Medicinal Mushrooms: What They Are & How They Work

“The benefits of mushrooms have been known for centuries, especially in Asia, but in the West we are only just wising up to their true potential. Medicinal mushrooms are similar to edible mushrooms in that they are eaten, but they have far higher concentrations of active compounds that have medicinal properties. Compounds called beta-glucans are found in the cell walls of medicinal mushrooms. Beta-glucans aren’t digested by the body – instead, once they reach the lower intestine, they bind to receptors that activate our immune system. Beta-glucans also nourish the gut microbiome – which influences everything from our mood to immunity – and affect our sugar and cholesterol metabolism. Medicinal mushrooms also contain other unique antioxidants that have potent anti-inflammatory properties.” – Clarissa Berry, nutritionist for DIRTEA

“Mushrooms are one of nature’s most powerful superfoods. I’ve used them in my clinical practice for over 20 years with great success, but they’ve been used for over 2,000 years to support immune and overall health. As well as regulating the immune system, they’re fantastic prebiotics – they’re rich in the starches and fibre that gut bacteria feed on in order to thrive. A paper published in 2007 showed mushrooms can inhibit cancer growth and protect against viruses. Medicinal mushrooms are an incredible source of antioxidants, which protects the body against ageing. They’ve also been shown to regulate blood sugar, support the liver and supercharge brain health.” – Dr Simoné Laubscher, nutritionist & WelleCo formulator

“Nothing to do with psychoactive magic mushrooms, medicinal fungi are completely safe. As they are non-addictive, the body doesn’t start to rely on their effects. They work in a way that strengthens the body, rather than simply providing a crutch that allows the body to become lazy over time. However, it’s a good idea to pause for a few weeks every couple of months to give the body a rest.” – Clarissa

“Mushrooms work by regulating the system over time. For the best results, you should take them for a couple of months. If you are at all in doubt, chat to a nutritional therapist or herbalist specialising in medicinal mushrooms. Start with a concentrated extract which states the exact levels of key compounds like beta-glucans and terpenes, so you can gauge the most beneficial dose for you. You can mix and match mushroom species, so long as you are taking a daily dose for at least two months.” – Sophie Barrett, mycotherapy advisor at Hifas da Terra UK

“The most important thing to look for when choosing a medicinal mushroom supplement is that it is certified organic – ideally 100% organic mushroom fruiting body or grain-free mycelium in vegetable capsules. It’s also vital to know the quality and production processes are standardised and certified. There are many 100% organic medicinal mushroom products on the market, but unless these products have standardised levels of terpenes or beta-glucans, you won’t see the benefits.” – Sophie 

“Also look at where the mushrooms have been grown. Wild-harvested mushrooms are best as they contain a greater number of active compounds. Mushrooms grown on trees and logs (similar to how they grow in the wild but cultivated for larger-scale production) are the next best thing, so are perfect if you’re looking for a superior quality but more affordable supplement. Steer clear of mushroom formulas that have been cultivated on grain – this isn’t mushrooms’ natural food, meaning the mushrooms won’t have the same concentration of active ingredients.” – Clarissa