Which Mushrooms are Best?
When it comes to mushrooms, not all are created equal. Of the over 10,000 different mushroom varieties, only a handful have substantial research supporting health benefits. Below are the ones we feel can give you real results.
The fungus has a mechanism that helps to protect its DNA from damage, giving it one of the most stable genomes in the natural world!
CHAGA
Chaga has been used for centuries throughout the world to help boost immunity. White blood cells are the immune systems first line of defense. Studies have shown that the Chaga mushroom regulates a protein known as cytokines, which stimulates white blood cells’ production.22 This antioxidant-rich mushroom contains high amounts of zinc, which help the immune system combat bacteria and viruses.23
The psychedelic drug psilocybin – found in “magic mushrooms” performed just as well as a widely used antidepressant in easing the symptoms of major depression, and outperformed the common prescription medication on a range of secondary measures
LION’S MANE
Lion’s mane is a large, white mushroom, that as it grows, has a shaggy appearance that resembles a lion’s mane. Studies have demonstrated that lion’s mane helps increase Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) levels, which protects us against degenerative brain diseases that contribute to memory loss.17 While lion’s mane is best known for improving memory and concentration, studies show it can reduce irritability and anxiety.18,19 Several studies have also indicated that lion’s mane has immune-boosting benefits. Harmful pathogens enter the body through the mouth or nose as we breathe in. Lion’s mane can bolster our defenses by helping to stimulate gut bacteria to trigger the immune system.20,21
Magic Mushrooms May Be the Biggest Advance in Treating Depression Since Prozac!
MAITAKE
Maitake has long been hailed in Asia as a mushroom with vast healing properties. The Japanese love this mushroom so much that upon discovering it, they named it Maitake, which means “dancing mushroom” as they were thrilled with its health benefits. Maitake is considered a type of adaptogen. It helps the body achieve optimal balance by suppressing physical and mental stress that you may experience.24 Studies show it can be of benefit to those that suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome.25 Recent studies have shown that Maitake can help activate cells that stimulate the immune system’s natural killer cells and T cells.26,27
REISHI
In a world filled with stress and anxiety, Reishi has become one of the most popular mushrooms to help support a state of calmness. Reishi contains a potent amount of the active compound triterpene, shown in studies to help reduce stress, improve sleep, boost mood, and mental focus.28-30 The triterpene found in Reishi has also been shown in studies to enhance immune system response by helping increase white blood cells’ activity in the form of natural killer cells that fight off infections.31-33
SHIITAKE
Shiitake mushrooms, primarily grown in Japan, are loved worldwide for their superb taste and coveted for thousands of years by those looking to boost longevity and reduce inflammation. What makes shiitake mushrooms so effective is that they are a great source of B vitamins and have antiviral and antibacterial properties.34-36 If you, like many of us, put on a couple of extra pounds during quarantine, you might be pleased to hear that a study published in the Journal of Obesity concluded that shiitake could help reduce and prevent body weight gain and the build-up of fat.37 Even more, a recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that shiitake can help boost immune function, improve cell function, gut immunity, and reduce inflammation.38