Top 8 adaptogenic mushrooms for good health

Let's start by saying that medicinal mushrooms are true gifts of nature. Revered for thousands of years in ancient Asian cultures, they are recognized for their powers over our health. We benefit from their benefits which affect our immune system as much as our nervous system as well as our liver, our kidneys, etc..^{4, 9, 10 ,12}

These medicinal mushrooms are called adaptogens. Medicinal mushrooms: “adaptogens that help the body adapt to stress and regain balance.” Medicinal mushrooms are said to be adaptogenic because they are known to help the body and mind during times of stress.

Generally speaking, an adaptogen helps the body adapt to various environmental factors (such as stress) and consequently avoid the damage that these could cause. They also help the body to maintain or regain its homeostasis, that is to say its balance..^{5, 6, 9}

Medicinal mushrooms and our immune defense system

The medicinal mushrooms, such as reishi, lion's mane or maitake, are full of complex molecules which give them unique properties, essential in particular for the immune system. These same active molecules participate in the elimination of pathogens that threaten our defense system. These are our white blood cells, which stimulate the production of NK cells (capable of killing tumor cells and infected cells), phagocytes (capable of ingesting and destroying particles such as bacteria) as well as B lymphocytes (antibody manufacturers) and T lymphocytes (ensuring the elimination of pathogens or tumor cells).¹

Defend against who or what?

Our enemies are viruses, bacteria, fungi (fungal infections), protozoa (like amoebae), worms or parasites (pinworms, tapeworms, roundworms, etc.). Let's also not forget foreign bodies such as a thorn, a grain of sand and/or a little earth in a wound, etc. All this keeps the immune system on alert 24 hours a day.¹

Medicinal mushrooms and their active compounds

These wonders of nature mainly contain antioxidant phenolic compounds (which fight against free radicals), terpenoids which are anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory polysaccharides (PSI) which increase the production of white blood cells and beta-glucans which stimulate the body's defense mechanisms, in addition to finding proteins, fibers, vitamins (especially group B), minerals, and ergosterol (precursor of vitamin D).^{9, 10, 12}

Unfortunately, the polysaccharides (antioxidants) present in these medicinal mushrooms are trapped in a resistant and indigestible fiber (chitin) which obstructs access to these powerful active ingredients and even prevents their absorption in the intestinal mucosa..⁸

The power of fermentation to obtain assimilable nutrients

The foundations of the Canadian company Living Alchemy relies on the use of fermentation. Thanks to fermentation, this company gives a new dimension to food by making it more powerful and improved.

This fermentation process initiates a transformation that optimizes the active ingredients of the living plants it uses. There we find millions of years of a plant with its nutrients and active ingredients that can be used as natural medicine.^{4, 8, 9}

Why Choose Fermented Mushroom Supplements?

MycoSynergy™ products from Living Alchemy create functional mushrooms optimized by fermentation using an exclusive process called Symbio® using a living kefir-kombucha culture, composed of 45 diverse strains of microorganisms (yeasts and bacteria) from plants targeted for therapeutic purposes.^{4, 8, 9}

The potential benefits of medicinal mushrooms activated by fermentation:

• Complete bioavailability
• Increase in key therapeutic nutrients
• We benefit from essential enzymes

Living Alchemy's Symbio® fermentation process begins with the choice of the best ingredients, certified organic and non-GMO, selected for their freshness and vitality.

In addition, the Living Alchemy company favors sourcing whole mushrooms with fruiting bodies that are traditionally grown and harvested in their regions of origin, i.e. Asia.^{4, 8, 9, 12}

Amplify the benefits of adaptogenic mushrooms

Living Alchemy harnesses the traditional art of fermentation to transform mushrooms into superior quality. The fermentation process used facilitates the pre-digestion of the fruiting body of mushrooms, ruptures their cell membranes, enriches their nutritional value and improves their bioavailability.

The ingredients used undergo a controlled freeze-drying process to capture the full nutrient profile. After a long fermentation period, a low temperature drying process preserves nutrients and post biotics at their highest potency.

Nothing is left out, as they use a slow automatic encapsulator to avoid using fillers or binders. This process preserves the nutrients and post biotics of the mushrooms at their greatest potency.

The final product is a work of nature and science, as clean, powerful and vibrant as possible.^{4, 8, 9, 12}

The MycoSynergie range from Living Alchemy: the Top 8 adaptogenic mushrooms

1) Lion's Mane

Lion’s Mane mushroom grows mainly on old deciduous trees (maple, beech, oak) in North America, Europe and Asia. Its particular shape is a globular mass from which long white filaments emerge, similar to a mane.^{4, 6, 8, 9, 13, 14}

Mood balance

Lion's mane is said to have a beneficial impact on mood in cases of mild stress or anxiety. It seems that some of its compounds have an adaptogenic effect by modulating the reaction to stress.^{4, 6, 8, 9, 13, 14}

Cognitive health and its active molecules

Lion's mane mushroom contains active molecules such as hericenone and erinacin (a diterpene) which promote the development of nerve cells.^{4, 6, 8, 9, 13, 14}

The mushroom of memory

These compounds increase the production of nerve growth factors, thereby improving neurogenesis (the process of producing new neurons). Its consumption helps prevent the loss of spatial memory, which is responsible for recording information concerning the surrounding space and the spatial orientation of an individual.

Lion's mane supplementation improves cognitive functions such as memory and concentration, especially in older people. Lion's mane mushroom can prevent or limit the damage of dementia.^{4, 6, 8, 9, 13, 14}

Anti-inflammatory health

The antioxidant activity of lion's mane is very powerful. It is said to be 17% more powerful than quercetin, which is recognized for its properties against cellular oxidation. It is therefore a major ally that fights against cellular aging including chronic inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and certain cancers.^{4, 6, 8, 9, 13, 14}

Liver health

In traditional Chinese medicine, hericium is used as a liver tonic. It is a hepatoprotector which helps with detoxification and keeps the liver healthy.^{4, 6, 8, 9, 13, 14}

Digestive health

The fibers and polysaccharides of lion's mane mushroom promote intestinal transit and digestion. In addition, it relieves mild digestive disorders such as bloating or abdominal pain.^{4, 6, 8, 9, 13, 14}

Immune system health

The polysaccharides and beta-glucans contained in lion's mane mushroom stimulate the activity of immune cells. They increase the production of white blood cells and thus strengthen the body's defenses against infections.^{4, 6, 8, 9, 13, 14}

2) The Turkey Tail

Turkey tail, the name of this mushroom comes from its resemblance to a deployed turkey tail with its colored bands of brown, blue, orange and white.

It is an aesthetically remarkable mushroom but it is also highly regarded for its medicinal properties. Recognized for centuries by traditional Asian medicine, today it is still talked about by modern science which continues to be interested in it.^{13, 15}

Its habitat

It is generally found on the trunks and stumps of dead trees, especially those of hardwoods such as oak, beech and maple.^{13, 15}

Immune system health

Turkey tail is traditionally recognized for its immunomodulatory action, thanks to the presence of compounds that stimulate the immune system, such as poly-saccharopeptide (PSP), polysaccharide Krestin (PSK) and antioxidants.

This mushroom is known to optimally stimulate the immune system and slow down the multiplication of cancer cells specifically lodged in the digestive system.^{13, 15}

• Strengthens the innate immune system
• Fight against free radical damage
• Promotes intestinal digestive health
• Provides prebiotics^{13, 15}

3) Reishi

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), "the mushroom of immortality", has been used in Asia for more than 2000 years.

This mushroom is appreciated because of its rarity in the wild. It only grows in dense high mountain forests in humid areas.^{3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 13}

Its multiple health benefits

Reishi has been shown to be adaptogenic because it improves the functioning of the adrenal glands, which are called upon during times of stress. It can promote sleep, is considered a tonic for vital energy, stimulates the immune system, helps fight fatigue, helps prevent cancer and liver disorders, etc.^{3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 13}

Immune system health

Reishi, a mushroom which contains substances (polysaccharides and triterpenes) capable of inhibiting the growth of tumors and the presence of metastases.

Research shows that reishi extract could strengthen an immune system weakened by chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and could also promote a better quality of life during treatments.

In addition, reishi contains germanium, which oxygenates cells and soothes pain during the advanced stages of cancer.^{3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 13}

Cardiovascular health

Preliminary clinical trials suggest that reishi could be beneficial for cardiovascular health.

What was observed: reductions in heart palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, reduction in cholesterol levels and diastolic blood pressure.^{3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 13}

Reishi, a source of antioxidants

Reishi contains antioxidants, a combination of active ingredients that help protect cells against the oxidative effects caused by free radicals. It contains polysaccharides, peptidoglycans and triterpenes which have antioxidant power and immunostimulating activity. It is used to give a boost of vitality and is used against aging.^{3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 13}

4) The Maitake

For centuries, Maitake mushroom is used in traditional Japanese medicine because of its multiple therapeutic virtues. It is nicknamed the "dancing mushroom", because it is said that discovering it while picking arouses joy and dancing.^{4, 8, 9, 10, 13}

Adaptogenic mushroom

It is identified as an adaptogenic mushroom, that is to say capable of strengthening the body's resistance to stress, in addition to offering a multitude of health benefits.

Maitake, known for its longevity and vigor, is renowned for its tonic properties which give it the role of a mushroom against fatigue.^{4, 8, 9, 10, 13}

Immune system health

Maitake is particularly rich in beta-glucans, polysaccharides with immunostimulating properties. In addition, these polysaccharides activate the reaction and action of immune cells.

The presence of these active compounds protects against various immune system conditions, including chronic fatigue syndrome, and strengthens the body during cancer chemotherapy therapy.^{4, 8, 9, 10, 13}

It contains vitamins (B1, B2, B3, C and D) as well as minerals (iron, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium), essential for the proper functioning of the body.^{4, 8, 9, 10, 13}

Maitake and blood sugar

Maitake has hypoglycemic properties and promotes insulin sensitivity in metabolic syndrome such as type II diabetes.

Neuroprotective

This mushroom would also have neuroprotective properties by promoting the regeneration of the neuronal transmission network.^{4, 8, 9, 10, 13}

5) Shiitake

Cultivated in China and Japan for 1000 years, shiitake was once reserved only for the Emperor and his faithful servants. This mushroom is nicknamed “the samurai mushroom”.

In addition to being identified as an adaptogenic mushroom, for its toning and strengthening properties, it plays an effective role at the cognitive level by helping to maintain an alert and awake mind.

This mushroom (Lentinula edodes) contains a beta-glucan called lentinan. Research demonstrates anti-tumor actions for certain cancers, anti-diabetic and immunomodulatory effects.^{4, 9, 10, 13}

6) Cordyceps

Cordyceps has been widely studied for its so-called adaptogenic properties. It is a fungus whose mycelium develops in a caterpillar (Hepialus fabricius) and/or a butterfly, Lepidoptera. It is its visible aerial part called carpophore, shaped like a finger, which develops after the death of the caterpillar.

Cordyceps, a mushroom with many virtues, has been valued for centuries in traditional Asian medicine for its various beneficial properties for health.

Known for its stimulating and adaptogenic properties, it is generally used to improve energy, strengthen the immune system and optimize physical performance. These properties can be attributed to its ability to improve the body's use of oxygen and stimulate the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the energy molecule that powers the vital processes of our cells.^{3, 4, 9, 10}

Cordyceps and the respiratory system

Even more, it is claimed that cordyceps has an action on breathing, it strengthens pulmonary energy. It therefore helps fight chronic dry cough, wheezing, chronic or allergic asthma, hay fever, etc. It helps the lungs following pneumonia. People who supplement with cordyceps notice that their endurance and breathing performance increase significantly.^{3, 4, 9, 10}

7) Chaga 

Chaga has a very good reputation and this is why it is nicknamed by several names including: Mushroom of immortality, Forest diamond and gift from God. It is possible to find chaga in Quebec and in the northern regions.

It is a native polypore fungus that looks like a large black growth and grows only on mature white and yellow birch trees. It contains a multitude of antioxidants (such as betulin, betulinic acid, beta-glucans, polyphenols, melanin, superoxide dismutases, etc.), a large number of minerals (potassium, zinc and barium) as well as phytosterols with immunomodulatory action.

It acts as a stimulant of the immune system. It is anti-cancer, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and antiviral.

Due to its multiple benefits, it is also recognized as part of the so-called adaptogenic mushrooms. It helps fight against gastritis and ulcers, it regulates cholesterol levels and hormonal functions.^{2, 4, 6, 8, 9 ,13}

8) Himematsutake Agaricus Blazei

In Brazil, it is nicknamed sun mushroom or god mushroom because it likes warm climates or partially sunny areas. And depending on its exposure to the sun, it can be gold, brown or light brown in color.

According to Japanese scientists, the virtues of this Brazilian mushroom come mainly from a specific ingredient: beta-glucans.

Action of beta-glucans

Beta-glucans are part of complex sugars, also called polysaccharides, with immunomodulatory and anti-tumor properties.

Beta-glucans promote the production of substances called cytokines which activate the immune response in addition to activating macrophages (white blood cells). The presence of beta-glucans helps fight against pathogens such as viruses, bacteria or infections. It is a good ally during the winter months against the flu.

Action against cancer

Himematsutake agaricus blazei as a supplement can be a valuable aid against cancer since it stimulates the immune system through beta-glucans and increases the effectiveness of natural killer (NK) cells, which have the ability to eliminate diseased cells.

Agaricus Blazei is useful against a variety of diseases like cancer, tumors, chronic hepatitis, diabetes, atherosclerosis, high cholesterol, etc.

In Brazil, Himematsutake Agaricus Blazei is part of the traditional pharmacopoeia and is seen as a mushroom promoting long life.^{17, 18}

Adaptogenic mushrooms, treasures of nature that are full of benefits for your health!

About the author

Marie Couture, Qualified Naturopath

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References

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1. Magnien Jean-Marie, Silence 100 diseases with the Seigna diet

let. Editions Thierry Souccar, 2023, 363 pages.

2. Schneider Anne, Indigenous medicinal plants, Les éditions de l’Homme, 2020, 265 pages

3. Vastel Anne, Chagnon Sylvie, Traditional Chinese Medicine Plants Western Medicines, Guy Trédaniel, 2020, 2022, 2023, 512 pages

Magazine

4. Campion Guylaine n.d., October 2017 volume 5 number 41, The miraculous powers of medicinal mushrooms, The natural world.

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7. https://livingalchemy.ca/fr/pages/fermentation-101

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10. https://mondenaturel.ca/les-champignons-medicinaux-des-tresors-de-la-nature-aux-pouvoirs-miraculeux/

12. https://livingalchemy.ca/fr/blogs/blog/mycosynergy%E2%84%A2-mushrooms-you-can-digest

13. https://www.nationalgeographic.fr/sciences/sante-medecine-douce-les-champignons-medicinaux-sont-ils-vraiment-bons-pour-la-sante

14. https://www.docteur-fitness.com/criniere-de-lion#effet-protecteur-sur-le-foie

15. https://lamycosphere.com/fr-int/blogs/the-futur-is-fungi/le-turkey-tail-trametes-versicolor-un-champignon-aux-vertus-exeptionnelles?srsltid=AfmBOoqAJr0uaR2pnW7fd5

16. https://www.passeportsante.net/fr/Solutions/PlantesSupplements/Fiche.aspx?doc=maitake_ps

17. https://cafedesguerriers.fr/blogs/champignons/agaricus-blazei-les-bienfaits-des-beta-glucanes-du-champignon-du-soleil

18. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3833359/