Functional Medicine: Effects Medicinal Mushrooms Has On Your Health

Medicinal mushrooms, like Reishi, Shiitake, and Maitake, are not just ordinary mushrooms. They have unique properties that can boost the immune system, help with cancer treatments, and support overall health.

From ancient uses in Traditional Chinese Medicine to modern research by the National Cancer Institute, these powerful fungi, such as Chaga and Turkey Tail, are gaining attention for their health benefits.

Let’s Discover the magic of these natural remedies and their role in both alternative medicine and Western health care.

What Are Medicinal Mushrooms?

Medicinal mushrooms are special types of fungi with unique biological properties. They have been used as medicinal foods for centuries to support health and wellness.

These mushrooms, such as Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), Shiitake, Maitake, and Turkey Tail, contain bioactive compounds that strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and maintain healthy blood pressure. Other popular medicinal mushrooms include:

• Chaga Mushrooms
• Lion’s Mane
• Oyster Mushrooms

Health Benefits of Medicinal Mushrooms

Medicinal mushrooms provide many health benefits that support overall wellness:

• Boost Immune Function: Help activate immune cells, like natural killer cells, to fight infections.
• Support Cancer Patients: Assist in managing breast cancer, lung cancer, and prostate cancer by inhibiting cancer cell growth.
• Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure: Reishi mushrooms help maintain healthy blood pressure and cardiovascular health.
• Promote Brain Health: Lion’s Mane supports the nervous system and cognitive functions.
• Provide Antioxidant Properties: Protect cells against damage, contributing to better health in older adults.

Reishi mushrooms, known as Ganoderma Lucidum, help improve the immune system and maintain healthy blood pressure.

Medicinal Mushrooms in Cancer Treatment

Medicinal mushrooms, like Turkey Tail and Reishi, are becoming essential in complementary therapies for cancer treatments. According to the National Cancer Institute and other studies, these mushrooms have been shown to reduce tumor growth and improve immune response.

Mushroom supplements like Polysaccharide K (PSK) from Turkey Tail mushrooms are being tested in clinical trials to see their impact on cancer cells. They offer antioxidant properties and support cancer patients undergoing treatments, providing a natural way to enhance the body’s defense against disease.

How to Use Medicinal Mushrooms?

Medicinal mushrooms come in various forms like mushroom powders, dietary supplements, teas, and whole mushrooms. You can easily incorporate these into your diet.

Add shiitake mushrooms or maitake mushrooms to your meals, or use mushroom powders like reishi mushroom or chaga mushroom in smoothies and soups. Mushroom supplements can also offer concentrated health benefits, making it simple to enjoy the positive effects of these functional mushrooms every day.

How to Choose the Right Medicinal Mushrooms?

Selecting the right medicinal mushroom depends on your health goals:

• Immune Support: Try reishi or shiitake mushrooms.
• Cancer Support: Consider turkey tail or chaga mushrooms.
• Brain Health: Opt for lion’s mane.
• Heart Health: Choose maitake mushrooms for cardiovascular support.

Consult healthcare professionals to find the best medicinal mushroom preparations and functional foods for your needs.

Ready to Increase Your Health the Holistic Way?

If you want to explore how functional medicine can enhance your health, reach out to our team at Holistic Vitality Center.

We specialize in professional chiropractic care treating pain, discomfort, and lack of mobility in the body. As well as offer a variety of services and treatments including physical therapy, acupuncture, massage therapy, functional medicine, nutrition therapy, and more! 

Offering quality, professional healthcare services that promote and maximize good health is at the forefront of our priorities. Here, at Holistic Vitality Center, we strive to balance our patients energetically, biochemically & physically allowing you to live a healthier life.

Take a proactive step toward better health by scheduling a consultation at our Raleigh location. Call us at (919) 848-3333 to start your journey towards a healthier, happier life!

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