Medicinal mushrooms, back to the future

Image by @misshurries

Medicinal mushrooms and Adaptogens although appear to be a ‘coming of age’ new health craze they have actually been used in traditional systems of healing in ancient medicine for thousands of years, specifically in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic medicine. 

Medicinal mushrooms are types of edible mushrooms that have an array of benefits for the human body compared to normal mushrooms and some may even be considered as Adaptogens too. Adaptogens are plant- compounds that have stress-resisting effects whether on a physical, chemical or biological level they are able to reduce the level of cortisol present on the hyper-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis therefore reducing stress in the sympathetic nervous system. 

Medicinal mushrooms can be purchased as liquid extracts or powders and can be added to coffee, tea, soups, raw desserts or anything your heart desires. 

Get creative.

Many are intrigued by the world of medicinal mushrooms, I think it comes from a desire to have the same practices as our ancestors, which unite the mind, body and spirit, brining us a sense of connectedness to nature.

Below we explore the intriguing benefits of an array of varieties of medicinal mushrooms. 

Reishi – Stress and anxiety, best to have at night time as it promotes sleep, boosts immune function. 

Lion’s mane – Boosts cognitive function, enhances focus, reduces stress and ageing, increases oxygen flow into brain and has nootropic effects such as increasing motivation, alertness and memory.

Cordyceps – Beneficial for anxiety, energy levels and burnout, great to consume in the morning for a vital day ahead.  

Chaga – Fights off free radicals which has anti-cancer affects, reduces inflammation, reduces bad cholesterol, beneficial for heart health and ageing.  

Shiitake – inhibits the absorption and production of cholesterol in the liver, healthy circulation and blood pressure. 

Turkey tail – Skin health, increases good gut bacteria, stimulates immune system and has powerful antioxidant effects which reduces ageing.