Functional mushrooms, also known as medicinal mushrooms, have gained significant popularity in recent years as health-conscious individuals seek natural remedies and supplements to improve their well-being. These unique fungi are believed to possess healing properties and offer nutritional benefits without the psychoactive effects associated with "magic" mushrooms. As a result, more and more people are turning to functional mushrooms as health supplements. In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of functional mushrooms, their potential benefits, and the specific characteristics of some popular varieties.

Ancient Wisdom and Modern Research

While functional mushrooms have a long history of use in traditional cultures across Asia, Europe, and North America, scientific research on their medicinal properties is still limited. Although anecdotal evidence and traditional knowledge support the therapeutic potential of functional mushrooms, rigorous human studies are scarce. Nonetheless, ongoing research aims to uncover the true medicinal value of these fungi.
 

Benefits of Medicinal Mushrooms
 

Lion’s Mane: Enhancing Brain Function
Scientific Name: Hericium erinaceus

Primary Health Benefit: Supports optimal brain health

Lion’s Mane is packed with vital compounds, including beta-glucans, which possess anti-tumor properties, immune-regulating antioxidants, and neuroprotective chemicals. These compounds play a crucial role in safeguarding against oxidative stress, which is closely linked to the development of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The presence of certain compounds like hericenones and erinacines in Hericium erinaceus can induce the synthesis of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) in nerve cells, making Lion's Mane an excellent ally for nerve development and function due to its neurotrophic factors.

Historical Medicinal Usage

Lion's Mane, also known as Hericium erinaceus, is a visually striking mushroom with long, cascading spines resembling a waterfall. It grows on the trunks of hardwood trees in Northern forests and has been utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years, gaining recognition for its positive impact on cognitive function.

Reishi: The Immortality Mushroom
Scientific Name: Ganoderma lingzhi

Primary Health Benefit: Promotes quality sleep and strengthens the immune system

Reishi mushroom contains polysaccharides that play a significant role in supporting immune functions when consumed consistently. It is also renowned for improving sleep, reducing stress and fatigue*. Furthermore, Reishi aids in combating liver and kidney diseases and possesses antitumorigenic properties.

Historical and Medicinal Uses

For approximately 2000 years, Reishi, or Ganoderma lingzhi, has been employed for its medicinal properties. Taoist monks in China used it to promote tranquility and enhance their meditative practices. Chinese royalty, who sought longevity, held Reishi, also known as "the mushroom of immortality," in high regard. It was considered the most cherished among superior herbs known to prolong life, prevent aging, enhance qi, and promote lightness in the body.

Chaga: Not Your Typical Mushroom
Scientific Name: Inonotus Obliquus

Primary Health Benefit: Supports digestion and promotes clear skin

Chaga is among the most potent antioxidants in the world, boosting immune function, liver health, brain health, and longevity.

Medicinal and Historical Uses

Chaga, or Inonotus obliquus, often referred to as a mushroom, is actually a highly prized sclerotium or woody canker that grows in cold regions of the Northern Hemisphere on birch trees. Its use as a tea to treat stomach ailments originated in Russia around the 16th century. Chaga gained further attention after Alexander Solzhenitsyn's book, Cancer Ward, highlighted its healing properties in 1966. Since Chaga primarily grows on birch trees, the sclerotium contains a significant amount of wood fiber rather than mycelium, leading to the incorporation of medicinal compounds from birch, such as betulin and betulinic acid. The outer black layer of the canker contains abundant melanin, which offers benefits for the skin.
Until recently, Chaga could not be cultivated, but now, in Finland, birch trees are inoculated with this fungus. Lab-cultivated Chaga does not develop into a sclerotium, and as it grows on grain rather than birch, it lacks the important medicinal compounds derived from the tree.

Cordyceps: The Caterpillar Fungus 
Scientific Name: Cordyceps Militaris

Primary Health Benefit: Enhances lung capacity and boosts energy levels

Cordyceps is an extraordinary immune-boosting mushroom that increases the number of NK (natural killer) cells responsible for protecting the body against bacteria and viruses. It is also believed to enhance physical performance by boosting the production of ATP, which provides energy to muscle cells.

Historical and Medicinal Uses

Cordyceps has long been regarded as a precious remedy in ancient Chinese and Tibetan medicine. With hundreds of different species, Cordyceps is a parasitic fungus that preys on insects. Traditional healers recognized its power as a potent tonic, improving energy, appetite, stamina, and endurance. Cordyceps sinensis, the most well-known species, is a rare combination of a caterpillar and a mushroom found at high altitudes in the Himalayan Plateau. For a long time, it was challenging to cultivate this mushroom, resulting in high demand and limited supply. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the products claiming to contain Cordyceps sinensis in the North American market, as wild Cordyceps sinensis rarely makes it there. Most Cordyceps products grown in North America are myceliated grain, which contains a lower amount of mycelium and reduced levels of beneficial polysaccharides like beta-glucans found in the cell wall.

Consumption Methods and Considerations

Functional mushrooms are available in various forms, including powders, capsules, extracts, tinctures, and even incorporated into foods and beverages. The choice of consumption method depends on personal preference and desired effects. However, it's essential to select reputable brands that prioritize quality, source their mushrooms responsibly, and employ rigorous testing to ensure purity and potency.

It's important to note that functional mushrooms are generally considered safe for consumption, with minimal side effects reported. However, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking medications should consult their healthcare provider before incorporating functional mushrooms into their regimen. Additionally, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should exercise caution and seek medical advice before using functional mushroom products.

In conclusion, functional mushrooms offer a fascinating world of potential health benefits and wellness support. While more research is needed to fully understand their mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential, their long history of traditional use and anecdotal evidence suggest that they are worth exploring. Whether seeking cognitive enhancement, immune system support, or other health benefits, functional mushrooms present a natural and holistic approach to optimal wellness.

Source:
https://www.soulmeetsbodycoach.com/7-medicinal-benefits-of-mushrooms/
https://www.insider.com/what-functional-mushrooms-do-reishi-chaga-lions-mane-turkey-tail-2022-4#:~:text=Functional%20mushrooms%20include%20lion's%20mane,more%20human%20testing%20is%20needed.
https://www.hyperionherbs.com/blogs/news/key-differences-between-lions-mane-reishi-cordyceps-chaga