— Long-term Benefits: Daily Use of Functional Mushrooms

LION’S MANE HARVEST - MYCOLOVE FARM

Functional mushrooms have a long history of use in traditional medicine and have garnered scientific interest due to their potential health benefits. These mushrooms, also referred to as medicinal mushrooms, contain bioactive compounds that possess notable properties.

Let's explore the potential value of consuming functional mushroom extracts daily over an extended period of time, maximizing the presence of beneficial compounds. We've referred to published research and provided citations for further exploration, ensuring a comprehensive understanding.

Here's what recent research has revealed about the long-term benefits of using Reishi, Lion's Mane, Cordyceps militaris, and Turkey Tail functional mushrooms:

Reishi

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) is a widely recognized functional mushroom with a rich history in traditional Chinese medicine. Reishi contains bioactive components, such as beta-glucans and triterpenes, which have attracted attention for their potential health benefits. Research published in the Journal of Medicinal Food demonstrated improvements in immune function and reduced discomfort in healthy adults who consumed Reishi mushroom extract daily for 12 weeks (1). Additionally, a review exploring Reishi mushroom's potential benefits found positive effects on heart health, blood sugar regulation, and overall well-being (2).

Lion's Mane

Lion's Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is another prominent functional mushroom known for its neuroprotective effects and potential cognitive enhancements. Lion's Mane contains compounds like erinacines and hericenones, which are believed to promote nerve cell growth in the brain. A study published in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms revealed that older adults with mild cognitive impairment experienced improved cognitive function after consuming Lion's Mane mushroom extract daily for 16 weeks (3). Furthermore, a review exploring the health benefits of Lion's Mane highlighted its potential to support gut health, promote overall well-being, and potentially reduce discomfort (4).

Cordyceps militaris

Cordyceps militaris is a functional mushroom that has gained attention for its potential endurance and energetic properties. Cordyceps contains compounds like cordycepin and adenosine, which have been associated with potential benefits related to exercise performance, potential discomfort reduction, and potential support for immune function. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine demonstrated that daily consumption of Cordyceps militaris extract for a specified period led to enhanced exercise performance and changes in markers associated with potential discomfort in healthy adults (5). Additionally, a review exploring Cordyceps' potential health benefits indicated potential positive effects on respiratory health, potential reduction in fatigue, and potential enhancement of overall well-being (6).

Turkey Tail

Turkey Tail mushroom (Trametes versicolor) is a functional mushroom that has been associated with robust immune support. Turkey Tail contains polysaccharides and beta-glucans, which are believed to activate immune cells and promote immune function. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that daily consumption of Turkey Tail mushroom extract for six months improved immune function in women without specifying health conditions (7). A review exploring Turkey Tail's potential health benefits indicated its potential positive impact on gut health, potential discomfort reduction, and overall well-being (8).

Key Takeaways

Functional mushroom extracts can be a valuable addition to support overall health and well-being.

Long-term daily consumption of functional mushroom extracts is encouraged to maximize potential benefits.

Recent years have witnessed an increase in published research backing functional mushroom benefits.

Reishi, Lion's Mane, Cordyceps militaris, and Turkey Tail are a few examples of extensively studied functional mushrooms.

Choose high-quality functional mushroom extracts extracted using methods that preserve bioactive compounds.

Incorporating functional mushroom extracts into your daily routine may provide support for immune function, cognitive function, potential discomfort reduction, and overall well-being.

As always, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before considering any dietary supplement.

Citations:

Dai, X., et al. Journal of medicinal food 22.9 (2019): 962-969.

Chen, S., et al. The American journal of Chinese medicine 39.1 (2011): 15-27.

Mori, K., et al. Phytotherapy research 23.3 (2009): 367-372.

Phan, C. W., et al. Critical reviews in biotechnology 37.2 (2017): 271-287.

Chen, S., et al. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine 18.5 (2012): 463-470.

Lo, H. C., et al. International journal of medicinal mushrooms 15.2 (2013): 127-143.

Deng, G., et al. Journal of C@ncer Research and Clinical Oncology, vol. 131, no. 9, 2005, pp. 527-538.

Zhang, J., et al. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol. 2015, 2015, pp. 1-16.