The use of mushrooms in medicine has been recorded going back centuries for a variety of health benefits. The article “Medicinal Mushrooms: Ancient Remedies Meet Modern Science” lists a few interesting examples:
Hippocrates, a Greek Doctor known as the “Father of Modern Medicine”, observed that the amadou mushroom had anti-inflammatory properties and could be used in wound cauterization around 450 BCE.
Tao Hongjing, in his study of herbs and medicine around 500 CE, talked about different medicinal mushrooms, some of which were reportedly used centuries earlier by the Emperor.
Indigenous people, living in North America, used the puffball mushroom to treat wounds.
Benefits of Medicinal Mushrooms
Research has shown mushrooms to be rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients such as B vitamins, vitamin D, potassium, and zinc depending on the type consumed. Some health benefits of medicinal mushrooms are:
Anti-inflammatory effect
Anti-oxidative effect
Anti-microbial effect
Immune support
Neuroprotective effect
Gut health/metabolism boost
Below is a table of common mushrooms, their uses, and health benefits:
Precautions for Medicinal Mushroom Supplements
Mushroom supplements assist with obtaining desired health benefits through more convenient means than diet alone and typically do not have serious side effects. It is recommended to speak with your doctor prior to starting mushroom supplementation. Some precautions are:
Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset
Mushroom allergy
Use with diabetes
Use with an autoimmune disorder
Use with blood thinners
Oxalate disorder
Vegan-Friendly Mushroom Supplements
We at VeganMed have identified 6 verified animal-free over-the-counter (OTC) medicinal mushroom supplements for you to choose from.
“Magic Mushrooms” and Psilocybin
"Magic mushrooms" are known for their psychedelic properties from psilocin's effect on serotonin receptors. Psilocybin, once metabolized to psilocin, can cause:
Hallucinations
Distorted sensory perception/sense of reality
Panic
Changes in mood
Muscle weakness
Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset
Due to its psychoactive effects and potential for abuse, psilocybin is currently a Schedule 1 controlled substance in the US and is involved in a number of studies investigating its health benefits, some of which have been promising for depression, alcohol use disorder (AUD), and cognitive decline/Alzheimer's.
If living within a state that has decriminalized psilocybin use, such as Oregon, Colorado, and Rhode Island, caution and medical supervision is advised.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the use of mushrooms in medicine has a rich historical tradition, dating back centuries and across various cultures. Throughout the ages, mushrooms have been recognized for their diverse health benefits, and recent scientific research has begun to validate and expand upon this knowledge. It is crucial to exercise caution when considering mushroom supplements, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking certain medications. As the world moves towards a more environmentally friendly and sustainable future, mushrooms may play a greater role in healthcare.
Co-authored by: Oleg Oleksiyenko
Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on VeganMed is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates.
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