Are mushrooms really magic?
Medicinal mushrooms have never been more popular, popping up in superfoods, supplements and even coffee. Fans believe they can transform mental and physical health – but do they live up to the hype? Elizabeth Archer finds out
They’re a hot wellbeing trend that promise to do everything from boost health to improve your skin. But are medicinal mushrooms really the superfood they claim to be?
Meghan Markle is believed to be a fan, so much so that she invested in wellness brand Clevr Blends, which sells mushroom-enriched health-boosting latte powders.
But what’s so special about mushrooms? Experts say that some types, such as lion’s mane, reishi and chaga, are good for mental health and physical wellbeing.
This is because of their adaptogenic properties, meaning they help the body respond to stress.
“Adaptogens help to bring the body into balance so it can regulate itself,” says nutritionist Clarissa Berry (dirteaworld.com).
“You can’t get rid of stress in your life, but adaptogens can help improve your body’s ability to withstand it. While the science is relatively new, it’s exciting.”
Carrie Hancox, aesthetic nurse practitioner at Centre for Surgery, says the benefits for the skin are exciting, too.
“There has been some interesting scientific research showing the anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory effects of mushrooms,” she says.
Here our experts explain how mushrooms can boost wellbeing.
FOR THE MIND
Improve focus: Lion’s mane is particularly good for focus, says Clarissa. It stimulates the release of nerve-growth factor, which helps protect brain cells.
So far, studies have been investigating cognitive decline in older adults, and show that lion’s mane helps to improve cognitive function. While there haven’t been many studies on younger adults, the early science is promising.
Boost energy: There’s good research to show medicinal mushrooms can improve energy levels, particularly a mushroom called cordyceps. It doesn’t act as a stimulant like caffeine, instead it improves the cells’ ability to make use of energy.
After taking cordyceps, you shouldn’t feel hyper or jittery, just naturally more energetic. A lot of people use it as a pre-workout supplement, as it can improve athletic performance.
Lion’s mane and reishi are especially beneficial for a healthy microbiome
Beat stress: While all medicinal mushrooms can help relieve stress, reishi in particular is a powerful adaptogen and helps reduce anxiety. It helps stimulate the release of the happy hormone serotonin.
FOR THE BODY
Aid digestion: We all know we need a healthy microbiome for a happy gut, says Clarissa. Mushrooms can help – there are molecules in their cell walls called beta-glucans, which feed the friendly bacteria found in the digestive system.
Lion’s mane and reishi are thought to be especially beneficial.
Boost vitamin D: Mushrooms grown in the sun contain vitamin D, which helps boost the immune system, and improves bone health. If you buy fresh mushrooms and leave them on a sunny windowsill, the levels of vitamin D will increase. This makes mushrooms great for the winter, when many of us are naturally deficient in the vitamin.
Improve libido: Cordyceps has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine to increase sex drive. Now early studies have shown it helps boost libido in men and women. We don’t yet know exactly why, but it may raise testosterone levels in the body.
FOR THE SKIN
Smooth fine lines: Look for ethanolic extract of reishi in skincare, says Carrie. Phytonutrients, found naturally in plant foods, improve the structure of the skin, helping to reduce the effects of ageing.
Calm inflammation: Some medicinal mushrooms, such as cordyceps, can reduce inflammation in the skin. It may help with rosacea and acne, but more research is needed for other skin conditions.
Treat pigmentation: Shiitake mushrooms can help to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and age spots.
They work in a similar way to a lot of prescription creams, breaking down pigment to brighten the skin.