites!
Lion’s Mane:
Lion’s Mane is probably the most well-known medicinal mushroom. It is getting a lot of fame right now because it does some things that are unheard of and sought after! For one, studies have shown it can help regenerate damaged nerves in the body. The other thing it is getting a good rep for is its ability to create new neuropathways in the brain. Some doctors even refer to it as “Miracle-gro” for your brain because it increases neuroplasticity so well. What does all that fancy jargon mean? Well, studies show it can help boost memory and focus, and may even be able to help prevent and reverse early symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
Reishi:
We couldn’t talk about medicinal mushrooms without talking about Reishi. It does so many different things we personally take it everyday! What does it do exactly? Well, it works as an immune modulator which means it helps regulate the immune system. This is especially beneficial for autoimmune disorders. Studies have also produced promising results showing Reishi is a really high adaptogen. What does that matter? Adaptogens are known to lower your cortisol levels which can decrease stress and anxiety. On top of all that, reishi can increase respiratory function, lower blood sugar, and lower blood pressure. What’s not to like?
Turkey Tail
Turkey tail is a very interesting one! It is a prebiotic – different than a probiotic. A probiotic increases all bacteria in the gut, while a prebiotic eliminates the bad bacteria as it increases the good gut flora. And our gut is linked to our overall health! On top of that, it has two polysaccharides in it PSP(polysaccharide peptide) and PSK(polysaccharide Kempten) which help not only protect the body against toxins but flush out them from the body.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps is a very interesting mushroom. It is a parasitic fungi which means it hurts, or in cordyceps case kills, the host it feeds off of. Cordyceps naturally grow out of the heads of caterpillar larvae above 14,000 feet in parts of Asia. Although recently, have been spotted in California as well! These bizarre little mushrooms have been studied to help increase the amount of oxygen absorbed by the blood which can help with respiratory issues like C.O.P.D. Many athletes use it to increase their endurance as well because it helps them breathe better. In addition, since it increases blood flow, it also is shown to increase libido.
Shitake
Last, but certainly not least is shitake! This one you’ve definitely heard of! Shitake contains something called eritadenine. It is a compound known to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. In addition, shitake also contains beta-glucans that have been proven to reduce inflammation and help prevent the intestines from absorbing cholesterol. On top of all that, Shitake supports immune health. They are rich in polysaccharides like lentinans. These compounds protect against cell damage, help your immune system, and boost white blood cell production for fighting off microbes. Who knew it could be so good for us!
Have any questions? Feel free to comment below!
***While these statements here do reference studies, none of these statements are meant to treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Blessings,
