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Top 3 Medicinal Mushrooms & How I Use Them
- KhadiYah Preciado
- May 20, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 30
Picture yourself walking through a peaceful forest, the ground soft beneath your feet, your eyes searching for hidden clusters of mushrooms along the bark and underbrush. Foraging mushrooms can be rewarding, but it requires caution. Many edible and medicinal mushrooms have toxic lookalikes. To safely identify them, use a trustworthy mushroom field guide like this one, as there are often many lookalikes that may be poisonous.
When making herbal remedies, I prefer whole or cut-and-sifted mushrooms over powdered forms. This ensures the mushrooms are pure, traceable, and as potent as possible.
What Makes Medicinal Mushrooms So Powerful?
Medicinal mushrooms contain a variety of bioactive compounds that support wellness on multiple levels. Let’s explore the top three contributors:
1. Polysaccharides
These complex carbohydrates are best known for their immune-modulating effects. Found in mushrooms like Chaga, Reishi, and Lion's Mane, polysaccharides help regulate immune activity, making your system more resilient to everyday stressors.(Source: Wang, J., Hu, X., & Wang, Y. (2017))
2. Phenolic Compounds
Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants that help fight inflammation and neutralize free radicals. These compounds are key players in the neuroprotective and heart-supportive benefits of mushrooms.(Source: Smiderle, F. R., & Ruthes, A. C. (2014))
3. Triterpenes, Sterols & Amino Acids
These lesser-known but potent compounds contribute to mushrooms' antiviral, antitumor, and adaptogenic effects. Reishi, in particular, is rich in triterpenes that support liver and immune health.(Source: Paterson, R. R. M. (2006))
Chaga
Grown on birch trees in cold regions like Canada and Alaska, Chaga is one of the most antioxidant-rich mushrooms. It supports immune function, skin health, and resilience against oxidative stress.
Try this: My Chocolate Chaga Milk is a cozy favorite you can find in my free recipe collection
Reishi
Known as the "mushroom of immortality," Reishi has been used for centuries to promote longevity, immune balance, and restful sleep. It’s a star in my Immunition Syrup recipe, paired with elderberries and echinacea.
See how I make it: Watch the behind-the-scenes video and blog here!
Lion's Mane
Lion's Mane contains unique compounds like hericenones and erinacines, which support brain health, cognitive clarity, and nerve regeneration. I personally use a dual extract tincture for best results.
Explore more: Learn about my Lion's Mane tincture setup in this quick video.
Choosing and Using Medicinal Mushrooms
Look for organic, lab-tested mushrooms to ensure safety and potency.
Use decoctions (long simmering methods) for tough mushrooms like Chaga and Reishi.
Dual extracts (alcohol + water) are ideal for Lion's Mane and Reishi.
Avoid heavily processed powders unless you trust the source.
FAQ: Medicinal Mushrooms
Q: Can I forage mushrooms myself?
A: Only if you’re trained or using a reliable field guide. Many mushrooms look alike, and some can be toxic.
Q: What’s the best way to store mushrooms?
A: Keep dried mushrooms in an airtight jar in a cool, dark place. Avoid plastic or damp containers.
Q: How often can I take medicinal mushrooms?
A: Many can be used daily, especially in food-level doses. Always research individual safety for your health needs.
Q: Do mushrooms interfere with medications?
A: Some mushrooms (like Reishi) may interact with blood pressure or immune-modulating medications. If you’re on prescriptions, speak with a trained herbalist or healthcare provider.
Want More Mushroom Recipes + Protocols?
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