Mushroom Supplement Benefits

Mushrooms have been used in healing practices for thousands of years. They are an integral part of our ecosystem. The largest living organism on our planet is considered a mushroom. Armillaria ostoyae covers 2,385 acres and is nicknamed the Humungous fungus. It is estimated to be between 2,400 and 8,700 years old and is located in the Malheur national forest of Oregon. 

Certain mushroom types have amazing healing properties that can enhance the immune system and optimize the function of the human body. The most researched of their biologically active compounds are polysaccharides called glucans. Beta-glucans are seen as the drivers for their immune-enhancing and modulatory properties. Other bioactive compounds include glycoproteins, sterols, phenolics, and terpenoids.

Mushrooms impact natural killer cells, T Lymphocytes, and macrophages, which are involved with innate and adaptive immune function.  Many people have an overactive Th1 response or an overactive Th2 response, and mushroom's modulatory effects help with creating immune system balance.

The following medicinal mushrooms are some of my favorites that I have been using in my practice for many years to help with immune support, kidney and adrenal support, energy support, and brain support.

Reishi

Reishi is probably the one mushroom that I use the most in my practice. It has been a part of Chinese medicine and in healing practices in the far east for over 4,000 years. It's used as a longevity herb for energy support, endurance, kidney, adrenal, and liver support. It has been used for upper respiratory issues and stomach issues. It has been used for seasonal allergy support and as an antihistamine. It has a wide range of anti-microbial support, acting as an antagonist to certain malevolent bacterial strains, viruses, fungus, and mycotoxins.

Reishi mushrooms have anti-inflammatory effects and can help with healing from musculoskeletal issues. It has been researched to have anti-tumor effects and has been studied to work synergistically with chemotherapy agents. It can be helpful for people with caffeine sensitivity and has been shown to lower elevated cholesterol levels and raise HDL levels.

Lion's Mane

Lion's Mane is another favorite mushroom that I use in my practice. The most researched of its benefits include the effect on brain and nervous system function. It has been researched to expand neurite outgrowth. This is the growth of axons and dendrites from nerve cells. This has been shown to enhance cognitive function and potentially can slow down dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases.

In a Korean study, Lion's mane had an effect on slowing down the progression of leukemia. Research on Lion's mane and cancer is very promising. Lion's mane is beneficial to the heart and circulatory health, acts as an anti-inflammatory, may help with digestion, may improve mental health and well-being, balances blood sugar, and enhances immune function.

Cordyceps

Cordyceps is a fascinating mushroom. It is a parasitic fungus that grows in and through its host, usually on insects like caterpillars and ants. Cordycepin is a bioactive compound that affects energy and endurance for some that consume it. Cordyceps increases blood flow, increases ATP production, and decreases oxidative stress in the body. It can be very helpful for recovery from athletic performance and workouts. In addition, it helps the immune system by balancing Interleukin-10.

Turkey Tail

Turkey Tail is a great mushroom to help with T cell proliferation, which increases the ability of the immune system to destroy invaders. Another interesting quality of this mushroom is that it has been observed to modulate pain. It specifically has an action on the Cb2 receptors and up-regulates certain endorphins to decrease pain.

Shiitake

Shiitake contains alpha and beta-glucans, which help to enhance CD4 and CD8 T cells. Shiitake increases secretory IgA, which helps with the enhancement of mucosal immunity. Shiitake has been shown to have a direct impact on CRP levels. CRP is a blood marker indicating overall inflammation in the body. Ideally, CRP is below one in blood work.

Chaga

Chaga is a mushroom that has been used extensively in Russia and Siberia since the 1500s. It grows specifically on birch trees. Betulinic acids and betulin are metabolized by Chaga, which it gets from the birch bark from which it grows on. These have free radical scavenging attributes and can decrease oxidative damage in our cells.

Some of us may do well with supplementing certain mushrooms, while others may not benefit based on our genetic profiles and constitutions. Muscle testing is a great way to determine which, if any, can be helpful support.

 

 

Dr. Louis Granirer is a leading NY Holistic Chiropractor. Learn more about natural modalities and remedies by visiting his website at https://www.holisticchiropracticcenter.com