When it comes to natural medicine, few remedies are as time-honoured and fascinating as medicinal mushrooms. Used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine and other healing systems, these fungi are now backed by growing scientific research that supports their powerful benefits. As a naturopath, I love incorporating medicinal mushrooms into holistic treatment plans because they offer broad-spectrum support for energy, immune health, stress resilience, brain function, and even hormonal balance.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most well-known medicinal mushrooms and how they can support your health from a naturopathic perspective.
Why use Medicinal Mushrooms?
Medicinal mushrooms are adaptogens – meaning they help the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. They also contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including beta-glucans (which support immune function), antioxidants, polysaccharides, and unique compounds specific to each mushroom type. They can be used in powder, capsule, tincture or tea form depending on your needs and preferences.
1. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Nickname: The Mushroom of Immortality
Traditional Use: Used for over 2,000 years in Traditional Chinese Medicine to promote longevity and calm the spirit.
Benefits:
- Supports the nervous system and promotes restful sleep
- Calms anxiety and helps the body cope with stress
- Enhances immune function and modulates inflammation
- Supports liver detoxification pathways
Great for: People with fatigue, stress, poor sleep, or chronic immune challenges.
2. Maitake (Grifola frondosa)
Nickname: The Dancing Mushroom (legend has it that people danced with joy upon finding it!)
Traditional Use: Revered in Japanese and Chinese medicine for enhancing vitality and immune strength.
Benefits:
- Helps balance blood sugar and insulin sensitivity
- Supports immune system modulation (especially useful in autoimmune and chronic infections)
- May support healthy weight management and cholesterol levels
Great for: People with metabolic issues, insulin resistance, or weakened immunity.
3. Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Nickname: Nature’s Brain Booster
Traditional Use: Historically used to support digestive health and cognitive function in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine.
Benefits:
- Stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF) to support brain cell regeneration
- Enhances memory, focus, and mental clarity
- May help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression
- Supports gut health and the integrity of the digestive lining
Great for: Brain fog, poor memory, digestive issues, and nervous system support.
4. Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor)
Nickname: The Immune Powerhouse
Traditional Use: Used in Asia for centuries to support immune strength and vitality, especially during and after illness.
Benefits:
- Contains powerful beta-glucans that enhance immune defence
- Supports recovery from viral infections and chronic fatigue
- Shown in research to assist alongside cancer treatments to improve resilience
- Supports gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria
Great for: Anyone recovering from illness, managing chronic infections, or needing immune support.
5. Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis/militaris)
Nickname: The Energy Enhancer
Traditional Use: Originally used by Tibetan herders to boost stamina and vitality in high altitudes.
Benefits:
- Increases energy and endurance by improving oxygen utilisation
- Supports adrenal function and hormonal balance
- Enhances libido and reproductive health
- Anti-ageing and antioxidant properties
Great for: Fatigue, low libido, hormonal imbalances, and athletic performance.
How Naturopaths Use Medicinal Mushrooms
In naturopathic practice, medicinal mushrooms are rarely used in isolation. Instead, they’re integrated into holistic treatment plans that address the root cause of your symptoms. Here are a few common ways I use them:
- Immune Support – Especially during cold/flu season, after illness, or in autoimmune conditions.
- Stress and Adrenal Support – Reishi and Cordyceps are favourites for people running on empty.
- Brain and Mood Support – Lion’s Mane is often used to support cognitive health and reduce anxiety.
- Gut Health – Turkey Tail can help rebalance the microbiome and soothe inflammation.
- Energy and Vitality – Cordyceps is ideal for supporting overall energy and stamina.
Medicinal mushrooms can be found as single extracts or in synergistic blends, often combined to support your body on multiple levels.
My Final Thoughts
Medicinal mushrooms are a beautiful example of how nature provides us with tools to heal and thrive. Their deep history, potent healing properties, and broad benefits make them a staple in naturopathic care. Whether you’re feeling run-down, foggy, stressed or just looking for immune support, there’s likely a mushroom that can help.
If you’re curious about how medicinal mushrooms could support your health, reach out to book an appointment with me for personalised advice and high-quality product recommendations. Not all mushroom supplements are created equal, and quality really matters here!
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