Are mushrooms MAGIC?
Their so-called healing powers appear to be making a comeback right now
Afirm staple of Chinese medicine, mushrooms are more than just a great source of protein, fibre and vitamin D – they’re packed with healing properties, too. And with the world focused on health more than ever, it’s no surprise that medicinal mushrooms are the new superfood. We asked our experts what the fuss is about and how you can get your fix.
THE RISE OF THE ’SHROOM
With COVID-19 creating a buzz around vitamin D, mushrooms are taking the health world by storm, but it’s about more than their nutritional qualities. ‘There has also been increasing interest in the psychoactive properties of some mushrooms, and the benefits they might be able to offer us for our brain health and mental performance,’ says consultant dietitian Sophie Medlin, founder of CityDietitians. ‘This new interest seems to have sprung from the “biohacking” communities in California, where using mushrooms to enhance cognitive performance has become a foundation of their medical treatments.’
IMMUNITY-BOOSTING CHAGA
‘Chaga mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and are used in Siberia and other parts of Asia to enhance immunity and health,’ says Sophie. Antioxidants help defend the body against damage caused by free radicals, such as cardiovascular disease and inflammatory disease. ‘Animal studies show chaga mushrooms boost immunity by reducing inflammation and fighting harmful bacteria and viruses.’
✢ TRY Kiki
Organic
Chaga Extract
Mushroom
(£30, medino.com)
REJUVENATING REISHI
‘Also known as the “mushroom of immortality”, reishi has been shown to help with anti-ageing and cell rejuvenation,’ says naturopath
Hania Opienski from Hifas da Terra, a manufacturer of medicinal mushrooms. But that’s not all, as an adaptogen, the benefits span from reducing anxiety to boosting your immune system. One study* found reishi can even help, alongside traditional medicine, in fighting off advanced-stage cancer.
✢ TRY Reishi
AntiOx Powder
Superfood (£18 for 100g, hifasdaterra. co.uk)
ADAPTOGENIC MAITAKE
‘Maitake mushrooms are an adaptogen – plants that can assist the body in fighting against mental or physical problems,’ says Sophie. ‘They’re considered to be the best mushrooms for preventing cancer and may also improve overall immunity.’ These mushrooms can be eaten like usual, or you may want to buy them as liquid concentrate or powder. ✢ TRY Indigo Nutrition Maitake Mushroom Powder (£13.95 for
100g, indigo-herbs.co.uk)
BRAIN-ENHANCING LION’S MANE
‘Studies have shown that lion’s mane can be an effective treatment in the management of anxiety and depression,’ says nutritionist Stephanie Masterman, from superu.co.uk. ‘That’s because lion’s mane works in the brain to modulate the feel-good chemicals, dopamine and serotonin.’ Plus, it can also help to look after your brain.
‘It stimulates Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) proteins. These prevent existing neurons from damage and also help the growth of new brain cells,’ says Stephanie.
✢ TRY Mushrooms4Life
Lion’s Mane
Capsules
(£19.99, planet organic.com)