Functional mushrooms have been around for centuries, used in traditional medicine to help the body stay strong and healthy. Lately, they've gained popularity for their potential to support the immune system naturally.
In this article, we'll break down how these mushrooms work, which ones are best for immunity, and easy ways to add them to your everyday routine.
What Are Functional Mushrooms and How Do They Work?
Unlike the mushrooms you might toss in a stir-fry, functional mushrooms are known for their wellness benefits. They contain powerful compounds like beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and triterpenoids, which can help support the immune system. These compounds work with your body to maintain balance, fight off invaders, and keep you feeling your best.
How Do Functional Mushrooms Support the Immune System?
It comes down to their natural compounds, like beta-glucans, which can give immune cells that extra push.
These compounds help activate macrophages and natural killer cells (think of them as the body's security team) to identify and deal with potential threats. Over time, regularly taking functional mushrooms might help reduce inflammation and keep your immune defences strong (1).
The Best Functional Mushrooms for Boosting Your Immune System
Functional mushrooms come in many forms, each offering distinct immune-supporting benefits. Here are some of the most well-known varieties:
Reishi
Often referred to as the "mushroom of immortality", Reishi is renowned for its adaptogenic properties and immune-boosting effects. It contains triterpenoids and polysaccharides, which may help regulate immune responses and reduce inflammation (2). You can brew it as tea, mix it into smoothies, or take it as a supplement.
Shop our DIRTEA Reishi mushroom powder for immune support.
Turkey Tail
Turkey Tail is packed with polysaccharopeptides like PSP and PSK, which help stimulate immune cells and support gut health. A healthy gut is key to a strong immune system, so adding Turkey Tail to your diet might give you a double win.
Shiitake
Shiitake mushrooms aren't just tasty, they're also great for your immune system. They are packed with lentinan, a compound that has shown promise in supporting your immune system (3).
Chaga
Chaga mushrooms are loaded with antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage and support your immune response (4). Traditionally brewed as a tea, Chaga can also be taken as a powder, gummy or capsule.
Take a look at our DIRTEA Chaga mushroom powder to support your immune system.
How to Use Functional Mushrooms to Aid Immunity
Incorporating functional mushrooms into your diet is simple and adaptable to various lifestyles. Powders, capsules, tinctures, and teas are all great options. You can mix mushroom powders into your morning coffee, smoothies, or even soups.
Remember - consistency is key, as the benefits of functional mushrooms often build over time. As with any supplement, it's best to begin with small amounts and monitor how your body responds.
DIRTEA Functional Mushrooms
DIRTEA harnesses the power of functional mushrooms through its premium range of powders, drinks, and gummies. Each product is crafted with high-quality, dual-extracted mushrooms to ensure maximum potency.
From immune-supporting Chaga to calming Reishi, our offerings make it easy to experience the potential health benefits of mushrooms for immunity.
Explore our range of mushroom-based products.
Summary: Boosting Immunity with Functional Mushrooms
Functional mushrooms are a natural way to give your immune system a little extra help. Their special compounds, like beta-glucans and antioxidants, work with your body to fight off bugs, reduce inflammation, and keep you feeling strong. The key is to take them regularly and find the ones that work best for you.
If you're curious to try them, DIRTEA has a range of options to explore. Whether it's Reishi for relaxation or Chaga for antioxidants, there's something for everyone.
Mushrooms for Immunity: FAQs
How do mushrooms support the immune system?
Mushrooms contain natural compounds like beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and antioxidants that help train your immune cells to respond more effectively to potential threats. Beta-glucans, for example, can stimulate immune cells like macrophages and natural killer cells. Regular consumption of immune-supporting mushrooms may help your body maintain balance and resilience.
What is the purpose of functional mushrooms?
Functional mushrooms are consumed for their potential health benefits, which go beyond basic nutrition. These mushrooms contain active compounds that may help regulate immune responses, improve focus and cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and support mental wellbeing.
Which is the best mushroom for immunity?
Chaga is rich in antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress. Turkey Tail contains polysaccharopeptides like PSP and PSK that stimulate immune cell activity. And Reishi is known for its adaptogenic properties that support immune modulation. The best choice depends on individual health needs and goals, as each mushroom offers unique benefits for immune support.
How long does it take for functional mushrooms to work?
It can take a few weeks of regular use to notice the benefits, so consistency is important. Generally you might start feeling cognitive improvements within a few days to a week, while it will likely take several weeks to start observing noticeable impacts on your stress levels and immunity.
References
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Venturella, G., Ferraro, V., Cirlincione, F. and Gargano, M.L. (2021) 'Medicinal Mushrooms: Bioactive Compounds, Use, and Clinical Trials', International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 22(2), p. 634. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7826851/
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Zhang, S., Qin, C., Safe, S.H., and Bjeldanes, L.F. (2021) 'Anticancer activities of indole-3-carbinol and its derivatives in breast cancer: A comprehensive review', Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, 422, p. 115546. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S027869152100106X
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Dai, X., Stanilka, J.M., Rowe, C.A., Esteves, E.A., Nieves, C. Jr., Spaiser, S.J., Christman, M.C., Langkamp-Henken, B., and Percival, S.S. (2015) 'Consuming Lentinula edodes (Shiitake) Mushrooms Daily Improves Human Immunity: A Randomized Dietary Intervention in Healthy Young Adults', Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 34(6), pp. 478–487. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25866155/
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Lu, Y., Jia, Y., Xue, Z., Li, N., Liu, J., and Chen, H. (2021) 'Recent Developments in Inonotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom) Polysaccharides: Isolation, Structural Characteristics, Biological Activities and Application', Polymers, 13(9), p. 1441. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8124789/