Fungi facts

Everything you need to know about medicinal mushrooms

Medicinal mushrooms are emerging as one of the biggest trends in natural health, but they have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. From supporting immunity to helping the body adapt to stress, these fascinating fungi are packed with potential health benefits.

Beneficial compounds are found throughout the mushroom. This includes the mycelium, a network of fine, thread-like structures that grows within the substrate, as well as the fruiting body, which is the visible part above ground.

The ancient Greeks believed mushrooms gave strength to warriors, while the Romans referred to them as the “Food of the Gods”.

Cordyceps (Ophiocordyceps sinensis/militaris) is commonly associated with energy and performance, with research investigating its potential role in exercise capacity and fatigue.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a dark, woody mushroom that contains antioxidant compounds and is often discussed in relation to oxidative stress.

Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) takes its name from its long, white, hair-like spines. Early research has explored its potential role in cognitive function and nerve health, although further studies are needed.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), often referred to as the “mushroom of immortality”, has been widely studied for its potential effects on immune function and the body’s stress response.

Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor) is a source of beta-glucans and is among the most researched mushrooms in relation to immune function, particularly alongside conventional medical treatments.

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) is widely used in cooking as well as supplements, and contains compounds that have been investigated for their potential effects on immune and heart health.

Medicinal mushrooms are available in a variety of formats, including powders that can be added to smoothies, juices or porridge; capsules for convenience; and teas inspired by more traditional methods of use.

Mushrooms contain polysaccharides that are being explored for their potential prebiotic effects, meaning that they may play a role in supporting beneficial gut bacteria.

Mushrooms such as reishi and shiitake contain beta-glucans, a type of dietary fibre that has been widely researched for its role in immune function.

Did you know? Mushrooms aren’t actually plants. They belong to the fungi kingdom and are more closely related to animals than plants.

Some mushrooms, including reishi and cordyceps, are described as adaptogens in traditional practice, a term used for substances that may help the body to respond to stress.

While some varieties are valued for their flavour, medicinal mushrooms are often used for their bioactive compounds, including beta-glucans, polysaccharides and antioxidants.

More than 200 mushroom species have been studied for their potential medicinal properties.

When exposed to sunlight or UV light, mushrooms can produce vitamin D, making them one of the few non-animal food sources of this nutrient.

Mushrooms provide antioxidant compounds, which are being investigated for their role in protecting against oxidative stress, a process linked to ageing and chronic disease. Researchers are continuing to explore how these compounds may influence inflammation and other key cellular processes.

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