There are so many mushroom products on the market. They are a natural supplement that have had extensive research and are generally well accepted by the medical profession. I like to use them for their anti-cancer and adaptogenic benefits, and I also like to use specific mushrooms for more targeted health protocols.
All medicinal mushrooms have adaptogenic and anti-cancer effects. This can be as a preventative, reducing the risk of cancer through improved immune surveillance against tumour cells or through direct anticancer effects of increased apoptosis or cell death of cancer cells, reduced angiogenesis (blood vessel formation) in tumours or even strong antioxidant effects to reduce the free radical damage that can initiate cancer cell formation.
An adaptogen is a substance that improves the way body deals with stress. This can be physical, emotional or environmental stress. Helping maintain the normal physiology of the body in face of these stressors. Most disease occurs when there is a breakdown in normal physiological function. By using adaptogens we can help to reduce the risk of disease. When there is already a disease process occurring, adaptogens can help to bring our system to a state of homeostasis.
Along with the anticancer effects, each mushroom has its own specific attribute. Much like different herbs are used for different actions on the body.
Here is a basic summary of these attributes.
Chaga
Adaptogen, anticancer, immune booster. Rich in Antioxidants. Supports the cardiovascular system, helping to lower high cholesterol levels and normalising blood pressure. Helps to improve physical endurance.
Lions mane
Cognitive performance and nerve health. An adaptogenic which helps to improve brain function, memory and focus. Supports healthy aging of the brain and nervous system. Lions mane is Neuroprotective and can help to improve regeneration and healing of nerves and nervous tissue.
Reishi
Immune stimulant and immune modulator, hepatoprotective and helps boost liver function, adaptogenic to the nervous system and also helps to regulate blood sugar levels in diabetes. The immunomodulation helps to reduce the overactive immune system in allergies and autoimmune conditions. The anti-cancer effects are through inhibiting the blood vessel growth in tumours and metastasis.
Turkey tail
Is an immune tonic and stimulant, which can help to support the body through cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation and has also shown to increase how effective these treatments can be. Improvements in gut health with prebiotics that nourish and support a healthy microbiome. Improves insulin resistance and reduces fatigue and low energy.
Cordycepts
In addition to its immune modulating effects, it is an adaptogen which helps reduce fatigue, improve stamina and endurance, boosting low libido, improved athleticism and physical energy. A kidney and lung tonic. There is also an endocrine balancing effect.
Tremella
The skin mushroom. High in antioxidants which support healthy skin hydration and collagen integrity. Helps to improve the complexion and tone of the skin and pulls moisture into the skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The antioxidants present in Tremella support the fibroblasts which produce collagen. This would be of great benefit in connective tissue weakness, such as experienced in hernias and prolapses.
This is not an exhaustive list of the mushrooms available. You can also get a nice blend of all of these. This is great for general wellness, cancer prevention and stress management. This can be a good base to start with. If further health support is required for a specific health concern, you can add this individual mushroom into your health protocol.
If you have any questions about Mushrooms and if they can benefit your health, please don’t hesitate to ask one of our practitioners.
