Shroom for Improvement: How Medicinal Mushrooms Boost Body & Mind

Variety of mushrooms

When it comes to superfoods, mushrooms deserve a front-row seat. These fascinating fungi are far more than just a culinary ingredient—they are packed with powerful compounds that nourish the body, support immunity, and promote whole-body wellness. From brain-boosting Lion’s Mane to stress-soothing Reishi, mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine—and modern science is now catching up.

Mushrooms are not just tasty—they are functional foods packed with medicinal and nutritional value. From boosting immunity to supporting brain and heart health, they are one of nature’s most underrated superfoods.

What Makes Mushrooms So Powerful?

• Beta-glucans: These natural polysaccharides enhance immune response and fight inflammation.

• Ergothioneine: A rare antioxidant found almost exclusively in mushrooms—supports cellular health and longevity.

• B-vitamins (B2, B3, B5, B6): Crucial for energy production, brain function, and nervous system health.

• Vitamin D (when exposed to sunlight): Mushrooms are one of the few plant-based sources!

• Minerals like selenium, copper, potassium, and zinc: Vital for immune health, detox, and metabolism.

• Prebiotic fibers: Feed beneficial gut bacteria and support microbiome balance.

• Triterpenes & sterols (in Reishi, Chaga, etc.): Potent anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic compounds.

  
  

In this post, we will explore the health benefits of some of the most powerful mushrooms, how to incorporate them into your routine, and why these natural wonders belong in every wellness toolkit. Whether you are a foodie, a supplement lover, or just mushroom-curious, you're about to see why these humble fungi are one of the most underrated tools for vibrant health.

1. Shiitake

• Immune support: Rich in beta-glucans, which boosts the immune system.

• Heart health: Contains eritadenine, which helps lower cholesterol.

• Antimicrobial properties: Has compounds that help fight off pathogens.

2. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

• Stress reduction: Known as the "mushroom of immortality" in traditional Chinese medicine, it helps regulate the body’s stress response.

• Immune modulator: Enhances immune function while reducing inflammation.

• Supports sleep: Calming adaptogenic effect helps with sleep and anxiety.

 3. Lion’s Mane

• Brain health & cognition: Stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF), important for neurogenesis and memory.

• Mood balance: May reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

• Gut-brain connection: Supports gut health, which also benefits mental clarity and mood.

4. Chaga

• Antioxidant-rich: One of the highest ORAC values (a measure of antioxidant power).

• Immune support: Boosts white blood cell production.

• Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.

5. Cordyceps

• Energy and stamina: Increases ATP production, improving physical performance and endurance.

• Respiratory health: Supports lung function and oxygen utilization.

• Anti-aging properties: Contains polysaccharides and antioxidants that support cellular health.

6. Turkey Tail

• Immune system booster: Packed with polysaccharopeptides (PSP and PSK) that enhance immune response.

• Gut microbiome support: Acts as a prebiotic, supporting healthy gut flora.

• Cancer support: Studied for use alongside conventional treatments due to its immune-enhancing effects.

7. Maitake

• Blood sugar regulation: Helps improve insulin sensitivity.

• Immune support: High in D-fraction, a beta-glucan with immune-enhancing activity.

• May support weight management: Can support metabolism and reduce fat accumulation.

8. White Button Mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus)

• Common in grocery stores, but still powerful!

• Supports hormonal balance: May help reduce excess estrogen levels.

• Antioxidant-rich: Contains ergothioneine and selenium.

• Supports immunity: Modulates immune cell activity.

One of the most common questions I get from clients is whether it is better to eat mushrooms or take them in supplement form?

The answer is that not all mushrooms are created equal when it comes to how you use them. Some mushrooms are perfect for cooking and enjoying in your meals, while others are tough, woody, or bitter—and better suited for supplements like powders, capsules, or tinctures.

Mushrooms to Eat (Culinary + Medicinal)

These mushrooms are both delicious and health-boosting. They’re easy to cook and pack a wide range of nutrients and immune-supportive compounds:

Mushroom	Benefits	How to Use
Shiitake	Immune support, cholesterol balance	Sauté, soups, stir-fries
Maitake	Blood sugar regulation, metabolism	Stir-fries, roasted, broths
Oyster	Antioxidants, supports heart health	Grilled, in pasta, or stir-fried
Lion’s Mane	Brain & nerve health, mood support	Pan-seared (tastes like crab!)
White Button / Portobello	Antioxidants, hormone support	Grilled, stuffed, or sliced

Mushrooms Best as Supplements

These mushrooms offer powerful health benefits but are too fibrous or bitter to enjoy whole. They're often dual-extracted (water + alcohol) to unlock all their medicinal compounds:

Mushroom	Benefits	Best Form
Reishi	Stress relief, immune balance, sleep support	Capsules, tinctures, tea
Chaga	Antioxidant powerhouse, inflammation reduction	Powder, tea, capsules
Cordyceps	Energy, endurance, respiratory health	Capsules or powdered supplements
Turkey Tail	Immune support, gut health	Powder, capsules, tea

Some mushrooms (like Lion’s Mane and Shiitake) work beautifully both ways—as food and supplement—so you can enjoy their flavor and also take them in concentrated form for extra support. Regardless of how you consume them, add these superfoods into you daily life with have profound benefits to your overall health.