Functional mushrooms are a rising star in the health supplement world, and they may offer a range of benefits for brain health due to their unique nutritional content and bioactive compounds. We’ll discuss the best mushrooms for brain health and recommend one of the best functional mushroom brands on the market.
When it comes to maintaining optimal brain health, there is an array of natural remedies that can be very beneficial. These remedies encompass supplements that are rich in essential nutrients, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds. Among these, specific mushrooms have been associated with improved brain function, enhanced memory, and overall cognitive well-being. In this article, we explore some of the best mushrooms for brain health, backed by scientific research, and highlight their potential benefits.
There are several mushroom species that are well-known for their culinary and medicinal qualities, demonstrating their beneficial effects on the brain and nerves. Additionally, a few species have been reported to promote neurite outgrowth and enhance neuronal health. In terms of potential candidates for neurohealth activity, mushrooms are abundant; over 2,000 species have been identified as both edible and medicinal.
There is evidence suggesting that the inclusion of certain mushrooms in one’s diet can improve cognitive function, particularly in those of advanced age. Several of these mushroom species are considered the best mushrooms for brain health.
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Types of mushrooms considered excellent for brain health
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus):
Lion’s Mane is a unique mushroom known for its distinctive appearance and remarkable health benefits. Studies suggest that Lion’s Mane may enhance brain function by stimulating the growth and repair of nerve cells, leading to improved cognitive performance. Lion’s Mane is one of the best mushrooms for brain health as it contains compounds called erinacines and hericenones, which are believed to promote the production of nerve growth factors, essential proteins for brain health.
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus):
Chaga mushrooms have gained popularity in recent years due to their impressive antioxidant content and potential health benefits. These mushrooms grow on birch trees in cold climates and are rich in phenolic compounds, including melanin, which may help protect the brain against oxidative stress. Chaga has been studied for its ability to enhance cognitive function, improve memory, and support overall brain health. Additionally, it exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing neuroinflammation associated with neurodegenerative diseases.
Mushrooms known for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum):
Reishi, often referred to as the “mushroom of immortality,” has a rich history in traditional Chinese medicine for its potential health-promoting effects. Reishi mushrooms are renowned for their adaptogenic properties, aiding the body in adapting to various stressors and indirectly supporting brain health. They are also known to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect the brain from oxidative damage and reduce neuroinflammation, thereby contributing to improved cognitive function and a lower risk of age-related cognitive decline.
Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis):
Cordyceps is a fascinating mushroom that grows on the larvae of insects in high-altitude regions of Asia. This unique mushroom has long been used in traditional medicine to enhance vitality and energy. Cordyceps has shown promising results in studies, suggesting its potential benefits for brain health. It may improve cognitive function, increase cerebral blood flow, and protect against age-related cognitive decline. Additionally, Cordyceps contains cordycepin, a compound that has demonstrated neuroprotective properties and may support neuronal health. Cordyceps is considered one of the best mushrooms for brain health.
Mushrooms known for antitumor and immunomodulating properties
Grifola (Grifola frondosa):
Grifola frondosa, popularly known as hen-of-the-woods or maitake in Japanese and hui-shu-hua in Chinese, is a mushroom with extraordinary nutritional and medicinal properties. Jian-Yong Wu et al. explored its medical benefits in a summary of research on its bioactive components, health benefits, and structural features.
It was demonstrated that numerous polysaccharides such as β-glucans and heteroglycans extracted from the fruiting body and mycelium displayed antitumor and immunomodulating effects. Additionally, proteins and glycoproteins found in Grifola frondosa have demonstrated antitumor activity, immune modulation, antioxidant effects, and more. Grifola frondosa is considered one of the best mushrooms for brain health and overall well-being.
Mushrooms known for their cosmetic properties
Tremella fuciformis:
Tremella fuciformis has long been used in Asian beauty products, particularly in China, Korea, and Japan. It is believed to enhance moisture retention and protect micro-blood vessels from degradation, thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles and smoothing fine lines.
This fungus also naturally contains the enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD), which is found in various tissues and organs of the body. Due to its potent antioxidant effect, particularly on the skin, it is considered to have potential as a powerful anti-aging agent. Additionally, it has been recognized in Chinese medicine for its ability to nourish the lungs.
A word about where you can find the best mushroom supplements
Real Mushrooms is a premier supplier of mushroom supplements, offering many of the foregoing mushrooms in powder form. But why choose Real Mushrooms? This company has worked with Chinese manufacturers that consistently adhere to strict manufacturing standards, ensuring that their products are derived from the portion of the mushroom that contains the preceding nutrients and more.
Jeff Chilton, the founder of Nammex, an organic mushroom-growing operation, has played a pivotal role in the establishment of the thriving medicinal mushroom product industry. Boasting over four decades of expertise in mushroom cultivation, Jeff was among the pioneers who introduced mushroom extracts to the North American market.
Moreover, he took the initiative to organize the inaugural organic mushroom growers workshop in China as early as 1996. His son, Skye Chilton, established Real Mushrooms and expanded the business in North America. Skye states, “If a product claims to be mushroom yet contains no mushrooms, what do you call it? …My definition of fake food became any time what you buy is not what you think you’re buying. It doesn’t really matter whether it’s legal or illegal; it’s where you’re being tricked. You’re buying something that’s not what you think it is.” Real Mushrooms lives up to its name by providing products containing just that — real mushrooms.
Final takeaways
Incorporating mushrooms into your diet is a wise choice for improving brain health and cognitive function. Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, and Chaga mushrooms stand out as particularly noteworthy options, supported by scientific research and traditional use.
Although further studies are needed to fully understand the mechanisms and therapeutic potential of these mushrooms, their nutrient-rich profiles and distinctive bioactive compounds make them intriguing candidates for improving brain health. Considering the abundance of information available, these mushrooms deserve further consideration.
Further reading:
Medicine Net: What Is the Best Medicinal Mushroom? Health Benefits
Full Script: Top 8 Medicinal Mushrooms For Immune Health
Nanp.org: Top 7 Medicinal Mushrooms + Their Benefits
Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.
Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
