Are you wondering what mushrooms are good for? Then you must know that they are a good source of nutrition and have several health benefits. They contain less fat and calories and are high in fibre, vitamins, and minerals. They also contain compounds that may boost the immune system and have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Some mushrooms, such as shiitake and maitake, have been used in traditional medicine for their medicinal properties. In addition, mushrooms are also used in culinary dishes and as a meat substitute for vegetarians and vegans.
Mushrooms have been in use for medicinal purposes for ages in traditional medicine. Certain types of mushrooms, such as shiitake, maitake, and reishi, contain compounds that have been found to have medicinal properties. These compounds include beta-glucans, which have immune-boosting properties, and polysaccharides, which have anti-cancer properties.
Some mushrooms also contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Other medicinal mushrooms are also used in many medicines, like cordyceps, Agaricus blazei, lion’s mane and turkey tail. These mushrooms are often made into supplements, teas, and extracts used to treat various health conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, high cholesterol, and more.
Mushrooms and their benefits
Below are some of the mushrooms having multiple benefits:
1. Cordyceps Sinensis is a medicinal mushroom traditionally used in Chinese and Tibetan medicine for its various health benefits. Some of the reported benefits of Cordyceps Sinensis include:
- Boosting the immune system: Cordyceps Sinensis contains compounds that help boost the immune system and fight off infections.
- Improving lung function: Cordyceps Sinensis has been used to improve lung function and to help alleviate symptoms of respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. The answer to your question on what mushrooms are good for do not just limit to this.
- Enhancing athletic performance: Cordyceps Sinensis has been traditionally used to improve athletic performance by increasing energy and endurance.
- Anti-tumour effects: Some studies have suggested that Cordyceps Sinensis may have anti-tumour effects.
- Anti-ageing properties: Cordyceps Sinensis is believed to have anti-ageing properties due to its ability to enhance the activity of certain enzymes and improve the overall health of cells.
2. Lion’s mane mushroom, also called Hericium Erinaceus, is a type of edible mushroom that is known for its medicinal properties. Lion’s mane mushroom benefits include:
- Cognitive function: Studies have found that lion’s mane mushrooms can help improve memory and concentration.
- Nervous system: Lion’s mane mushroom contains compounds that can support the growth and repair of nerve cells, which can help with conditions such as multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Immune system: Lion’s mane mushroom benefits can help boost the immune system, making it better fight off infections and diseases.
- Cardiovascular health: Lion’s mane mushrooms help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Anti-inflammatory: Lion’s mane mushroom contains compounds that help to reduce inflammation in the body, which may help with conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
3. Auricularia auricula and A. polyuria are edible mushrooms commonly consumed for their health benefits. Some potential benefits of consuming these mushrooms include:
- Rich in antioxidants: These mushrooms contain high levels of polysaccharides and flavonoids, potent antioxidants that can help in protecting the body against damage from free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Both A. auricula and A. polyuria have anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial for reducing inflammation associated with certain diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and cancer.
- May boost the immune system: Some studies have suggested that consuming these mushrooms helps to boost the immune system, making it more effective at fighting off infections and disease.
- May have anti-cancer properties: Some research suggests that compounds found in A. auricula and A. polyuria have anti-cancer properties and are able to control the growth of certain types of cancer cells.
- May help to lower cholesterol: Some studies have found that consuming these mushrooms may help lower cholesterol levels in the blood, hence reducing the risk of heart disease.
Final words
So if you ever wonder what mushrooms are good for, just know that there are infinite health benefits that mushrooms can provide us!
