Mycotherapy: the benefits of adaptogenic fungi

For millennia, the Adaptogenic mushrooms Or psychedelic like the muscimol played a crucial role in traditions medicinal Around the world. Ancient civilizations, from Egypt to China via North America, have recognized the properties healing of these fascinating organizations. Today, interest in mycotherapy, the use of fungi for therapeutic purposes is experiencing a dazzling interest

The points to remember: 

• Improve brain health: memory, concentration, stress
• Beneficial ingredients: polysaccharides, beta-gluca, antioxidants
• Support the immune system
• Potential properties: prevention of dementia and cancer

Examples:
Lion mane: memory, concentration
Reishi: Stress, immune system
Chaga: diseases
Cordycepts: energy during exercise

History and origins of mycotherapy

The use of fungi for medicinal purposes dates back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that medicinal fungi were used in Mesopotamia over 8,000 years ago. In China, mycotherapy has been an integral part of traditional medicine for over 2,000 years. In Europe, the use of medicinal fungi developed in the Middle Ages, in particular to treat infections and inflammatory diseases.

Definition of mycotherapy

Mycotherapy is use of the mushrooms, in different forms, for purposes therapeutics. It aims to prevent, relieve Or heal A variety of diseases and to promote health and well-being in general. Medicinal fungi can be consumed fresh, in the form of food supplements, infusions, decoctions or powders

Adaptogenic medicinal fungi contain many bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, THE triterpenes or the beta-glucan, which have a multitude of health benefits. Their consumption can thus strengthen the immune system, regulate inflammation, combat oxidative stress or even improve cardiovascular health.

What is an adaptogenic fungus?

Adaptogenic mushrooms are a special group of medicinal fungi that have the capacity to help the body adapt to stress and maintain thehomeostasis.

Among the mushrooms adaptogens The best known, we can cite the cordycepts, THE reishi, THE maitake or the shiitake. Everyone has specific virtues, but all share this ability to regulate cortisol levels, stress hormone.

The benefits of medicinal fungi

Thanks to their medicinal properties, adaptogenic fungi offer many health benefits:

Stress management

In Regulating cortisol, adaptogenic mushrooms make it possible to better manage the stress and its harmful effects on the body. They thus help to preserve the balance hormonal and maintain good physical and mental health.

Immune strengthening

Some mushrooms such as the reishi, THE maitake and the shiitake are recognized for their virtue immunostimulants. They stimulate the production of immune cells, thus strengthening the body's defenses.

Anti-inflammatory properties

Due to their powerful antioxidant properties, adaptogenic fungi can help reduce inflammation chronic, a risk factor for many diseases.

Cardiovascular benefits

Several studies have shown that regular consumption of adaptogenic fungi may have positive effects on the Heart health and blood vessels.

Mushroom bioactive compounds

Medicinal fungi are rich in a variety of bioactive compounds which contribute to their healing properties. These compounds include:

• Beta-glucan: Stimulate the immune system and fight infections.
• Triterpenes: Have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer properties.
• Polysaccharides: Regulate blood sugar and improve intestinal health.
• Minerals: Bring essential nutrients such as zinc, selenium and Germanium.
• Vitamins: Rich in B vitamins, especially the B12, essential for the nervous system.

Top 4 famous adaptogenic mushrooms

1. Cordycepts: Known to improve physical endurance and sporting performance, it is also used to support pulmonary function and kidney health.
2. Reishi (Ganoderma Lucidum): Venerated in traditional Chinese medicine for its anti-aging and fortifying properties, it is used to strengthen the immune system, manage stress and improve sleep.
3. Maitake (Grifola Frondosa): Nicknamed "dancing fungus" in Japan, it is known for its immunostimulant properties and its action on blood sugar.
4. Shiitake (Lentinula Edodes): Popular in Asian cuisine, this fungus has antibacterial and antiviral properties and contributes to cardiovascular health.

Scientific Studies

Here are some scientific studies on mycotherapy:

Mushroom Polysaccharide-Assiedized Anticarcinogenic Mycotherapy: Reviewing its Clinical Trials (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc9267963/)

This review examines clinical trials on the use of mushroom polysaccharides as anti -cancer agents. The authors conclude that polysaccharides mushrooms have the potential to be a therapy anticancer Effective and safe, with few side effects.

Lentinan for the Treatment of Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials (https://karger.com/lic/article/doi/10.1159/000535514/870418/a-multiceter-phase-2-trial-evaluating-the)

This meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials revealed that the lentinan, A polysaccharide derived from the fungus Shiitake, improved the overall survival of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma patients.

Ergothioneine in mycotherapy: a review of its therapeutic potential (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc9221166/)

This review examines evidence of potential therapeutic of ergothionein, an amino acid derived from certain fungi, for the treatment of various diseases, including Neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Ganoderma Lucidum Polysaccharides on Immune Cells (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31777013/)

This study examines the effects immunomodulators of the polysaccharides of Ganoderma lucidum, a traditional medicinal fungus, on immune cells. The authors found that Ganoderma Lucidum polysaccharides could improve the function of immune cells and have Anti-inflammatory effects.

Antimicrobial Activity of Extracts from culinary-medicinal mushrooms (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc6398037/)

This study examines Antimicrobial activity Extracts from edible and medicinal mushrooms. The authors found that the extracts of fungi had an antimicrobial activity against a wide range of bacteria and pathogenic fungi.

How to undertake a mycotherapy?

• Costs, seasonal, for culinary preparations
• In the form of Food supplements (capsules, oral oils)
• In infusions or decoctions based on dried mushrooms
• Powdered, to be added to drinks or foods
• In the form of chocolates or handcrafted candies

It is important to have a good knowledge of mycotherapy to integrate it in a complementary manner in conventional medicine, in a healthy and balanced lifestyle

What are the side effects of the consumption of medicinal fungi

Here are the main points concerning the possible side effects of the consumption of medicinal fungi:

• In general, food supplements based on medicinal fungi are considered safe and well tolerated.
• However, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before integrating medicinal fungi into his diet, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or if you suffer from specific medical conditions.
• Although rare, some potential side effects may include gastrointestinal disorders (nausea, diarrhea, etc.) or allergic reactions in sensitive people.
• It is important to respect the recommended doses and not to exceed the recommended consumption, in order to avoid any risk.
• If you are undergoing medical treatment, medicinal fungi like Reishi can interact with certain drugs, hence the need to consult a healthcare professional before any use.

Good knowledge of mycotherapy is essential for optimal and risk -free use.

Conclusion

Mycotherapy opens an exciting field of possibilities to improve your health and well-being. By exploring the powers of medicinal mushrooms, you engage on a path to optimize your health in a natural and holistic manner. Do not hesitate to consult professionals and gradually integrate mycotherapy into your routine to discover all the benefits!

So don't hesitate, let yourself be tempted by mycotherapy!

Source: Adaptogen. (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADADROGEN
Panossian, A., & Wikman, G. (2010). Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System and the Molecular Mechanisms Associated With Their Stress-Protective Activity. Pharmaceuticals, 3 (1), 188-224.
Wasser, S. P. (2011). Current Findings, Future Trends, and Unsolved Problems in Studies of Medicinal Mushrooms. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, 89 (5), 1323-1332.