You may know turmeric as “the golden spice” — often unmissable in grocery stores due to its vibrant yellow colour. And lately, it feels like turmeric can be added to anything — from curries to juices to lattes… and now dog food?! Say what now?
Yep, as it turns out, turmeric can be good for dogs. Its main ingredient, curcumin, has been found to have an anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial effect in pups. From promoting joint, skin and fur health to helping to prolong their life span — there are so many reasons why paw parents are choosing to spice up their dog’s diet with turmeric.
So, settle in (with little Archie on your lap) as we unleash three key reasons why turmeric may be a great addition to your dog’s diet.
While we feel blessed with every year we get to spend with our furry friends, aging is inevitable. You may notice that as the years go on, your doggo may move a little slower, walk a little stiffer, or take a little longer to get up from their bed.
Osteoarthritis is common in senior dogs, particularly in larger breeds, and can unfortunately be quite painful. Of course, there are medications available to help ease the pain of arthritis, but if you’re looking for a natural at-home remedy, turmeric may do the trick.
One of the active ingredients in turmeric is curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help to support joint health and pain relief in senior dogs. In fact, in one randomised study on dogs with osteoarthritis, indicators of pain were lower in those that were fed a diet rich in curcuminoids. What’s more, the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric may do more than relieve pain and discomfort from stiff joints. Supplementing your dog’s diet with turmeric may also improve their mobility, giving your furry friend more freedom in their golden years..
Let’s speak a little more about inflammation.
Chronic hidden inflammation can be a silent killer in both animals and humans — it’s the root of many diseases including cancers, kidney disease, dental disease and digestive issues. So, while the curcumin within turmeric works to soothe any inflammation from arthritis and joint deterioration within dogs, it can also help to prevent other diseases that may be brought on as a result of inflammation.
A 2004 study found that curcumin may outperform ibuprofen, aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs in people with arthritis. While this study was conducted on humans, it’s probable the effects will be similar for our furry friends.
Turmeric isn’t coined the “golden-spice” purely for its yellow colour. It’s also really, really, really, really good for you.
It’s so chock full of antioxidants that it’s achieved superfood status and is regarded as one of the healthiest spices in the world. When we talk about antioxidants, we’re talking about molecules within the body that fight nasty compounds called “free radicals”, which can cause harm if their levels are too high. While your body has its own antioxidant defences to keep free radicals in check, it needs a little bit of extra help to keep the nasties away. And that’s where turmeric comes in.
Although most studies into the antioxidant effects of turmeric have been on humans, a few studies have shown that it may help in dogs as well. Perhaps the best thing about antioxidants is they’re thought to help slow down the aging and degeneration process of humans and animals, promoting a longer lifespan. It’s been said that the antioxidant curcumin is so powerful, it may help to prevent cancers and even slow their spread. At the very least, the antioxidants within turmeric can help to contribute to better skin and coat for your pup, while helping to minimise allergies and other reactions.
By now, you can see that turmeric is pretty incredible stuff. While it’s widely considered safe for dogs, it may interfere with some medications, and can sometimes cause stomach upset or constipation in some canines. So, as with anything, there may be side effects to turmeric consumption for some pooches and it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian prior to changing up your dog’s diet.
At Dog’s Defence, we’re a team of mushroom farmers dedicated to providing nutritious dog supplements that turn tail wags into full body wiggles. Our powders and extracts are made using a range of medicinal mushrooms, as well as other nutrient-dense foods like sweet potato, kale, blueberries, and of course – turmeric.
Our anti-inflammatory and joint health blends harness the power of turmeric.
]]>Despite what the puppy poopers say, camping with your doggo in Victoria is totally doable (encouraged, even). It just requires a little bit of pre-planning. Luckily for you, we’ve pulled together the top dog friendly campsites in Victoria so you can hit the open road, turn up the tunes and flap your tongues out the window.
It’s Friday afternoon and your doggo can smell a rat.
Well, not a literal rat, but they’re watching you Tetris the car with tents, chairs and hiking boots and wondering where on earth they’re gonna fit amongst all that stuff.
It’s too soon to celebrate, so they sit quietly to scope the situation. They look up at you, then down at their bed, as if to say “ahem, you gon’ pack that?”
The packing continues. The scoping continues. It’s too soon to celebrate.
But finally, what’s that? Hooman is taking my lead and toys to the ca… THIS IS GONNA BE THE BEST WEEKEND EVER!
So, now we’ve read your situation, let’s plan where you’re going.
Johanna Beach Campground
Options are scarce for doggos along the Great Ocean Road. But nestled between the coastline and hinterland is Johanna Beach Campground, an ideal spot for explorers, surfers, beachgoers and good boys and girls. It’s close to the Twelve Apostles and Great Otway National Park (but you may need to bring in a sitter if you plan on visiting these spots).
The non-doggy deets:
Lerderderg State Park
A bush experience just over an hour from Melbourne, Lerderderg State Park is easily accessible for humans and doggos alike. It features a picturesque gorge that was carved out by the Lerderderg river, a perfect spot for swimming, strolling, bushwalking, relaxing and fishing.
The non-doggy deets:
Paradise Valley, Glen Maggie
True to its name, Paradise Valley is a unique 60-acre campground on the foothills of the high country. With no phone reception, it’s the perfect spot to kick back, do sweet nothing and shower your doggo with love and affection. Mackenzie river runs through the campground, so you can enjoy kayaking, fishing and bird watching. Pure bliss.
The non-doggy deets:
Lake Elizabeth, Forrest
Meander inland from the Great Ocean Road and you’ll stumble upon Forrest, a picturesque town in the heart of the Otways. Just outside of town is Lake Elizabeth Campground, a stunning spot surrounded by dense rainforest. It’s the perfect base for mountain bike riding, bushwalking, canoeing, kayaking and wildlife watching (rumours are, you can spot Platypus at dawn and dusk). Oh, and Forrest Brewery is within easy reach should you get a little thirsty.
The non-doggy deets:
Truth is, not everyone is a dog lover (wild, right?) So to keep Victoria’s dog friendly camping options full of tail wags, we’ve all gotta be respectful and play by the rules.
At first, dog-friendly camping seems scarce in Victoria. But when you look a little closer you’ll realise we’re spoilt for choice and new smells to sniff. Plus, few things compare to kicking back in your camp chair and turning to your four-legged friend to ask “how’s the serenity?” in the voice of Darryl Kerrigan.
*dog sniffs other dogs butt*
So much serenity.
Resources and further reading:
Studies are now confirming what ancient cultures have long believed to be true — lion’s mane mushroom may be good for mental health.
Chances are, you’ve probably never seen lion’s mane out in the wild. You’d know it if you did —they’re not your classic looking cap-and-stem variety. Thanks to its bushy and round appearance, lion’s mane has adopted a long list of nicknames — from “sheep’s head” to “pom-pom” to our personal favourite “old man’s beard”.
But appearances aside, lion’s mane has a long list of health benefits. One 2015 study even stated it’s “antibiotic, anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic, anti-fatigue, antihypertensive, anti-senescence [anti-aging], cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and improves anxiety, cognitive function and depression.” That’s a rather impressive resume.
We could go on about this list of benefits, but what lion’s mane is particularly known for is its impact on brain health and cognitive function. From supporting cognitive function and improving memory, to helping ease symptoms of anxiety and depression, the potential mental health benefits of lion’s mane are nothing short of astounding (well, we certainly think so).
Let’s take a closer look at lion’s mane for mental health.
Hate sudoku? Well, there may be another way to improve memory.
In a ground breaking 2023 study, scientists identified new active compounds in lion’s mane that have a significant impact on the growth of brain cells and memory.
In the study, scientists found the active compounds not only promoted neuron growth (and helped them to connect with other neurons), but also increased the size of ‘neurotic growth cones’ within the hippocampus. Wait, what?
Growth cones are extremely important for brain cells as it helps them sense their environment and establish new connections with other neurons in the brain. So, after being exposed to the compounds within lion’s mane, hippocampal neurons grew more efficiently and formed more connections — both things that ultimately help improve memory.
But it didn’t just stop at laboratory tests. Within the same study, researchers also performed memory tests on mice that had been fed these compounds. In these tests, the mice were exposed to a variety of different types of mazes. In all instances, the mice that were given Lion’s Mane extracts demonstrated significantly improved spatial memory over their control-group friends.
While these tests were limited to laboratory and animal experiments, it didn’t stop the scientists from being enthusiastic about the results, claiming that the discovery could be used to treat and protect against neurodegenerative disorders (like Alzheimer’s disease) in the future. Wow.
Sorry to be the ones to say it, but your brain naturally slows over time with age. Memory loss and lack of focus are all caused by factors within the nervous system, like shrinking neurons and damaged brain cells.
The good news? Animal studies have shown that lion’s mane can support brain health by stimulating the creation of two super important compounds: nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).
To keep it short, NGF and BDNF are proteins that stimulate the production of new cells while simultaneously strengthening existing ones. While NGF helps to form the protective sheath around the nerve cells within the brains (keeping them protected while they do their job), BDNF increases brain plasticity which helps brain cells stay resilient and strong throughout stress or ageing.
Less brain cell damage equals better neurotic functioning, meaning a slower cognitive decline during the ageing process.
As it turns out, lion’s mane may also boost focus, too.
Lion’s mane is rich in a bunch of antioxidants and carbohydrates, with one specific type called ‘oligosaccharides’ that’s attributed to having anti-inflammatory properties. While this is great for soothing chronic inflammation (that can lead to a whole bunch of nasty business within the body), it’s also great for the brain.
Reduced inflammation improves blood flow, which gives the brain more oxygen. More oxygen means better brain performance, which can alleviate brain fog and improve focus. Pair this up with the mushroom’s ability to strengthen memory, and you’ve got yourself a pretty powerful brain!
Improves memory? Check! Supports cognitive function? Check! Helps with focus? Check! What’s the icing on the cake? Well, lion’s mane could also have some positive effects on symptoms associated with anxiety and depression. Pretty sweet, huh? And the best part is yet to come — it actually works to help in a variety of different ways, across a variety of different symptoms.
Firstly, the anti-inflammatory properties of lion’s mane can help alleviate chronic inflammation — a cause of depression and anxiety. Secondly, remember those compounds that assisted in increasing neurotransmitters in the hippocampus? Well, that, plus reduced brain inflammation equals antidepressant effects.
There was 2018 study on stressed-out mice (aw). Don’t worry about the little guys though, they were given lion’s mane extract which seemed to have an antidepressant effect after 14 days.
Lastly (but definitely not least-ly), lion’s mane has been linked to sleep improvement. In a 2019 study, patients with mood disorders were given lion’s mane supplements for eight weeks. Not only did the patients experience overall decreased depression and anxiety symptoms, but also reported improvements in sleep quality.
In addition to supporting mental health, lion’s mane may also…
Learn more about the long list of benefits here.
At Natura Mushrooms, we have Lion’s Mane Mushroom Powder and Lion’s Mane Liquid Extract to make reaping the benefits of lion’s mane easy. Add them to your smoothie, coffee or main meal.
We recommend taking:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26244378/
https://www.uq.edu.au/news/article/2023/02/mushrooms-magnify-memory-boosting-nerve-growth-0
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323400#risks-and-side-effects
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lions-mane-mushroom#protects-against-dementia
https://draxe.com/nutrition/lions-mane-mushroom/
]]>I’m not sure if you’ve noticed, but kibble isn’t found in the wild.
It doesn’t grow on trees, get plucked from the ground or frolic around for our doggo’s to hunt. So have you ever wondered how it came to be?
Turns out, the history of dog food reveals a lot about the domestication of dogs.
From wild wolves to working dogs to pampered greyhounds in turtlenecks: our doggo’s food has evolved with their lifestyle (for better or for worse).
So, let’s take a look at the history of dog food (and what it’s got to do with domestication, WW2 and clever marketing tactics).
There are varying theories and beliefs surrounding the domestication of dogs. But most experts accept they evolved from wolves around 20,000 - 30,000 years ago.
In a nutshell: wolves caught a sniff of humans cooking meat over the fire. They popped their heads in to see if the humans needed a hand eating it. Much to their delight, the nice wolves were rewarded with scraps. And as with any good restaurant, the nice wolves would return time and time again for more cuisine. Not a bad deal if you ask us.
Eventually, these same wolves stuck around and the humans started trading food for protection.
I know, I know. In today’s world a pug wearing a bow tie doesn’t exactly scream protection. But with time – and selective breeding – these wild hunters turned into the couch potatoes we know and love today.
As humans moved from hunter-gatherers to farmers, so too did our dogs.
But at this stage they weren’t quite the close comrades they are today. Rather, they primarily lived outdoors and were seen as a beneficial resource to fulfill a wide range of tasks, from protection to herding.
So during this time – up until the late 1800s – feeding dogs table scraps was the norm.
After all, it made economic and dietary sense. A human diet of meat and vegetables was good for dogs. And food that otherwise would have gone to waste made financial sense for humans.
It was a win-win.
It was in the 1860s when an electrician named James Sprat came up with a game-changing idea: biscuits, but make them dog.
He got the idea after watching stray dogs eat dried biscuits thrown overboard by sailors in the London docks. He combined wheat, vegetables, beetroot and beef blood and called them Spratt’s Patent Dog Cakes. The idea was a roaring success, leading him to move to the US to showcase them in the 1870s.
Spratt advertised them as nutritionally enhanced dog biscuits – helping to prevent health issues and keep your doggo in prime condition. So much so, vets eventually jumped on board the movement and a second brand came to market, Milk-Bone.
It was around this time when “human food” and “dog food” began to take two separate paths.
In the early 1900’s the first canned dog food, Ken-L Ration, was introduced by Englishman James Chapel. He primarily used horse meat (as that’s what he had available on his farm) and dog’s fell in love with the wet and moist flavour (you hate us for that word choice, don’t you?)
Before long, the demand for canned food surpassed dry food.
But then, WW2 struck. And with that the demand for tin skyrocketed as it was needed to make weapons, resulting in a global shortage and the plunge in canned dog food.
Kibble was back (and with a vengeance).
Following WW2, dried dog food sales soared. It was convenient, relatively cheap and easy to store for long periods. Plus, it was highly profitable because the products were made from waste products from wheat, grain and meat factories. This marks the start of the pet food giants.
And as it turns out, a key contributor to the industry’s success was not so much the efficacy of the products, but the way they were advertised. Marketing campaigns encouraging households to feed their dog dry food – rather than table scraps – became widespread.
By the 1960s vets got involved in the industry, encouraging the use of supplements like vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates to keep doggos healthy. This saw a new wave of commercial pet food that would focus on the right balance of nutrients.
So, where are we today?
We like to call this the pampered pooch era.
Once outside protectors, today they’re better known as couch dwellers (think: lounging on your king-sized bed getting served bottomless belly rubs and ribeye steak).
Ok, maybe not to that extent for some. But it’s hard to deny that dogs have moved from backyard pets to members of the family, offering a source of constant love and affection.
With this shift, many pet parents have begun to question what they’re feeding their best friends (what even is dry food?) And with this questioning, many have moved away from the supermarket giants toward higher-quality, nutritious alternatives.
Today, it’s all about nourishing puppers for a healthy, happy life.
Whether you cook your dog ribeye, opt for raw feeding or serve high-quality kibble (with less grain and fillers) take a moment to appreciate the knowledge (and healthy options) we have available today.
At Dog’s Defence, we’re a team of proud paw parents and mushroom farmers. We combined our two passions and created a range of nutritious dog supplements that turn tail wags into full body wiggles. Whether you feed your dog raw meat and vegetables or high-quality kibble, our supplements add an extra boost of nutrients to improve immunity, cognition and wellbeing. Discover our range today.
Resources and further reading:
https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-40638584
https://www.nature.com/articles/cr2015147
https://books.google.com.au/books/about/Feeding_the_Modern_Dog.html?id=_sZbnQAACAAJ&redir_esc=y
]]>Stress. A feeling that everyone can relate to, particularly in our modern world. And we’re often exposed to more stressors than we may realise. Disagreements with loved ones, financial pressures, heavy workloads and tight deadlines are unavoidable stressors that we come face-to-face with every single day.
While encountering stress may be unavoidable, it doesn’t need to come with prolonged feelings of discomfort, unhappiness or anxiety. And that’s where our friend reishi comes in.
Reishi mushroom for stress — say what now?
Glossy, dark and handsome, reishi is known amongst mushroom lovers as the “supreme protector” thanks to its abundance of health-promoting properties. In Asian herbalism, it was celebrated as a cornerstone tonic herb and top adaptogen — its powers so admired that the mushroom was reserved only for emperors, royalty and the rich.
Luckily for us, the adaptogen has now become widely available so common folk can experience reishi’s extraordinary benefits. And of course, some of reishi’s most well-known benefits are its calming and stress-reducing qualities.
Wanna know how it works? Read on.
We’re all familiar with stress and the feelings it can invoke.
Every single day we’re presented with unavoidable tasks or responsibilities that may trigger these feelings, whether it be paying a bill, preparing for a job interview or even planning a trip or holiday.
And while feelings of stress and anxiety may begin with a single thought, symptoms can turn into physical manifestations like rapid breathing, fast heart rate, dizziness, light headedness, abdominal pain, fatigue and headaches.
But here’s the thing: your body releases these stress hormones (like adrenaline and cortisol) on purpose to alert you to a possible threat, allowing you to assess the risks and know what to do in a dangerous situation. The reaction, known as ‘fight or flight’ is crucial for survival as it helps us to respond to threatening situations quickly. Without it, our ancestors would have struggled to survive while running away from a hungry bear.
While it’s safe to say that the majority of us live a far less threatening lifestyle than our ancestors, the stress response continues to play an important role in our decision-making process (even in non-life-threatening scenarios). And while most of us don’t live in fear of being eaten by a bear, we still experience stressful situations that see our body go through a series of physiological changes known as GAS.
To explain the physiological change process that occurs within the body during stress, medical doctor and researcher Hans Selye came up with a three-stage process called GAS. The three stages that were identified as the typical response to stress were Alarm, Resistance and Exhaustion.
Alarm stage
This is the initial symptoms the body experiences when under stress. Your heart rate increases, the adrenal gland releases cortisol (a stress hormone), and you receive a boost of adrenaline. This is where you decided to fight or flee.
Resistance stage
Once you’ve experienced the initial fight-or-flight response, your body begins to calm itself. It releases a lower amount of cortisol and your heart and blood pressure begin to normalise. Even though your body is starting to recover, it still stays on high alert for a while. If you overcome the stressor for good, your body continues to repair itself until your hormone levels, heart rate and blood pressure return to a pre-stress state.
However, some stressful situations tend to linger, which causes the body to remain on high alert for extended periods of time. If the stress isn’t resolved, the body adapts and learns to live with a higher stress level. The stress hormone continues to be released and blood pressure remains elevated. If the resistance stage continues for too long, it can lead to exhaustion.
While there are many mushrooms that can help with mental health (check out our blog post here), there’s only one mushroom that is crowned “king of all mushrooms.”
So, what are the anti-anxiety powers of reishi?
Firstly, it’s an adaptogen — a type of herb or fungi that can help kick anxiety’s butt. In a nutshell, adaptogens work to help the body stay within the ‘resistance phase’ for longer during times of stress. Instead of crashing headfirst into the ‘exhaustion phase’, adaptogens help you find balance, regulate emotions, clear your thinking, and improve overall health.
Reishi is also chock full of antioxidants and compounds that help to alleviate high cortisol levels, as well as polypeptides that help to manage stress responses. These polypeptides kinda act like cheerleaders for endorphins and other neurotransmitters inside your brain, which help to balance out the stress hormones present.
The best part about this? The effects of reishi can be long-lasting and improve overall mood. A 2005 study found that reishi mushrooms improved the quality of life in certain chronic conditions and helped to rid the body of aches, pains and dizziness. The study suggested that taking reishi regularly can help to reduce anxiety, find more stable and long-lasting focus, and restore balance and tranquility within the mind.
Researchers also found a strong connection between reishi mushrooms and sleep quality. A 2021 study found that individuals who took reishi powder for 4 weeks experienced less daily fatigue than those who didn’t. The sleep-promoting powers of reishi are mostly due to the mushroom’s calming effects on the central nervous system (CNS) where it loosens the muscles, improves digestion, and calms the mind.
Well, as it turns out, quite a lot. In addition to reducing cortisol levels, improving mood, relieving aches and supporting sleep, reishi mushrooms may improve overall health by…
Interested in adding reishi to your diet?
At Natura Mushrooms, we make it easy to add reishi to almost anything. Coffee, tea, smoothies, cereal… the possibilities are endless. We have reishi available in both powder and extract form. If you’d like to try for yourself, check out our Reishi Mushroom Powder, Reishi Extract or Reishi and Hemp Extract.
RESOURCES
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-92913-6
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326520
https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety/effects-on-body#how-does-it-feel
https://www.healthline.com/health/general-adaptation-syndrome#model
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15857210/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320172#the-three-stages-of-gas
]]>They’re everywhere. Medicinal mushrooms are popping up in everything from supplements to smoothies with rumours spreading about their impressive benefits.
And perhaps you’ve heard about the studies that support their ability to improve immunity, reduce inflammation, protect against cancer and oh so much more. But did you know medicinal mushrooms are now becoming an increasingly popular way to support mental health?
But with loads of mushies out there that support the brain, which ones are the best mushrooms for mental health?
For us, our three standouts are reishi, lion’s mane and cordyceps. While each of these mushies has their own unique benefits and medicinal profile (more on that later), there’s one thing they have in common: they’re all adaptogens.
Adaptogens refer to any plants or fungi that help the human body adapt to stress, whether it’s physical or psychological.
Basically, they “adapt” to the current needs of your body by producing a balancing effect on our hypothalamic-pituitary-endocrine axis. This system controls our reaction to stress and regulates processes like digestion, immunity and mood.
So as you can see, adaptogen is a super broad term and the effectiveness of adaptogens differs from herb to herb and ailment to ailment.
Now, to get a bit more specific. When you feel stressed your body goes through a three-stage response known as the General Adaption Syndrome (GAS). This includes alarm, resistance and exhaustion. Adaptogens work to help you to stay within the resistance phase for longer via a stimulating effect that holds off the exhaustion phase
So, instead of crashing during a time of stress, adaptogens help you find balance and move on. Adapting to stress helps you to regulate your emotions, clear your thinking and improve your overall health.
So all in all, pretty cool stuff.
Reishi, lion’s mane and cordyceps are all linked by their apoptogenic properties, which is why we’ve listed them under the best mushrooms for mental health. However, they also each have their own unique benefits for brain health, too. Let’s jump in.
Let’s start with the mushroom deemed the ultimate “anti-stress herb” within the medicinal mushroom kingdom.
And that’s not its only name. Reishi is also known as the “Mushroom of Immortality,” the “Supreme Protector,” and even the “King of the Mushrooms.”
Whatever the name, reishi must be rather powerful to warrant the fanfare.
Chock-full of antioxidants and compounds that render it a super-adaptogen, reishi is best known for its calming and stress reducing qualities.
See, when you’re feeling jittery and anxious in a moment of stress, it usually means that cortisol levels within your body are elevated. Reishi works to not only lower high cortisol levels, but it’s also thought to manage stress responses through things called polypeptides. These little warriors join forces with endorphins in the brain and release a relaxing effect on the nervous system. Cool, huh?
Finally, reishi’s calming effect on an overactive mind may even help to alleviate insomnia. Goodbye restless nights, hello sweet, sweet sleep!
You know the phrase, never judge a book by its cover? Well, you should also never judge a mushroom by its appearance. Lion’s mane may look like it just stepped out of a Dr Seuss book, but it means serious business.
Lion’s mane (heriicum erinaceus) contains a bunch of bioactive substances known to support cognitive function. These compounds stimulate happy brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, which can help with feelings of anxiety and depression.
What’s more, lion’s mane is a powerful nootropic containing two unique compounds called hericenones and erinacines. As it turns out, these fancy-sounding-words do some pretty fancy-sounding-stuff. They’ve been found to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (AKA the development, maintenance and survival of neurons). It’s thought that with these two compounds, lion’s mane may help protect the brain from natural cognitive decline and protect against Alzheimer’s disease.
Don’t be fooled by the pop culture craze, cordyceps WON’T infiltrate your mind and turn you into a mushroom zombie (The Last Of Us, anyone?)
We digress. Cordyceps has a rather impressive effect on the brain (but not the zombifying kind).
See, cordyceps has been shown to accelerate the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) within the brain, which is the energy-carrying molecule of cells. This increases the energy and oxygen available to the body, including the brain.
Increased oxygen uptake in the brain has also been found to help increase blood flow to brain cells and combat mental fatigue, and as a result, improve many aspects of cognitive performance like learning capacity and memory.
Like lion’s mane, cordyceps is thought to help minimise the impact of ageing and cognitive decline and reduce the risk of conditions like Dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Finally, we can’t forget that cordyceps is yet another powerful adaptogen that can help regulate hormones essential for stabilising mood and emotion. This can help to alleviate feelings of stress or anxiety — properties that don’t really fit in with the current “killer mushroom zombie” narrative, hey?
(sorry, we referenced pop culture again).
At Natura Mushrooms, we grow, harvest and source a range of medicinal mushrooms on our 100% off-grid farm in Gippsland, Victoria. Then, we delicately extract them using a combination of hot water extraction and dual extraction methods.
If you’re interested in trying medicinal mushrooms for mental health, we’ve got a range of reishi, lion’s mane and cordyceps products.
Not sure where to start? Check out our mushroom purchasing guide to find the shroom that’s right for you.
]]>You know, the next Batman and Robin. SpongeBob and Patrick. Woody and Buzz Lightyear. You get the idea? You’re the two bestest friends!
But as special as this relationship is, sometimes a bond this close can cause separation anxiety when you’re not around. Cue: the violins.
It’s a heartbreaking feeling when your dog is anxious and frightened, but with time and persistence, they can overcome their fear of being alone (and love you just as much when you return).
This article will dive into:
So, pull up a chair, place Archie on your lap and let’s dive in.
Just like humans, some dogs may be more susceptible to anxiety than others, regardless of their situation.
There’s no definitive conclusion about why it develops, but here are a few theories…
From howling to destructive chewing to pooping on your best cushions, the signs of separation anxiety vary from dog to dog.
Here are 4 of the most common signs…
1. Numbers ones and twos
Leaving number ones and twos throughout the house could be a sign of separation anxiety – particularly if your pooch is otherwise toilet trained (and never has accidents when you’re around).
You didn’t care about that rug anyway, right?
2. Making noise
Relentlessly barking, howling or whimpering as soon as you leave is a clear sign of separation anxiety (which your neighbours will no doubt let you know about).
3. Wreaking havoc
Also known as, “They’re gone. Now let’s ruin EVERTHING.”
But let’s be clear, your dog isn’t doing this to annoy you – they just miss you terribly. Whether it’s your favourite cushion, scratching at the window or your go-to pair of jeans – separation anxiety can lead to destructive (and expensive) behaviours.
4. Digging
Does your backyard have craters bigger than the moon? In some cases, your dog might really like digging. But in other cases (particularly if it always happens when you’re not around) it might be a separation anxiety thing.
5. Loss of appetite
If your gobble-guts is leaving food when you’re not around, it might be more severe than simply not-liking-that-new-meaty-flavour. Just like humans, anxiety can act as an appetite suppressant for dogs.
Now let’s be clear. Just because your dog is displaying these signs doesn’t necessarily mean they’re experiencing separation anxiety. They might leave poop because they’re not toilet trained. Or make noise because they don’t like the look of that fly.
Moral of the story? Always chat with a veterinary professional or behavioural specialist before making any conclusions.
So, you’ve confirmed that your dog has separation anxiety.
At Dog’s Defence, we’ve had our own experience with a nervous nelly, and these are some of the things we tried. And since the early days, she came leaps and bounds.
Tire them out
Take them to the beach, scale a mountain, run a marathon – do what you have to do to tire them out before you leave. This can leave them feeling calm and relaxed, so you can slip out the back door as they enter the land of nod.
Be cool, calm and collected
Don’t make a fuss when you’re leaving (as your dog will sniff something’s up from a mile away). Instead, play it cool. Don’t smother them with love when coming and going - as hard as that is.
Start small
Try leaving the house in small intervals first so your doggo gets used to you coming and going. Duck out for 5 minutes, then 20, then 1 hour. And so on. Remember to give them a treat when you return if they were a good boy or girl.
Give your dog a treat to distract them
The key here is longevity. Avoid giving them a treat that they’ll gulp down in 0.02 seconds. Give them something that takes up time – like a chewy treat or bone. There are also a range of “puzzle toys” on the market where you can hide delicious treats, like peanut butter.
Play soothing music
Studies suggest that playing music can reduce stress and anxiety in dogs.(4) But before you switch on your heavy metal tunes, know that the type of music matters. Research suggests classical music has calming effects. Better yet, there are plenty of dog calming playlists available on Spotify.
Consider natural calming supplements
If music, treats and running a marathon doesn’t work – you can try giving your dog natural calming supplements. Ingredients like ginger, camomile and hemp work to calm your doggo from the inside out.
Finally, if you’ve tried multiple at-home solutions and your doggo is still anxious, frightened or at risk of hurting themselves, it may be necessary to chat to a veterinary professional. They’ll have a range of clinical options to keep your best friend safe, happy and full of tail wags.
At Dog’s Defence, we’re a team of proud paw parents and mushroom farmers. We combined our two passions and created a range of nutritious dog supplements that turn tail wags into full body wiggles. Our anxiety and calming blend for dogs is made using a range of medicinal mushrooms, as well as ginger root and chamomile, helping stressed doggo’s find their inner zen.
Resources and further reading:
]]>The nutrient-dense maitake is a highly regarded adaptogen with a long history of use throughout China and Japan both as a culinary and medicinal mushroom. And the health benefits of maitake mushroom are vast and plenty (exactly how we like our shrooms). It’s thought to do some rather awesome stuff — like support immunity, boost energy, balance blood sugar and even improve fertility. In fact, its potent healing powers were so well celebrated that its name “maitake” literally translates to “dancing mushroom”, originating from a time when foragers would dance for joy upon discovery.
Oh, and we completely understand the jumping for joy thing, cos to us, maitake is like the perfect date. They make you feel good, they make you dance, and they’re devilishly handsome (three words: frilly, brown, caps). But there’s so much more than meets the eye.
So, what are the health benefits of maitake mushrooms (AKA King of the Mushrooms). Let’s dig into it.
When consumed as a part of a healthy diet, maitake mushrooms may help to stabilise blood sugar levels. Sustaining high levels of sugar within your blood can be, to put it lightly, pretty bad for you. Not only can consistent high blood sugar lead to the development of diabetes, but it can also cause side effects like headaches, increased thirst and blurred vision. When blood sugar levels are high, the insulin in your body spikes in output — chronic excess levels lead to insulin resistance (diabetes).
The polysaccharides within maitake (called beta-glucans) are shown to significantly diminish the levels of insulin and sugar-bound haemoglobin. Even more interesting, studies have shown that maitake also has a special type of sugar-protein super combo which gives it the ability to almost reverse insulin resistance (watch this space for further study). One animal study found that the fruit of the maitake mushroom held anti-diabetic properties that helped to improve glucose tolerance and blood glucose levels in diabetic mice.
Some researchers believe the health benefits of maitake mushrooms are so powerful, it may even help to slow tumour growth. A highly purified, bioactive extract of beta-glucans found in maitake called maitake D-Fraction has been used in clinical research to find the potential connection between the mushroom and cancer cells.
One study found that administering an extract derived from maitake to cancerous mice helped to effectively block tumour growth. What’s more, another clinical trial tested a combination of maitake powder and D-fraction in cancer patients who discontinued chemotherapy due to side effects. It found significant improvement — cancer regression occurred in 69% of breast cancer patients, 58% of liver cancer patients and 63% of lung cancer patients.
Research is still limited, but what has been found is already so promising that the US National Cancer Institute has officially acknowledged the anti-cancer properties of the mushroom, while Chinese doctors already use D-fraction alongside traditional cancer medicine — wow!
Cholesterol. If left unchecked, it can build up inside the arteries causing them to harden and narrow. This eventually blocks blood flow, forcing your heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. Although research is limited (primarily to animal studies), the research that has been done suggests maitake mushrooms could help to naturally lower cholesterol levels and keep the heart healthy. One of these studies found that supplementation with maitake mushrooms was effective in reducing cholesterol levels in mice. We’re optimistic that more trials and research could pave the way for maitake and heart disease prevention in the future.
A healthy immune system is the most important tool our body needs to combat injury and infection. It’s vital to overall health. While our body naturally has the resources it needs to defend itself against foreign attackers, we can still help it along with some immune-boosting strength.
Maitake is a powerful adaptogen chock-full of beta-glucans, which are basically a bunch of good guys that help to activate your immune system. Plus, the bioactive extract of beta-glucans found in maitake (D-Fraction) work to activate a host defence response within the body, helping the immune system to rapidly fight against illness, remove cellular waste from the body and speed up recovery.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects approximately 12-25% of Australian women of reproductive age, and is one of the leading forms of infertility. In short, hormonal irregularities cause small cysts to form on the ovaries which can be associated with a range of other side effects including irregular and painful menstrual cycles, acne, obesity, excessive facial and body hair growth and increased risk of diabetes.
There are two ways maitake may help with the disease. As most cases of PCOS are related to some level of insulin resistance, maitake works in the same way here as it does in people with diabetes (see the “super sugar combo” above). Secondly, maitake has been found to not only be therapeutic against PCOS, but can encourage ovulation. A 2010 study in Tokyo found that maitake extract was able to induce ovulation for 77% of participants with PCOS (and was almost as effective as some of the conventional medicines used for current treatments).
If you’re looking to incorporate maitake into your diet, there are many ways to do so. Unlike many of our other medicinal mushroom friends, maitake is one of the few species that actually tastes great! Maitake mushrooms have a subtle, rich flavour that can pair beautifully in a pasta dish, risotto, soup, omelette, or sauce.
However, if you’re looking for a more concentrated dosage to take daily, you can incorporate maitake supplements into your diet. Here at Natura Mushrooms, maitake mushroom is available in:
Just add maitake to your coffee, smoothie or main meal!
We recommend taking:
As always, we recommend consulting your doctor or health care professional before trying new mushroom supplements. While maitake is considered safe to consume, it can impact blood sugar levels and immunological activity within your body, so it’s best to seek advice first.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7820117/
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/fight-diabetes-maitake-mushrooms-regulate-blood-sugar-fred-auzenne
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23280601/
https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2012/october/polycystic-ovary-syndrome
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12126464/
https://supplements.selfdecode.com/blog/maitake-mushrooms/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24292357/
https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/maitake-mushroom#risk-factors
]]>When picturing Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), perhaps you conjure up images of acupuncture clinics, tai chi and unpronounceable herbs. But there’s an entire kingdom that’s central to TCM — a kingdom that we in the west are quick to overlook…
The Kingdom of Fungi.
Mushrooms have played an integral role in Chinese culture for an estimated 7,000 years. Historically, mushrooms were used as a delicious food source and fermented for products like wine, vinegar and soy sauce. [5]
Traditional Chinese Medicine emerged around 3000 years ago — a time when mushrooms began to evolve from a culinary delight to a health-giving medicine to promote wellbeing, bolster immunity and prevent disease. [5]
Back then, Chinese medical practitioners relied on anecdotal evidence and observations of medicinal mushrooms — theories that we’re now beginning to test in laboratories in the west (with exciting early findings, we might add).
It’s important to note, fungi have also been used for their healing properties in other eastern countries like Japan and Malaysia, only it’s a little less documented. This article will focus specifically on China.
Let’s explore…
Before we begin, we think it’s important to acknowledge that we’re no experts in the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine. We’re from the western world.
In saying that, we’re passionate mushroom farmers. So, it’s hard to explore the health benefits of medicinal mushrooms without drawing on TCM. Taking this into account, this section is written through our western lens and by drawing on several reliable sources.
Traditional Chinese Medicine has existed — and evolved — over thousands of years. It’s centred around the “Qi”, a vital energy that circulates through the body. TCM suggests an imbalance of Qi can lead to illness and disease. [2]
TCM seeks to create a balanced Qi and address health problems through various treatments, such as…
So, where do mushrooms come into the picture?
The first known “herbal pharmacopeia” in China was Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing from the 29th century BC, the oldest official list of 365 medicinal substances. And this list included — you guessed it — several species of medicinal mushrooms. [5]
Many medicinal mushrooms in this list are deemed to belong to the “highest class” of medicines, believed to deliver strength, vigour and longevity. The most revered mushroom in TCM is reishi (but more on that in a minute).
For many of us in the west, our appreciation for mushrooms is limited to “well, they taste damn good on toast.” But they go so much further than that.
From a western viewpoint, medicinal mushrooms can be defined as fungi that are used in the form of extracts or powder for medicinal and nutritional purposes. [4]
They have a high concentration of “active compounds” which trigger immunological activity. More precisely, they have a high concentration of polysaccharides (a fancy word of long chain carbohydrates), with the most renowned one being beta-glucan.
Renowned mycologist, Paul Stamets, once stated in an interview that “all gourmet mushrooms are medicinal.” [6] This suggests that medicinal properties aren’t only found in a select few “unicorn” mushrooms but the majority of strains.
Side note: when we talk about medicinal mushrooms we’re not talking about psychedelic mushrooms. That’s another topic for another day: Microdosing psychedelic mushrooms. What do we know so far?
We don’t like to play favourites with medicinal mushrooms. But we can’t deny that some varieties have been more prevalent in Traditional Chinese Medicine than others, including reishi, cordyceps and turkey tail.
Here in the west, we often go by the term “reishi” to describe this stunning, earthy polypore. But this term actually originates from Japan. In China, it’s commonly known as “ling zhi”. Traditional Chinese Medicine sings reishi’s praises, also referring to it as “the mushroom of immortality” and “herb of spiritual potency”. [5]
As for its history, reishi is believed to have been used in medicine for around 4,000 years for treating a range of ailments, from arthritis to insomnia to gastric ulcers. A famous natural history book in China claimed that “continued use of ling zhi will lighten weight and increase longevity.” [4]
In the last 20 years, the western world has turned to the lab and explored the benefits of reishi (through both human and animal studies). Early findings suggest it can…
Also known as “caterpillar fungi”, cordyceps sinensis is a parasitic fungus that typically grows in the Tibetan highlands. It grows by infecting insects or insect larvae before spurting out of the head of its dead host. Yikes.
Because of these (very) specific growth requirements, cordyceps were reserved for the wealthy few. In ancient China, they would prepare cordyceps in the emperor’s palace by stuffing a duck with the fungus and roasting it over a fire.[5] Back then, cordyceps was used to strengthen the body when it was exhausted or ill.
In more recent times, another strain has emerged called cordyceps militaris. This is used as a substitute for cordyceps sinensis because it can be easily cultivated in indoor labs (without insects) making it more available for the rest of the world.
Modern studies suggest cordyceps (both sinensis and militaris) can benefit…
Ah, turkey tail. In China it’s called “yun-zhi” meaning “cloud fungus”.
Despite being grown all around the world, it’s particularly common and renowned in China, having been used in TCM for millennia. Here, it’s believed to support the liver, strengthen the lungs and boost the immune system. [5]
Now the western world has come to the party, modern research is exploring the potential for turkey tail to…
As you can see, the western world is finally discovering what Chinese culture has been telling us for years: mushrooms are good for you. Really good for you.
Despite many of the TCM theories being observational and anecdotal, we’re seeing more and more studies emerge that support their views.
If you’re interested in trying a reishi, cordyceps or turkey tail for yourself, we recommend you first speak with a medicinal practitioner you trust. Then, there are a few different ways you can easily add them to your diet…
Resources:
]]>As the saying goes, with age comes wisdom.
But what also comes is grey hairs, sore joints and in some cases – osteoarthritis. And our dogs are no exception.
Affecting as many as 1 in 4 doggos, canine osteoarthritis occurs when the joint cartilage wears down, resulting in pain and inflammation. Like humans, there’s no known cure for canine arthritis. But thankfully, there are some steps you can take to increase their comfort.
So, whether you’re experiencing a limping Lab, a grumpy Groodle or a slow Shitzu – let’s look at the signs your dog has arthritis (and how you can help).
Are you wondering whether your doggo is susceptible to canine arthritis?
Turns out, it’s not just a matter of chance, but certain factors can put them at greater risk. Things like breed, size, mobility, past injuries, age and weight all play a part – with larger, older or sedentary breeds more prone to canine arthritis.
Limping
Doggos limp for a whole range of reasons, and it doesn’t always point to arthritis. Archie could have pulled a muscle zooming, got stung by a bee or stood on a nasty prickle. The possibilities are endless.
The difference with limping caused by osteoarthritis is the gradual onset – often starting mild and worsening over time.
So, if your doggo is regularly limping – which worsens first thing in the morning and after exercise – it could be a sign your dog has arthritis.
They avoid jumping
Did your doggo once jump to the bed, couch or car without a second thought? But now, they avoid jumping all together (or persevere with discomfort so they can still enjoy those soft and squishy places).
Reluctance to jump, run or play could indicate sore joints, or be an early sign of osteoarthritis.
Walk shmalk
Have you tried shouting “walkies”, only to be met with a “meh” expression? Loss of interest in exercising is a common sign of arthritis. Not because they don’t want to spend time with you, but because it may cause them pain and discomfort.
They’re a grumpy pants
Behavioural changes are another sign of canine arthritis. Maybe they’re increasingly irritable, they don’t like being picked up or they growl at other doggos. Because let’s face it, you’d be grumpy too if you couldn’t jump and play like you used to.
Licking, licking and more licking
Our dogs love a good lick – whether it’s your face or another dog’s bum. But if they’re licking or chewing excessively in one particular spot, it could be because it’s sore from joint pain or osteoarthritis. Time to make a trip to the vet.
So, now we know the signs. What helps dogs with arthritis?
The bad news? There’s currently no known cure for canine arthritis.
The good news? There are some simple, natural ways you can alleviate their pain.
So, let’s jump in (gently) and discover how to help your dog with arthritis.
Keep them active
One of the biggest risk factors for canine osteoarthritis is excess weight, which places pressure on their little joints. So, keeping your good boy or girl exercising as much as possible will help them stay limber and at a healthy weight.
In saying that, always try to tailor their exercise to their ability. Pushing them beyond their limits won’t do them any favours. Start with slow, gentle walks (and keep them on a lead if you need to control their urges to run, jump and splishy-splashy).
Create a comfortable environment
Maybe your dog’s food bowl is upstairs. Or they have to jump to reach the couch. Or perhaps their bed is so old and worn down, they might as well be laying on the floorboards.
Yep, the way your home environment is set up can either ease or worsen their condition.
So, begin by analysing their daily life and identify areas that might put a strain on their joints. Make sure their food and water bowls are accessible, install a pet ramp to the couch and buy the softest, squishiest bed you can find.
A healthy diet
Our doggo’s are what they eat. Feeding your best mate a natural, nutrient-rich diet can support their insides and relieve their symptoms. You can find a range of dog food and supplement options that are loaded with natural anti-inflammatories, like turmeric, hemp, glucosamine, ginger and green lipped mussels.
Hemp and green lipped mussels (in particular) have become the talk of the dog food town. They’re both rich in omega 3, an essential fatty acid that cannot be produced by your dog’s body, so they have to get it from their diet (which is the same in humans).
Omega 3 can reduce inflammation, support bone and joint health, maintain a healthy weight, increase heart health and so much more.
While it won’t cure arthritis, it certainly can relieve it.
And in the name of cute puppies, who wouldn’t want that?
At Dog’s Defence, we’re a team of proud paw parents and mushroom farmers. We combined our two passions and created a range of nutritious dog supplements that turn tail wags into full body wiggles. Our anti-inflammatory and joint health blends are made using a range of medicinal mushrooms, as well as other anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, hemp, green lipped mussels and glucosamine.
Resources and further reading:
]]>Some mushrooms are experts in brain function, memory and focus.
Others can help to alleviate stress and anxiety.
While some work to boost sexual stamina and performance.
Yep, it may seem like there’s a mushroom for anything and everything (hint: there kinda is). And two of the most famous medicinal mushies, lion’s mane and reishi, tick a lot of medicinal and nutritional boxes.
But, can you take lion’s mane and reishi together?
In most cases, yes.
Lion’s Mane is all about brain function and mood support, while Reishi (otherwise known as the ‘mushroom of immortality’) is linked to its immunity support, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties.
Both mushrooms are beneficial in their own right. And together, they may be even better.
But first, let’s recap on what makes these mushrooms so great individually....
Repeat after us: when it comes to the brain, think lion’s mane.
Known in some circles as hericium erinaceus, lion’s mane gets its popular name from its shaggy white appearance, with long white hairs that resemble — you guessed it — a lion’s mane.
But that’s not the reason it’s the king of the fungi jungle. Lion’s mane is among the mushrooms that produce the highest amount of antioxidants, plays an important role in strengthening the immune system, and can also add energy to the body, which in turn, can increase focus and concentration. Think of lion’s mane as the ultimate brain food, with the ability to help you achieve mental clarity, focus and stronger memory.
But that’s not it. Lion’s mane can also have a positive impact on mental wellbeing and mood. It works to stimulate the growth of new neurons while supporting existing ones, which also applies to neurons within the hippocampus (the area of the brain that’s in charge of emotional response).
Reishi is a mushroom of many talents.
The best way to describe Reishi is as a nutritional powerhouse due to its high concentration of organic germanium, polysaccharides, triterpenes and other medicinal compounds (scientific words for good stuff).
This makes reishi powerful in boosting immunity (it can actually train our immune system to work a little better). One of the ways it’s believed to do this is by strengthening our white blood cells which can help to reduce inflammation. And as inflammation is linked to a wide range of ailments and diseases (including cancers, arthritis and chronic illness), we can see how reishi gets its good reputation.
Like lion’s mane, reishi is a super powerful adaptogen, which means it can help support our body and mind when we’re stressed. It’s believed that naturally occurring compounds (triterpenes) within the mushroom help to relieve psychological and physical stressors through their calming effect on the nervous system. Triterpenes are also linked to improving sleep and reducing fatigue, which can help to give your body that natural energy boost it needs during times of stress.
Some things just work better together: bacon and eggs. Soap and water. And of course, lion’s mane and reishi.
While each mushroom is beneficial on its own, they can work even better when their healing and revitalising properties combine. Otherwise known as “stacking,” combining medicinal mushrooms can achieve the perfect symbiosis — and more specifically, combining lion’s mane and reishi is one of our favourite synergies.
Taking lion’s mane and reishi together can help improve cognitive function, stress response and sleep quality (perhaps even more so than if you take them separately).
Most notably, stacking lion’s mane and reishi can be beneficial to your sleep cycle, with each mushroom having its own benefit to sleep. While reishi promotes longer sleep, lion’s mane supports a stable circadian cycle. While lion’s mane improves REM sleep, reishi helps you to fall asleep quicker and sleep more soundly. See how they can work together?
While a solid night’s sleep is good, the benefits of improved sleep are even better, playing an important role in reducing the effects of stress and premature aging.
Finally, the things that set reishi and lion’s mane apart are just as strong as the things that tie them together. While your body benefits off the symbiotic powers of the two mushrooms stacked together — it’s also their individual properties that make them potent.
To date, there haven’t been any recorded risks or side effects to stacking reishi and lion’s mane. But as with anything, we always recommend consulting your doctor or health care professional before incorporating mushroom supplements into your diet.
If you’re interested in trying a reishi and lion’s mane stack yourself, there are a few different ways you can easily add them into your diet:
]]>
Christmas. It’s the most wonderful time of the year (except for when you have absolutely no idea what gifts to get your family and friends).
But don’t sweat it, we’ve got four great gift ideas to suit any fun-ghi or fun-gal in your life.
Plus, you don’t need to be a “mycophile” to appreciate a mushroom-y gift. And with every type of mushroom bringing its own unique benefits, you’re bound to find the perfect gift for co-workers, friends and family alike.
So, let’s ditch the socks and choccies, our mushroom gift guide has you sorted.
Know someone who’s working through a thesis, juggling exams or deep into the throes of a demanding job?
Lion’s mane is their perfect gift and soon-to-be “best friend.”
Often referred to as “the smart mushroom”, lion’s mane is known for its ability to support cognitive and neurological health, improve memory and sharpen focus. It’s jam-packed full of nutrients like erinacines and hericenones (which, while they sound a little like gobbledygook, are actually key players in keeping brain fog at bay). And that’s not all — studies have also shown the mushroom can play a key role in immunity, digestion and overall wellbeing.
So, it really is the perfect gift for the overachiever.
Power to strengthen memory? Check!
May reduce brain fog? Check!
Can improve focus? Check!
And really, really, really good for you? Check! Check! Check!
At Natura Mushrooms, we have Lion’s Mane Mushroom Powder and Lion’s Mane Liquid Extract that can both be added to smoothies, coffees or main meals. Not sure which one to get? Check out our purchasing guide.
Whether they’re a power lifter or a yogi, cordyceps can provide much-needed energy to get them through their workout.
Sure, natural performance enhancers aren’t exactly new, but they’re not all created equal. And cordyceps can be seen as the cream of the crop for athletic longevity.
Its main claim to fame is that it can help to boost VO2 Max which, simply put, is the amount of oxygen your body can use during exercise. The higher your oxygen levels, the more energy you can create, and so the better your aerobic performance will be.
And speaking of increased energy, cordyceps has even been found to support libido function and performance, earning it the nickname “Himilayan Viagra.” If that’s not enough, it’s also chock-full of antioxidants that can help to prevent illness while, at the same time, help to promote vitality and slow the appearance of ageing.
At Natura Mushrooms, we offer both Cordyceps Mushroom Powder and Cordyceps Mushroom Dual Liquid Extract. Need a little more information? Find out which form is best through our purchasing guide.
If you’re looking for a mushroom supplement to support a healthy immune function, you can’t really go wrong. They’re all great options.
But Chaga… Chaga is a real powerhouse of goodness.
Loaded with beta-glucans and antioxidants, chaga has been the go-to for centuries to help increase the immune system, reduce inflammation, soften ageing, and improve overall health and wellbeing. In fact, its restorative powers have even been found to heal the sick birch tree which it grows on.
So, the health benefits of chaga are extensive and impressive, from preventing fine lines, wrinkles and age spots to reducing inflammation and lowering risk of heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis and even cancer.
It’s believed that the anti-inflammatory antioxidants and polysaccharide content within the mushroom can help to relieve health issues like irritable bowel syndrome, leaky gut and even inflammation caused by autoimmune disorders.
Here at Natura Mushrooms, we offer both Chaga Powder and Chaga Dual Liquid Extract. Want to find out a little more? Check out our recent post: Chaga mushroom — the antioxidant powerhouse.
You didn’t think we forgot about little Rufus, did you?
Well, have you heard of our furry little love child brand, Dog’s Defence?
Dog’s Defence creates a range of delicious treats that are just filled with natural ingredients to help keep your doggo’s tail wagging.
From our Antioxidant Blend that promotes overall wellbeing to our Joint Health Blend that targets senior pooches — there’s a treat for every good boy and girl.
Discover the Dog’s Defence range today.
Discover our…
Or if you’re keen to learn more about each ‘shroom, check out our Medicinal Mushroom guide.
]]>… Nootropics. Er, what are they?
Well, the world of nootropics might be more familiar than you realise — an umbrella term for substances that can positively impact cognitive function.
And since championing foods for their positive influence on physical or mental health is something we love here at Natura Mushrooms — we couldn’t help but shine a light on nootropic plants and fungi (and how we can incorporate them into our diets).
So let’s go.
Often loosely defined as “smart drugs” or “cognitive enhancers”, nootropics are just that. A class of molecules — both natural and synthetic — known to positively impact cognitive function.
First recognised in Western science by the Romanian chemist Corneliu Giurgea in 1972, nootropics have been harnessed for as long as humans can remember. He defined nootropics with a list of criteria emphasising minimal side effects, memory enhancement, improved behaviour, and protection from brain injury (both physical and chemical).
Today, nootropics have become a multi-billion dollar industry with prescription medication, natural supplements and synthetic compounds.
So, with all these choices available, we’ve compiled a list of the most common naturally occurring nootropics (hint: they might even grow in your backyard).
Found in unexpected places, from flowering herbs to root systems, the 5 natural nootropics we’re about to explore have been found to positively impact brain health with minimal side effects (keeping in line with Dr Giurgea’s criteria).
Without a doubt, the title for the world’s most famous nootropic (and probably a key part of your morning routine) goes to caffeine. The not-so-humble nootropic that’s there for you in the mornings when you need to kick into gear.
Caffeine works in relatively small doses for an immediate effect, with the best results seen when paired with L-Theanine [1] (a nootropic commonly found in green tea — more on that in a minute).
When it comes to caffeine, everyone has their own level of tolerance. AKA the finely tuned balance of feeling “gee-d up and ready without the jitters”.
But hey, if you’re on the hunt for a brain boosting addition to your day and caffeine isn’t for you, it might be time to explore something new.
Readily absorbed by the body within 30 - 45 minutes of drinking, green tea L-theanine has shown nootropic effects with a positive change in mood and increased focus.
Green tea as an L-Theanine supplement can have just as much caffeine as your morning coffee, only without the “jitters” and “crash”. Many put this down to the visibly calming effects L-theanine has on brainwaves, while increasing both alpha (alert relaxation) and beta (creative) brainwaves. This has become evident through controlled animal studies [2] — but as always, more human studies will be beneficial.
Are you the energy-loving, jitter-hating type?
Us, too.
Let us introduce the lion’s mane mushroom. Known for its other-worldly appearance — often likened to a pom-pom, hedgehog or old man’s beard — this powerful shroom sure packs a punch. [3]
Lion’s mane is championed for its ability to boost Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) thanks to the brain loving compounds “hericenones” and “erinacines”. These compounds can pass through the blood-brain-barrier and stimulate nerve growth, with research supporting this may lead to improvements in cognition, learning and memory. [4]
Flowering in golden globes across Northern Europe and East Asia, this floral herb has been used for centuries in Chinese Medicine to fight depression, anxiety and mental fatigue. [5]
Current research suggests a balance of salidroside and rosavins found in the whole plant extract provide the most powerful nootropic effects.
These compounds slow down the brain’s natural process of breaking down the feel-good neurotransmitters, allowing them to remain in your system for longer. [6]
Playing the long game, rhodiola rosea is commonly used at a low dose for its accumulative effects.
Known amongst friends as the “man root”, ginseng grows into twisted shapes with thick bodies and spindly legs. It’s embraced for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a staple ingredient in traditional Chinese Medicine.
And today, ginseng has gained popularity across the globe as a fast-acting cognitive enhancer, deserving a spot on our list. Although the science is yet to understand the cause of ginseng’s nootropic powers, some studies have shown significant cognitive improvement during sustained mental efforts. [7]
Early research suggests that continued exposure encourages a resistance and decrease in nootropic effects. Watch this space.
We may be biased but lion’s mane seems like the perfect place to start with nootropics for that razor sharp focus (without any unwanted side effects).
At Natura Mushrooms, we have Lion’s Mane Mushroom Powder and Lion’s Mane Liquid Extract. Add them to your smoothie, coffee or main meal. We recommend taking:
And did you know that we grow our own lion’s mane on our 100% off-grid farm in Gippsland, Victoria? We only use organic waste materials, fresh air and water – just as nature intended.
Resources:
Scientists are becoming increasingly aware of the role the gut microbiome has on human health, with our gut bacteria linked to things like immunity, heart health, mood, mental health, homeostasis and overall wellbeing. So, when we talk about gut health, we’re kinda talking about overall health.
And if our gut plays such an important role human health — then how can we do the right thing for our body?
Gut-loving medicinal mushrooms, of course.
Let’s dive into…
We’re pretty much talking about mushrooms that are really, really, really good for you.
Yep, medicinal mushrooms are defined as “macroscopic fungi” used for medicinal and nutritional purposes. They contain a high concentration of “active compounds” which work to support a healthy immune function and response (amongst other things).
More specifically, medicinal mushrooms contain a high concentration of active polysaccharides (a fancy word for long chain carbohydrates) which can trigger changes to the immune system.
Plus, all we need to do is look to Traditional Chinese Medicine where they’ve used medicinal mushrooms for their therapeutic and nutritional value for thousands of years (with plenty of anecdotal and scientific research to back it up). So, there’s that.
It seems like everyone’s nattering on about the gut microbiome.
While we learn from a young age that food gives us fuel to live our lives, few people truly understand the connection between digestion and overall health.
When we talk about the gut microbiome, we’re talking about the “gut” (AKA the stomach, oesophagus, intestines and anus) as well as the “microbiome” (AKA a community of organisms living together).
The human gut is made up of trillions (yes, trillions) of microorganisms, like bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa. And here’s the thing, this unique combination of microorganisms looks different from person to person, and the balance of bacteria in your gut is a result of your genetics, upbringing and lived experiences.
Today, scientists believe the microorganisms in our gut play a significant role in health and wellbeing, influencing the presence of diseases (like heart conditions and cancer).
Yes, mushrooms are good for the gut. Like, really, really good.
That’s because mushrooms are high in prebiotics, beta-glucans and other gut-loving compounds.
Prebiotics act as a source of food for our gut’s healthy bacteria (and in turn, this helps keep our microbiome and whole body healthy). One of the most noteworthy prebiotics in mushrooms are beta-glucans — a type of soluble fibre that contributes to a range of health benefits — from heart health to blood sugar to inflammation.
Not only that, mushrooms are low in calories and high in nutrients, making them an ideal staple in your diet.
Let’s cut to the chase and look at the best medicinal mushrooms for gut health.
Despite its silly name, turkey tail is a mushroom you’ll want to take seriously.
Native to Europe, Asia and South America, turkey tail is a bracket fungus that’s been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years to promote wellbeing, vitality and longevity. It commonly grows out of dead and decaying logs, recognised by its tiered layers and striking colours.
Turkey tail is particularly famous for its immune-boosting properties (so much so, there’s ongoing research into the use of turkey tail to support traditional cancer treatment).
And, when we consider the connection between gut health and immunity, it all starts making sense.
An 8-week study in 24 healthy individuals compared the consumption of antibiotics, an extract from turkey tail mushroom and no treatment (control group)[1]. The study found the group receiving the turkey tail extract had beneficial changes in their gut bacteria and suppressed the growth of not-so-good bacteria (like E. coli and Shigella). This is in contrast to the group receiving antibiotics (who saw an increase in problematic bacteria) and the group receiving no treatment (who saw no notable changes in the microbiome).
Commonly found on dead or decaying hardwood throughout the northern hemisphere, lion’s mane has a series of drooping, icicle-like spines, often being likened to a pom-pom or old man’s beard.
It’s often celebrated for its influence on our brain. Buuuut as it turns out, lion’s mane could also promote overall gut health.
For starters, a 2017 mice study found that lion’s mane could boost immunity by increasing activity in the intestines and encouraging the growth of good gut bacteria. [2]
Not only that, but studies have also found lion’s mane may protect against the development of stomach ulcers and the growth of H. pylori (a not-so-good stomach bacteria). [3] [4]
We might add, many of the studies into lion’s mane and gut health have been carried out in test tubes and rats. More human research is needed to draw any conclusions — but the early signs are looking good.
A well-known medicinal mushroom, reishi typically grows on dead or decaying hardwood as a series of kidney-shaped fans with a deep, earthy colour and glossy sheen.
Reishi is often linked to heightened immunity, reduced stress and heart health. And now with emerging research, it’s also being linked to gut health.
A 2015 mice study determined reishi may be used as a prebiotic to prevent gut imbalances and obesity-related disorders. Yep, the study found mice kept on a high-fat diet gained up to 25 percent more than mice who were on the same diet, but also consumed extracts from reishi mushroom. [5]
And, similarly to turkey tail and lion’s mane, reishi is believed to contain a high concentration of prebiotics to nourish our good gut bacteria.
In Australia, there are a range of turkey tail, lion’s mane and reishi supplements on the market, ranging from capsules to powders to tinctures.
At Natura Mushrooms, we hand-cultivate our turkey tail, lion’s mane and reishi varieties on our mushroom farm in Gippsland, Victoria. Then, we use a range of extraction methods to draw out the benefits.
You can incorporate medicinal mushrooms into your diet by adding them…
We recommend taking:
Discover our…
Lastly, we recommend consulting your doctor or health care professional before beginning with mushroom supplements. The medicinal mushroom varieties we grow are considered well-tolerated and safe to consume, however, it’s always best to seek guidance first.
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Buuut does that mean they can share the same diet as us, too?
Well, not always.
Many foods considered safe for humans may not be safe for your doggo. So, it’s wise to stop and ask, “can dogs have hemp?”
And in this case, the answer is a big yes — hemp is good for dogs.
Alright, it’s more than good — it’s incredibly nutritious, with the potential to boost your doggo’s immunity, digestion and mobility, as well as nourish their skin and coat.
But before we go into that, let’s take a few steps back…
Used for thousands of years, hemp is a nutritious, sustainable and useful plant from the Cannabis Sativa family. Today, it comes with a range of uses, including food, medicine, skincare, biofuel, bioplastic, paper, soap, insulation and so much more.
And just so we’re clear, hemp has been legal in Australia since 2017 and it’s *not* the same thing as marijuana.
When we talk about cannabis, we’re talking about a broad species of flowering plant from the Cannabaceae family. It may help to think of cannabis as an “umbrella term” which different plant varieties fall under. Enter, hemp and marijuana.
Hemp and marijuana are like close cannabis relatives, rather than the same plant.
The main difference? Marijuana contains higher concentrations of THC (the psychoactive compound that gives you the giggles). Whereas non-psychoactive hemp strains contain less than 0.3% THC by dry weight, which isn’t enough to have any giggly effects.
So when we’re talking about giving your dog hemp, we’re strictly talking about non-psychoactive hemp varieties.
Yes! Many vets, nutritionists and animal specialists will tell you dogs can eat hemp.
See, these tiny but mighty seeds are packed with so much goodness your four-legged friend will love, including minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, protein, fibre, amino acids and the ideal ratio of omega 6 and 3 fatty acids (3:1).
So, it’s little wonder why hemp supplements for dogs have hit supermarket shelves around the world.
Want to see your dog’s enviably glossy coat bouncing through the dog park? Look no further than hemp. When topically applied or consumed in their diet, the antioxidants and omega fatty acids in hemp can alleviate dry skin, strengthen their fur and help cracked paws. Fur on fleek.
Hemp seeds are rich in both soluble and insoluble fibre, which can help regulate your doggo’s digestion and promote gut health. This is good news for poop-scoopers like you (did someone say no more scooping up a sloppy droppy?)
Want your doggo to be as nimble as a youthful Yorkshire?
Well, thanks to the impressive ratio of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, hemp seeds can help reduce joint pain and inflammation.
One study found that dogs consuming a diet rich in omega 3 fatty acids had improved performance in their daily activities, compared to those that had a regular diet. (1)
Absolutely not.
Non-psychoactive hemp won’t get your dog high, and that’s because it only contains minuscule traces of THC (the naughty compound we spoke about earlier). Even if your dog was to get free rein over a bag of hemp seeds, they’d be sober as a judge.
Hemp seeds and hemp seed oil won’t get your dog high. It’s incredibly safe.
Buuuut like most things, we wouldn’t recommend giving them free rein over a bag of hemp seeds because they’re bound to feel sick. Self-control isn’t a common trait amongst doggos.
So yes, they can have too much hemp. But only in the same way that can have too many treaties in one go.
As you can see, hemp is overflowing with health-giving nutrients for your doggo. So naturally, the next question many paw-parents have is how do I give hemp to my dog?
And if you’re getting images of them nibbling hemp leaves, well, you’d be wrong.
Today, you’ll find a range of hemp supplements for dogs on the market, including…
Hemp seeds (or hemp hearts)
Hemp seeds have a hard outer shell, with a soft inside known as hemp hearts. Hulled hemp seeds (or hemp hearts) is what you often find on the supermarket and pet store shelves. They can be sprinkled on your doggo’s food just as they are — simple!
Hemp seed oil
When you cold press hemp seeds, you get hemp seed oil. This is ideal for drizzling over your doggo’s food or you can apply it directly to their skin and paws.
Topical products
Whether it’s a balm, shampoo or ointment, there are so many topical hemp products for dogs on the market. It’s like a superfood for their skin and coat.
Have you heard of Natura’s furry little love child? Dog’s Defence create a range of dog supplements using medicinal mushrooms and nutritious ingredients to turn tail wags into full body wiggles. Our powders and extracts are made using a range of medicinal mushrooms, as well as other nutrient-dense foods like sweet potato, kale, blueberries, and of course – hemp.
Our anti-inflammatory, joint health and cognition and immunity blends all harness the power of Australian hemp seeds.
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So, let’s look a little closer.
Maitake is native to China, Japan and North America where it spurts out of the forest floor at the base of oak, maple and elm trees. Perhaps our favourite part of this mushroom is its name — literally translating to “dancing mushroom” after those who found it would dance with joy. We’re not immune to a maitake-inspired-boogy, either.
As for looks, maitake’s got ‘em. It’s a stunning “polypore” mushroom with a series of frilly, brown caps, many claiming it resembles a bird’s plumage (hence its popular name, “hen of the woods”).
Rumour has it, maitake was first discovered and used around 2000 years ago. However, most traditional sources fail to mention maitake. Instead, these sources refer to its close sibling “umbrella polypore” which was believed to make those who consumed it feel happy and look younger (we’ll take 10, please).
But today, with growing research and widespread use, maitake has entered the spotlight in its own way (and completely separate from its sibling). And with a long list of nutrients and health benefits, it’s easy to see why.
Maitake is a rich source of fibre, amino acids, antioxidants and Vitamins B, C and D. But what really gives maitake its benefits is its concentration of active polysaccharides.
Say what now?
Polysaccharides are a fancy word for long-chain carbohydrates. The most common polysaccharide in maitake being beta-glucan, which has strong immunological activity.
These nutrients and bioactive components combine to give maitake an impressive array of benefits — including support for a range of conditions, like cancer, diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome.
Buuut it’s important to note, we’re not painting maitake as a cure-all for these complex conditions. But early research suggests it may lend a helping hand alongside traditional treatment methods.
Let’s look at the studies, shall we?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects 8 - 13% of young women.[1]
And, it can be associated with a range of problems, including irregular menstrual cycles, excessive facial and body hair growth, acne, obesity, reduced fertility and increased risk of diabetes.
In most cases, PCOS is associated with some level of insulin resistance (maitake has the potential to address this — but more on that in a minute).
A Japanese study found maitake could be used on its own or in combination with traditional PCOS medicine. Spanning over a period of 3 months, 20 of the 26 women who received maitake polysaccharide extract ovulated. Even more interestingly, 6 of the 8 women who failed to ovulate after being treated with traditional medicine (clomiphene citrate) ovulated after receiving maitake polysaccharide extract. [2]
Type 2 diabetes occurs when your body can’t effectively use insulin, which results in high blood sugar levels.
Remarkably, several studies have emerged reporting significant improvement in blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes patients after they received maitake polysaccharides.[3] There have also been several; animal studies where maitake was orally administered to diabetic mice which resulted in reduced blood sugar levels. [4] [5]
Some researchers believe maitake has the strongest activity in tumour growth inhibition of all the commonly studied medicinal mushrooms.[6]
“Maitake D-Fraction” refers to a highly purified, bioactive extract of the beta-glucans found in maitake. And, modern research has tested the potential for MD-fraction to be administered to cancer patients (both on its own and in combination with chemotherapy) with some pretty impressive findings.
One study administered a combination of maitake polysaccharide extracts and maitake fruiting body to cancer patients aged 22 to 57 years. The results saw cancer regression or significant improvement in 58% of liver cancer patients, 68% of breast cancer patients and 62% of lung cancer patients. [7]
Finally, umbrella polypore (maitake’s close sibling which shares many similar characteristics) has been approved as an anti-cancer agent in China.
But remember, we’re still in the early stages of research. There’s a long way to go before we made any radical claims or it becomes common practice in the western world.
Unlike many other medicinal mushrooms (which are consumed for their function rather than flavour) maitake is a culinary delight. It boasts a deep, earthy, slightly peppery flavour, making them highly sought after for chefs and foodies alike. Try them sautéed, fried or roasted.
Cooking is a fun and delicious way to get a good dose of maitake mushroom.
But if you’d like a more concentrated and convenient dosage, you can incorporate maitake supplements into your diet. These are most commonly in the form of extracts, tinctures, powders or capsules.
To learn more about the different types of extracts — and what they mean for you — check out our article: what is a mushroom extract, anyway?
We can’t speak for raw maitake mushrooms, as availability will vary based on your location.
But if you’re interested in experimenting with maitake supplements, we can help.
At Natura Mushrooms, we source hand-cultivated maitake from the USA which is delivered directly to our mushroom farm in Gippsland, Victoria. Then, we use a range of extraction methods to draw out the benefits.
Maitake mushroom is available in:
Add maitake to your smoothie, coffee or main meal.
We recommend taking:
Finally, we recommend consulting your doctor or health care professional before beginning with mushroom supplements. While maitake is considered well-tolerated and safe to consume, it has strong immunological activity and can impact blood sugar levels, so it’s always best to seek guidance first.
Resources:
Well, to help you out, an extract is a way of preparing (and optimising) medicinal plants, herbs or mushrooms.
It involves using a solvent (like hot water or alcohol) to draw out specific compounds and active ingredients that are beneficial to human health.
So, in technical-science-speak, extracts draw out the goodness in food so we can reap the benefits.
Buuuut the whole process gets a little more involved than that.
And if you’re interested in using medicinal mushrooms in your daily routine, it’s a good idea to understand the mushroom extraction process so you know what goodness you’re getting.
A mushroom extract is when you take a raw mushroom and apply a solvent to it (like water or alcohol) to draw out beneficial compounds.
By extracting mushrooms, we’re able to dissolve some of the active ingredients, release their powers and increase their bioavailability (which means it’s easier for our bodies to absorb). Tick, tick and tick. The final product comes in all different forms — from powders to tinctures to dual liquid extracts.
Now we know what you might be thinking… Can’t we just, you know, eat a mushroom to access its nutrients?
Sure, you can always eat a mushroom to access its nutrients.
But the thing is, you’d have to eat a LOT of mushrooms to get the same level of goodness you’d get from an extract (ahem, it’ll take a bit more than the mushroom special at your local cafe).
What’s more, extraction processes work to access compounds that would otherwise be unreachable. See, a mushroom’s tough exterior contains a thing called “chitin” — which is a tough compound that’s also found in crustacean shells, insect shells and fish (AKA rock-hard stuff).
This chitin cell wall locks in mushroom nutrients like polysaccharides, terpenoids and proteins — which we can’t access without some form of heating or extraction.
But hold up, what do those words even mean?
(more on these guys in a minute).
It’s a good idea to decipher what mushroom extraction ratios mean, because it ultimately tells you how much mushy you’re getting. And isn’t that why we’re all here?
A mushroom extraction ratio is the volume of dry mushroom used to make the final concentrated extract. For example, a mushroom extract ratio of 10:1 would mean it took 10g of mushroom for every 1g of extract. Simple enough?
So, does a high extraction ratio always mean a better product?
Not necessarily.
In some cases, this is used as sneaky marketing to make the product *appear* like it has more mushroom — when really, it could just be wasteful.
At Natura Mushrooms, our tinctures use an extraction ratio of 5 to 1. That is, 5g of mushroom creates 1g of tincture. This ensures you’re getting a good dose of nutrients and bioactive ingredients.
This is the part that trips a lot of mushy-lovers up, so bear with us.
When we break it down, there are a few different types of extracts…
So, where does that leave mushroom powders?
Well, mushroom powders often fall into one of two categories…
Moral of the story: always read the label and understand the process.
So now you know what a mushroom extract is, how do you even make one?
Well, we can‘t speak on behalf of all mushroom products. But here’s a little insight into what we do at Natura Mushrooms…
We always start off with hot water extraction to break down the polysaccharides. In this process, we add water, mycelium, mushroom fruit body and botanicals into a pressure cooker for approximately 10 hours, shifting from a range of temperatures and pressures. This ensures the chitin wall breaks down effectively. Then, the resulting liquid is added to dehydrated mycelium, which soaks it up like a sponge. Finally, it’s slowly dehydrated, ground up, packaged and sent to you.
As for our dual extract tinctures, we follow up the hot water extraction process with alcohol extraction, leaving the mushroom mixture to sit in alcohol for a week to draw out the soluble compounds (like triterpenes).
Creating mushroom products in this way ensures maximum bioavailability, allowing your body to soak up the goodness.
It depends on your goals. If you’re particularly interested in accessing polysaccharides — like in Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail and Cordyceps — then hot water extraction does the trick.
For mushrooms higher in triterpenoid compounds (like Reishi) then dual extraction is a great way to go.
If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of each mushroom, check out our guide to purchasing medicinal mushrooms.
At Natura Mushrooms, we grow, harvest and source a range of medicinal mushrooms on our 100% off-grid farm in Gippsland, Victoria. Then, we delicately extract them using a combination of hot water extraction and dual extraction methods.
Plus, we always let the latest research guide the products we bring to market, from brain-boosting lion’s mane to relaxing reishi to immunity-enhancing turkey tail.
You can discover our range here…
Resources:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0889157515000733]]>This funky looking friend is a high-altitude-loving mushroom from the Himalayas, traditionally renowned as the best mushroom for fertility and libido boosting powers.
As research grows, the science world is beginning to understand centuries of use across Asia, where cordyceps has been consumed to treat asthma, erectile dysfunction and fertility. Not only that, it’s also believed to bring about aphrodisiac superpowers.
But high altitude isn’t the only chapter of this shroom’s wild origin story. The cordyceps species thrives when it has a cosy “host” (AKA insect) to live on. Delightfully, it brainwashes the insect to relocate to a more desirable climate, allowing the fungi to take over the carcass and bloom into a caterpillar-looking mushroom.
These very specific (and honestly quite hard to come by) conditions led the mystical cordyceps to a position of notoriety, reserved for a wealthy few. Lucky for us, scientists at sea level have found ways to commercially cultivate cordyceps, increasing international availability without the insect carcass — cue a collective sigh of relief for our vegan and vegetarian friends.
There are over 680 species of these well-respected fungi with two readily available: cordyceps sinensis and cordyceps militaris. Cordyceps sinensis (CS) flaunts a long history of use throughout the high-altitude regions of China, Nepal, Tibet, and India. However, a surge in popularity and the extreme nature of these locations led to limited availability.
So, remember we spoke about those clever scientists cultivating cordyceps at sea level? That’s cordyceps militaris. Today, both species are commercially cultivated, but cordyceps militaris remains a more convenient and cost-effective option.
Cordyceps can support fertility and libido as well as boost immunity, energy, metabolic health, endurance, recovery, sleep, respiratory health, along with kidney and liver health.
Traditionally, Cordyceps has been respected as the best mushroom for fertility, enhancing holistic health and hormonal balance.
Current research into the relationship between cordyceps and functional fertility is exploring a path of male hormonal balance (perhaps less spoken about, but certainly as important when it comes to baby making). After centuries of anecdotal recommendations, studies remain young and full of potential to explore all the different ways cordyceps’ can support fertility.
Crowning cordyceps as the best mushroom for fertility, a recent mice study from China [1] found that CS can significantly stimulate steroidogenesis (AKA the multi-step process our bodies work through to create testosterone). The study looked at biochemical pathways in Leydig cells (the primary source of testosterone in males) responsible for sperm production and sexual development. And to cut a long story short, it found that cordyceps may help create more swimmers. Go easy now, mice friends.
Oh, and are you looking for a natural youth potion? Another animal study from 2019 [3] comments on the regenerative powers of cordycepcin (the most potent component of cordyceps), highlighting its inherent power to fight against age-related male sexual dysfunction.
The US department of health and human services pinpoints hormonal imbalance as a contributor to PCOS which is the leading cause of female infertility. While substantial research linking cordyceps and female fertility is yet to be conducted, plenty has been said about the hormonal balancing power of this funky fungi.
Ancient folk stories reveal an intriguing tale of the moment cordyceps was discovered. As the snow melted in the late days of May, herders from Nepal would begin to ascend the mountains with their yaks in tow. Noticing their livestock searching through the fresh grass for the cordyceps mushroom, and heart eyes glowing with desire for the opposite sex, the shepherds took note of their flock’s uncontrollable desire to do the deed.
No, but for real, their heard of livestock also seemed unaffected by the altitude where air is thinner and energy harder to conserve, a somewhat irrelevant detail as these yak’s would relentlessly fornicate. We can neither confirm nor deny the truth of this origin story, but it sets the picture of the seemingly magical libido enhancing powers of the cordyceps mushroom.
A little refresher from our earlier blogs on cordyceps will highlight the nickname “Himalayan Viagra”. While research is limited, we can’t help but be optimistic about the strength of these claims with such a powerful name. Known to increase energy, many anecdotes delve into the use of cordyceps for libido enhancing powers. The current research links this to its ability to balance and boost testosterone levels.
Jam-packed with adaptogens, this caterpillar-like mushroom is believed to increase the body’s production of ATP (the molecule adenosine triphosphate), which is an integral agent for getting energy to the muscles. An increase in ATP helps the blood deliver more oxygen and ATP to every cell in the body — boosting energy and reducing fatigue.
This kind of endurance isn’t just for out on the field, it can be embraced at any time of day and most certainly in the bedroom.
Lucky for us, we don’t have to wait for an annual June harvest in the Tibetan plateau to access the goodness of cordyceps and incorporate the best mushroom for fertility into our diet. We offer a range of ways to add cordyceps and its fertility boosting, libido loving properties into your daily routine.
While cordyceps has a short and mild list of documented side effects, it’s important to note that some people have reported mild diarrhoea or abdominal discomfort which may be reduced by taking cordyceps during or after a meal.
We recommend adding ½ teaspoon serving of our Cordyceps Mushroom Powder to your favourite smoothie (per day). We also offer Cordyceps Mushroom Dual Liquid Extract, which can be added to tea, coffee, smoothies or other food at a recommended dose of 2mL per day for a finely balanced dose of fertility and libido goodness.
As always when taking responsibility for your health, please consult your doctor before incorporating Cordyceps into your diet.
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Buuut perhaps midway through this delightful morning routine it’s dawned on you… Is it ok to have matcha every day?
In a word, yes.
Having a daily dose of matcha is widely considered ok. And in many cases, it’s encouraged due to an impressive nutrient profile that can support immunity, heart health, metabolism, alertness and energy (to name a few).
But as with anything, it’s important to consume matcha in moderation and do what works for YOUR body. That includes weighing up the benefits, possible side effects and your unique sitch.
So what is matcha? What are the benefits? And what side effects should know about before you slurp down matcha like it’s going outta fashion? (it’s not)
We know what you’re thinking. Is matcha just a fancy word for green tea, steamed milk and majestic latte art?
And yes — it kind of is — but there’s more to the story.
Like green tea, matcha comes from the camellia sinensis plant, a small evergreen shrub that’s cultivated around the world (mostly so we can all experience the joy of tea and scones on a Sunday afternoon).
But the key difference between matcha and green tea is how they’re processed.
Matcha is made by taking the whole leaves of the plant and grinding them into a fine powder, which is then whisked into hot water or milk. On the flip side, green tea undergoes various processes (like heating and drying) before it’s stocked on our supermarket shelves and steeped in hot water.
We think Louise Cheadle (co-author of The Book of Matcha) puts it perfectly. Green tea “is a bit like boiling spinach, throwing away the spinach and just drinking the water, you will get some of the nutrients, but you’re throwing away the best bit.”
It’s why matcha is often worshipped as the holy grail of tea — it’s a more concentrated version that’s higher in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and caffeine.
As for the flavour, matcha is grassy, slightly sweet and richer than green tea (given you’re actually consuming the leaves rather than only steeping them).
As you’d expect, the health benefits of matcha are similar to green tea. Except due to its higher concentration of goodness, the benefits may even be turned up a notch.
Studies are in their infancy, but research shows matcha may…
Ah, side effects. The rain-on-our-parade-ers.
While the benefits of matcha are plentiful, we can’t overlook the fact that it contains a noticeable amount of caffeine (and the side effects that may come with that).
Drinking too much caffeine may cause…
So, if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or particularly sensitive to caffeine, you might choose to avoid matcha or drink it in small amounts.
In saying that, matcha contains slightly less caffeine than coffee, so it could be a great option for those looking to cut back (rather than cut out). Not only that, Matcha is rich in an amino acid called L-theanine(1), which also contributes to attention and alertness. And this combination of caffeine and l-theanine provides a gentler release of energy (without the jitters and crash).
Finally, we can’t stress the importance of listening to your body. While most will thrive and feel the benefits of drinking matcha daily — it might not work for everybody.
If in doubt, tune into your body and speak to a health practitioner you trust.
For most people, matcha is safe (and incredibly beneficial) to drink every day. The l-theanine provides a gentler release of energy when compared with coffee.
But given matcha still contains a noticeable amount of caffeine, make sure you think twice before you start knocking back matcha lattes like water. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia recommends no more than 600mg of caffeine per day. [2]
We love matcha first thing in the morning to energise our body, get our mind firing and prepare us for the day ahead. It’s also a great afternoon pick-me-up when you’re nodding off at your desk. If caffeine affects your sleep, we recommend consuming matcha first thing in the morning only.
Making matcha is simple. Add your matcha powder to boiling water or steamed milk and whisk to dissolve the compounds. If you want to soften the flavour or add some sweetness, we recommend adding a dash of honey (word of warning: if you’re a first-time matcha drinker, you might find the flavour quite strong).
At Natura Mushrooms, we’ve combined the powers of brain boosting lion’s mane mushroom, performance enhancing cordyceps and energising matcha tea in our Invigorate Blend. Together, these ingredients work to reawaken your mind, body and spirit so you can get the most out of every day.
We recommend having 1 – 2 drops of our Invigorate Blend daily. Simple add it to your tea, coffee, smoothie or main meal.
Discover our Invigorate Blend today.
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]]>Portobello mushrooms. Crimini mushrooms. Button mushrooms. White mushrooms. Supermarket mushrooms. Whatever you call them — they’re all the same stinkin’ mushroom.
Scientifically speaking, it’s called agaricus bisporus. And the mushroom has coined so many different common names (and appearances) due to being picked at different stages of its lifespan.
So, when we’re talking about “portobello vs button mushrooms” we’re actually comparing the same species. Buuut just like a pug vs a great dane, we can still highlight some differences.
So what is agaricus bisporus? What are the benefits? And are there any differences between crimini, button and portobello?
When you dial up your local pizza place and order the mushroom special — chances are they’re using agaricus bisporus.
It’s believed this not-so-humble mushroom makes up to 90% of mushroom consumption in the US. And with it being the primary variety available in supermarket chains across Australia, we don’t expect the stats to be much different here.
Naturally, it grows in grasslands, fields and meadows across Europe and North America. But today, it’s the world’s most popular mushroom largely due to its suitability for commercial production.
The young immature versions of agaricus bisporus often appear white and may be known as button mushrooms, white mushrooms or common mushrooms. As they grow older, they can start to brown, commonly known as crimini, brown or portobello mushrooms.
Shocking, we know.
But if you’re ready to move past that fact, let’s take a broad look at the nutrition and benefits of agaricus bisporus.
They’re…
As you can see, there’s no real difference between portobello, button and crimini mushrooms when it comes to their species, origin and nutrition.
But as for appearance and flavour, let’s take a closer look…
Kinda like the baby, button mushrooms are harvested in the earlier stages of the agaricus bisporus lifespan. They have a white colour with a subtle, mild, almost bland flavour — which can transform into something delightful when fried up with butter and salt (delish).
Kinda like the teens, crimini mushrooms meet halfway between button mushrooms and portobello mushrooms. They’re browner in colour and have a deeper, earthier flavour than button mushrooms — while still not being as fully developed as portobello.
Kinda like the adult, portobello is the largest, fully mature version of agaricus bisporus. It’s been given the most time to grow, allowing it to hold less moisture than button and crimini mushrooms and a stronger mushroom-y flavour.
The term “medicinal mushrooms” has surged in popularity in recent years.
They can be defined as macroscopic fungi, used in the form of extracts or powder, for medicinal and nutritional purposes. Notably, they also contain a particularly high concentration of active polysaccharides (AKA long chain carbohydrates which are really, really good for you).
So the question is, are these common supermarket mushrooms — like button, crimini and portobello — considered medicinal?
And the answer isn’t as straightforward as we’d hoped. Paul Stamets (a renowned American Mycologist) stated that “all gourmet mushrooms are medicinal” which would suggest agaricus bisporus falls into this category. Winning.
Yet at the same time, agaricus bisporus is largely used in cooking rather than as a health supplement (like powders, tinctures and capsules).
So, while most mushrooms contain powerful and nutritious compounds (ahem, we’re not talking about poisonous or psychedelic kinds) it’s expected they’ll vary in their ratios and overall benefits.
After years of feeling like you have a wealth of different mushroom options at the supermarket — this article might come as a rude shock.
At Natura Mushrooms, we’re passionate about sharing the holistic benefits of fungi with you. And that includes fun varieties you might have never heard of — like Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail, Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps and Maitake. There are so many more mushrooms out there when you sift through all the portobellos.
We grow, harvest and source a range of medicinal mushrooms on our 100% off-grid farm in Gippsland, Victoria. Then, we delicately extract them using a combination of hot water extraction and dual extraction methods. You can discover our range here…
Still not sure? Take a look at our mushroom supplement purchasing guide to find the best solution for you.
Resources:
]]>They’re a family of unsaturated essential fatty acids that bring a wealth of health benefits (think: reducing inflammation, heart health, brain health and more).
The “essential” part means our bodies don’t produce omega 3s naturally, so we need to obtain them from our diet.
And, while most people will nod in agreeance and say, “oh, yes, you need omega 3 in your diet.” Few people truly understand what they are, and more importantly, how we should consume them.
This article will explore…
Hemp is cannabis —only unlike its close relative marijuana — it’s perfectly legal and comes without a side of giggles.
Yep, hemp is often defined as a variety of cannabis that contains 0.3 percent (or less) THC by dry weight (AKA the stuff that makes you high). This amount is nowhere enough to give you any euphoric effects.
Not only that, hemp is an incredibly sustainable, nutritious and useful plant. It can be used across thousands of applications, from clothing to skincare to bioplastics.
In terms of health benefits? Hemp is packed with protein, fibre, antioxidants, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, vitamin E, and of course, the optimum ratio of omega 6s and omega 3s.
Which is really why we’re here, isn’t it?
We now know omega 3s are a family of essential fatty acids that we need to consume through our diet (our bodies don’t produce them naturally).
Foods that are particularly high in omega 3s include fatty fish, flax seeds, chia seeds, walnuts and hemp seeds.
The most common members of the omega 3 family are (word of warning, they’re a mouthful)…
Getting a balance of these omega 3s is ideal. But if you’re plant-based, it’s not all bad news. The ALA form of omega can be converted into DHA and EPA (albeit, to a limited extent).
Now for the good stuff. The benefits of omega 3s may include…
Omega 3 6 and 9 are often bundled together as a health-boosting-trio.
Buuuut they’re not the same thing.
Similarly to omega 3s, omega 6s are usually considered “essential” fatty acids. There’s mixed opinions and research surrounding the role of omega 6 in our diet, with the common conclusion that they’re beneficial for our health — within reason.
That is, for omega 6s to be beneficial they should be balanced out with omega 3s in a ratio around 2:1 and 4:1 (today, western diet ratios as high as 16:1) [4]
And can you guess which plant sits within this ideal ratio? That’s right, hemp (more on hemp in a minute).
The benefits of omega 6s may include…
Omega 9s, on the other hand, are usually “nonessential” fatty acids — which means our body can produce them naturally (and we don’t necessarily need to obtain them through food).
This means omega 9s are not as in-demand as the other two omegas, but they can still boast some desirable health benefits. Things like…
It’s believed 3 tablespoons of hemp seeds contain around 2,600 mg of ALA omega 3s. Which is a whopping amount. These seeds can also be cold pressed into hemp seed oil, giving you a concentrated hit of omega 3 goodness.
But as you’ve seen above, it’s not just the presence of omega that counts. For your body to properly absorb omega, they need to be in the right ratio.
This is where hemp has achieved the unthinkable. Unlike other sources of omega (like fish) hemp has the ideal ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 — sitting around 3:1. Which is why many consider hemp the greatest source of omega on the planet.
At Natura Mushrooms, it’s no secret we’re passionate about the health benefits of fungi. They’ve been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years for their therapeutic and nutritional value — from boosting antioxidants to reducing inflammation to balancing blood sugar.
Now, your favourite medicinal mushrooms are available in a hemp seed oil blend for an added boost of omega (and other nutrients). By combining the powerful benefits of hemp and mushrooms, we’re helping to nourish your mind, body and spirit.
Good one, amiga.
Discover our Mushroom Liquid Extracts and Hemp Seed Oil today.
Resources:
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See, immunity is a complex and delicate balancing act — protecting the body against unwanted germs (microbes) — then keeping a record of these microbes so the system knows what to do if these bad guys come knocking again.
And you’ve no doubt heard about some of the ways we can bolster our immunity, like adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise and a good sleep pattern.
But have you heard about medicinal mushrooms and their powerful immunomodulating agents?
Turns out, the world of fungi has the potential to support a healthy immune function and response.
So, how do mushrooms work alongside the immune system?
What are the best mushrooms for immunity?
And how can you incorporate them into your diet?
Sure, “medicinal mushrooms” may sound scary at first, but they aren’t to be confused with the psychedelic kind.
By definition, medical mushrooms are macroscopic fungi, used in the form of extracts or powder, for medicinal and nutritional purposes.
In short, yes. Mushrooms have the potential to increase immunity due to their high concentration of “active compounds” which can trigger immunological activity.
And to get a little more specific, medical mushrooms contain a particularly high concentration of active polysaccharides — which is a fancy word for long chain carbohydrates. The most common polysaccharide in mushrooms is beta-glucan, which can activate immune cells, increase antibody production and reduce inflammation.*
Don’t believe us? All you have to do is look into modern pharmaceutical products and you’ll find that most are derived from the fungi kingdom. Even penicillium originated from a species of fungi!
*Take note: mushrooms may not always be right for your particular condition or circumstances. You should always consult a doctor or medical professional before taking mushroom supplements. Like most natural medicine, medicinal mushrooms are an area of science that’s still evolving.
It’s hard to choose the best medicinal mushrooms for the immune system because they all boast powerful benefits. So, let’s look at our top 6 and some of the accompanying research.
Also known as bear’s head, pom pom or old man’s beard, lion’s mane is a shaggy mushroom found on dead or decaying hardwood throughout Asia.
A 2017 study explored lion’s mane and its impact on the immune response of mice.[2] Fascinatingly, the results found lion’s mane may increase intestinal activity and encourage the growth of good gut bacteria (which has flow on effects for immunity).
Immunity aside, lion’s mane may also…
Turkey tail is a stunning bracket fungus that spurts out of tree trunks and dead or decaying hardwood. While we don’t like to play favourites when it comes to immune-boosting mushrooms, let’s just say the turkey tail research is nothing short of exciting. So much so, countries like China and Japan have been using turkey tail in conjunction with traditional cancer medicine for over 30 years.[3]
A 2009 study involving 63 elderly patients with bowel cancer found that relapse-free survival rates increased in the group that was treated with a turkey tail compound.[4] Secondly, a 2016 test tube study found that turkey tail mushroom could stop the growth of harmful bacteria, including Staphylococcus Aureus and Salmonella Enterica.[5]
The other benefits of turkey tail may include…
Reishi is one of the most well-known medicinal mushrooms (and, well, we can see why). In traditional Chinese culture, this beautiful kidney-shaped mushroom symbolises success, wellbeing and longevity. One of the ways it’s believed to boost immunity is by strengthening the white blood cells, which play a critical role in our immune system function.
One study on 34 advanced stage cancer patients found that reishi could increase the number of natural killer cells (NK cells) which play an important role in rejecting tumours, cancer cells and other diseases. It’s important to note that more research is needed to determine the extent reishi can assist immunity in both healthy and ill individuals.
Other benefits of reishi may include…
A real silent achiever, maitake is not very well known in the western world. Yet studies show it has promising potential to boost immunity. Maitake often grows out of the forest floor as a series of frilly, brown caps (often looking like a bird’s plumage, hence the commonly referred name “hen of the woods”).
A mice study in 2019 found that maitake may suppress tumour growth by enhancing the immune system and increasing the number of cells that help fight the tumour. [6] But as is often the way, it’s too earlier to draw any conclusions (we need time and more human studies).
Other benefits of maitake may include...
Found on the bark of birch trees in cold climates, chaga has a black exterior and a soft, orange interior. And we can’t mention chaga without mentioning antioxidants — it’s chock-full of them! And these antioxidants help to neutralise free radicals and reduce inflammation (which is linked to our immune system).
A petri dish study found that chaga could exhibit natural anticancer compounds, and ultimately slow the growth of lung, breast and cervical cancer. Once again, this is early days, and more research is absolutely necessary.
Other benefits of chaga may include…
In the wild, cordyceps grow out of the brains of insects and spiders. But luckily for us, scientists have uncovered ways to commercially cultivate cordyceps (in a lab rather than insects) which has increased its availability around the world (which is also a nice touch for vegans and vegetarians).
Similar to other medicinal mushrooms, cordyceps can help the body react when it’s challenged by germs, infection or disease. One study found that cordyceps could enhance immunity in immunosuppressed mice.[7] Test tube research has also found that cordyceps could prevent the growth of various types of human cancers. [8] Watch this space.
Other benefits of cordyceps may include…
Moral of the story? Research to date suggests medicinal mushrooms are damn good for your immune system.
So, how do you get them in your diet?
Some varieties are popular in cooking (like maitake and lion’s mane) because they taste delicious. But unfortunately, there’s a lot of time and preparation involved in cooking, which is why many fungi fans opt for supplements they can take regularly like powders, liquid extracts and capsules.
You can incorporate these supplements into your diet by adding them…
To learn more, read through our article on how to take medicinal mushrooms.
At Natura Mushrooms, we grow, harvest and source a range of immune-boosting mushrooms on our 100% off-grid farm in Gippsland, Victoria.
You can discover our range here...
Still not sure? Take a look at our mushroom supplement purchasing guide to find the best solution for you.
Resources:
Many of the strains we see today are backed by several studies that support their potential to increase immunity, reduce inflammation, protect against disease, and improve overall wellbeing.
But here’s where it gets even more exciting. Amongst the thousands of different types of mushrooms, each one boasts its own unique range of benefits.
And today, we’re talking about mushrooms for mood, stress and anxiety.
Adaptogenic mushrooms — if you will.
So, which mushrooms are good for mood? And how exactly do they do it?
Before we dive into our favourite mushrooms for mood, we need to chat about adaptogens.
So, the word ‘adaptogenic’ refers to any herb or plant that helps to improve our resistance to physical, emotional, environmental, chemical and biological stressors. Not only do they help us cope with immediate stress, but when taken moderately, they may help our bodies regulate our general response to stress and anxiety.
See, the body’s stress response is complex and involves multiple bodily systems, with the main stress response system called the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Now, that’s a bit of a mouthful so we’re just going to call it the HPA axis.
So, allow us to get a little science-y: the main job of the HPA axis is to release hormones that activate the stress response (called glucocorticoids). And, adaptogens influence the HPA axis (and other stress response systems) by “hacking” the way the body responds to the stress. Typically, when our bodies feel stress, we go through three stages:
So, adaptogens work to prolong the resistance phase and encourage the body to achieve homeostasis (or stability) when responding to stress.
Rather than a quick fix (and we all know that quick fixes don’t work) adaptogens are in it for the long haul.
So, it’s time to meet our three favourite apoptogenic mushrooms for mood…
We can’t talk about stress relief and not mention Reishi — the mushroom traditionally known as “the supreme protector.” Best known for its calming and stress-reducing qualities, Reishi is packed with antioxidants and compounds that help the body manage stress in a variety of ways.
See, when you’re feeling anxious and jittery, it’s usually due to an increase of cortisol in your body. And after a particularly stressful day, your cortisol levels might be even more elevated.
Not only does Reishi help to lower high cortisol levels, but it may also help manage stress responses through something called polypeptides. These polypeptides team up with the endorphins and neurotransmitters in your brain, often having a relaxing effect on the central nervous system.
But it’s not just stress and anxiety that Reishi helps with — Reishi may also alleviate insomnia. Ever had a night where it felt like your brain just wouldn’t turn off? Well, Reishi works kind of like a nerve tonic that eases the alarm signal from reaching the brain. Good-bye intrusive thoughts, hello peaceful sleep!
As with anything, moderation and consistency are key. Due to Reishi’s harmonising effect, the benefits of the mushroom are best achieved as a slow burn. Instead of abruptly forcing the body from one physiological state into another, Reishi works to bring the body into homeostasis or self-regulation (a state that can be difficult for the body to achieve).
So, when we take Reishi consistently over longer periods, the mushroom can actually regulate the physiological functions based on the specific individual. That is, if someone has a tendency to feel stressed or anxious, Reishi may calm the body and mind by regulating the stress response. At the same time though, if someone tends to experience depression or fatigue, Reishi may boost mood and increase energy.
A little shaggy and unkempt, Lion’s Mane looks like something straight outta Dr Suess. But despite its silly appearance, it’s definitely something to take seriously.
This unique looking mushroom is best known for its ability to improve cognitive function, but it doesn’t stop there. Studies have suggested that Lion’s Mane can exert strong anti-inflammatory effects, and even go as far to help stimulate nerve growth, cell growth and cell renewal. This is thought to help enhance the hippocampus function — the spot in the brain that’s in charge of managing emotions and memories.
Lion’s Mane has also been found to encourage better blood flow, which provides your body with more oxygen. This, of course, includes the brain. And what happens when the brain gets more oxygen? It performs significantly better, and as a result, helps to improve focus, mood and emotional regulation (particularly in managing various states of anxiety and stress).
In 2010, a 4-week study investigated a group of 30 women experiencing anxiety and depression. [1] The women were split into two groups, with the treatment group receiving Lion’s Mane cookies each day (mmmmm cookies) and the control group receiving just regular cookies (still, mmmm cookies). At the end of the study, the participants in the treatment group recorded an overall improvement in mood and sleep quality, and reduction in stress reactions including heart palpitations, frustration, irritability and anxiety — which couldn’t be said for the control group.
It’s important to note: At this stage, there have been few human studies on the effects of Lion’s Mane on stress and anxiety. But we can’t help but feel optimistic on the results of the studies that have been done.
Have you ever experienced a stressful day, only for it to be followed by an almost debilitating sense of fatigue? Well, that’s because anxiety and stress put our nervous systems into overdrive, increasing our heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension and inflammation. This is where Cordyceps can help.
Cordyceps is known as a “deep energy awakener” with the ability to restore energy after times of over-exertion, fatigue and stress. One of the mushroom’s biggest claims to fame is its production of the molecule Adenosine Triphosphate, or ATP.
ATP is our body’s main energy supply source, and we need it to fuel our muscles and keep us moving throughout the day. Recent studies have even linked healthy ATP levels and cellular energy as key to managing stress and anxiety, so it’s no wonder that Cordyceps can help produce antidepressant effects. Its slow-burning energy can help to combat fatigue (a common symptom of depression) as well as boost memory and increase libido — win!
Lastly, Cordyceps is an adaptogen, which means it can support the body when dealing with stress. Studies have shown that Cordyceps can help stimulate the adrenal glands and regulate the nervous system, which may work to alleviate stress and reduce feelings of anxiety.
At Natura Mushrooms, we grow, harvest and source a range of medicinal mushrooms on our 100% off-grid farm in Gippsland, Victoria. Then, we delicately extract them using a combination of hot water extraction and dual extraction methods.
Discover our…
Not sure where to start? Check out our mushroom purchasing guide to find the shroom that’s right for you.
REFERENCES:
Once upon a time, the supermarket giants would restrict us to one variety of mushroom (portobello, anyone?)
But recently, it’s becoming increasingly common to see lesser-known medicinal varieties hit the shelves across the western world, shining a light on exciting strains like chaga, lion’s mane, cordyceps and reishi.
And with these fancy mushrooms becoming available in all different forms, there’s growing confusion over *how* to take them (whether that’s capsules, tinctures or powders).
Well, this article will cover…
Mushrooms are a frequent resident in most kitchens. And for good reason: they’re nutritious, delicious, low in calories and high in fibre, protein and antioxidants. But what many people don’t realise is they go waaaay beyond the traditional portobello.
Medicinal mushrooms can be defined as macroscopic fungi used for medicinal or nutritional purposes — in other words, mushrooms that are jam-packed with good stuff. Good stuff that helps the body fend off bacteria, activate immune cells, reduce inflammation and increase antibody production. Even better, all this good stuff can do cool things like help lower cholesterol, improve heart health, reduce inflammation, increase energy and stamina and activate the immune system.
But with so many different mushrooms that can be consumed in different ways, it can be daunting to know where to start. So, let’s look at how to take medicinal mushrooms.
As a general rule, most medicinal mushroom supplements are made from either:
Now you might be thinking. Can’t we just… you know… eat them?
While eating mushrooms may be the first thing that comes to mind, the truth is not all mushrooms are feast-friendly. As much as we’d love to simply chop and sauté, some mushrooms are extremely tough. Like, we’re talking as hard as wood. Not to mention some are kinda gross tasting.
So, to discover the best way to take medicinal mushrooms, it’s important to first consider the physiology of our fungi friends. See, all mushrooms have a chitinous cell wall, which is similar to the exoskeletons of arthropods. And these tough cell walls lock in the beneficial polysaccharides and nutrients — AKA the interior that makes medicinal mushrooms so powerful.
So, if we can’t eat the mushroom and the outer wall is rock hard, how do we get to the good stuff? Well, there are a few different ways…
One way to break down the tough chitin wall is through liquid extraction — which can then be made into a variety of supplements (including both powders and liquid extracts).
By extracting mushrooms, we’re able to dissolve some of the active ingredients, release their powers and even increase their bioavailability (which means it’s easier for our bodies to absorb).
There are three common types of extraction: hot water extraction, alcohol extraction and dual extraction (you can read more about these in our article Mushroom Powder vs Extract: Which Is Better For You?).
Hot water extraction is one of the most common ways to create a mushroom extract. It works by heating the raw mushrooms with water to dissolve medicinal compounds. After the water evaporates, it leaves a delicious and nutritious mushroom powder.
Alcohol extraction uses alcohol instead of water in this process. It’s commonly only used on mushrooms with “hard to get” medicinal compounds that don’t dissolve with hot water alone.
Lastly, dual extraction uses both alcohol and hot water. Hot water extraction is great at dissolving polysaccharides, a group of carbohydrates that can have anti-inflammatory, antiviral and anti-tumour properties. All the stuff that’s great for the immune system. On the other hand, dual extraction focuses on compounds called terpenoids, found in mushrooms that are known for their antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects (that is, Reishi and Chaga).
Either way, all extraction methods essentially achieve the same thing: they’re a great way to retrieve medicinal compounds hidden behind the super tough exterior. In fact, some compounds (like Beta-Glucans) can be up to 15 times more concentrated in medicinal mushroom extracts when compared to other forms.
After extracting mushrooms, these can then be packaged as a tincture, capsule or powder (more on these next).
There’s a bit of overlap (and confusion) between mushroom extracts and tinctures. And the difference comes down to how they’re made.
A mushroom extract is created by soaking the mushroom in any type of solvent, whereas a mushroom tincture *specifically* uses alcohol. So, you could say that ALL tinctures are extracts, but not all extracts are tinctures.
See, mushrooms are packed to the brim with nutrients like polysaccharides, triterpenes and proteins, but these are hidden away by that super tough exterior made from chitin. And as we know, while hot water works to bring out some of these nutrients, other compounds need a little more, uh, convincing. And what’s more convincing than a lil’ bit of liquid courage, hey?
At Natura Mushrooms, we combine both hot water extraction and alcohol extraction to create a final product that contains a full range of active ingredients. This ensures maximum bioavailability, and what’s more, the alcohol in tinctures helps to give the supplement a longer shelf life! Win!
You can also find mushroom powders on the market, which are commonly made by drying out the mushroom and grinding it up.
And, as it turns out, this is a great way to consume the chitin of a mushroom (which is extremely good for you). Not only is it rich in antioxidants, but it’s a great source of insoluble fibre and can help to promote a healthy gut, reduce constipation, and lower the risk of some diseases. We recommend mushroom powders for those seeking more fibre in their diet.
But here’s where it gets confusing: some mushroom powders can also be extracts.
Yep, at Natura Mushrooms, our mushroom powders undergo a hot water extraction process to draw out the medicinal compounds before we package them up (whereas other mushroom companies may simply grind up the mushroom).
It just goes to show, it’s always important to read the label and process before purchasing a mushroom product so you know what you’re getting.
Mushroom capsules are made by taking a mushroom powder, then encasing it in a hard shell (using gelatin or a vegan alternative). It’s perfect for those seeking a quick and convenient way to consume medicinal mushrooms (without having to prepare them with your food and drinks).
The downside? It’s not great for those who dislike swallowing pills. Plus, some folks don’t like consuming the additional ingredients in the capsule case.
Finally, you can add medicinal mushrooms to your diet.
Some medicinal mushrooms (like reishi) aren’t recommended for cooking. Sure, it’s incredibly nutritious, but its bitter taste might not make you many friends at the dinner table.
The good news? There is a whole range of medicinal mushrooms that can be used for cooking, some of which can be easily found in your local supermarket. One of the most well-known mushrooms, shiitake, is both delicious and nutritious (and makes a great addition to a risotto). Shiitake may assist with blood flow, weight loss and cholesterol management.
Medicinal mushrooms we love for cooking:
Medicinal mushrooms that may be better left as supplements:
As with most supplements, you might not notice the benefits immediately. In many cases, it takes at least two weeks to notice the effects of medicinal mushrooms (but this can also vary from person to person). Consistency is key, people.
As you can see, there are sooo many ways to take medicinal mushrooms. At Natura Mushrooms, we focus on dual liquid extracts and mushroom powders.
It’s recommended to take:
As always, we recommend chatting with your doctor or health care practitioner before taking mushroom supplements.
At the end of the day, choosing how to take medicinal mushrooms depends on what you’re wanting to get out of it. For those seeking a diverse range of medicinal compounds, we recommend dual extraction. For those seeking medicinal compounds with the added benefit of fibre, we recommend powders.
Here’s a list of our favourite mushies (which are all available in powdered form and dual extraction):
Keen to learn more about each ‘shroom? Check out our Medicinal Mushroom guide here to help you get started.
]]>
Lately, lesser-known medicinal varieties like reishi, chaga, cordyceps and lion’s mane appear to be popping up in everything —from powders to extracts to smoothies and even skin care.
While the trend has only recently caught on in the Western world, cultures in the east have been using medicinal mushrooms for thousands of years for their therapeutic and nutritional value.
But with over 2,000 different varieties, the world of medicinal mushrooms can be difficult to navigate, and you’d be forgiven for wondering… are medicinal mushrooms even safe?
Well, get your flippers and snorkel ready — we’re about to dive in.
Medicinal mushrooms can be defined as macroscopic fungi, used for medicinal or nutritional purposes, typically in the form of an extract or powder.
They have all the good stuff in them called “active compounds” which support a healthy immune system. They also have what’s called “active polysaccharides” (and a lot of them), with the most common one being beta-glucan which works to trigger changes in the immune system. We’re talking the activation of immune cells, reduced inflammation, and increased antibody production.
But not only that, mushrooms produce a whole lot of chemical compounds that act as defenders of the body, useful for fending off bacteria and other bodily invaders that make us unwell. Fungi have even produced some of our most important modern medications including penicillin — the groundbreaking drug that changed the world of medicine!
So the thing is, medicinal mushrooms are really good for you.
Like, really, really good.
The kind of really, really good that can lower cholesterol, improve heart health, reduce inflammation, increase energy and stamina, and activate the immune system. And that’s just the beginning of a long list of really, really good things.
Now, we could talk about the benefits of medicinal mushrooms until the cows come home.
But are medicinal mushrooms always safe?
While we want to steer clear of the word *always* for obvious reasons. The truth is, very few side effects of medicinal mushrooms have been reported throughout research. And those that have are quite rare and mild.
Cordyceps (found in some of our products including Cordyceps Mushroom Liquid Extract and the Invigorate Blend Liquid Extract) has been linked in some instances to mild diarrhoea, constipation, and stomach discomfort.
Similar side effects have been found in people consuming Turkey Tail (found in our Turkey Tail Liquid Extract and Harmony 6 Mushroom Blend) and Reishi (found in our Reishi Mushroom Powder and Harmony 6 Mushroom Blend). In saying that, many of these studies were in people undergoing cancer treatment, so it’s unclear whether the symptoms were due to the mushrooms or the treatment itself.
Studies show that while Chaga (found in our Chaga Liquid Extract) has shown no side effects on the typical consumer, it could potentially pose risks for people with other health deficiencies. See, one of Chaga’s main health benefits is that it helps to lower blood sugar, which could potentially cause issues for those on insulin or with diabetes. Chaga also contains a protein that can help with circulation and prevent blood clotting. However, if you’re on blood-thinning medications or have a bleeding disorder, Chaga may pose a health risk.
So, while little has been reported on the potential side effects of medicinal mushrooms, studies have indicated that the mild side effects may be more common in consumers with pre-existing ailments.
As is true in most cases, you can also have too much of a good thing. Consuming too much of anything has its downsides.
Moderation is key, and it’s super important to follow the recommended dietary instructions found both on our website and on back of our product packaging.
Well, you only need to look at the psychoactive effects of hallucinogenic mushrooms and the toxicity of wild poisonous varieties to understand that some mushrooms can also have some toxic biochemical effects.
Psilocybin (AKA Magic mushrooms or ‘shrooms) can be pretty dangerous when consumed in higher doses for recreational use. Common side effects include stomach discomfort, nausea, headaches and agitation, alongside some other pretty concerning effects like irregular heartbeat, seizures and psychosis. However, despite all of these scary side effects, studies have shown that a microdose of psilocybin may actually have some interesting health perks (by microdosing we mean a super teeny, tiny amount — not enough to experience the hallucinogenic effects). But that’s another story for another day — and we’re certainly not advocating for the consumption of an illegal substance.
On top of psilocybin, there are a range of wild, poisonous mushrooms that aren’t safe (the ones your mum warned you about).
But hey, we’re talking about medicinal mushrooms here. Those that are intended for medicinal and nutritional use. They’re very different to the poisonous and psychedelic kind.
In a word, yes.
As with anything, side effects do exist. But research to date has shown these adverse reactions are few and far between — so much so, medicinal mushrooms like lion’s mane, turkey tail, cordyceps, chaga and reishi are all considered safe to consume.
But as always, we also recommend chatting with your doctor or medical professional before incorporating any medicinal mushroom supplements into your diet.
Keen to give mushrooms a go, but not sure where to start?
Here at Natura Mushrooms, we grow, harvest and source a range of medicinal mushrooms on our 100% off-grid farm in Gippsland, Victoria. You can discover our range here:
If you’re still unsure, have a look at our mushroom supplement purchasing guide to find the best product for you.
Resources
https://www.christopherhobbs.com/library/featured-articles/mushroom-articles/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6353236/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/chaga-mushroom#side-effects
https://naturamushrooms.com/blogs/news/microdosing-psychedelic-mushrooms-what-do-we-know-so-far
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-648/turkey-tail-mushroom
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-602/cordyceps
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/chaga-mushroom#side-effects
]]>Despite being found across six continents on earth (excluding Antarctica) cordyceps has very specific growth requirements — it thrives in extreme altitudes where it naturally grows out of the carcasses of insect larvae. Yes, you read that right.
Cordyceps been used across Asia for centuries, historically renowned for its treatment of asthma, erectile dysfunction, and aphrodisiac superpowers. Yes, you also read that right.
But given its rarity (brainwashed insect carcasses in Tibetan highlands aren’t exactly easy to get to) it was traditionally reserved for the wealthy few.
But luckily for us, scientists have uncovered ways to commercially cultivate cordyceps, increasing its availability around the world (and minus the whole insect thing — much to the delight of vegetarians and vegans).
The two species of cordyceps that are readily available (and we’ll be comparing in this article) are cordyceps sinensis vs cordyceps militaris.
So how do they compare?
What's the difference?
And why should you care?
Cordyceps (also known as caterpillar fungi) is a rare, resilient and respected fungi that’s been used in Chinese medicine for centuries. There are over 680 species of cordyceps, with cordyceps sinensis and cordyceps militaris being the two most common (more on these in a minute).
It’s commonly considered a parasitic fungus, attacking the insect which it grows out of. Yikes. There’s even incredible evidence of cordyceps “brainwashing” an ant before bursting out of its head. Wild, hey?
However, there’s growing research to suggest it may actually be a mutually beneficial relationship (where cordyceps also helps the insect thrive in extreme environments) [3]
But hey, brainwashing insects aside, cordyceps has sparked curiosity for its potential to benefit energy, asthma, fertility, sexual performance, immunity and more.
Chinese medicine has noted the benefits of cordyceps for centuries.
In the west, we’re a little late to the party. But with increasing popularity and modern scientific studies taking place, we’re certainly making up for lost time.
There’s still a long way to go with the research, but early studies suggest both cordyceps militaris and cordyceps sinensis can…
Let’s start by answering what is cordyceps sinensis?
Cordyceps sinensis has been predominantly used throughout history, growing in high-altitude regions in China, Nepal, Tibet and India. Although this location — combined with over-harvesting — made things difficult when cordyceps surged in popularity.
Enter, good ol' cordyceps militaris.
Cordyceps militaris began as a substitute for cordyceps sinensis because it can be easily cultivated in indoor labs (without insects) making it readily available and affordable.
Today, both cordyceps sinensis and cordyceps militaris are available through human cultivation (but for various reasons, cordyceps sinensis still remains a little more tricky to produce).
Therefore, a lot of suppliers may choose to stock cordyceps militaris purely because of its convenience, ease and cost-efficiency.
But at the same time, it’s not a “shadow sibling.” In fact, both cordyceps militaris and cordyceps sinensis have similar nutrition, bioactive substances and benefits. It’s even been noted cordyceps militaris may have higher concentrations of medicinal compounds. Winning.
Both cordyceps sinensis and cordyceps militaris contain…
… which are basically scientific terms for good stuff.
While research is limited, it’s been suggested the key differences between the two is that cordyceps sinensis is higher in adenosine (good for the heart and energy), while cordyceps militaris is higher in cordycepin (good for disease, immunity, inflammation and regulating cell growth).
It's not to say they both don’t have these bioactive compounds and benefits — just in different ratios.
If you’re asking us, it’s a choice between two damn good options because they’re both rich in bioactive compounds.
Yep, both sinensis and militaris can support immunity, energy, metabolic health, endurance, recovery, sleep, respiratory health, libido, fertility, kidneys, and liver health. It’s one mighty fungi.
What’s more, both species have a growing list of research behind them. Only cordyceps sinensis has a longer history of use and anecdotal evidence, whereas cordyceps militaris features more frequently in modern scientific studies based on its increased use.
At Natura Mushrooms, we source cordyceps militaris from mushroom growers in the USA, which we love for its benefits and availability. When it arrives at our farm in Gippsland, Victoria, we extract it to draw out the nutrients and active compounds.
Long story short: you don’t need to climb to 3,800m of the Tibetan highlands to find brainwashed insects or be in the prestigious few to enjoy the benefits of cordyceps anymore. We do it all for you.
Our cordyceps militaris is available in…
Resources:
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Mushrooms. A nutritious, delicious, and low-calorie food source that’s often categorised as a vegetable.
But really? Mushrooms are neither plant nor animal. They’re a fascinating food group in the fungal kingdom, holding the potential to heal, nourish, support and balance so many aspects of human health.
So it’s no surprise they’re becoming increasingly valued around the world for their powerful therapeutic properties and active compounds — coining the title medicinal mushrooms.
Buuuut if you’re still a little lost on what that *actually* means, then this straightforward guide to medicinal mushrooms will answer:
So put on your snorkel gear, because we’re about to dive in.
Medicinal mushrooms can be defined as macroscopic fungi, used in the form of extracts or powder, for medicinal and nutritional purposes. They contain a high concentration of “active compounds” which trigger immunological activity (in other words, they support a healthy immune function and response). Winning.
More specifically, medicinal mushrooms contain a particularly high concentration of active polysaccharides (a fancy word for long chain carbohydrates).
The most common polysaccharide in mushrooms is beta-glucan, which works by triggering changes in the immune system. These changes include the activation of immune cells, increased antibody production and reduced inflammation. AKA all the good stuff.
Now it’s important to add, medicinal mushrooms are an area of science that’s still evolving. The exact role that mushrooms play in relation to specific diseases needs to be explored more (with time and further study, of course).
And finally, to understand the potential role of mushrooms in human health, all you have to do is look into the most common pharmaceutical products. You’ll find that most are derived from the fungi kingdom. Even penicillium (an antibacterial drug that revolutionised medicine) originated from a species of fungi.
We’ll just give you a moment to let that sink in.
Medicinal mushrooms aren’t a new thing. Far from it.
They’ve been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years for their therapeutic and nutritional value — from boosting antioxidants to reducing inflammation to balancing blood sugar.
In the west? Well, we just think they taste damn good on toast.
But in recent years they’re becoming increasingly known for their medicinal qualities all over the world.
Yes and no (don’t you hate answers like that?)
Let us explain.
Culinary mushrooms are primarily used in cooking, like portobello and shiitake, because they taste delightful.
Medicinal mushrooms, on the other hand, are primarily used as a supplement (like powders, tinctures and capsules) to achieve a range of health benefits.
But the truth is, there’s not a clear distinction between the two. Because many medicinal mushroom varieties can also be enjoyed in cooking. And on the flip side, Paul Stamets (an American Mycologist) stated that “all gourmet mushrooms are medicinal.” [2]
So you could say that all culinary mushrooms contain immune-boosting compounds. Yet at the same time, mushrooms vary in their ratios, benefits and effects on human health.
Ahem, side note: when we talk about medicinal mushrooms we’re not talking about psychedelic mushrooms. That’s a whole other kettle of (high-risk) fish. If you’d like to learn more, check out this article: Microdosing psychedelic mushrooms: what do we know so far?
The list is LONG, people.
Medicinal mushrooms have the potential to…
We don’t like to play favourites because all medicinal mushrooms have unique and potent benefits.
Buuuut since you asked, here are six of our most recommended medicinal mushrooms.
Lion’s Mane mushroom is a nootropic (AKA brain food) found on dead or decaying hardwood throughout Asia. It has the potential to…
Turkey Tail is found all around the world, but it’s commonly used in the east to promote wellbeing, vitality and longevity. Turkey tail can…
In Ancient Chinese Culture, Reishi symbolises success, wellbeing and longevity. Research shows that Reishi can...
Also known as the “hen of the woods” for its appearance, Maitake is found in Europe and North America. It’s touted for its potential to…
An antioxidant powerhouse, Chaga is found on the bark of birch trees in cold climates like Siberia, Russia and Alaska. Its potential benefit include…
In the wild, cordyceps grow out of the brains of insects and spiders. But if you can side-step that alarming fact, then you’ll love cordyceps for its potential to…
Medicinal mushrooms, like Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail, Reishi, Maitake, Chaga and Cordyceps, are considered safe to consume. Research to date has reported very few or minor adverse effects.
But hey, remember that not all mushrooms are created equal (and for the purpose of this article, we’re not talking about poisonous and psychedelic mushrooms).
We recommend chatting with your doctor or medical professional before starting any medicinal mushroom supplements.
There are so many ways to get a good dose of medicinal mushrooms.
You can incorporate them into your lifestyle through…
To learn more about the different ways of supplementing mushrooms, take a read through our article on mushroom powders vs extracts.
Once medicinal mushrooms have gone through an extraction process, they’re most commonly available in powders, liquid extracts or capsules.
Then, you can incorporate these supplements into your diet by adding them…
There are a growing number of reputable mushroom suppliers across Australia (and the world).
At Natura Mushrooms, we grow, harvest and source a range of medicinal mushrooms on our 100% off-grid farm in Gippsland, Victoria. Then, we delicately extract them using a combination of hot water extraction and dual extraction methods.
Plus, we always let the latest research guide the products we bring to market, from brain-boosting lion’s mane to relaxing reishi to immunity-enhancing turkey tail.
You can discover our range here…
Still not sure? Take a look at our mushroom supplement purchasing guide to find the best solution for you.
Resources:
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Turkey tail mushroom (trametes versicolour) is a bracket fungus that spurts out of fallen tree trunks and decaying hardwood. It’s common throughout the world —particularly in Europe and America— recognised by its stunning tiered layers and vivid colours.
But appearance aside, what’s particularly fascinating about turkey tail mushroom is its potential to boost immunity. Yep, studies show a link between turkey tail and reduced inflammation, antibacterial properties, and a healthy gut microbiome.
And this immune-boosting potential is what led countries like Japan and China to use turkey tail mushroom in combination with traditional cancer medicine for over 30 years.
So, are these countries ahead of the eight ball?
Does turkey tail support traditional cancer treatment?
And what does the turkey tail mushroom and cancer research tell us so far?
Before we dip our toe into the research, we wanted to make one thing super-duper clear. We are in no way saying turkey tail mushroom alone can treat, cure or prevent cancer. Absolutely not.
Instead, we’re a team of scientists and mushroom farmers, here to present the current research and findings.
In most of the studies and clinical trials, two compounds called polysaccharopetide (PSP) and polysaccharide-K (PSK) are derived from the turkey tail mushroom and prescribed to patients. These compounds are believed to play a major role in immunity.
You’ll notice we refer to PSK throughout this article, which is often taken in a tea or capsule form.
Ready to take a closer look?
A small study in 2012 looked at nine patients with breast cancer, orally administering turkey tail after chemotherapy and radiotherapy.[2] The results found that up to 9 grams of turkey tail per day increased lymphocyte numbers (a type of white blood cell that plays a role in the immune system) as well as the activity of Natural Killer (NK) cells (which are important for controlling diseases, infections and tumours).
Overall, this study considered turkey tail a safe and tolerable treatment, with the potential to be used after traditional cancer treatment.
A 2009 study looked at 63 elderly patients with colorectal cancer. [3] Of these patients, 39 were administered only with traditional treatment (Tegafur and Uracil) and 24 were administered with both traditional treatment and PSK (you know, that compound found in turkey tail we mentioned earlier?)
The results found the relapse-free survival rates were more in the group that took turkey tail derived PSK. More specifically, the 3-year survival rate was 52.8% in the group receiving traditional treatment only, and 80.8% in the group receiving traditional treatment *and* PSK.
A 2015 systematic review summarised 28 studies that looked at the use of PSK to help prevent lung cancer and improve survival rates. [4] The review included 11 clinical trials and 17 preclinical studies.
Across the board, most studies found improved survival rates for patients who underwent radiation (and took PSK) after 1, 2 and 5 years. The review concluded that turkey tail derived PSK may improve immune function, reduce tumour-related symptoms like fatigue, enhance quality of life and increase survival rates.
A review of 8 studies which included 8,009 people living with gastric cancer, found that adding PSK from turkey tail to their chemotherapy treatment improved survival rates. [5]
Another study that was not included in this review found that patients receiving PSK had an improved survival rate. The survival rate was 67.9% in the PSK group, versus 61.8% in those that didn’t receive PSK.
But as is often the case, more study needs to be done.
The current research shows that turkey tail mushrooms are generally safe and well tolerated, with very few adverse effects reported across the board. In saying that, occasional side effects include digestive upset like gas, diarrhoea, and bloating. Always speak with your doctor before starting with any mushroom supplement.
When we look at the research, the potential for turkey tail mushroom to aid traditional cancer treatment becomes clear. Although the research is far from done.
We still have a long way to go before we make any definitive conclusions about the role of turkey tail in cancer treatment.
In the meantime, we’re going to keep our eye on what’s happening in many Asian countries, who use turkey tail to help bolster immunity in patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Finally, at Natura Mushrooms we’re a team of scientists and mushroom farmers. If you’re wondering whether turkey tail is right for you, consult your doctor or a medical professional.
Interested in learning more about the wonders of turkey tail?
Check out these articles…
Turkey tail mushroom benefits – immunity, digestion and wellbeing
Superfood for gut health: turkey tail mushroom
Resources:
]]>Whatever fancy word you wanna call them, beta-glucans are pretty dang important. They’re a type of soluble fibre found in the cell walls of bacteria, fungi, yeast and plants.
While many only associate soluble fibre with a healthy amount of time spent on the loo, having it in your diet brings a wealth of other health benefits… from reducing high cholesterol to aiding immunity to regulating blood sugar.
So, let’s take a look at the health benefits of beta-glucan (and how you can serve it up in your daily routine).
So, we know beta-glucan is a type of soluble fibre found in the cell walls of various food sources (AKA the crème da la crème for healthy regular poops).
But what many don’t realise is that not all fibre is created equal. And the benefits of fibre go far beyond your daily bowel movements.
To break it down like a d-floor, there’s insoluble fibre and soluble fibre.
As the name suggests, soluble fibre dissolves in water into a gel-like substance. In most cases soluble fibre is fermentable in your gut, making it a great source of food for your gut’s bacteria (prebiotics). Soluble fibre can slow down digestion and contribute to a range of health benefits, from supporting heart health, regulating blood sugar and fighting inflammation.
Insoluble fibre, on the other hand, doesn’t dissolve in water. When it passes through the digestive system it remains intact. This can speed up digestion and relieve constipation. We’re talking softer, larger and regular poops, people.
A healthy diet should have both soluble and insoluble fibre, and it’s common for foods to contain both.
In saying that, foods that are particularly rich in soluble fibre include…
Foods that are rich in insoluble fibre include…
Now, let’s bring it back to beta-glucan: a must-have soluble fibre.
Research suggests that beta-glucan can lower the levels of bad cholesterol, which as a result can reduce the risk of heart disease. An 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised clinical trial (AKA a legit study) put beta-glucans in oat fibre to the test. The results found that after 8 weeks of supplements, total cholesterol was reduced by almost 9%.[2] Wowza.
The immune system is a pretty big deal for us humans. And early studies suggest beta-glucan could activate immune cells and prevent infection by bacteria, viruses and pathogenic microorganisms. [2] Neat. Not only that, beta-glucans are recognised as biological response modifiers (substances that can modify immune responses) showing potential to prevent cancer-causing activity and tumour growth. [3] But – and this is a big but – more human research is needed before we go making any wild claims.
Early research suggests a diet rich in beta-glucan could help to regulate blood sugar. One study added oat-derived beta-glucan to meals that were rich in carbohydrates (mmmm pasta). The results found that adding beta-glucans can reduce blood sugar and insulin levels after eating – a positive sign for people living with diabetes. [5] But you know the drill: further study is needed.
Beta-glucans can have a prebiotic effect, which basically means they act as a food source for your gut’s healthy bacteria. [6] And with the gut microbiome having an effect on so many facets of health – from mental wellbeing to immunity – it’s easy to see how beta-glucans can be the secret sauce (or polysaccharide) to good health.
As Beta-glucans can positively impact the gut microbiome, they show promising potential to influence appetite and assist metabolic syndrome, gastrointestinal conditions and obesity. [7] But significant evidence is still lacking so don’t take this as your weight loss gospel.
So, now we’ve talked the talk, but how do we walk the beta-glucan walk?
Many researchers agree that a daily dose of 3g of beta-glucan is recommended to decrease cholesterol. To put that in context, this equates to roughly one cup of oats. So maybe it’s time to take a leaf from your grandma’s book and serve the hot stuff for breaky.
In addition to oats, good sources of beta-glucan include…
Call us biased, but we’re particularly intrigued by the beta-glucan content in medicinal mushrooms. You see, fungi contain a tough cell wall called “chitin” that’s bursting with the stuff.
Turkey Tail, Maitake and Reishi are three types of mushrooms that are naturally rich in beta-glucans, holding the potential to nourish the gut, lower cholesterol, boost immunity, support the heart and regulate blood sugar.
You can discover more about each mushroom here:
Maitake Mushroom – Fertility, Immunity and a Culinary Delight
Reishi Mushroom – The Ancient Superfood
Turkey Tail Mushroom – Immunity, Digestion and Wellbeing
At Natura Mushrooms, we grow, harvest and source a range of medicinal mushrooms to enhance your mind, body and spirit. If you’re wondering which beta-glucan rich mushroom variety is right for you, take a look at our mushroom supplement purchasing guide.
Resources:
]]>If December and January are filled with inflated ambitions and hope for the new year ahead, then March is our opportunity to check in with an added layer of realism.
By now, we’ve well and truly recovered from Christmas lunch and picked ourselves up from lazing by the beach. Yet there’s still so much time – and hope – that lies ahead for 2022.
So, what better time to check in with our goals.
This article will walk you through…
Now more than ever, we’ve noticed a lot of negative connotations surrounding New Year’s Resolutions. Throw them out. They always fail. Why bother.
Thankfully, we’re not here to set optimistic, overwhelming and vague resolutions.
We’re here to set specific, clear and achievable goals.
Because we need goals in life – they’re what move us from where we are to where we want to be. Goals can…
When setting achievable goals, they need to align with our personal values.
Because ultimately, our values underpin our goals and determine their success.
For example, say you had a goal to achieve a big promotion at work, which would see you working longer days for a significant financial reward.
But those longer days mean less time with your family, which is one of your core values.
See how they clash?
Not allowing your values to inform your goals can lead you to fumble, or in some cases, achieve your goals but not feel satisfied.
In our experience, we’ve found the best way to see whether our goals are values-aligned is to first define our values, then ask ourselves are these connected?
SMART goals were first developed by George Doran, Arthur Miller and James Cunningham in 1981. Since this time, there’s a fairly good chance you’ve come across them in a classroom or workplace (because let’s face it, they work).
So let’s jump in.
This is all about clearly defining your goal – the who, what, when, where, why. This stage doesn’t need to include the steps on how you’ll get there (yet). It just needs to clearly outline your goal, while avoiding vague and fuzzy language.
Having a goal is one thing. But being able to measure it is another thing entirely. And the best goals are quantifiable. Here are a few simple examples.
Instead of saying…
“I want to read more books” swap it for “I want to read 15 books by December”
“I want to grow my email list” swap it for “I want to grow my email list by 100 subscribers by July”
“I want to learn to cook” swap it for “I want to cook at least two meals a week for my family”
See the difference?
This is the part where we tone down our January goals to more of a March vibe. In other words, the reality check for all the optimists out there.
Always ask whether the goal you’ve set is achievable – otherwise, you’ll be setting yourself up for disappointment.
Ask yourself:
If the answer to any of the above is no, then it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t achieve your goals. It just means you might need to shift it slightly – for example adding more time, gaining more skills or reducing the target.
Take a step back and see the bigger picture. Is this goal relevant to you? Does it tie in with your life and values? Does this SMART goal help you to reach your bigger goals? For example, if your long-term goal is to scale-back your workload to start a family, perhaps aiming for that big promotion isn’t relevant to you right now.
Set realistic timelines on when you want to achieve your goal. This is a vital step – as failing to do so can place your goals on the back burner – leading to dwindling motivation and even frustration. Be truthful with your time. And remember, if you slip beyond this deadline, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed and it’s time to throw in the towel. Keep going.
After we’ve defined our goals using the SMART formula, we have three steps we like to follow to cement them even further.
Did you know that studies show writing down your goals can make you more likely to achieve them? Yep, a study by Dr. Gail Matthews found that individuals who wrote down their goals on a daily basis were 42% more likely to achieve them.
A mood board is a collage of images and text with a particular theme. In this case, a mood board serves as an aesthetically pleasing reminder of your goal. Similarly to writing your goals down, viewing your mood board each day keeps you inspired and moving forward.
Sharing your goals with others can promote a sense of accountability. Especially when you reveal your goal to someone you admire and respect. But this one comes with a warning: we recommend being conscious of who you share your goals with, making sure you choose people who’ll support you, lift you up and keep you motivated.
We hope this article provides a guide for your goals in 2022 (and remember, goals aren’t reserved for January, it’s never too late to start).
At Natura Mushrooms, we’re passionate about all things health and wellness, which includes setting goals for business and life. The ideas we discussed in this article are a reflection of our experience when setting (and achieving) goals.
However, these ideas may not work for everyone, and we invite you to pull guidance from this article as you see fit. If you need further guidance, we recommend speaking to a life, business, or financial coach.
More resources:
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/0269215509103551
https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/smart-goals.htm
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