5 Best Medicinal Mushrooms for Immune System Support and Fighting Illnesses

Reishi, cordyceps, chaga, turkey tail mushroom and lion's mane mushroom next to each other

Although having risen in popularity in recent years, medicinal mushrooms are nothing new to humanity. Used for centuries in traditional medicine, they have helped to support immune system function and fight illnesses time and time over. In this blog post, we will explore the best medicinal mushrooms for immune system support and find out how exactly they work and interact with the human body.

What are Medicinal Mushrooms?

Unlike regular edible mushrooms, medicinal mushrooms are a group of fungi that have been traditionally used for their therapeutic properties. Medicinal mushrooms contain various bioactive compounds that are useful for humans to consume because of their health benefits. We’re talking about loading up on antioxidants, gaining anti-inflammatory effects, and overall, improving our immune system function! The most popular medicinal mushrooms include reishi, chaga, cordyceps, turkey tail, and lion’s mane mushrooms. Each and every one of them has its unique properties and benefits. Let’s explore them!

How Do Medicinal Mushrooms Support a Healthy Immune System?

It may be hard to believe, but humans and mushrooms share common ancestry with only slight changes in our DNA setting us apart. The genetic composition of mushrooms is much more similar to humans than plants. Because of that, we are susceptible to similar pathogens and diseases and hence, we developed similar immune systems to counter them. Fungi have developed powerful immune strength to fight illnesses, and by consuming certain mushrooms, we can strengthen and balance our own immune strength.

The immune system is made up of various cells, antibody proteins, and organs that work together to protect the body from harmful invaders like bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

Medicinal mushrooms contain beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and other bioactive compounds that help modulate the immune system response. These compounds can enhance the activity of immune cells like macrophages, natural killer cells, and T-cells, which help fight off infections and diseases. Not only that, but medicinal mushrooms also contain a large amount of antioxidants and possess anti-inflammatory properties. How is that useful to fight off harmful pathogens? These properties help protect the immune system from oxidative stress and inflammation – this ensures that the immune system can function optimally.

5 Best Medicinal Mushrooms to Fight Illnesses

A woman kicking a large representation of a virus

Due to their immune-boosting properties, medicinal mushrooms have been studied for their potential in treating and preventing various illnesses. Some of the illnesses that medicinal mushrooms have been researched for include:

Cancer: Several medicinal mushrooms have been found to have anti-cancer properties. For example, reishi and turkey tail mushrooms have been found to have anti-tumor effects and can help enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Viral Infections: Medicinal mushrooms like reishi and chaga have been found to have antiviral properties and can help prevent viral infections like the flu and cold.

Autoimmune Diseases: Medicinal mushrooms can help modulate the immune system response, making them a potential therapy for autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.

Respiratory Infections: Medicinal mushrooms like cordyceps have been found to have bronchodilator effects, making them useful for treating respiratory infections like asthma and bronchitis.

Conclusion: Can Medicinal Mushrooms Support a Healthy Immune System?

Medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries for their therapeutic properties. With their immune-boosting properties, these mushrooms have gained popularity as a natural way to support immune system health and fight various health issues. However, it's important to note that medicinal mushrooms should not replace medical treatment for any illness. If you're considering using medicinal mushrooms for immune system support or to combat a health issue, consult with a healthcare professional first. Perhaps using medicinal mushrooms as a complementary or supplementary treatment is the best way to move forward safely.