Forty different species of these mushrooms exist, including the American oyster, also known as Pleurotus Ostreatus. The best part? All these species are edible, and you’ll find them in dishes like stir-fries and pasta.
Additionally, they’re known to contain potent compounds with impressive health-promoting properties. In fact, oyster mushrooms have been a part of traditional medicines for centuries.
Let’s discuss oyster mushrooms in detail!
Pleurotus Ostreatus(Oyster mushrooms), also referred to as hiratake and oyster fungus, are edible fungi. They were introduced into the market during the First World War and were grown in Germany as food.
So, what do oyster mushrooms look like? The name “oyster mushrooms” comes from the color and shape of the mushroom caps that resemble oysters.
The top part may vary in color, from light brown to dark brown to white-grey. On the other hand, the gills and flesh range from white to cream and have a firm texture. Another interesting fact about oyster mushrooms is that they’re carnivorous mushrooms. They consume nematodes, bacteria, and rotting wood.
Oyster mushrooms are associated with several health benefits. These benefits include:
These mushrooms have many minerals, vitamins, fiber, and other essential nutrients. In addition, they’re low in carbs and are ideal for individuals following a low-carb dietary pattern. Oyster mushrooms also contain small amounts of selenium and vitamin D.
Oyster mushrooms have antioxidants that help reduce the damage to cells in the body. For instance, seven phenolic compounds, including naringenin, chlorogenic acid, and gallic acid, act as antioxidants once you consume the mushrooms.
Pleurotus Ostreatus contains several compounds that promote heart health, such as beta-glucans. They help reduce the risk factors associated with heart diseases, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol.
In addition to keeping your heart healthy, oyster mushrooms may help regulate your blood sugar levels. Studies on people with and without diabetes discovered that mushrooms might improve the levels of your blood sugar and other health aspects when consumed as part of your diet or as a supplement.
Oyster mushrooms may help improve your immune system in different ways. For instance, pleuran(a type of beta-glucan) has immune-modulating characteristics. Also, these mushrooms may boast antibacterial and antiviral effects.
However, there’s a need for further studies focusing on the immunity-promoting capabilities of the whole oyster mushroom and not just supplements and extracts.
In addition to the above list, here are other possible benefits of oyster mushrooms:
These mushrooms grow in the temperate and subtropical forests of the world on trees or around them. Also, as wood decomposers, you’ll find them growing on dead trees and logs. Oyster mushrooms tend to prefer deciduous trees, especially beech and oak.
Leafy, open forests make these mushrooms happy and thrive in the shade.
Oyster mushrooms are simple to prepare. They’re a great addition to soups, stews, sauces, and stir-fries, or you may use them as a pizza topping. In addition, they make a great side dish due to their subtle taste.
Add the mushrooms without the stems to a skillet or pan with a few tablespoons of spices like thyme, pepper, garlic, and a few tablespoons of olive oil or butter. When preparing these mushrooms, preserve the velvety texture by ensuring they don’t absorb much moisture. Dry them using a paper towel once you wash them.
If you’re stir-frying them, saute the mushrooms first, then add all the other ingredients, including spices like garlic. It keeps them from getting soggy. Also, ensure you don’t overcook them.
Cleaning mushrooms doesn’t always have to involve water. They’re porous and act like sponges, sucking in as much water as possible. The sogginess makes it difficult for them to get crispy as you cook them.
With that information in mind, here’s how to clean your oyster mushrooms before cooking them:
Oyster mushrooms are among the easiest mushrooms to grow. Here’s how you can grow them at home:
First, you need to determine the oyster mushroom you want to grow. In this case, it’s the pearl oyster mushroom, also known as grey oyster mushroom or winter oyster mushroom.
The substrate provides a nutrient-dense food source devoid of micro-organisms competing for resources with mushroom mycelium. Coffee grounds, sawdust pellets, cardboard, and straw are some easy substrates to use.
Adding the mushroom spawn to the prepared substrate is the inoculation process. Before mixing, use a cleaning spray to wipe all the work surfaces and clean your hands with soap.
The incubation process is where all the magic begins. Pearl oyster mushroom spawns grow and spread out in the substrate as they await the final fruiting process. These spawns come to life in humid and warm conditions and eat their way across the food provided.
Once you notice that the bag has turned white, it’s time for fruiting. Also, be sure to watch out for green or blue mold.
After all your input, it’s time to reap your reward. Mushrooms in the wild grow in response to stressful situations like environmental changes or running out of food. You should replicate the same in your home garden. Plus, you have to provide optimal conditions for these mushrooms to develop.
Once the mushroom cap edges begin to flatten out while turning upwards, your mushrooms are ready for harvest before they start dropping many spores. This stage can be challenging to know the first time you’re doing it, but you get the hang of things in due time.
Oyster mushrooms have a subtle seafood taste with a hint of anise and a faint earthy after-taste. They have a mild flavor that may taste like button mushrooms when eaten raw.
Oyster mushrooms, like other mushrooms, don’t maintain their flavor and texture for too long. Here’s what you need to do to keep them fresh:
In addition to their high nutritional value, oyster mushrooms have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, promote good immunity and heart health, and encourage healthy blood sugars.
There are six types of true oyster mushrooms, and they vary dramatically in appearance.
The Jack-o-lantern mushroom is a poisonous mushroom that can easily be mistaken for an oyster mushroom. Jack-o-lantern mushrooms resemble oyster mushrooms, and they also grow on wood.
Luckily, it’s easy to establish whether oyster mushrooms are bad. They look darker in color with a wet and slimy surface.
Oyster mushrooms come attached to the same central stem. You can eat both the cap and stem and use them both in cooking or eat them raw.
Depending on your location, oyster mushrooms can be a challenge to find. Asian supermarkets almost always stock these mushrooms, as well as natural food vendors. Thus, if you live in an area with a high population of Asians, the neighborhood food vendors may also stock oyster mushrooms. You can also grow oyster mushrooms at home in a grow kit.
Oyster mushrooms possess various health benefits. In addition to their nutritional value, they promote immune system and heart health, promote anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and encourage healthy blood sugar levels. Add these mushrooms to your omelets, stews, and pasta.
You can find oyster mushrooms in the wild. Alternatively, if you’re interested in growing oyster mushrooms at home, we have a Mushroom Growing Kit to get you started. You don’t need any previous experience.
]]>Orange to reddish-brown in color and fun-shaped, the Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma Lucidum) is a rare find and was reserved for royalty in the Asian cultures many years ago. Today, the Reishi mushroom is commercially grown and sold in different products such as energy bars, beauty products, hot cocoa, tinctures, tea, capsules, and powder supplements.
So, why are these mushrooms suddenly sold everywhere?
They're a great supplement that stimulates liver function and the immune system producing much-needed anti-inflammatory properties. Also, they're known to inhibit tumor growth.
Keep reading to learn more about what research says about Reishi mushrooms, the benefits, dosage, and more.
The Reishi mushroom is a fungus that thrives in the hot and humid parts of Asia. It’s also known as lingzhi or Ganoderma lucidum. For thousands of years, the fungus has played a crucial role in Eastern medicine.
Within these mushrooms, you'll find molecules such as peptidoglycans, polysaccharides, and triterpenoids responsible for the mushroom's health benefits. While you may eat the mushrooms fresh, you may also opt to use the powdered form or extracts with specific molecules, such as capsules.
Whether you wish to choose one over the other or try both, these mushrooms have numerous advantages. Chaga is an anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and potent antioxidant.
On the other hand, Reishi mushrooms boost immunity, balance mood, and are a stress reliever. If you wish to grow your Reishi mushrooms, you can take advantage of our ready to fruit grow kit for your tinctures and teas.
Below are some of the scientifically studied health benefits of Reishi mushrooms:
One of the most critical effects of this mushroom is its ability to boost the immune system. While it might not be apparent, Ganoderma lucidum affects the white blood cell genes. Additionally, some forms of Ganoderma lucidum may alter the white blood cell inflammation pathways.
Reishi mushrooms help fight cancer and infections, and the immune-boosting ability is particularly evident in ill patients.
Many people appreciate this fungus due to its anti-cancer potential. In addition, some studies show that it can cause the death of cancer cells. In a specific study, around 59% of 4000 breast cancer survivors had consumed Ganoderma lucidum.
Research revealed that treatment using Reishi mushrooms for one year decreased the size and number of tumors in large intestines. However, more Reishi mushroom treatment information is necessary before certification as part of the standard cancer therapy.
Reishi mushrooms improve the quality of life by reducing depression and fatigue. Studies show that Reishi may decrease anxiety and irritability, headaches, dizziness, pains, and aches.
In a 12-week study, some people showed an increase in good cholesterol and decreased triglycerides. However, the case might not be the same in healthy adults who showed no improvement in reducing factors contributing to heart diseases.
Several studies indicate that some of the molecules found in Reishi mushrooms decrease blood sugar levels. However, most research outcomes are yet to support this benefit. Therefore, there's a need for more research to substantiate these claims.
Certain compounds in Reishi mushrooms may help lower blood pressure levels, according to a study in 2014. They could lower your blood pressure to deadly levels. Thus, if you're taking any blood pressure medication, consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
These mushroom spores improve the liver's ability to rid the body of toxins by promoting the regeneration of liver cells. A healthy liver helps you manage other conditions such as allergies and blood sugar levels.
Some studies indicate that the Reishi mushrooms may have anti-allergy fighting properties and improve the body's oxygen supply.
These are some skin benefits you might enjoy when using Reishi mushrooms. But first, what are the specific properties in Reishi mushrooms that benefit your skin?
Unlike other food supplements, dosage may vary as far as Reishi mushrooms are concerned. The highest doses are in people who consume the mushrooms themselves. In such cases, amounts range between 25 grams to 100 grams, depending on the mushroom size.
Because suggested doses may vary, it's crucial to know the correct amount given the form you're taking the Reishi mushroom. Health Canada, however, does have guidelines on Reshi dosage based on different methods of preparation. These recommendations are as follows:
Method of Preparation |
Uses or Purpose |
Doses (grams)/day |
Dry, Powder, Non-Standardized Ethanolic Extracts (Dry extract, Tincture, Fluid Extract) |
Source of antioxidants/fungal polysaccharides |
Not to exceed 6 g of dried cultured mycelium/fruiting body/mycelium per day |
Standardized Ethanolic Extracts (Dry extract, Tincture, Fluid Extract) |
Source of antioxidants/fungal polysaccharides |
Not to exceed 6 g of dried cultured mycelium/fruiting body/mycelium per day and 40 % polysaccharides |
Decoction |
Source of antioxidants/fungal polysaccharides |
Not to exceed 15 g of dried cultured mycelium/fruiting body/mycelium per day |
Decoction standardized |
Source of antioxidants/fungal polysaccharides |
Not to exceed 15 g of dried cultured mycelium/fruiting body/mycelium per day and 40 % polysaccharides |
Non-Standardized Ethanolic Extracts (Dry extract, Tincture, Fluid extract) |
Herbal Medicine Immune Support claim |
1.5-6 g of dried cultured mycelium/fruiting body/mycelium per day |
Standardized Ethanolic Extracts (Dry extract, Tincture, Fluid Extract) |
Herbal Medicine Immune Support claim |
1.5-6 g of dried cultured mycelium/fruiting body/mycelium per day and not to exceed 40 % polysaccharides |
Decoction |
Herbal Medicine Immune Support claim |
3-15 g of dried cultured mycelium/fruiting body/mycelium per day |
Decoction standardized |
Herbal Medicine Immune Support claim |
3-15 g of dried cultured mycelium/fruiting body/mycelium per day and not to exceed 40 % polysaccharides |
Dry, Powder, Non-Standardized Ethanolic Extracts (Dry extract, Tincture, Fluid Extract) |
Other Herbal Medicine claims/TCM claims |
1.5-6 g of dried cultured mycelium/fruiting body/mycelium per day |
Standardized Ethanolic Extracts (Dry extract, Tincture, Fluid Extract) |
Other Herbal Medicine claims/TCM claims |
1.5-6 g of dried cultured mycelium/fruiting body/mycelium per day and not to exceed 40 % polysaccharides |
Decoction |
Other Herbal Medicine claims/TCM claims |
3-15 g of dried cultured mycelium/fruiting body/mycelium per day |
Decoction standardized |
Other Herbal Medicine claims/TCM claims |
3-15 g of dried cultured mycelium/fruiting body/mycelium per day and not to exceed 40 % polysaccharides |
Some studies don't provide any safety information regarding reishi mushrooms, while others report that several months of intake are safe. Nonetheless, some side effects you may have when taking reishi mushrooms include dizziness, dry mouth, itching, nausea, stomach upset, and rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, quit taking the mushroom and contact your doctor.
No. Reishi mushrooms won't cause any hallucinations or make you feel high.
There are some cases of severe liver damage associated with using Reishi extract. However, in most cases, the extract reduces the presence of the hepatitis B virus in the body and improves liver function.
People who are supposed to avoid Reishi mushrooms include those with low blood pressure, those set to undergo surgery, or if you're breastfeeding. Also, avoid Reishi mushrooms if you're an expectant mother or have a blood disorder. Consult a healthcare practitioner/ health care provider/ health care professional/ doctor/ physician prior use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Reishi mushrooms, also known as the mushroom of immortality, has the most health benefits and is a must-have in your stack of available food options. Ganoderic acids, Beta-glucans, and other nutrients in the mushrooms help protect your immune system.
It's recognized for its antioxidant and anti-aging properties. Additionally, these mushrooms benefit the body with their anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, Reishi mushrooms offer various benefits that enhance the skin's well-being.
Reishi mushrooms help the body produce the right amount of estrogen, which creates the perfect balance of the female hormones. The mushrooms exhibit a positive effect on estrogen.
There are active triterpenes in the mushroom that are known to stimulate NGF (Nerve Growth Factor) production. Moreover, Reishi is also known to sharpen focus and concentration, improve memory, and boost your brainpower.
Reishi possesses anti-cancer potential. It may help with chemopreventive and immunomodulatory effects and alleviates nausea induced by chemotherapy. Additionally, it enhances radiotherapy efficacy and the sensitivity of ovarian cancer cells to cisplatin.
If you're new to consuming Reishi, it might take you up to three weeks to notice any positive effects.
Some studies indicate that reishi mushrooms decrease depression and anxiety. Therefore, this improves your general well-being, especially if you have particular medical issues.
If used regularly, Reishi mushrooms can help improve your quality of sleep. Unlike other melatonin supplements and sedatives, Reishi won't make you drowsy. Instead, it supports calmness and stress management.
Yes, you can take Reishi mushrooms every day. By taking the Reishi mushroom supplements every day, you can enjoy the full range of benefits.
As we've uncovered, Reishi mushrooms have the potential to keep your body at its best. Many people believe that these mushrooms offer some health benefits, such as cancer treatment and the enhancement of the immune system.
However, it's crucial to note that limited evidence supports these claims and their effectiveness. Reishi mushrooms can be harmful if you're pregnant, take certain medications, or have bleeding complications.
Thus, before sampling these mushrooms, you need to talk to a health practitioner about the risks involved – to be safe.
]]>These mushrooms are slowly becoming popular in the western world due to their potential health benefits. Many people use Chaga mushrooms to help combat cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Where do Chaga mushrooms grow? It's interesting to note that the Chaga mushroom, a fungus, grows mainly on birch trees' bark in chilly climates. You can find these mushrooms growing in the geographic areas of Alaska, Northern Canada, Korea, Russia, Northern Europe, and Siberia.
In this article, we will look more into Chaga mushrooms and explore the research as well the effectiveness, possible side effects, dosages, and supplements.
Chaga mushrooms are a fungus with a rock-like appearance. They have high fiber content and low calories. Moreover, these mushrooms don't have your usual mushroom taste. Instead, they have an earthy flavor coupled with a hint of vanilla. Other names referring to Chaga mushrooms include Clinker Polypore, Birch Conk, and Cinder Conk.
What is Chaga good for? This mushroom has beneficial compounds, including:
Additionally, these mushrooms are available in supplement form and can make tea and other infused drinks.
There only exists one type of Chaga mushroom, Inonotus Obliquus. But, we can break the mushroom into three distinct parts:
First, there's the mushroom's outer black layer, the middle dark orange part, and finally, the innermost light orange part. All these parts are essential for medicinal use.
Burl and birch gnarl are tumors found on birch trees considered to be Chaga mushrooms lookalikes. Although they don't contain the same beneficial compounds as Chaga, they're still popular among woodworkers due to their beautiful texture.
Therefore, when looking to identify Chaga, aim to find the gold. That squishy, softer, orange/yellow core containing "fungal lanostances" differentiates it from other lookalikes.
What is Chaga used for? These are some of the questions that run through most people's minds regarding Chaga mushrooms. Chaga mushrooms may offer the following health benefits:
High in antioxidants, the Chaga mushroom helps fight inflammation while boosting your immune system. The antioxidants help reduce inflammation in your gut that may cause irritable bowel syndrome.
A study shows that Chaga mushrooms may help slow cancer cells growth in your body. In the survey, Chaga supplements lead to a 60% reduction in tumor sizes. Another research confirms that it helps prevent cancer cells growth in the liver.
If you have insulin resistance, Type 2 diabetes, or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), Chaga mushroom can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin resistance.
Cells pretreated with Chaga extracts show a good percentage of reduction in DNA fragmentation. Therefore, treatment with Chaga mushroom creates cellular protection against DNA damage caused by H2O2 (Hydrogen Peroxide) treatment.
With its high levels of antioxidants, Chaga mushrooms help lower your cholesterol, reducing the chances of heart disease. Furthermore, a study confirms that Chaga mushrooms help reduce bad cholesterol. Additionally, there's evidence that Chaga increases good cholesterol.
Chaga has powerful antioxidant properties which help detox your body from harmful chemicals and toxic substances. It helps remove toxins from your body by replacing them with healthy minerals including calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These minerals are used to help alkalize the body.
Inflammation is often the result of a weakened liver, and with Chaga being an anti-inflammatory, the mushroom helps to fight against this matter. When an organ or the immune system becomes weakened, it becomes more susceptible to infections. Chaga counters this by stimulating the production of immune cells through its immune-boosting effect. Which helps the body be more invulnerable to harmful viruses and bacteria such as hepatitis.
Additionally, Chaga has a positive effect on oxidative stress which has been found helping those with digestive issues. A study found that when given Chaga extract, the overall oxidative stress found in cells saw a decrease.
A study found on the National Library of Medicine suggests that Chaga helps to boost the accumulation of a molecule called AMPK in the body. AMPK helps to restore and maintain energy. Leaving researchers to hypothesize that this mushroom could help in boosting energy and stamina.
A study found that mice were able to swim for longer periods without fatigue when given a Chaga extract compared to the placebo. Not only did the Chaga help in endurance, but it also decreased fatigue markers such as lactic acid.
Furthermore, muscle and liver glycogen was significantly higher in the mice fed Chaga mushrooms, suggesting that Chaga may be able to slow down glycogen use during exercise, which plays an important role in exercise endurance. Chaga also reduced blood urea nitrogen levels in the mice. Which helped to prevent fatigue.
You will find Chaga mushrooms in herbal tea, capsule, or powder form. And while you may take these options like supplements, Chaga is better absorbed when infused in hot water.
It is recommended that you buy a Chaga mushroom powder with high bioavailability so that it is ready to use straight out of the bottle. At Stay Wyld Organics, we've developed our own proprietary steaming process that ensures that your Chaga is ready-to-use and at its maximum bioavailability.
Remember that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn't regulate the use of supplements. There are, therefore, no set recommendations on the correct dosage of Chaga mushroom supplements.
Accordingly, you need to follow the recommended dosage guideline on the Chaga product of your choice.
Health Canada, however, does have guidelines on Chaga dosage based on different methods of preparation. These recommendations are as follows:
Method of Preparation |
Uses or Purpose |
Doses (grams)/day |
Dry, Powder, Non- Standardized Extracts (Dry extract, Tincture, Fluid Extract, Decoction) |
Source of fungal polysaccharides |
Not to exceed 3.6 g of dried cultured mycelium/ fruiting body/mycelium per day |
Standardized Extracts (Dry extract, Tincture, Fluid Extract, Decoction) |
Source of fungal polysaccharides |
Not to exceed 3.6 g of dried cultured mycelium/ fruiting body/mycelium per day and 40 % polysaccharides |
The use of Chaga mushrooms as medication and supplements carries with it some risks such as:
Because Chaga is too tough and woody for regular recipes, most people prefer to dry it and grind it into fine powder. Consequently, you can add the powder to tea, coffee, or other warm drinks.
If you wish to extract all the beneficial compounds of the Chaga mushroom, you'll need to let it sit in hot water for up to 15 minutes. After simmering your tea, strain it to remove all the Chaga chunks.
Also, remember to consume the tea while still hot. You can sweeten the tea with honey, maple syrup, or sugar. Add milk to the tea for a more traditional tea experience. If there's any leftover tea, you can put it in the fridge for not more than seven days.
Other Chaga preparation methods include alcohol extraction and fermentation. However, the recommendation for these methods is for home use.
It is highly recommended to shop for a Chaga mushroom powder that has been prepared for maximum bioavailability. Stay Wyld Organics’ Chaga Powder is steamed for maximum bioavailability so that it’s ready to use straight out of the bottle. Our proprietary steaming process ensures that your Chaga powder is in a ready-to-take state, and at its maximum level of bioavailability.
FAQs
Chaga mushrooms may have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Accordingly, this makes them an excellent potential remedy for high blood pressure and cancer.
Inonotus Obliquus is a fungus type in the Hymenochaetaceae family. In addition, it's parasitic on trees like birch.
Chaga has compounds that boost immunity, anti-inflammatory components, and high levels of antioxidants. That's why it's sometimes referred to as the "king of medicinal mushrooms."
Frequent consumption of Chaga may cause hypoglycemia (drop in blood sugar levels). Consequently, Chaga can also affect blood clotting. Therefore, avoid using it if you have bleeding disorders.
Chaga contains several nutrients that help boost your health, such as six adrenal-nourishing B vitamins and vitamin D2. Other properties of the Chaga mushroom include fiber, proteins, amino acids, and other minerals such as iron, manganese, calcium, zinc, copper, magnesium, and potassium. Chaga also contains some of the highest antioxidant values of any food on the planet.
Chaga retails between $25 and $70 per pound, depending on whether it's European Chaga or sourced from other places. Dry and ground Chaga costs around $19 per 100 grams.
Chaga mushrooms have an earthy flavor and are slightly bitter. Naturally, they also contain vanillin, the same as the vanilla bean.
Because Chaga mushrooms don't contain psilocybin, unlike other "shrooms," Chaga tea won't make you high or have any psychoactive effects on you. Thus, these mushrooms are safe and legal.
Chaga is the most potent form of natural antibiotic, and it boosts the immune system, reduces cravings for sugar, and increases your energy levels. However, it would be best if you didn't use this mushroom simultaneously with other antibiotics because it isn't safe.
The extract can positively impact discomfort from long-term inflammation like arthritis. Additionally, it helps fight viruses and harmful bacteria.
You can plant Chaga dowels into 4cm holes drilled on a birch tree. One birch tree holds up to 6 planting holes for the dowels.
Chaga mushroom helps ease inflammation and slows cancer cells' progression. Also, it helps lower blood sugar levels and acts as an alternative remedy to high blood pressure.
Yes, Chaga mushroom is good for you because of its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, it helps boost your immunity against other infections.
Unlike other "shrooms," Chaga mushroom isn't psychedelic and, therefore, doesn't make you high. It is legal and safe to consume.
Chaga mushroom extracts may help reduce or prevent certain liver conditions. The extracts may protect the liver tissue from tetra-butyl hydroperoxide, a chemical known to cause liver damage.
Chaga contains triterpene, a mood-boosting compound that helps ease anxiety. In addition, it encourages you to sleep better and alleviate depression.
It's advisable to keep the dose strictly at 1-2 tablespoons a day. Even when the mushroom gives you great results, increasing the dose isn't advisable.
Medicinal mushrooms such as Chaga support restorative sleep; other mushrooms that help sleep include Lion's mane, Cordyceps, and Reishi.
Chaga is an adaptogen, and its consumption or topical application supports overall skin health. In addition, other Chaga benefits for the skin are that it contains a superfood known as kojic acid that keeps your skin hydrated and nourished.
For a long time, Chaga mushrooms have been helpful for their health benefits. They are rich in plenty of antioxidants and other significant compounds. Chaga mushrooms are available as supplements or in tea.
Chaga mushrooms may help improve cholesterol levels, blood sugar, chronic inflammation, improving immunity, and fighting cancer. Still, there's a need for further studies to determine issues such as optimal dosage, side effects, and safety.
If you wish to try using Chaga supplements or tea and have concerns over interactions with other medicines, talk to your health practitioner first.
People have used Cordyceps over the years as a stimulant, an adaptogen, and a tonic. Cordyceps stamina boost makes it an ideal energy enhancer. It is important to note that most of the research on this mushroom is limited to animal or lab studies. That being said, health experts find the fungus' health benefits to be very promising.
Cordyceps Mushrooms are found in two main species- Sinensis and Militaris. Both are known to have similar bioactive components, however, Militaris is known to more tested and concentrated. The main difference between each one is in the concentrations of two compounds: adenosine and cordycepin. Based on studies, Cordyceps Sinensis has more adenosine than Cordyceps Militaris, but no cordycepin.
This article highlights the critical aspects of Cordyceps, according to scientific rediscovery. Read on to learn more about this mushroom and what it can do for you!
Cordyceps is a medicinal mushroom that offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. There are over 400 species of Cordyceps, and the fungus is of high value, with a kilogram going for over $20,000.
This fungus grows by living on certain caterpillars in high mountain areas. When the fungus attacks its host, it replaces the host’s tissue and sprouts slender and long stems that grow on the outer part of the host’s body.
Thankfully, most Cordyceps today are grown by other methods including in labs, plastic bags, and glass jars. In addition to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, this mushroom is used today to help improve immunity, fight cancer cells, shrink tumor size (especially with lung or skin cancers), enhance athletic performance, treat kidney disorders and liver problems, and enhance sexual drive. As mentioned above, scientific research on these benefits is limited.
What is the difference between Cordyceps Sinensis and Cordyceps militaris?
As mentioned above, the difference between the two is dependent on the concentrations of the two compounds adenosine and cordycepin. Cordyceps Sinensis contains more adenosine than Cordyceps Militaris and no cordycepin.
Additionally, Cordyceps Sinensis is an expensive and rare fungus that can’t be grown in the lab, whereas Cordyceps Militaris is a potent commercially cultivated version of Sinensis in a sterile lab.
As an alternative medicine, Cordyceps is a natural energy-boosting mushroom. Proponents of Cordyceps also allude that it helps keep certain health conditions under control, such as respiratory tract diseases, high cholesterol, fatigue, and diabetes.
Moreover, it helps boost athletic performance. Accordingly, as herbal medicine, some specialists believe that Cordyceps slows down aging, increases libido, and its supplements act as growth inhibitors against tumor cells.
Below are six potential benefits of Cordyceps, backed by scientific rediscovery:
There’s an approval for using Cordyceps to treat arrhythmia in China, which causes irregular heartbeats. A study also found minimal heart injuries in mice suffering from chronic kidney disease.
Chronic kidney disease increases the risk of heart failure, so reducing the injuries helps avoid the outcome.
Cordyceps contains a particular sugar type that helps treat type 2 diabetes. Interestingly, Cordyceps helps keep your blood sugar levels healthy by mimicking insulin action.
Cordyceps are growth inhibitors against tumor cells. In some test-tube studies, the Cordyceps supplements are protective of growth inhibitors in tumor cells such as the liver, skin, colon, and lungs.
An animal study shows that Cordyceps extracts are growth inhibitors against tumor cells for lung cancer, melanoma, and lymphoma.
The elderly use Cordyceps for its anti-aging factors and to improve libido. It’s believed that Cordyceps increases antioxidants that have a protective role in fighting cell damage by neutralizing free radicals. These free radicals contribute to aging and diseases.
Cordyceps may increase your body’s ability to produce ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate), essential for energy delivery to the muscles. Accordingly, this helps improve oxygen use, especially during workouts.
According to scientific rediscovery, Cordyceps may have a protective role in fighting body inflammation. Animal research shows that Cordyceps contains a protein that helps reduce inflammation. Thus, it serves as an excellent anti-inflammatory drug or supplement.
Cordyceps Militaris extracts contain potent antioxidants that may help stimulate cells and specific chemicals in the immune system. This can bring a wide range of benefits including protecting your body against heart disease, cancer, and other diseases.
There’s limited animal research regarding Cordyceps; therefore, no consensus on the suitable dosage. However, the typical dosage is between 1000 and 3000 milligrams per day of Cordyceps powder. This dosage is seen as safe and has profound health benefits. But, there’s still a need for more trials on its safety on people.
It’s advisable to first consult your doctor on what dose is suitable for your condition.
Health Canada, however, does have guidelines on Cordyceps dosage based on different methods of preparation. These recommendations are as follows:
Method of Preparation |
Uses or Purpose |
Doses (grams)/day |
Dry, Powder, Non-Standardized Ethanolic Extracts (Dry extract, Tincture, Fluid Extract) |
Source of fungal polysaccharides |
Not to exceed 3 g of dried stroma per day |
Standardized Ethanolic Extracts (Dry extract, Tincture, Fluid Extract) |
Source of fungal polysaccharides |
Not to exceed 3 g of dried stroma per day and 40 % polysaccharides |
Decoction |
Source of antioxidants/fungal polysaccharides |
Not to exceed 9 g of dried stroma per day |
Decoction standardized |
Source of antioxidants/fungal polysaccharides |
Not to exceed 9 g of dried stroma per day and 40 % polysaccharides |
Dry, Powder, Non-Standardized Ethanolic Extracts (Dry extract, Tincture, Fluid Extract) |
TCM claim |
1.5-3 g of dried stroma per day |
Standardized Ethanolic Extracts (Dry extract, Tincture, Fluid Extract) |
TCM claim |
1.5-3 g of dried stroma per day and not to exceed 40 % polysaccharides |
Decoction |
TCM claim |
3-9 g of dried stroma per day |
Decoction standardized |
TCM claim |
3-9 g of dried stroma per day and not to exceed 40 % polysaccharides |
Cordyceps is safe when taken by mouth in doses of 3-6 grams daily for up to one year. However, you might experience mild side effects such as stomach discomfort, constipation, and diarrhea.
This mushroom stimulates both your energy levels and libido. Therefore, it’s suitable for when you’re low on energy, or you need to boost your energy before a workout.
People with blood disorders should avoid Cordyceps because it slows blood clotting. Taking Cordyceps increases the chances of bleeding.
If you take too much Cordyceps, there are increased chances of developing autoimmune diseases. In addition, there’s an increased risk of bleeding for people with blood disorders. It’s, therefore, advisable doses of 3-6 grams daily for up to a year.
Cordyceps may enhance blood flow and help the body utilize oxygen more effectively. This flow is beneficial to those who work out regularly or athletes.
Cordyceps supplements enhance testosterone, and serum LH levels, and improve sperm count. Subsequently, Cordyceps can improve one’s sex drive.
There are high chances that Cordyceps might keep you awake if taken before bedtime. It works as a stimulant and increases energy production, so it’s best not taken before you go to sleep.
Yes, you can take Cordyceps every day for up to one year. It’s best to use the mushroom in the short term due to its adverse side effects.
You’re likely to begin seeing results in as little as one week of using Cordyceps. Also, you’ll experience more benefits with everyday use.
Cordyceps serve as a tonic for soothing lungs and other respiratory diseases. It’s, therefore, recommended for people with asthma and bronchitis.
The best time to take Cordyceps is in the morning. One of its significant benefits is boosting athletic performance and general daytime functioning.
You can take Cordyceps capsules with food or on an empty stomach. Consequently, it would be best to take the capsules at regular intervals for maximum results.
Cordyceps is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine that has been there for centuries and treats different ailments. Though there are positive reviews on its use, there are minimal clinical trials on its impact on humans.
Nevertheless, the fungal cells boost your energy levels and improve oxygen use when exercising. There’s no consensus regarding the required dosage for maximum benefits or how safe it is for use.
Therefore, when taking Cordyceps supplements, ensure they pass the quality and purity test.
Turkey Tail mushrooms have been used to improve response to radiation and cancer medicines. In addition, these medicinal mushrooms are necessary for treating UTIs, fatigue, muscle strength, and other conditions. However, due to the high cost of clinical studies, there’s limited scientific evidence to support the various uses and it is advised you consult your doctor before taking the mushrooms or supplements.
Continue reading to learn more about the medicinal benefits of Turkey Tail mushrooms:
Trametes Versicolor is a variety of mushrooms used for their medicinal properties originally in Asia and now around the globe by Naturopaths and Doctors of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Also known as Coriolus Versicolor or Trametes Versicolor, the mushrooms get the name due to their pattern that resembles a turkey tail.
The Turkey Tail mushroom grows in woodland environments on dead logs, and it’s a bracket fungi type, meaning it forms circular and thin leaf-like structures.
Some people describe the taste of Trametes Versicolor or turkey tail medicinal mushrooms as slightly bitter, but not your usual mushroom taste. It’s rather unimpressive and mild when compared to shiitake or reishi.
There’s caution from consuming turkey tail mushroom or Trametes Versicolor extracts in the wild. Instead, it would be best to get your turkey tail mushrooms from a reputable vendor. Once you’ve verified your mushroom source, you may chop the mushrooms and use them to make tea or cook.
Thus, the turkey tail mushroom extracts are available in tea or powder form. Accordingly, you need to follow the dosage instructions strictly. Also, ensure you get purified turkey tail mushrooms or turkey tail supplements from a reliable source.
Turkey tail mushrooms have Polysaccharide Krestin (PSK) and Polysaccharide Peptide (PSP). Thus, some of the supplements contain only these two components, but other times you can use whole mushrooms. Adults primarily use PSK in doses of 3 grams through ingestion every day to a maximum of 36 months.
Alternatively, you can take whole mushrooms in doses of 2.4 grams every day for 12 weeks. Therefore, talk to your healthcare provider to get advice on the best product and dose specifications for your specific condition. For turkey tail mushroom cancer dosage, speak to a specialist.
Here are some of the health benefits of the turkey tail mushroom:
Here’s a six-step process to help you identify the authentic turkey tail mushrooms:
In most healthy adults, turkey tail mushrooms don’t exhibit any side effects. In other cases, some individuals receiving turkey tail extracts (Polysaccharide Krestin) and chemotherapy report liver problems, lower white blood cells, vomiting, and nausea.
You can find turkey tail mushrooms from reputable vendors online in tea, capsules, or powder form. In addition, you’ll need to perform adequate research on the product and the selling company before making your purchase.
Turkey tail mushroom provides you with an array of excellent health benefits. Thus, it contains various powerful antioxidants and other crucial compounds that could help improve the immune system even fight certain types of cancers. In addition, these medicinal mushrooms may help improve the balance in your gut bacteria, which impacts your immunity positively.
It’s important to note that these medicinal mushrooms aren’t psychedelics compared to psilocybin mushrooms. Also, their supplements present great potential in immune-boosting benefits with low risk in side effects in dogs as in human beings.
These mushrooms are edible and generally safe as a food additive or in supplement form, and they have a few side effects. Therefore, take the turkey tail mushrooms in minimal doses to avoid adverse side effects.
Turkey tail mushrooms are safe and have very few side effects. Therefore, consuming these mushrooms in moderate portions doesn’t cause any harm. However, some individuals experience digestive upsets such as dark stool, bloating, and gas.
Turkey tail mushrooms may help you fight cancers such as breast cancer. Therefore, ladies undergoing breast cancer treatment may benefit from turkey tail mushroom extracts. Other cancers that may benefit from turkey tail mushrooms include:
Here are five immune-boosting benefits of turkey tail mushrooms:
Turkey tail mushrooms come with various benefits and are generally safe to take in supplement form or eat, and they have minimal side effects. Therefore, begin by taking the mushrooms in small quantities so that you don’t experience any adverse effects.
If this is the first time you’re taking turkey tail mushrooms, it may take your body up to 3 weeks before you can experience the health benefits. Furthermore, as a new user, you should double the recommended dose to 2 grams every day in the first three weeks because most supplements take time before the body assimilates as they are bioactive.
Turkey tail mushrooms may help support cancer treatment due to their immune-boosting properties. Additionally, they help in maintaining gut health. Nonetheless, the turkey tail mushrooms can’t treat cancer on their own. Instead, they could be an excellent addition to a treatment regimen under the doctor’s approval and supervision.
Therefore, always consult the doctor before using any supplements. The chances are that some of those supplements have adverse side effects and don’t interact well with other medicines.
Accordingly, the turkey tail mushrooms could be a promising natural supplement as an addition to other medical therapies.
]]>Lion’s Mane can be taken in various supplement forms or cooked and eaten when fresh. The taste and texture have been compared to lobster or crab. These medicinal mushrooms contain a chemical component known as polysaccharides which have been shown to be beneficial to the heart, brain, and body. As a natural superfood, Lion's Mane mushrooms fight cancer, build the immune system, aid digestion, and boost cell turnover.
This article looks at how the lion's mane mushroom offers health benefits and how you can incorporate it into your day-to-day regimen.
But first, let's look into some of the basic facts about the mushroom:
Scientifically, the Lion's Mane mushroom is known as Hericium Erinaceus. Other names referring to Lion's Mane include hedgehog mushroom, pom pom mushroom, Japanese Yamabushitake, and the bearded tooth.
All of the weird names above give you a better idea of how the mushroom looks. The mushroom's fruiting body (the part above the ground) is stingy, white, and doesn't resemble any other mushroom.
Additionally, Lion's Mane thrives on trees such as oak and beech during fall and summer. It's native to Europe, Asia, and North America. And while the mushroom is edible and delicious, you're not likely to find it in the grocery store due to its shortened shelf life.
Hericium Erinaceus helps with the following benefits:
Inflammation leads to medical conditions such as autoimmune diseases, heart diseases, and diabetes. Therefore, antioxidants fight both oxidation and inflammation in the body. A study in 2012 showed that Lion's Mane ranked fourth in antioxidant activity.
Antioxidant properties in Hericium Erinaceus may help in preventing or treating cancer. A vitro study shows that Lion's Mane extracts have the potential of fighting off leukemia.
Extracts from Lion's Mane medicinal mushrooms may help treat depression and anxiety. In a study in 2015, there were minimal depressive behaviors for mice that consumed Lion Mane's extracts. Thus, researchers suggest that it could be due to the Hericium Erinaceus anti-inflammatory effects.
Research performed on mice showed that Hericium Erinaceus has the chance to boost intestinal immunity. So, the mushrooms are likely to enhance your immunity, partly by preventing oxidation and reducing inflammation.
The Hericium Erinaceus extract may boost cognitive function, but there's the only evidence in tested animals. In a particular study, the Lion's Mane dietary supplements gave mice better object and memory recognition, improving their overall cognitive function.
One of the ways of managing diabetes is by controlling your blood sugar levels. A study shows that blood sugar levels in diabetic rats went down after the Hericium Erinaceus treatment in four weeks.
Lion's mane mushrooms boast a range of compounds that are believed to enhance various bodily functions. Here's a rundown of some of its potentially beneficial components:
You can find Hericium Erinaceus or Lion's Mane online in the form of lion's Mane capsules, tablets, capsules, and liquid form or jellies.
There's a wide variety of Lion's Mane mushroom jellies and other products, so we advise you to adequately research the company and product.
Lion's Mane appears safe when used in moderate quantities, and its use is rampant in most Asian countries. Animal studies didn't show any adverse effects even in high doses.
For the best quality Hericium Erinaceus, always check labels to confirm that the product is organic and certified to be of the highest quality. Accordingly, the end product should contain low starch levels and high beta-glucan levels.
Also, the tinctures and powders must undergo analytical testing, and there's a guarantee for beneficial compounds. Additionally, the product should contain non-GMO ingredients, and there should be a purity commitment from the manufacturer.
The best way to know you're buying authentic products is to buy from a trusted company.
If you wish to incorporate Lion’s Mane Mushrooms into your diet, you must cook it until the outer layer becomes crispy. Otherwise, you can find supplements online in the form of:
Lion's Mane mushrooms are safe to be eaten raw. You can cook fresh Lion’s Mane mushrooms or take dried Lion’s Mane as a powder or capsule supplement. As mentioned above, many describe the flavor of Lion's mane to be “seafood-like,” often comparing it to crab or lobster.
In the end, there isn't a one-size-fits-all guideline for the best time to consume lion's mane mushrooms or their supplements. The most suitable time hinges on your daily routine and how comfortably you can integrate the supplement. If your goal is to boost mental focus during the day using lion's mane, it might be wise to consume it in the morning or early afternoon to counteract the typical decline in concentration as the day progresses.
There's often a mix-up between functional mushrooms and those with psychoactive properties. Lion's mane (a type of functional mushroom) is not psychoactive. This is because it lacks psilocybin, the compound responsible for the hallucinogenic effects seen in "magic mushrooms."
In the U.S., psilocybin-containing mushrooms remain illegal in most states, although Oregon and Colorado have legalized them at the state level for medicinal purposes.
While consuming functional mushrooms like lion's mane won't result in hallucinations, many users do report noticeable positive changes. A significant number of individuals note feeling rejuvenated and a sense of well-being after consuming lion's mane. This adaptogenic mushroom can also complement spiritual routines, aiding in practices such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness.
Growing Lion’s Mane Mushrooms at home can be easily done with a Lion’s Mane Mushroom growing kit. Instructions are as follows:
There are chances that Hericium Erinaceus may help improve the function and development of nerves. In addition, it also protects nerves from damage. Therefore, it helps prevent particular conditions like Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, memory loss, or anxiety. Furthermore, Hericium Erinaceus protects the stomach's mucous membrane.
Lion's Mane contains compounds such as Hericenones and Erinacines. The two compounds are known to induce the NGF (Nerve Growth Factor) by crossing the blood-brain barrier. Therefore, NGF as a peptide produced by the body is critical for nerve cell survival, maintenance, and growth.
No, Lion's Mane isn't psychoactive and doesn't get you high. However, it's a great supplement that improves your everyday cognition.
It takes Lion's Mane around two weeks to work. Like other medicinal mushrooms or herbal supplements, it takes some time for the beneficial health effects to kick into your system. It'll take around two weeks for you to notice any changes on most occasions.
Lion's Mane has antioxidants that act as a catalyst to energy production in the body. Accordingly, the Lion's Mane mushrooms increase the health of cells by getting rid of unstable molecules from energy-creating cells.
One of the adverse effects of Lion's Mane is that it might cause an allergic reaction. There are documented cases of people experiencing breathing difficulties or skin rashes after consuming Lion's Mane mushrooms. Therefore, it's prudent to avoid Lion's Mane if you have any known mushroom allergies.
Lion's Mane mushrooms and their extracts have significant health benefits. These benefits include helping repair nerve damage, reducing anxiety symptoms, and protecting you against dementia.
In addition, Lion's Mane mushrooms can boost your immunity, works as an antioxidant, and is a potent anti-inflammatory. Also, it's known to reduce risks of animal diabetes, ulcers, cancer, and heart disease.
It's, therefore, safe for people to enjoy Lion's Mane as a food option. Alternatively, if you wish to take Mane mushroom powder or any other supplement, consult the doctor first.
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