Benefits of Mushroom Supplements

When you think of mushrooms what comes to mind? A funny looking fungus that grows on dead trees? A psychedelic that takes you on a hallucinogenic trip? A delicious addition to any stir fry dish? 

Mushrooms are the fruiting body of fungus that naturally grow on trees and forest floors. They are an interesting organism, as they feed off the matter of the surface they grow on, in order to absorb its nutrients and reproduce. From the forest to the kitchen table, the culinary potential and versatility of mushrooms is no secret. They are consumed in many ways: raw, cooked, dried, as an extract, and even in a tincture. 

For thousands of years, mushrooms have been used in Eastern medicines, but we have only uncovered the surface of how amazing the fungi kingdom really is. Their antibacterial, immune boosting, and cancer-fighting properties don’t need much help convincing naturopaths and holistic doctors that they are incredible natural medicines. However, if you still need some convincing, then this blog is for you!

If you go beyond the unique appearance mushrooms have and explore the scientific research, you will discover a world of fungi with health benefits like no other. So, sit back, relax, and take a deep dive into the magical world of mushrooms with us. 

Boosting Immunity

As we all know, Covid-19 truly put our immune systems to the test. Now, more than ever, strengthening our immune systems will help us get through this next flu season. 

The immune system is responsible for fighting viruses and bacteria that act as a threat to the viral system. Some mushrooms help improve the body’s immune response by strengthening and supporting its natural defense process. Mushrooms are rich in triterpenoids and polysaccharides, like beta-glucans – a compound that modifies immune responses. Beta-glucans act as a power switch for the immune system, and when turned on, they activate the immune system and enhance cells that play an essential role in fighting off viruses and tumors. 

In addition, mushrooms are rich in nutrients and antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals. Free radicals are compounds that the body produces when breaking down food that can potentially be harmful; free radicals are also produced when the body is exposed to environmental toxins. 

In order to control the production and effects of free radicals, the body must be provided with vitamins, such as B and C, and minerals, such as potassium, copper, and magnesium – all of which are found in organic mushrooms. These vitamins help the body create red blood cells, which keeps cells healthy and oxygenated. The minerals found in mushrooms are key performers in repairing DNA, acting as anti-inflammatories, and converting food into energy. 

Mushrooms such as Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Shiitake, and Chaga, are all known for their immune boosting properties and have recently become popular in Western medicine. These mushrooms are some of the most potent and nutritious foods; however, are very difficult to find in their raw state. Hence, the reason many individuals rely on mushroom supplements to get their daily dose of fungi. Supplements can range from capsules, powders, gummies and extracts, and are very easy to incorporate into your daily routine. 

Our health is the pillar that keeps us moving forward. Instead of taking action once our immune system fails us, why don’t we take preemptive measures to strengthen our immune system so it doesn’t end up failing us? It’s very simple: prevent rather than cure, and you can do so with the magic of mushrooms. 

Fighting Cancer 

Cancer is that word that doesn’t taste well when said. Cancer is something that many of you have been or know someone who has been affected by it. Cancer is unwanted, unpredictable, and unfair. Cancer is the uncontrollable growth of cells that rapidly spreads to other parts of the body. When the body is exposed to cancer cells, the immune system deteriorates, at times at an exponentially rapid rate. 

There are many lifestyle changes we can make to prevent cancer, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, making better dietary choices, and staying active. However, cancer can also be genetic and becomes that elephant in the room when it’s unavoidable. 

Much research has been done to find cures for specific cancers and develop the best treatments for cancer patients. Research has also been done on the cancer-fighting properties mushrooms contain and how this natural medicine can be used alongside cancer treatments such as chemotherapy. 

As mentioned before, some mushrooms are composed of beta-glucans that help stop the spread of cancer by activating cancer-fighting cells. These polysaccharides trigger a defensive response in the body and increase the activity of white blood cells, which helps fight cancer and improve quality of life for cancer patients. 

The components mushrooms contain suppress the growth of certain cancers, like breast cancer, gastric cancer, and colorectal cancer. They are also known to enhance the effectiveness of radiation and chemotherapy, hence the reason holistic doctors will include mushroom supplements in cancer patients’ list of prescriptions/medicines. 

Some mushrooms that are rich in cancer-fighting components are Turkey Tail, Chaga, Lion’s Mane, Reishi, and Maitake mushrooms. Please consult your doctor if you are battling cancer and would like to explore a more holistic treatment with mushrooms. 

Brain Boosting

Some mushrooms, like Lion’s Mane and Reishi, are notable nootropics that are incredible brain boosters. Think of a nootropic as your brain’s best friend; it is a substance that promotes relaxation, boosts mood, increases motivation, and improves attention. Mushroom nootropics consist of compounds known as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory fibers that help improve memory function. 

These antioxidants and fibers reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain that cause neurodegeneration. They promote communication among neurons in the brain that relays important information about your body and its surroundings. They say that communication is key, and that’s especially true when it comes to the communication between your brain and the rest of your body. 

Lion’s Mane helps increase Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) levels, which improves memory and concentration, and reduces irritability and anxiety. High NGF levels protect us against degenerative brain diseases, like Alzheimers and dementia, that result in memory loss. More studies on humans must be done, but several studies on animals show that Lion’s Mane improves cognition by increasing the length of the nerve cell processes. 

Reishi, on the other hand, is a nootropic that helps support a state of calmness. Stress and anxiety are inevitable, as they are the plague of the modern world. Studies have shown that triterpene, an active compound in Reishi, reduces stress and anxiety, improves mood, betters sleep, and boosts mental focus. This state of calmness Reishi provides the body increases mental health, ultimately improving the quality of living. 

Conclusion

Mother Nature is our world’s oldest and best doctor there is. These weird looking organisms, known as mushrooms, that grow on dead matter, create so much life. Functional mushrooms, fungi that provide health benefits, are some of the most potent and purest medicines the Western world is now exploring. From mushrooms that boost immunity, to those that improve brain function, and even to those that help fight cancer, there is a mushroom for you. 

These functional mushrooms can be consumed raw; however, are more commonly consumed in the form of supplements. TRIIBE Organics Lion’s Mane is the best way to introduce a natural brain booster to your diet. 

However, what if you don’t just want to limit yourself to one mushroom and want to take advantage of all the benefits multiple mushrooms have? That’s where TRIIBE comes in handy. We have tailored the perfect supplement that has the right amount of each mushroom you need to reap its benefits. Get the best of all worlds with our TRIIBE Organics Mushroom Complex, which includes Reishi, Maitake, Chaga, Turkey Tail, and Shiitake mushrooms. 

It’s never too early or too late to start exploring the wondrous world of mushrooms. There’s so much more to these interesting organisms than what meets the eye. 

Never forget: a mushroom complex a day keeps the doctor away.