Medicinal Mushrooms and Health by Anni Dahms
By Anni Dahms
Founder of the retail chain ANNI’s VITAL SHOP.
Nurse- & Health specialist, Biopath and Nutritional Adviser.
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Mushrooms… Oh My!
As a schoolgirl, my best friend was the daughter of the forester and lived right in the middle of the forest. So, our favorite playground was in nature. My friend’s mother had taught her a lot about nature, including mushrooms—specifically, which ones were edible and which were dangerous. My friend would happily pick mushrooms in large quantities to take home for meals, while I, a cautious little mouse, wanted nothing to do with such potentially deadly plants.
I think it’s fantastic how mushrooms can be beneficial, but personally, I am very grateful that they are now available in a safe and legal form, where they can be carefully controlled and taken as needed for good effects. In Denmark, mushrooms are stored in large closed warehouses, where toxic mushrooms, heavy metals, and other harmful substances cannot enter, which I’m personally very pleased about, as I, as previously described, was greatly afraid of these strange mushrooms as a child.
Today, mushrooms have become incredibly popular with all their health benefits, and in this article, I will describe some of the most well-known medicinal mushrooms.
Lion’s Mane – The King of Cognitive Health
Lion’s Mane is a large white mushroom that resembles a lion’s mane. I became aware of its beneficial effects through a customer who mentioned that she had given it to her forgetful husband with good results. Since then, I have learned quite a bit about this fascinating product.
Studies show that Lion’s Mane can improve cognitive function, concentration, and memory and may potentially help protect against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. A blind study showed that memory and cognitive function improved when the supplement was taken daily. The mushroom has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. It can also boost the immune system by increasing immune cell activity.
Additionally, Lion’s Mane can aid digestion by protecting the stomach lining and reducing inflammation in the intestines. The product is rich in antioxidants and certain vitamins, such as thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin, as well as beneficial minerals like manganese, zinc, and potassium, and is now used to address a range of health issues.
Lion’s Mane supports the brain, mood, and nervous system, and also benefits the liver, lungs, heart, kidneys, and spleen. It has also been shown to lower blood sugar and increase insulin levels. Some studies indicate that it may also reduce the growth of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium linked to many ulcer-related problems.
In a study with women in menopause, Lion’s Mane was found to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as palpitations and mood swings. A few people are allergic to mushrooms and should avoid Lion’s Mane, but otherwise, it is generally considered a safe and effective supplement. Some individuals notice its positive effects within just a few days of use, while for most, the benefits are apparent within a few months.
You should avoid Lion’s Mane if you:
Are taking blood-thinning medications.
Have an autoimmune disease, as it may stimulate the immune system.
Are on any medications; if you are unsure about using Lion’s Mane, consult your doctor.
Reishi – The Immune System and Anti-Aging
The Reishi mushroom is well-known and widely used. It strengthens the immune system, is beneficial for all types of inflammation, such as pain in joints, muscles, and connective tissue, reduces fatigue, and is known for its positive effects on physical and mental stress. It promotes heart health and supports the body after surgeries. Additionally, it has anti-aging properties.
New Nordic offers a Reishi product that also contains Yellow Oyster Mushroom, which, besides tasting good, has anti-inflammatory properties and provides cholesterol-lowering support. This mushroom is also considered to have anti-aging effects, helping to prevent age-related symptoms. The product additionally includes long pepper, as well as vitamins B6, B12, folic acid, vitamin D, along with zinc, copper, selenium, rosemary, and turmeric.
Chaga – The Natural Antioxidant
Chaga has many health benefits and contains a high concentration of antioxidants. It has antiviral and antitumor properties and is known for its immune-boosting effects, which may be helpful for combating the many infections of autumn. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Additionally, it is beneficial for protecting the skin against free radicals and shielding it from UV radiation from the sun. It can also help protect the eyes. Chaga alleviates pain and acid reflux and helps counteract diseases related to the stomach, colon, and liver (e.g., ulcers, inflammation, and intestinal parasites).
Mentally, it can calm the mind and help boost life energy. Chaga is not recommended for people with autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, etc. If you are prone to kidney stones, you should be cautious with Chaga, as it contains oxalates. If in doubt, consult your doctor.
New Nordic has added Yellow Oyster Mushroom along with Chaga. Together, they are powerful for strengthening the immune system in all types of inflammation. Additionally, elderberry is included, which also supports the immune system and is especially known for its beneficial effects against all types of viruses. Long pepper has also been added, along with vitamins B6, B12, folic acid, vitamin D, which support normal immune function, and the minerals zinc, copper, and selenium.
It is believed that the optimal effect is felt after 2–3 weeks. It can be taken at any time of the day.
Cordyceps – Energy and Regeneration
Cordyceps is an essential mushroom for support following long-term chronic illness. It is generally strengthening and counteracts fatigue throughout the day. It is revitalizing, helping to prevent premature aging by stimulating the body’s ability to regenerate.
Cordyceps boosts the immune system and enhances libido. It has numerous supportive uses and is excellent for energy recovery after prolonged illness. It can help with a weakened immune system, anemia, a tendency toward hemorrhoids, lower back pain, leg pain and weakness, forgetfulness, hair loss, dry skin, fungal infections, pathogenic bacteria, and impotence.
Mentally, it can assist with nervousness, fear, insomnia, and memory issues.
Cordyceps also helps to thin the blood, so if you are on blood-thinning medication, consult your doctor first. Exercise caution if, for example, you are having a tooth extracted or are about to undergo surgery. If you have an autoimmune disease, consult your doctor before use. If you have diabetes and are taking medication, it is also recommended to speak with your doctor.
Mushroom Coffee –
A Delightful Start to the Day
I love my coffee, and that’s why I’ve chosen to mention a few coffees infused with various mushrooms. When I first read about the combination of mushrooms and coffee in the news, I smiled a bit, remembering that many years ago, I enjoyed drinking coffee with added mushroom extracts.
Today, it might be a good idea to start your morning routine with a low-acid coffee blended with mushroom extracts. One popular choice is coffee with Reishi mushroom extract, a low-acid coffee available in both ground and whole bean form. The same applies to most other mushroom extract products.
Additionally, one of the popular coffees includes Shiitake, which is made from Arabica beans and is also low-acid. Tremella/Maitake is another well-known low-acid coffee. Another mushroom coffee features Lion’s Mane, known for balancing the brewed coffee flavour.
In these coffees, only the mushroom’s fruiting body is used, not the mycelium. This is important because the fruiting body often contains a higher concentration of bioactive compounds than the mycelium.
What I find essential for coffee quality is that these products are certified organic and tested in a laboratory according to the EU’s official regulations.
Medicinal mushrooms are playing an increasingly important role in our diet and as dietary supplements. From Lion’s Mane, which sharpens our mental clarity, to Reishi, which supports our immune system, and Chaga, which combats oxidative stress, there are countless ways in which these mushrooms can enhance our quality of life.
It is reassuring to know that we can now enjoy mushrooms in a safe and controlled form, accessible to all. Whether you want to boost your energy, support your health, or simply experiment with new flavors, there are plenty of options.
Next time you visit your local health food store and see the mushroom section, or if you’re thinking of adding something exciting to your morning coffee, consider how beneficial mushrooms can be for us. They have so many excellent properties.
