Since the release of the popular TV series “Nine Perfect Strangers”, people around the globe have been asking whether micro dosing on hallucinogens could really improve mental wellbeing. But are they overlooking something? What about the non- psychoactive friendly fungi?
With much needed research and studies still to be conducted, we can rely only on what we know so far. Most studies have been conducted on mice, however there is growing interest in the effects on humans.
Here, we will explore what we know so far.
This article is intended for educational use only. Consult a doctor or Registered Nutritional Therapist prior to supplementation of any kind.
Athleticism
While particular mushroom have been suggested to provide a whole host of benefits, specific strains could have the potential to increase athletic performance. In studies conducted on mice, oral dosing with Cordyceps was found to increase athletic performance in mice by up to a massive 73%. Its actions including increased blood flow and oxygenation to tissues. The long term risks or benefits of this should be considered, however.
Medicinal uses of the mushroom Cordyceps militaris: current state and prospects – PubMed (nih.gov)
Traditional uses and medicinal potential of Cordyceps sinensis of Sikkim – PMC (nih.gov)
Brain Health
With supplementation of Lions Mane apparently encourage the growth of new brain cells, it is thought that this fungi could offer protective effects against both Alzheimer’s itself and memory loss in general. Additionally, it may increase mood by influencing our ‘feel good hormones’ serotonin and dopamine.
As with Cordyceps though, studies have been conducted mainly on mice.
Neurotrophic properties of the Lion’s mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia – PubMed (nih.gov)
Effects of Hericium erinaceus on amyloid β(25-35) peptide-induced learning and memory deficits in mice – PubMed (nih.gov)
Erinacine A-enriched Hericium erinaceus mycelium ameliorates Alzheimer’s disease-related pathologies in APPswe/PS1dE9 transgenic mice – PubMed (nih.gov)
Immune System
Shitaake mushrooms have been shown to have ‘immuno stimulatory effects’, supporting the activation of immune cells. They also contain substances which can protect your DNA from damage caused by oxidative stress (which, left unchecked, can often lead to ill health and disease), as well as potentially reducing the effects of food sensitivities.
Synergistic immuno-modulatory activity in human macrophages of a medicinal mushroom formulation consisting of Reishi, Shiitake and Maitake – PubMed (nih.gov)
Shiitake Mushrooms Benefits, Nutrition, Recipes and Side Effects – Dr. Axe (draxe.com)
How Safe Are They?
It is important to note that any unguided supplementation has the potential to create negative health reactions, particularly if you have not undergone a thorough health check and consulted a licenced health professional beforehand. This is particularly true if you have underlying health condition or are taking additional medications.
There is still a way to go when it comes to fully understanding the effects of medicinal mushrooms, and this article only scratches the surface. While their effectiveness cannot be guaranteed, if using medicinal mushrooms to improve your health is something you’re considering, always do so under the guidance of a licenced health professional. Contact Atavia Nutrition, or check out Episode 25 of the Teaching My Friend Nutrition Podcast.
Atavia Minoudis
Registered Nutritional Therapist DipCNM, GNC, ANP
BSc Psychology & Counselling