People all around the world are constantly on the lookout for substances and activities that enhance their mental health and cognitive abilities. This quest for better brain health has led to the discovery of many things that are naturally available but are a bit unorthodox for some people.
Many of these naturally available elements have been utilized for several years and are prevalent in traditional medicinal practices of ancient cultures in Japan, China, India, and various other regions. Their rising popularity as a dietary supplement stems from their potential to enhance memory and mental clarity. Ongoing research aims to explore their various health benefits, such as their neuroprotective properties, support for mental health and the immune system, and potential to reduce inflammation.
Amongst these substances, mushrooms have become the center of attention with their diverse functional abilities. Although mushrooms have earned notoriety because of the presence of psychedelic substances in them, not all fall under the same category and provide various functional accolades.
Functional mushrooms are now accessible in various forms such as powders, capsules, mints, sprays, chocolates, and tinctures, and are generally regarded as safe. Let’s take a look at a few of the categories of mushrooms that provide such benefits.
The Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is a nootropic edible mushroom recognized for its distinctive white, shaggy appearance resembling a lion’s mane. It typically grows on dead or decaying hardwood trees or logs during late summer to fall, and can be found across Asia, Europe, and North America.
Rich in bioactive compounds like beta-glucans, erinacines, and hericenones, Lion’s Mane has been utilized in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for centuries for various therapeutic purposes. It remains a staple in the diets of many East Asian countries.
Reishi mushrooms, also known as lingzhi, are part of a group of medicinal mushrooms with a centuries-old history of use, particularly in Asian nations, for combating infections. In recent times, they’ve gained attention for their potential in treating pulmonary diseases and cancer.
In Japan and China, medicinal mushrooms like reishi have been officially recognized as complementary to standard cancer therapies for over three decades, boasting a long-established track record of safety and efficacy, both as standalone treatments and when used alongside chemotherapy.
The Turkey Tail mushrooms (Coriolus versicolor) is rich in polysaccharide peptide (PSP) and polysaccharide krestin (PSK), both valued for their medicinal properties. Growing on stumps and decomposing wood of trees, the Turkey Tail mushroom is renowned for its potential to inhibit cancer growth and enhance the immune system through the presence of PSP and PSK.
Individuals often turn to Turkey Tail mushroom to augment the effectiveness of cancer treatments and radiation, and for various conditions like muscle strength, fatigue, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, there is limited scientific evidence supporting these purported benefits.
For centuries, Chaga mushrooms have served as a medicinal remedy in Siberia and various regions across Asia, revered for their ability to enhance immunity and promote overall well-being. Chaga is a fungus thriving on tree trunks, particularly birch trees, develops a woody growth known as a conk, from which it absorbs nutrients.
Research suggests that Chaga may stimulate the immune system, owing to certain antioxidant chemicals it contains. Additionally, it’s believed to have potential in reducing blood sugar and cholesterol levels. While Chaga is commonly used for various conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, scientific evidence supporting these uses remains inconclusive.
Cordyceps, a fungus found in the high mountain regions of China, is occasionally utilized for its medicinal properties. While some supplements contain lab-made cordyceps, it’s important to note that this type does not produce a mushroom. Cordyceps may enhance immunity by stimulating immune cells and specific chemicals, and it’s believed to have potential in combating cancer cells, particularly in lung or skin cancers.
However, natural cordyceps can be difficult to obtain and may be costly. Despite its popularity for athletic performance, kidney and liver issues, and sexual health, there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims.
The pursuit of discovering natural substances that enhance brain capacity is ongoing. However, as interest in these supplements grows, individuals should prioritize consulting healthcare professionals before incorporating them into their wellness routines.
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