The Mighty Mushroom: A Mushroom Supplement Guide for Women's Health.
Beneath their diverse exteriors, mushroom supplements harbor a range of health-boosting qualities that cater to the specific requirements of women's bodies. Join us as we explore the intricate features of each mushroom, uncovering the scientific explanations for their effects and embracing the numerous advantages they provide to help women flourish and prosper.
In this blog, we’ll be discussing the following mushroom supplements and their benefits for womens health.
Index
- Mushrooms For Hormonal Equilibrium
- Reduce Stress: Reishi
- Boost Immune Health : Turkey Tail
- Support Bone Health: Shiitake
- Promote Radiant Skin: Tremella
- Enhance Focus: Lion's Mane
- Combat Fatigue: Cordyceps
- Improve Gut Health: Chaga
- Boost Libido: Cordyceps
- Support Menstrual Health with Mushroom Supplements
- How to use mushroom supplements
Hormonal Equilibrium
Manage PCOS: Maitake
The Maitake mushroom, also known as the "hen of the woods," is a nuanced ally in hormonal health. Let's delve into how Maitake can potentially support women by addressing two key aspects of hormonal health: managing PCOS and promoting hormonal equilibrium in general.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can present a multitude of challenges for women, often characterised by hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and various other symptoms. Thankfully, nature offers potential allies in managing these challenges, and Maitake mushrooms emerge as a promising candidate. This is how Maitake can potentially support women with PCOS.
Restoring Hormonal Harmony: A hallmark of PCOS is an imbalance in hormone levels, particularly elevated androgens. Research suggests that Maitake may play a role in promoting hormonal equilibrium by potentially reducing excess androgens. This can lead to a more balanced hormonal profile, potentially mitigating some of the symptoms associated with PCOS.
Enhancing Insulin Sensitivity: Insulin resistance, a common feature of PCOS, can worsen symptoms and contribute to other health concerns. Maitake holds promise in potentially improving insulin sensitivity, allowing the body to utilize insulin more effectively. This can lead to better blood sugar regulation and improved metabolic function, potentially easing some PCOS symptoms.
Bolstering the Body's Defences: PCOS can affect the immune system, making it crucial to support its proper functioning. Maitake's immune-boosting properties may contribute to a stronger immune system, potentially aiding in combating inflammation and promoting overall health and vitality. This can be particularly beneficial for women with PCOS, who may be more susceptible to certain health concerns.
For more information read our comprehensive guide on Maitake
Hormonal Balance: Cordyceps & Reishi
Cordyceps and Reishi emerge as a dynamic duo, extending a graceful response to some of the challenges that accompany menopause.
Adaptogenic Benefits during Menopause: Cordyceps and Reishi, the dynamic duo of adaptogens, go beyond the conventional to offer a graceful response to menopausal challenges. Studies propose that adaptogenic mushrooms, like Cordyceps and Reishi, may assist the body in adapting to hormonal fluctuations during this significant life stage. [1]
Anti-Inflammatory Elegance: Delving into the intricate realm of menopausal well-being, the anti-inflammatory prowess of Cordyceps and Reishi takes centre stage. Extensive research highlights their potential to reduce inflammation markers within the body. This anti-inflammatory effect is particularly significant during menopause, as hormonal changes can trigger inflammation-related symptoms. By mitigating inflammation, Cordyceps and Reishi provide a soothing balm, contributing to overall well-being and comfort as women navigate the complexities of menopause. [2]
Stress Resilience and Emotional Well-being: Menopause often brings along heightened stress levels and emotional fluctuations. Cordyceps and Reishi, with their adaptogenic properties, not only aid in hormonal balance but also promote stress resilience. Adaptogens help the body adapt to stressors, supporting the central nervous system and mitigating the impact of stress on emotional well-being. This dual benefit makes Cordyceps and Reishi valuable allies for women seeking a holistic approach to managing the emotional impacts of menopause.
Heart Health and Circulatory Support: Menopausal women may face changes in cardiovascular health. Cordyceps, with its potential to enhance respiratory function and support the cardiovascular system, complements Reishi's role in promoting overall heart health. Together, they create a synergistic impact, contributing to circulatory well-being and supporting the heart as women undergo the changes associated with menopause.
For more information read our comprehensive guide on Menopause
Reduce Stress: Reishi
Reishi mushrooms or ganoderma lucidum, often hailed as the "Mushroom of Immortality," unveils its profound effects on women's health. A melody of scientific studies orchestrates the tale of Reishi's benefits, offering a harmonious blend of physical and mental well-being.
Scientific Validation:
A compelling 2005 study, published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, delved into the effects of Reishi supplements on individuals grappling with symptoms like irritability, dizziness, aches, and headaches. The results were transformative – after eight weeks of supplementation, participants reported significant reductions in fatigue and improvements in mood. This study provided a pivotal note in the symphony of Reishi's potential benefits. [3]
In another scientific exploration, a study involving breast cancer survivors echoed similar harmonies. Researchers observed reduced levels of anxiety and depression following Reishi supplementation, underscoring the mushroom's versatility in addressing emotional well-being. [4]
Reishi's therapeutic composition is a symphony of active ingredients, each playing a unique role in promoting health and vitality.
Beta-D-Glucans: This soluble fiber, akin to a soothing refrain, enhances immune function, promotes heart health, and possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Reishi's benefits weaves through the immune and circulatory systems, creating a tapestry of health.
Triterpenes: A diverse ensemble of compounds with multifaceted health benefits:
- Blood sugar management: Offering a steady rhythm for metabolic health.
- Antioxidant activity: Conducting a protective symphony against oxidative stress.
- Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects: A soothing melody for overall well-being.
- Potential antitumor and antiviral properties: A powerful anthem against certain health concerns.
- Reduced allergies and histamine reactions: Creating a tranquil background for respiratory health.
- Calming effect: Weaving serenity into the fabric of everyday life.
Benefits for Women:
As Reishi takes center stage in women's health, its benefits unfold like a serene melody.
Improved Sleep Quality: Reishi's potential to modulate the central nervous system creates a serene haven for relaxation, contributing to improved sleep quality. A restful night's sleep becomes a cornerstone for women's overall well-being.
Stress Management: Reishi's calming effects, coupled with its potential benefits for mood, form a therapeutic duet for stress management. As women navigate the demands of daily life, Reishi provides a calming counterpoint, fostering resilience and emotional well-being.
For more information on the benefits, read our comprehensive guide on Reishi
Boost Immune Health: Turkey Tail
Research reveals a concerning rise in stress levels, impacting various bodily systems. This is where the potential of adaptogenic mushrooms, like Turkey Tail, becomes relevant for women's health. Functional mushroom supplements, including Turkey Tail, contain powerful compounds that enhance the immune system's response. These mushroom supplements support both the innate (non-specific, present at birth) and adaptive (acquired, targeted) immune systems.
Adaptogenic Power: Adaptogens help the body adapt to various stressors, be it physical, biological, or chemical. They interact with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which plays a crucial role in stress response. By stabilising cortisol levels, Turkey Tail may help the body restore balance during stressful situations, potentially offering relief from stress-related symptoms commonly experienced by women, such as:
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Difficulty sleeping
Boosting the Immune System
Innate Immunity Boost: Preclinical studies illuminate the ability of Turkey Tail polysaccharides to stimulate the proliferation of immune cells crucial for the innate response. The innate immune system serves as the body's first line of defence, acting swiftly against pathogens. By enhancing innate immunity, Turkey Tail provides a robust shield against potential invaders, fostering a frontline defence that is particularly crucial for women's health. [5, 6, 7, 8]
Adaptive Immune Strengthening: Turkey Tail's influence extends to the adaptive immune system, a more specialised and targeted response to improve immune health. Through interactions with immune sensors like toll-like receptors, Turkey Tail may increase the production of T and B lymphocytes, key players in the adaptive immune response. This augmentation of the adaptive immune system equips the body with a sophisticated defence mechanism, allowing it to recognize and remember specific pathogens. This heightened immune intelligence is pivotal in safeguarding women from infections that commonly afflict the urinary and reproductive systems.
Enhanced Immune Surveillance: The combined effects on innate and adaptive immunity support orchestrated by Turkey Tail pave the way for enhanced immune surveillance. The mushroom's immunological marvels contribute to a vigilant immune system, adept at detecting and responding to potential threats. This heightened surveillance is of particular significance for women, offering increased protection against infections that frequently target their urinary and reproductive health.
Antibody Production Amplification: Turkey Tail's immunomodulatory properties extend to the amplification of antibody production. Antibodies play a critical role in neutralising pathogens and preventing their entry or replication within the body. By bolstering antibody production, Turkey Tail further fortifies the immune arsenal, providing women with an additional layer of defence against infections that may compromise their well-being.
Benefits for Women
Early research also suggests that Turkey Tail, in combination with other functional mushroom supplements, may offer:
- Reduced inflammation: This may be beneficial for managing conditions like endometriosis and pain commonly affecting women.
- Improved gut health: A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for overall health and may contribute to improved hormonal balance and reduced symptoms of PMS.
Beta-Glucan Fortification: Turkey Tail takes centre stage as a powerhouse of Beta-Glucans. Research indicates that these compounds can stimulate the immune system, offering robust protection against infections.
For more information read our comprehensive guide on Turkey Tail
Support Bone Health: Shiitake
Shiitake mushrooms emerge not merely as flavour enhancers but as silent guardians for women's bone health. Celebrated for their exquisite taste, Shiitake mushrooms weave a tale of nourishment, particularly in fostering skeletal integrity as women gracefully age.
Vitamin D Properties: As women traverse the journey of ageing, maintaining robust bone density becomes a paramount concern. Here, Shiitake takes on the role of a vigilant guardian, facilitating the absorption of calcium – a fundamental building block for bone strength.
Antioxidant Symphony: Beyond its role in bone health, Shiitake mushrooms unfurl a rich tapestry of antioxidants, including the essential mineral selenium. This antioxidant symphony becomes a protective shield, playing a vital role in safeguarding cells from oxidative stress. For women navigating the intricacies of life, Shiitake's antioxidant prowess extends beyond bones, contributing to overall cellular health. This robust defence against oxidative stress not only complements the Vitamin D benefits but also becomes a cornerstone of women's comprehensive well-being.
Benefits for Women
The amalgamation of Vitamin D and antioxidants in Shiitake mushrooms creates a holistic approach to women's health. Beyond the skeletal realm, these medicinal qualities extend their benefits to women's unique health concerns.
Hormonal Balance: Shiitake's nutrient profile may contribute to hormonal equilibrium, particularly during phases such as menopause. The symbiotic interplay of Vitamin D and antioxidants supports the endocrine system, fostering balance in hormonal fluctuations.
Skin Radiance: Antioxidants play a pivotal role in promoting radiant skin. Shiitake's selenium content, combined with Vitamin D's skin-nourishing properties, becomes a natural elixir for women seeking a luminous complexion.
Immune Resilience: As women juggle various responsibilities, a robust immune system is paramount. Shiitake's dual benefits fortify the immune response, offering resilience against common ailments and supporting overall immune health.
For more information read our comprehensive guide on Shiitake
Promote Radiant Skin: Tremella
Tremella, the ethereal "snow mushroom," is one of the few mushroom supplements that offers a natural approach to achieving hydrated, youthful-looking skin.
Let's explore the science behind its remarkable benefits:
Tremella Fuciformis Polysaccharide (TPS): This complex sugar acts like hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant, offering deep hydration at an affordable price. Interestingly, Tremellas molecules are smaller than those of Hyaluronic acid, which results in them penetrating deeper into the skin, maximising moisture retention.
Glucuronoxylomannan: This unique polysaccharide in Tremella holds promise for improved skin health by potentially promoting both moisture retention and elasticity, leading to a more youthful appearance.
Benefits for Women
Intense Hydration: Deep hydration plumps fine lines and wrinkles, leaving the skin feeling supple and smooth.
Enhanced Elasticity: Increased moisture retention and elasticity may help minimise the appearance of wrinkles and promote a firmer, youthful complexion.
Radiant Glow: Well-hydrated skin naturally radiates. Tremella's moisturising properties enhance this luminosity for a vibrant appearance.
For more information read our comprehensive guide on Tremella
Enhance Focus: Lions Mane
Lions Mane mushrooms take centre stage as the "smart mushroom," crafting a melodic ode to enhance women's cognitive brilliance. This unique fungus not only stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF) but also unveils a symphony of cognitive benefits, contributing to optimal brain health.
Cognitive Benefits with NGF Stimulation: Lions Mane steps onto the stage, showcasing its prowess as a mental maestro. Its potential to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) becomes the keynote in the cognitive symphony, fine-tuning brain function for enhanced memory and concentration.
Neuroprotective Harmony: Research whispers of Lions Mane's neuroprotective properties, adding a layer of complexity to its role as a cognitive enhancer. This harmonious attribute contributes to the maintenance of healthy brain function, creating a shield against the challenges that the passage of time may bring. Lions Mane becomes a guardian of cognitive vitality, offering women a unique and natural ally in preserving mental clarity.
Brain Fog Unravelled:
Lions Manes symphony extends beyond enhancement, addressing factors that can contribute to brain fog, a common concern for women.
Hormonal Harmony: Lions Mane acknowledges the impact of hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pre- and post-menopause, on brain function. By promoting NGF stimulation, Lions Mane provides a potential pathway to mitigate the cognitive effects of hormonal shifts, contributing to clarity of thought and reduced brain fog.
Sleep Serenity: Recognizing the significance of sleep in cognitive wellness, Lions Mane becomes a companion in the journey towards restful nights. Its neuroprotective qualities may aid in maintaining sleep quality, alleviating a key contributor to brain fog.
Stress Resilience: Lions Mane understands the toll that stress can take on cognitive function. By supporting NGF stimulation, this smart mushroom becomes an ally in stress resilience, contributing to mental clarity even in challenging times.
Inflammation Alleviation: Lions Mane’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties resonate with the potential to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. This multifaceted approach may alleviate brain fog symptoms, offering women a natural solution to enhance cognitive function.
For more information read our comprehensive guide on Lion’s Mane
Combat Fatigue: Cordyceps
Cordyceps mushrooms stand tall, long lauded for their potential to combat respiratory ailments and unveil secrets to improved physical performance. This dynamic fungus emerges as a beacon of energy without the jitters, particularly crucial for women seeking sustained vitality in their daily lives.
Energetic Flourish without the Jitters: Cordyceps takes centre stage in the quest for sustained energy, offering an energetic flourish without the undesirable side effects of jitters or crashes. Scientific studies underscore Cordyceps' potential to combat fatigue and enhance endurance, providing women with a natural and effective solution for improved physical performance. This unique quality positions Cordyceps as an invaluable ally for women navigating the demands of their busy lives, offering a sustainable source of energy that harmonises with their bodies.[9]
Respiratory Health Support: Delving into its traditional roots in Chinese medicine, Cordyceps unveils its versatility in providing respiratory health support. Traditionally used to address respiratory ailments, Cordyceps contributes to improved respiratory function. This dual benefit transforms Cordyceps into a comprehensive supporter of both energy and respiratory health, offering women a holistic approach to well-being.
Benefits for Women
Cordyceps' energising symphony carries women-centric benefits that resonate with their unique health concerns and priorities.
Hormonal Harmony: Cordyceps, with its adaptogenic properties, may play a role in hormonal regulation. This adaptogenic quality becomes particularly relevant for women seeking balance in hormonal fluctuations, contributing to overall well-being.
Stress Resilience: As women juggle diverse roles and responsibilities, Cordyceps' adaptogenic nature aids in stress resilience. By supporting the body's response to stressors, Cordyceps becomes a natural ally for women seeking a harmonious balance in their daily lives.
Physical Endurance: Cordyceps' reputation for enhancing endurance and exercise performance becomes a vital asset for women pursuing active lifestyles. Whether in daily activities or fitness pursuits, Cordyceps provides a natural boost to physical stamina.
For more information read our comprehensive guide on Cordyceps
Improve Gut Health: Chaga
Chaga mushrooms take on the role of a prebiotic maestro, contributing to the intricate dance of gut health. Celebrated for their gut-friendly prebiotics, Chaga unfolds as a vital force in promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, offering women a path to enhanced digestive health and fortified immune function.
Gut-Friendly Prebiotics: Studies show Chaga stands at the forefront of gut health, orchestrating a harmonious environment for beneficial gut bacteria to flourish. In the intricate dance of the gut microbiome, Chaga emerges as a prebiotic maestro, supporting the growth of these beneficial bacteria. Scientific evidence lends weight to Chaga's role in this delicate balance, providing women with a natural and effective means to nurture their gut health. As a prebiotic ally, Chaga becomes a key player in promoting digestive well-being, offering women a pathway to a resilient and balanced gut. [10]
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Actions: Chaga's contribution to gut health extends beyond prebiotic support, delving into its rich repertoire of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In the intricate landscape of the gastrointestinal system, Chaga's antioxidant prowess becomes a protective shield against oxidative stress, while its anti-inflammatory actions create a soothing balm for digestive comfort. This dual benefit positions Chaga as a holistic contributor to gastrointestinal well-being, offering women a comprehensive approach to nurturing their digestive vitality.
Benefits for Women
Chaga's gastrointestinal symphony resonates with women-centric benefits, addressing their unique health concerns and priorities.
Hormonal Harmony: The gut is intricately linked to hormonal balance, and Chaga's support for a healthy gut microbiome may contribute to overall hormonal harmony. This becomes particularly relevant for women seeking balance in hormonal fluctuations.
Immune Resilience: A healthy gut is a cornerstone of a robust immune system. Chaga's prebiotic support and antioxidant actions contribute to immune function, offering women enhanced resilience against common ailments.
Inflammation Management: Women navigating conditions linked to inflammation, such as endometriosis, may find Chaga's anti-inflammatory actions beneficial. This dual action supports digestive comfort and overall well-being.
For more information read our comprehensive guide on Chaga
Boost Libido: Cordyceps
Beyond its energy-boosting capabilities, Cordyceps steps into the realm of libido support. Some studies propose that Cordyceps may positively impact sexual function and desire, offering a multifaceted approach to women's vitality. [11,12,13]
Hormonal Regulation: Cordyceps, through its adaptogenic properties, may play a role in hormonal regulation. This additional facet further solidifies Cordyceps as a comprehensive supporter of women's overall well-being.
For more information read our comprehensive guide on Cordyceps
Support Menstrual Health: Chaga
Chaga mushrooms emerge as virtuosos, celebrated for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This harmonious duet of healing qualities holds promise for women facing diverse health concerns, offering a symphony of potential benefits.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Virtues: Chaga's reputation as a powerhouse of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents forms the foundation of its healing melody. These properties create a protective shield against oxidative stress and a soothing balm for inflammatory discomfort. As women navigate the intricacies of their health, Chaga becomes a reliable ally in fostering overall well-being.
Benefits for Women
PMS Relief: The enchanting notes of Chaga's anti-inflammatory properties resonate with potential relief for premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Chaga's anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects may alleviate discomfort associated with PMS. The presence of bioactive compounds adds depth to Chaga's potential impact, potentially extending its benefits to conditions like endometriosis.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Chaga's healing melody extends to metabolic harmony, with studies indicating its potential role in regulating blood sugar levels. Maintaining stable blood sugar is a crucial aspect of overall well-being during the menstrual cycle. While further research is required to unveil the full scope of Chaga's influence on blood sugar, its inclusion in women's wellness routines holds promise for metabolic balance. [14]
Immune Harmony and Beyond
Chaga's healing melody resonates beyond specific health concerns, contributing to a symphony of immune harmony and overall vitality.
Immune Resilience: Chaga's anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects contribute to a robust immune response. This becomes a cornerstone of women's overall well-being, offering resilience against common ailments and supporting immune health.
Holistic Wellness: The combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory virtues positions Chaga as a holistic contributor to women's wellness. Beyond addressing specific concerns, Chaga becomes a melody that echoes throughout the entire well-being spectrum.
For more information read our comprehensive guide on Chaga
Quick Recipe
Mushroom supplements in powder form offer a versatile addition to your daily routine. Easily incorporated, they can be blended into smoothies, stirred into coffee, or added to almost any recipe for a daily health boost. For a unique twist on a classic treat, try our delicious Lion’s Mane Apple Loaf. This delightful recipe seamlessly blends the earthy tones of Lion's Mane into a sweet, moist loaf, enriching it with both flavor and the cognitive benefits of the mushroom.
Lion's Mane Apple Loaf
INGREDIENTS
| Caramel Base | Sponge | Decoration |
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25g butter 85g demerara sugar 1 apple finely sliced |
75g butter 200g self raising flour 100g caster sugar 2 tsp cinnamon 2 tsp lions main powder 2 tsp vanilla bean paste 1 apple cubes ½ cup raisins 3 eggs |
1 apple finely sliced Icing sugar (to dust) |
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Method: Step by Step
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Click here for more recipes
“Chaga is an Ayurvedic herb & is considered one of the most powerful antioxidants on planet Earth. It's a super adaptogen, which helps & supports the body return to its natural state of being.”
- DR LIEM LE, DAOM, MS
Unlocking the Power of Fungi
From hormonal balance to cognitive health and beyond – as a grand tapestry woven by the mighty mushrooms. By embracing these diverse fungi and including them in their dietary supplements routine, women can unlock a personalised holistic path to life.
In the realm of health, knowledge is power, and within the mighty mushroom, the power lies in guiding women on their journey to wellness. So, embark on this nuanced exploration, and let pure mushroom extracts be your sophisticated guide to women's wellness.
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References
Hormonal Equilibrium
1. Bhardwaj N, Katyal P, Sharma AK. Suppression of inflammatory and allergic responses by pharmacologically potent fungus Ganoderma lucidum. Recent Pat Inflamm Allergy Drug Discov. 2014;8(2):104-17. doi: 10.2174/1872213x08666140619110657. PMID: 24948193.
2. Pazzi F, Adsuar JC, Domínguez-Muñoz FJ, García-Gordillo MA, Gusi N, Collado-Mateo D. Ganoderma lucidum Effects on Mood and Health-Related Quality of Life in Women with Fibromyalgia. Healthcare (Basel). 2020 Nov 30;8(4):520. doi: 10.3390/healthcare8040520. PMID: 33265969; PMCID: PMC7712001.
Reduce Stress: Reishi
3. Tang, W., Gao, Y., Chen, G., Gao, H., Dai, X., Ye, J., Chan, E., Huang, M., & Zhou, S. (2005). A Randomized, Double-Blind and Placebo-Controlled Study of a Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharide Extract in Neurasthenia | Journal of Medicinal Food, 8(1), 53–58.
4. Zhao H, Zhang Q, Zhao L, Huang X, Wang J, Kang X. Spore Powder of Ganoderma lucidum Improves Cancer-Related Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Endocrine Therapy: A Pilot Clinical Trial. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012;2012:809614. doi: 10.1155/2012/809614. Epub 2011 Dec 10. PMID: 22203880; PMCID: PMC3236089.
Boost Immune Health: Turkey Tail
5. Ho, C.Y., Lau, C.B.S., Kim, C.F., Leung, K.N., Fung, K.P., Tse, T.F., Chan, H.H.L. & Chow, M.S.S. 2004, “Differential effect of Coriolus versicolor (Yunzhi) extract on cytokine production by murine lymphocytes in vitro,” International Immunopharmacology, vol. 4, no. 12, pp. 1549–1557, 1567576904002474>
6. Ng, T.B. 1998, “A review of research on the protein-bound polysaccharide (polysaccharopeptide, PSP) from the mushroom Coriolus versicolor (basidiomycetes: Polyporaceae),” General Pharmacology: The Vascular System, vol. 30, no. 1, pp. 1–4, 0306362397000761>
7. Yang, S., Zhuang, T., Si, Y., Qi, K. & Zhao, J. 2015, “Coriolus versicolor mushroom polysaccharides exert immunoregulatory effects on mouse B cells via membrane Ig and TLR-4 to activate the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways,” Molecular Immunology, vol. 64, no. 1, pp. 144–151, 0161589014003150?via%3Dihub#bib0095>
8. Torkelson, C.J., Sweet, E., Martzen, M.R., Sasagawa, M., Wenner, C.A., Gay, J., Putiri, A. & Standish, L.J. 2012, Phase 1 Clinical Trial of Trametes versicolor in Women with Breast Cancer ISRN oncology, vol. 2012, p. 251632,
Combat Fatigue: Cordyceps
9. Choi E, Oh J, Sung GH. Beneficial Effect of Cordyceps militaris on Exercise Performance via Promoting Cellular Energy Production. Mycobiology. 2020 Nov 9;48(6):512-517. doi: 10.1080/12298093.2020.1831135. PMID: 33312018; PMCID: PMC7717596.
Improve Gut Health: Chaga
10. Lu Y, Jia Y, Xue Z, Li N, Liu J, Chen H. Recent Developments in Inonotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom) Polysaccharides: Isolation, Structural Characteristics, Biological Activities and Application. Polymers (Basel). 2021 Apr 29;13(9):1441. doi: 10.3390/polym13091441. PMID: 33947037; PMCID: PMC8124789.
Boost Libido: Cordyceps
11. Kuhn, M. A., Harold, D. M., & Winston, D. (2001). Herbal therapy & supplements: A scientific & traditional approach. Philadelphia: Lippincott.
12. Jiraungkoorskul, K., & Jiraungkoorskul, W. (2016). Review of Naturopathy of Medical mushroom, Ophiocordyceps sinensis, in sexual Dysfunction. Pharmacognosy reviews, 10(19), 1–5.
13. Grant, P., & Ramasamy, S. (2012). An Update on Plant Derived Anti-Androgens | International Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism , 10(2), 497–502.
Support Menstrual Health: Chaga
14. Lu Y, Jia Y, Xue Z, Li N, Liu J, Chen H. Recent Developments in Inonotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom) Polysaccharides: Isolation, Structural Characteristics, Biological Activities and Application. Polymers (Basel). 2021 Apr 29;13(9):1441. doi: 10.3390/polym13091441. PMID: 33947037; PMCID: PMC8124789.
Disclaimer: Remember while the potential benefits of mushrooms are compelling, consulting your healthcare professional before incorporating them into your routine is paramount, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take medications.