Medicinal mushrooms are edible fungi that have therapeutic properties. While the earliest documentation of mushroom cultivation was in China, medicinal mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for centuries by early Egyptian, Greek, Chinese, Mexican, and Roman societies.
Health benefits of medicinal mushrooms
Medicinal mushrooms provide a variety of nutrients, including protein, fiber, selenium, potassium, and vitamins B1, B2, B12, C, D, and E. One of the active components found in many mushrooms is β-glucan, a type of polysaccharide that has been shown to support immune function.
Medicinal mushrooms have a variety of beneficial effects, including:
• Anti-allergic
• Antibacterial
• Anticancer
• Antidiabetic
• Antifungal
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Antiparasitic
• Antitumor
• Antiviral
• Cardiovascular protective
• Hepatoprotective
• Hypotensive
• Immunomodulating
The health benefits of mushrooms may result from components interacting with the gut microbiota, improving immune cell function, and enhancing the adaptive immune response. Preliminary research suggests that mushroom intake may be associated with weight management, protection against cognitive impairment, and a reduced risk of certain cancers.
Special considerations
Culinary mushrooms and mushrooms sold as dietary supplements are safe to consume. If consuming wild foraged mushrooms, caution should be taken and a knowledgeable mushroom forager or mycologist should be consulted to identify species that are safe for humans.
How to use medicinal mushrooms
Medicinal mushrooms come in various forms as dietary supplements, including liquid extracts, powders, and capsules. Whole fresh or dried mushrooms are also commonly steeped in hot water and consumed as a tea. Consult with your healthcare practitioner and carefully follow directions when incorporating mushroom supplements into your wellness plan.
