There are more than 2,000 species of mushrooms that are edible. Out of those, only a few have been given the distinction of being functional mushrooms. What this means is that the 15 functional mushrooms that have been identified provide more value than just containing nutritional benefits. Each of these functional mushrooms is considered to support good health, from boosting the body’s immune system to sharpening the mind and minimizing stress and anxiety. Functional mushrooms are now considered by many to be the new superfoods, and for good reason.
Supports Immune System
Functional mushrooms are loaded with beta-glucans, polysaccharides, polyphenols and antioxidants. All of the compounds that are found in functional mushrooms work together to boost the functionality of the body’s immune system. The use of functional mushrooms also has plenty of long-term effects that help support the immune system along with other functions of the body. More importantly, daily use of functional mushrooms has been shown to keep the body safe from free radicals and disease by strengthening the gut bacteria.
Glowing Skin And Smooth Complexion
An increasing amount of skincare products are now being infused with functional mushrooms, and it’s easy to see why. These mushrooms have a significant amount of antioxidant properties that are highly beneficial for the skin. Furthermore, since glowing skin is a sign of a healthy body, functional mushrooms ensure smooth skin and a clearer complexion thanks to their benefits for the body’s immune system.
Boost Energy Levels
Functional mushrooms have many health benefits, one of which is that they’re adaptogenic. This means that functional mushrooms can be extremely beneficial in the body’s fight against fatigue and low energy levels. In other words, functional mushrooms have the ability to boost your energy levels so that you’re able to be more productive. In the fast-paced world where it’s easy to get fatigued and experience low energy, functional mushrooms have proven to be an incredible source of energy.
Reduces Chronic Inflammation
Functional mushrooms such as chaga mushrooms are considered to be great for reducing chronic inflammation. These mushrooms are found in cold climates and grow on birch trees. The mushroom is able to draw triterpenoid betulin from the birch trees, which it then turns to betulinic acid, trametenolic acide and inotodiol. All of these compounds have been found to have strong anti-cancerous properties. This is also one of the main reasons why the chaga mushrooms have long been associated with supporting the immune system, fighting off tumors in the body and helping reduce inflammation.
The Brain
Enhanced brain activity has been reported after using functional mushrooms, particularly lion’s mane. This particular type of functional mushroom contains hericenones and erinacines, which are compounds that help stimulate nerve growth and brain cells. These mushrooms are considered to be useful for increasing cognitive ability and, according to some recent studies, could even be beneficial against Alzheimer’s disease.