Key Points
- Medicinal mushrooms have been prized for their therapeutic properties throughout Asia for many years.
- Mushroom powder may help support immunity, enhance cognitive function and have an anti-inflammatory effect.
- Mushroom coffee is a blend of mushroom powder and coffee beans and may offer health benefits.
Mushroom powder may be having a moment, but the use of mushrooms for medicinal purposes is nothing new. Mushrooms have long been used medicinally in China, Japan and other Asian countries. However, the therapeutic qualities of mushroom powder and the introduction of novel ways of consuming mushrooms, like mushroom coffee, are relatively new. The good news is that it’s not all marketing hype, and some emerging evidence supports mushroom powder’s health benefits.
We spoke with Registered Pharmacist and Nutritionist, and Healthylife Advisory Board member, Sarah Gray to learn more.
What are the health benefits of mushroom powder?
When we talk about the health benefits of mushroom powder, we’re not talking about garden variety mushrooms (although they have benefits from a nutritional perspective). In this article, we’re delving into the fascinating world of medicinal mushrooms such as lion’s mane, reishi, chaga, cordyceps, shiitake and turkey tail.
“These are macroscopic fungi that hold therapeutic value in human health,” Sarah says. “They are used in the form of powders or extracts. These mushrooms contain plant compounds believed to have certain health benefits.”
Sarah says it’s important to note that most research on medicinal mushrooms has been conducted in a lab or using animal studies rather than well-designed human trials.
“The richest evidence is from traditional use in various modalities of natural medicine over thousands of years,” she says.
Health benefits of mushroom powder
- May help support immunity. The beta-glucan (soluble fibre) component of mushrooms has an immune-modulating effect. This may help support a healthy immune system.
- May support cognitive health. Laboratory research shows that medicinal mushrooms may enhance cognitive function and help you gain clearer and sharper focus. They also appear to support the production of nerve growth factors, critical for promoting memory and various mental functions.
- May work as adaptogens. Adaptogens help reduce the effects of stress on the body and may help the body adapt to stress. Studies show some mushrooms may have adaptogenic properties.
- May have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Medicinal mushrooms may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and may also help support gut health.
Mushroom coffee blends mushroom powder with coffee beans for a healthier alternative
What is mushroom coffee? Benefits you’ll love
Mushroom coffee isn’t some weird new way to make your coffee taste and look gross. It’s actually a trending specialty blend of ground medicinal mushrooms and coffee beans.
This begs the question: why mess with a perfectly good cup of coffee?
Studies show that coffee blends made with medicinal mushrooms reduce caffeine levels and add a healthy dose of polyphenols and antioxidants to the coffee. And the good news is that delicious coffee flavour and aroma aren’t adversely affected – so as far as mushroom coffee’s benefits go, it’s a win-win.
It’s always important to note that health benefits associated with any natural medicine like mushrooms are only realised when the correct type of mushroom is used, at the researched dose and for the correct duration. Although mushroom coffee may be tasty, be careful not to fall into the trap of thinking it is necessarily therapeutic at that dose. Read the label carefully, and always speak to a qualified healthcare professional.
Other ways to experience the benefits of mushroom powder
Mushroom powder supplements come in a variety of formats, including:
- Capsules
- Powders – add these to water or other drinks. Always read the instructions on the label, as some products may not be heat tolerant or able to be mixed with other foods or liquids
- Liquid extracts – note these can contain alcohol
Research into the health benefits of mushroom powder look set to grow in coming years
These mushroom powder benefits sound cool – any downsides?
Sarah says there’s been an explosion of mushroom powder supplements in the Australian market but shares a word of caution: “Not all of these are compliant as a therapeutic good or food. Choose a supplement listed with the Therapeutic Goods Association. Look for a little ‘AUSTL’ number on the label.”
Sarah says some companies over-promise the health benefits of mushroom powder, so it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional who can guide you on what mushroom powder supplement could work for you, as well as safe doses and potential interactions with medication.
Fungi’s future looks bright
We’re just beginning to learn about the potential benefits of mushroom powder, so it’s best to exercise caution if you’re considering jumping on this exploding trend. But the future does look bright for medicinal mushrooms. “There is no doubt that research and science in this space will continue to evolve and grow,” says Sarah.
Before you take any new supplement, consult your healthcare professional for advice.
Related:
Sarah Gray is both a Registered Pharmacist and Registered Nutritionist with a particular interest in health education and helping people to take small steps to big change in their health journey. Sarah is the Chief of Health Operations and Innovation at healthylife and sits on the healthylife Advisory Board.
Reviewed by the Healthylife Advisory Board November 2023.
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