By Alida Callahan

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October 4, 2024

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As fall settles in, our minds turn to the comforting culinary delights that warm our homes and satisfy our appetites. One ingredient that makes a frequent appearance in seasonal recipes is mushrooms! Specifically, we think of stuffed mushroom caps, soups, stuffing, warm sandwiches with mushroom slices, and more in the fall. Do you ever wonder why mushrooms are so common in our fall recipes? One reason is that fall is a great time to harvest many culinary mushrooms. Another reason is the medicinal properties of mushrooms. Mushrooms have multiple health benefits, including boosting the immune system. It’s no wonder that, historically, mushroom consumption increases when colds, the flu, and an abundance of stress are common.

You may notice only a few varieties of mushrooms in your local grocery store, but many other types of mushrooms are used for their medicinal benefits. Read about some of the top medicinal mushrooms and their uses. Could any of these mushrooms help you this season?

 

CORDYCEPS SINENSIS – CORDYCEPS

Actions – muscle recovery, organ support, immune function

Cordyceps mushrooms are best known for their muscle recovery actions. They enhance physical performance and recovery by supporting blood flow to the muscles, making them an excellent support for many athletes, including Olympic athletes. However, physical performance is not the only medicinal benefit of this mushroom. The increased blood flow supports the cardiovascular system and can even boost libido. General health effects include blood sugar and cholesterol regulation, which helps support the liver and kidneys. 

In keeping with the theme of fall immune support, Cordyceps contain antioxidants that are helpful for both overactive immune systems, like those in autoimmune conditions, and underactive immune systems that contribute to frequent illness. This high antioxidant action can also protect against fatigue and stress.

 

GANODERMA LUCIDUM – REISHI

Actions – immune function, anti-stress, fatigue

Reishi mushrooms are very similar to Cordyceps mushrooms in that they are helpful for both overactive and underactive immune systems, regulate cholesterol levels, and protect the liver. In Chinese medicine, reishi has been used as support for the common cold and can also help to increase white blood cell counts, which increases immune function and has anti-cancer properties. 

However, instead of being extra support for physical recovery like Cordyceps is, Reishi is particularly helpful for fatigue that is stress and anxiety-induced. Its famous actions of soothing, relaxing, and sleep-enhancing effects make Reishi the perfect addition to the fall holiday season. 

 

CORIOLUS/TRAMETES VERSICOLOR – TURKEY TAIL

Actions – immune function, gastrointestinal health

Turkey tail mushrooms are known for their tri-color striped appearance, giving them a “wild-turkey feather tail” look. In addition to its beautiful appearance, turkey tail is prized for its immune-boosting and anti-cancer potential. The protein-bound polysaccharides found in turkey tail mushrooms have been researched extensively, indicating the enhancement of immune cells, like T-cells. A large portion of the immune system also operates right in the gut! Because turkey tail aids in digestive health, it has the dual action of supporting a healthy gut microbiome and immune function. This makes it an excellent support around holidays that revolve around large quantities of rich foods. 

 

INONOTUS OBLIQUUS – CHAGA

Actions – immune function, blood sugar regulation, mineral support

Historically, chaga has been utilized for its anti-degenerative effects. In fact, it was commonly used by Inuit Siberians, who had significantly greater life expectancy than Inuit from regions that did not use chaga. Reducing the effects of aging and improving endurance are some of the actions that make chaga mushrooms so popular. However, its antioxidant properties and mineral density are the little-known golden nuggets of chaga. Due to its antioxidant actions and mineral content, chaga is an excellent addition to autumn immunity support and even repetitive infections. Chaga also helps to decrease inflammation in the body, which helps with heart disease, blood pressure regulation, and even conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. 

Are mushrooms the missing piece for your natural immunity kit for autumn? Each of these mushrooms helps to enhance immune function with additional benefits unique to each mushroom. Which of these mushrooms do you think would help you the most this season?

If you’re interested in adding mushrooms to your Autumn care plan, ask your doctor which ones would be best for you! At Richmond Natural Medicine, we have many different species of mushrooms, including the ones listed above. Starting now through November 30th, we will be running a special on all of our mushrooms! Get 10% off any JHS or Host Defense Mushrooms!