Try these Five Medicinal Mushrooms to Boost Immunity
Mushrooms are nature’s miniature pharmaceutical factories and have been used by our ancestors as medicine for thousands of years (1). You guys know how big I am on ancestral nutrition and functional foods, so let’s talk all things fungus today! It is very probable your ancestors were including mushrooms in their diets.
Medicinal mushrooms are a kingdom of fungi found in various parts of the world that have been used to support health through their immunomodulatory properties (2). They are thought to possess approximately 130 medicinal functions, including antitumor, antioxidant, radical scavenging, cardiovascular, anti-hypercholesterolemic, antiviral, antibacterial, antiparasitic, antifungal, detoxification, hepatoprotective, and antidiabetic effects (3).
There are a variety of ways mushrooms support immune health. Certain mushrooms may positively influence the gut microbiota, improving protection against pathogens (4). Several mushrooms have been shown to support immune health by enhancing the innate and adaptive immune responses (5) while others may suppress the immune response, thereby exerting anti-allergic effects (6).
I’ll regularly run the GI Map test on my clients and look for a marker called “secretory IgA” (sigA). Oftentimes, during prolonged periods of stress SigA plummets. As SigA is a measure of immune system function, we really don’t want to see low levels in the gut. I’ll recommend adding mushrooms to the diet when I see low SigA. Oftentimes, clients tell me that they enjoy the taste and even texture of mushrooms and they are excited to add them to their diet. But if eating mushrooms in a soup or salad is not your jam, you can try one of theses yummy mushroom powders in your coffee or tea.
Let’s explore 5 medicinal mushrooms and the benefits each boasts when it comes to your immune system!
REISHI
Reishi mushroom is a fungus that holds an important place in the traditional medical systems of China, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries for its health-promoting effects. It is used to increase strength and stamina, boost the immune system, and lower cholesterol (7). It also has adaptogenic properties that can help manage stress, improve sleep, and lessen fatigue.
LION’S MANE
Lion’s mane, like the other species of functional mushrooms, contains diverse phytochemicals, including polysaccharides, such as beta-glucans, a prebiotic fiber, and digestive enzymes that support immune health and promote healthy gut flora (8). Lion’s mane also contains a broad range of naturally occurring bioactive compounds, known for their cognitive health benefits (9). The beta-glucans in Lion’s Mane is one of the compouds that helps raise SigA, and therefore immunity (one more study!).
CORDYCEPS
For hundreds of years, Cordyceps has been utilized in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a tonic to treat several conditions such as respiratory diseases, liver or renal problems, hyperglycemia, and cancer or tumor disorders (10).
Cordyceps contains different compounds with the ability to strengthen the response of the immune system and also to control its over-response, like in autoimmune disorders (11).
This medicinal mushroom has been utilized to enhance energy and endurance, improve aerobic capacity, and boost cellular immunity (12).
CHAGA
A healing plant of renowned value throughout the world, Chaga is thought to be a potent immune-stimulating medicinal mushroom* (13).
Chaga helps fight inflammation due to its high level of antioxidants, helps reduce blood sugar levels, improves insulin resistance, and studies have even shown the potential to slow the growth of cancer cells (14).
*Chaga is not a mushroom (fruiting body) but a dense sterile mass of decayed bits of birch tissue with mycelia incorporated. Now you have a cool new piece of cocktail party information!
TURKEY TAIL
One of the most researched of all functional mushrooms, turkey tail is in a class of its own.
Packed with antioxidants, this mushroom promotes immune system health by helping to manage inflammation and by stimulating the release of immune-supportive compounds. It’s also rich in prebiotics, which helps nourish the beneficial bacteria in the gut and assist in the restoration of a balance of good flora in the gastrointestinal tract, supporting improved digestion and healthy immune response (15).
As you can see, incorporating any of these five medicinal mushrooms can greatly support your immune system and overall health! All of these functional mushrooms are edible, culinary mushrooms but are often taken as supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, extracts, powders, or teas.
Even plain old white mushrooms have health-conferring benefits. Try my Balsamic Butter Mushrooms over a rare rib-eye steak!
