Exploring the Health Benefits of Mushroom Compounds

Mushrooms have been celebrated by chefs and home cooks around the world for their complex flavors, and wide range of uses. But until fairly recently (in the West, at least) knowledge of their potential health and wellness benefits have not been nearly as widespread. Until now, that is—we are experiencing a true “Shroom Boom” as millions try mushroom products for everything from energy to better gut health.

Today, we wanted to take a closer look at some of the interesting compounds found in medicinal mushrooms. We’ll take a look at their relationships with humans, and some of the groundbreaking ways they could help support your health and well-being.

Adenosine and Adenine – Cordyceps

Cordyceps was one of the first functional mushrooms to gain name recognition in the United States, where it became a ‘secret weapon’ of endurance athletes. And when you analyze the compounds found in cordyceps, it’s not hard to see why. Among many other things, Cordyceps mushroom fruiting bodies contain adenosine and adenine, which form one of the building blocks of cellular energy fuel, ATP.

By increasing ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production, cordyceps can support cardiovascular performance and regulate blood flow. These compounds can benefit those looking for non-caffeine energy and metabolism support.

Agaritine, Betulin, Betulinic Acid, and Lupeol – Chaga

Why are you suddenly seeing chaga in everything these days? Because the mainstream is finally catching up to some of the eye-popping benefits of a chaga fruiting-body supplement habit.

These humble fungi are a goldmine of beneficial compounds, including agaritine, betulin, betulinic acid, and lupeol. Betulin and betulinic acid, especially, have been shown to have promise for their anti-viral and anti-inflammatory capabilities. Paired with chaga’s high antioxidant levels, chaga is a must for just about anyone interested in supporting and strengthening their immune system function.

Cordycepin – Cordyceps

Another interesting one found in cordyceps is cordycepin, which has several reported benefits you might want to check out. With potential anti-aging, immune-supporting, and even blood sugar-balancing effects, cordycepin certainly brings a lot to the table.

Erinacines – Lion’s Mane

Lion’s Mane is another ancient mushroom that seems to be suddenly everywhere. Lion’s Mane is a popular nootropic supplement, and supports your brain’s cognitive functions like memory, focus, and more. It contains erinacines, compounds which seem to support the creation of nerve growth factor (NGF), for stronger and more diverse neural pathways

 The erinacines found in Lion’s Mane make it interesting for anyone looking to improve or preserve cognitive function at any age, and could potentially be an asset in the fight against diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Ergosterols and Ergothioneine – Multiple Species

These compounds, found in various fungi including chaga, cordyceps, Lion’s Mane, and Shiitake to name a few, are vital contributors to immune system function, and antioxidants too. These compounds help to support and strengthen your body’s frontline defenders, and can increase resilience against stress, infection, and disease.

Ganodermic Acids A, B, C, & D – Reishi

Reishi mushrooms are full of various ganodermic acids. These compounds show anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties, and may help support liver function. Reishi can help you to cope with stress, enjoy deeper sleep, and support a balanced range of hormones.

Hericenones – Lion’s Mane

Another compound found in Lion’s Mane fruiting bodies, hericenones also contribute to the formation of nerve growth factor (NGF), and promotes cognitive functions and mental wellness.

Lentinan – Shiitake

Shiitake mushrooms contain lentinan, a compound recognized for its ability to support a healthy immune system response. It is even being studied for its potential as part of cancer treatments and therapies.

Polysaccharide-K (PSK) and Polysaccharopeptide (PSP) – Turkey Tail

These compounds are known to modulate the immune system, and Turkey Tail has been used for many years now by cancer patients looking to take ownership of their treatment. These two compounds seem to support and synergize with chemotherapy treatments, and can support the body’s immune system.

Triterpenes and Triterpenoids – Reishi

Reishi mushrooms really are amazingly packed with beneficial compounds. In addition to the ganodermic acids we mentioned before, they also contain both triterpenes and triterpenoids. These compounds seem to contribute to reishi’s immune system and stress relief benefits. They may also contribute to maintaining already healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well.

Uridine – Cordyceps

Found in cordyceps, uridine is a building block for strong and resilient cellular membranes throughout your body. It may also provide some neuroprotective benefits, and aid in cognitive functions and feelings of energy.

Conclusion

It’s clear to see that mushrooms are far more than something you add to your steak or stir-fry—they’re incredibly rich in potential for human health and wellness. And while their popularity has grown rapidly over the past few years, we are truly still in the early stages as they continue to become more and more well-known.

Want to experience them for yourself? Check out our lineup of blends and single-species fruiting body extracts, always lab-tested and grown to the highest standards.

Author: WholeSun Wellness