Medicinal mushrooms have become increasingly important in recent years and have been used as medicines in many cultures worldwide for thousands of years. In this article, we will look at the 18 most well-known medicinal mushrooms and explain their effects and uses.
- Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)
Reishi mushroom is also known as the “mushroom of immortality” and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. It contains many polysaccharides, triterpenes and other active ingredients that have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. The Reishi mushroom is used for many ailments such as sleep disorders, stress, high blood pressure and to strengthen the immune system.
- Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinula edodes)
The shiitake mushroom is a common edible mushroom and is also used in traditional Chinese medicine. It contains active ingredients such as polysaccharides, lentinan, ergosterol and beta-glucans, which strengthen the immune system and can help with many ailments such as high blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Maitake Mushroom (Grifola frondosa)
The maitake mushroom is also known as the “king of mushrooms” and has been used in traditional Japanese medicine for over a thousand years. It contains active ingredients such as beta-glucans, polysaccharides, D-fraction and ergosterol, which have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating effects. The maitake mushroom is used for many ailments such as diabetes, high blood pressure and to strengthen the immune system.
- Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus)
Native to Siberia, Russia and North America, the Chaga mushroom is used in traditional medicine to boost the immune system and for many ailments such as gastrointestinal problems, cancer and inflammation. It contains active ingredients such as betulinic acid, sterols, melanins and polysaccharides that have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects.
- Cordyceps fungus (Cordyceps militaris)
The Cordyceps fungus is a parasite that grows on certain caterpillars. It contains many active ingredients such as cordycepin, polysaccharides, adenosine and beta-glucans, which are said to have anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating and anti-tumor effects. The cordyceps mushroom is used in traditional Chinese medicine for many ailments such as asthma, pneumonia, kidney failure and to increase energy.
- Squirrel or Branch Tufted Porling (Polyporus umbellatus)
The polyporus fungus is said to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. It is used to support liver disease, gastrointestinal problems and cancer.
- Sun mushroom (Agaricus blazei)
Sun mushroom is a type of mushroom used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for its potential health benefits, particularly in boosting the immune system.
- Auricularia fungus (Auricularia auricula-judae)
The Auricularia fungus is also known as “cloud ear fungus” and is widespread in Asia. For centuries, this mushroom has been used to boost the immune system and lower cholesterol. It is also said to help with skin problems and high blood pressure.
- Butterfly Tramete (Trametes versicolor)
Tramete has traditionally been used to support the immune system and improve liver function. It is also said to be effective against viral infections and cancer. In Western medicine, it is often used as an adjunct to conventional cancer treatment.
- Hedgehog’s mane (Hericium erinaceus)
The Hericium mushroom is said to improve cognitive function and help with neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. It is also said to strengthen the immune system.
- Meshima (Phellinus linteus)
Meshima, also known as Chinese buttercup, is a mushroom that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries as a remedy for various diseases. Research suggests that consuming meshima mushrooms may have potential health benefits, including supporting the immune system and fighting inflammation.
- Pioppino (Agrocybe aegerita)
Also known as “bottle mushroom”, the pioppino mushroom has a mild, nutty flavor and is high in fiber and minerals. It is used in traditional Chinese medicine to boost the immune system and also has antimicrobial and antitumor properties.
- Black ear fungus (Tremella fuciformis)
The black ear fungus is an edible mushroom popular in Asian cuisine and also used as a medicinal mushroom. It is valued for its high content of polysaccharides and antioxidants.
- Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)
The oyster mushroom is a popular edible mushroom that also offers a variety of health benefits. Rich in nutrients such as protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, it also contains bioactive compounds that may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Ink Cap (Coprinus comatus)
Ink cap is an edible mushroom that is considered beneficial for health due to its high protein and low fat content. It is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can help support the immune system. In addition, ink cap is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat diabetes and high blood pressure, although more scientific studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness in these cases.
- Enoki Mushroom (Lentinula edodes)
Enoki mushrooms are a good source of nutrients like vitamin D and fiber. They are often used to boost the immune system and are also linked to better heart health due to their antioxidant properties.
- Birch Polypore (Inonotus obliquus)
The birch polypore is a medicinal mushroom known in traditional Chinese medicine as the “king of the forest” and has long been used to treat various diseases. It contains a number of compounds called polysaccharides and triterpenes that are said to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Matsutake mushroom (Tricholoma matsutake)
Matsutake mushroom is used in traditional Chinese medicine as a remedy for fatigue, pain and loss of appetite. In addition, it contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
It’s important to note that there are many other medicinal mushrooms that can also have beneficial health effects. However, this list includes the most commonly mentioned and best researched types of mushrooms.
In summary, medicinal mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for centuries. There is now growing interest in its healing properties in Western medicine as well. Each mushroom has specific active ingredients and health benefits, but not all of them have been scientifically proven. There are still many undiscovered species of mushrooms. Research into medicinal mushrooms is far from over. There is still much to discover and learn about the healing powers of these fascinating organisms.