Mushroom Supplements: Benefits, Risks, and More

Mushroom supplements are enjoying increasing popularity in the health and wellness industry, delivering numerous benefits to those seeking to improve their overall health. In this article, we summarize common mushroom supplements, their benefits, and risks. Read on for detailed information.

What are mushroom supplements?

Mushroom supplements are mushroom-based functional foods consisting of dried and ground mushrooms or mushroom extracts, usually sold in capsule or powder form. They provide a way to get the nutritional and health benefits of mushrooms without cooking or eating them directly.

Types and benefits of mushroom supplements

There are a variety of mushroom supplements on the market. Some of the most popular varieties of mushrooms among them include:

Reishi

Reishi, scientific name Ganoderma lucidum, has a long history in folk medicine. Its active constituents are primarily polysaccharides, including beta-glucan and triterpenes, which provide multiple health benefits. Studies have shown that Reishi can enhance the body's immune response and promote healthy blood pressure. In addition, it has been used to treat cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and diabetes, among others.

Shiitake

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes), native to Japan and China, is one of the most popular mushrooms in the world. It contains a compound called lentinan, which is characterized by strong biological activity. Shiitake mushroom supplements are believed to have a variety of health benefits, including immune-boosting, anti-aging, liver-protecting and anti-tumor properties.

Turkey tail

Turkey tail mushroom, scientifically termed Coriolus versicolor, is known for its distinctive appearance, resembling a turkey's tail feathers. It is rich in polysaccharide peptides (PSP) and polysaccharide krestin (PSK), both of which may help slow tumor growth and boost the immune system. Furthermore, turkey tail mushroom is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat lung disease and has been approved in Japan as an immune-boosting supplement for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

Cordyceps

Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) is a fungus that grows mainly at high altitudes in China, Nepal and India and has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine. Studies have shown that it is rich in gamma-aminobutyric acid, ergothioneine, sterols, statins, phenolic compounds, vitamins and other bioactive substances^[1]. It is an ideal dietary supplement and pharmaceutical agent with potential anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-fatigue and anti-aging properties.

Lion's mane

Lion's mane mushroom, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus, is named for its distinctive appearance, which resembles a lion's mane. It has a range of potential benefits for brain health and mental health. It is believed to have neuroprotective properties that may reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by reducing inflammation and promoting nerve growth. There are also some studies suggesting that it may have antioxidant and anticancer properties.

Risks and side effects of mushroom supplements

Most mushroom supplements are generally safe to consume. However, some individuals may experience a few side effects after taking mushroom supplements, including dry mouth, itching, gastrointestinal distress, and allergic reactions. Besides, mushroom supplements may possibly interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, blood pressure medications, and diabetes medications. Therefore, if you are taking medication or have a chronic disease, consult your doctor before taking mushroom supplements.

Alfa Chemistry offers a wide range of natural ingredients and dietary supplement products, if you don't see what you are looking for, please contact us. Our extensive knowledge and industry experience allows us to offer products customized to your specific requirements.

Reference

Jędrejko, Karol, et al. Cordyceps militaris—Fruiting bodies, mycelium, and supplements: Valuable component of daily diet. Antioxidants, 2022, 11(10): 1861.

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