Last week we went through some of the super powers mushrooms possess and this week I’m going to cover some more, especially when it comes to medicinal mushrooms and how we can regularly incorporate these into our diet.
So let’s look at some of the most popular medicinal mushrooms and the magic they hold.
Chaga – Boosts and regulates the immune system, increases the body’s production of antibodies that fight pathogens, stimulates the natural processes that monitor and destroy abnormal cells, protects cells all over the body from free radicals and an anti-inflammatory. Chaga’s antioxidants also lower bad LDL cholesterol levels in the blood, lowering blood pressure and fights cardiovascular disease. Usually a tea but it can be mixed into other kinds of beverages, as well as soups and stews. Try a chaga chai latte!
Reshi – Stimulate the immune system, fights viruses and bacteria, alters the bacteria in the gut, which might help with weight loss and has been proven to be an impressive cancer fighter. Helps treat inflammation, asthma and allergies and has been found to reduce stress, depression symptoms, while increasing quality of sleep and sense of well-being. Cook them or use a good grounded powder in your drinks (coffees, teas, smoothies) and meals.
Lion’s Mane – Also boosts and regulates immune system, containing polysaccharides and antioxidants, though Lion’s mane is famously known as the “smart” mushroom due to positive effects on the brain and nervous system. It improves cognition and concentration, and has shown to reduce depression and anxiety. It could also be the future medicine for some neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Multiple Sclerosis. Try pan frying with just some oil salt and pepper (yum!) or even supplement to make sure you’re getting enough of this beauty!
Cordyceps – Famously known to stimulate the libido by increasing testosterone and estrogen. Boosts metabolism and stamina, recovery, improves lung function and how the body uses oxygen – this is a favourite of athletes! Also boosts immune system, is high in antioxidants and has the ability to shrink tumors.Could also prevent diabetes as it decreases insulin resistance and lowers blood glucose levels. Coryceps cover 300 species of mushies, but the most common is Ophiocordyceps sinensis, which I’m specifically talking about here. Eat any of the Cordyceps and it will be of huge benefit to you!
These are just a few of the maaaaany types of mushrooms you can gain tremendous benefit from adding to your diet on a regular. I do want to state that mushrooms in their whole form should always be cooked for digestibility (because of a compound that’s released when heated and can potentially be toxic and indigestible to the human bod) and to PLEASE eat organic mushrooms. These little babies are incredibly good at absorbing toxins and pollutants, which of course includes pesticides, so make sure they’re organically grown for this particular reason – not to mention all the other benefits of eating organic and how it can also help the bio diversity of the planet!
If you feel like finding out how mushrooms can save the world I suggest watching this TED talk https://www.ted.com/talks/paul_stamets_on_6_ways_mushrooms_can_save_the_world?language=en
It’s fascinating!
Let’s spread the word about mushrooms and become a healthier, cleaner world!