A Comprehensive Guide To Medicinal Mushroom
The use of medicinal mushrooms dates back thousands of years ago, but it has recently become mainstream. In this article, we’re going to explore the therapeutic benefits of mushrooms.
Medicinal mushrooms have been used over centuries by our ancestors as a form of alternative healing. They have a myriad of health benefits such as helping in anxiety and depression treatments they work as a brain booster, they may help to increase focus and sleep quality — just to name a few.
Mushrooms used to be a central part of the ancient cultures such as the Maya, Inca, and Aztecs. But their use was registered earlier than that. Greek and Roman authors such as Seneca, Pliny, and Dioscorides all wrote about mushroom and their health benefits.
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Modern scientists are now linking the use of medicinal mushrooms to treat several ailments and as a safer alternative to much traditional Western medicine.
Each fungi has its own properties and benefits, so they aren’t one size fits all. Other than that, they’re mostly indicated as a side option for some treatments, like immune system and energy booster.
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Mushrooms are loaded with nutrients, and they can be used as a supplement to your diet. However, we recommend you talk to your doctor before adding any of them to your diet. Let’s unpack the main benefits these fungi have to offer.
They’re packed with antioxidants
Fungi like Chaga is an antioxidant powerhouse. Antioxidants help the body to fight inflammation and combat free radicals. They’re mainly caused by lifestyle choices, exposure to UV sunlight, pollution, and inflammation. Chaga also lowers cholesterol levels.
They boost the immune system
Various types of medicinal mushrooms have antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. They help in antibody production and regulation.
Chaga, Turkey tail, Reishi, and Ashwagandha are naturally immune system boosters and they may help ease depression and anxiety.
They provide mental clarity
If you’ve been experiencing brain fog lately, try Lion’s Mane to give your brain a health booster and mental clarity. Lion’s Mane has also been linked to increased focus, improved cognition, and anxiety symptoms, as well as it protects against ulcers in the digestive tract.
Libido and energy booster
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Cordyceps are fungi known as being a natural stimulant -- it helps the body to restore hormone levels, especially sex hormones and increases energy levels. Plus, they can improve endurance during exercises and enhance fitness performance.