Transformative Effects of Medicinal Mushrooms: Discovering the Benefits.
Source of Information: FreshCap and The National Library of Medicine
Looking to enhance your energy levels, eliminate brain fog, reduce stress, and bolster your immune system in a natural way? Look no further! Functional mushrooms, also referred to as adaptogenic or medicinal mushrooms, have become a staple of my daily routine and have had a profound impact on my overall health.
While "mushrooms" may seem like a trending buzzword, it is essential to understand the difference between functional and psychedelic mushrooms as these are often confused with one another. There are numerous misconceptions and a lack of knowledge surrounding the topic, which is why I am here to shed some light.
Functional mushrooms are a natural culinary superfood that can aid the body in adapting to stress, boost immunity, and enhance cognitive performance without causing any hallucinogenic or psychedelic effects. It's essential to note that there are various kinds of functional mushrooms, and their benefits are dependent on the specific type:
Common Types of Functional Mushrooms
Lions Mane:
Image Source: FreshCap
Used for digestive issues and immune system improvements.
Shown to improve cognitive function and focus.
Contains active compounds that stimulate the production of Nerve Growth Factor which plays a critical role in supporting the immune system and accelerating wound healing
Known to help reduce stress and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression
Turkey Tail:
Image Source: FreshCap
Known for its ultimate immune defense properties
Has a prebiotic effect and improves overall gut health
Exhibits many anti-viral properties
Cordyceps:
Image Source: FreshCap
Known as the “energy mushroom” due to properties that improve endurance and energy
Combats fatigue and is known to improve sexual health in males
Improves athletic performance and metabolism
Help bolster the immune system in response to viral infections
Chaga:
Image Source: FreshCap
Like all other functional mushrooms, chaga is also packed with immunity-supporting properties
Works as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
Aids in digestion and is beneficial in settling IBS
Reishi:
Image Source: FreshCap
Has been recognized for vitality and longevity for over 2,000 years
Known as the “mushroom of immortality”
Supports the immune system and may aid in inflammation
Ability to foster calmness, relaxation, and support healthy sleep
Maitake:
Image Source: FreshCap
Ability to modulate the immune system.
Can favorably influence the production of insulin
Shown promise in the ability to lower cholesterol, decrease blood pressure, and help maintain or lose weight to benefit the health of the heart
Health Concerns that Mushrooms Have Been Shown to Support in Aiding:
Cancer
The mushroom Maitake contains bioactive polysaccharides that have been studied for a potential aid to cancer patients and the alleviation of the side effects caused by chemotherapy
Turkey Tail contains a polysaccharide known as Krestin which has been shown to support the immune system and alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy
Diabetes
Maitake mushrooms have been known to influence the production of insulin in the body
PCOS
Polysaccharides have shown promise in addressing insulin resistance. According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine, ovulation was observed in 20 of 26 women given Maitake extract, and 6 of 8 women who failed to ovulate after being treated with Clomiphene citrate (which is used for treating infertility) did so after being given Maitake. All three women in the study that expressed an interest in becoming pregnant were able to do so.
Anxiety and Depression
Lions mane is known for reducing stress and improving overall mood which may aid in depression and anxiety.
HIV/Herpes
The use of Turkey Tail has been shown to improve the immune function of patients with HIV and reduce the frequency and inactive herpes virus.
Investing in Quality: Where to Get Functional Mushrooms
Investing in quality when shopping for functional mushroom products is crucial in order to reap the full potential benefits of these superfoods. Mushrooms have a complex root system called “mycelium”, which contains many beneficial compounds. Unfortunately, many mushroom supplements on the market are made with “mycelium on grain”, where the mushroom root system is grown out of a grain mixture. This results in lower-quality products that contain more grain and starch, and fewer beneficial mushroom compounds.
However, my personal go-to brand for high-quality medicinal mushroom supplements is FreshCap. All of their products are ethically sourced, extracted from whole mushroom fruiting bodies without any grain fillers. They grow their mushrooms organically and sustainably, and test for both beneficial compounds and contaminants like heavy metals, microbial contaminants, and pesticides.
One of my favorite products from FreshCap is their Ultimate Mushroom Complex Powder. I add it to my coffee every morning and enjoy its many benefits, such as sustained energy without caffeine crashes, improved focus and productivity, and improved immunity (I have not been sick for months you guys).
Integrity is paramount to me, and I refuse to endorse any product that I haven't personally tried and found to be truly beneficial, even if I am offered monetary incentives to do so. It's becoming increasingly difficult to find reliable sources that genuinely believe in and share products they stand behind, which is why I hope you find my blog a helpful resource in this oversaturated consumer market.
After using FreshCap's products for three months and experiencing their incredible benefits firsthand, I am delighted to share that FreshCap has generously teamed up with me to offer my readers and followers a discount! Simply use the code "AVERY10" at checkout to take advantage of this exclusive offer. By doing so, you'll not only be enhancing your own health and wellness, but you'll also be supporting me and this blog, for which I'm immensely grateful. I truly hope that you, too, will find FreshCap's life-changing benefits as impactful as I have!
