5 Reasons to Try Mushrooms

Mushrooms are all around us, they are the true communicators in nature, and we share more of our DNA with fungi than with plants. Medicinal mushrooms have been used globally for thousands of years for their health benefits and can provide the missing link to support our health and well-being. If you haven’t found a reason to try mushrooms yet, then here are 5 reasons why we think you should…

1: Immune Support

All medicinal mushrooms contain immune-supporting polysaccharides like Beta-glucans. They are immune-modulators, so suppress or stimulate as needed. They support many key components of the immune system, from increasing protective immune cells, and supporting effective immune function. Many mushrooms have strong antibacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal compounds.

2: Adaptogenic

Many mushrooms work as adaptogens, meaning they help the body to adapt to both internal and external stressors, bringing balance and regulating many systems within the body. Cordyceps and Reishi are two excellent adaptogens, helping the body to deal with stress and supporting adrenal function.

3: Antioxidants

Mushrooms contain many powerful compounds that have been shown to reduce free radical activity. Chaga mushroom is particularly rich in antioxidants and has strong antioxidant activity against free radicals. Cordyceps powder also helps to neutralize free radicals and supports the body’s own production of powerful antioxidants. Many mushrooms contain ergothioneine which is now recognized as a master antioxidant- helping to reduce systemic inflammation.

4: Cognitive Function

Lions Mane has a strong history of use in traditional Chinese medicine as a brain tonic. It has been shown to activate NGF (nerve growth factor) which is vital for the growth, maintenance and survival of the neurons in the brain, this triggers re-myelination which helps to keep the neurons healthy and working efficiently. It can help to support memory, learning, concentration and focus.

5: Energy

Many mushrooms are rich in energizing B-vitamins and other compounds to support day to day stable energy levels. Cordyceps has a vasodilatory effect, which means it helps the body to get blood and oxygen flowing which supports stamina and endurance- great to support exercise performance. It also contains adenosine which can support ATP production-the body’s energy currency.

These are just 5 reasons to try mushrooms, but there are hundreds more! Check out our previous blog posts to learn more about each individual mushroom, or grab one of our mushroom books to discover more about the wonderful world of fungi…

Our full range of mushroom supplements including our mushroom capsules and mushroom powders can be found here….