For centuries, many cultures have been using mushrooms to treat ailments. They were consumed based on their ability to provide energy, improve immunity, and stay healthy.

However, research shows the medicinal properties of mushrooms cover a wide range. Apart from physical healing, mushrooms also have properties to treat people's mental health. It is now known to improve cognition, aid anxiety and stress, and even improve unstable sleeping patterns. So many people aren't even aware that it also helps with allergies.

Research shows that 25% of the world's biomass is fungi. But only a snippet of it has medicinal properties, and mushrooms are one of them. Mushroom superfoods, or mushroom supplements, are widely available in India, but many variations still need to be added.

In this blog, let us look at the benefits and types of mushroom supplements in India.

Benefits of Medicinal Mushroom Supplements

  • Decreased risk of cancer - 

Statistics from 1966 to 2020 show that just eating two medium-sized mushrooms reduces the risk of cancer by 45%. Shiitake and maitake mushrooms are good options, but as per research, various mushrooms can lower the chance of cancer.

  • Lowers cholestero l- 

Various studies have shown that mushrooms are an excellent substitute for red meat. In addition, it is lower in calories, fat, and cholesterol. Due to their composition, Shiitake mushrooms have proven to be particularly effective in reducing cholesterol.

  • Prevents Cognitive Impairment - 

A particular study in Singapore shows that consuming one to two cups of mushrooms per week can help with mild cognitive impairment. Research is still being conducted to understand the scientific basis behind this.

  • Improves Gut Health - 

Did you know gut health is essential for physical fitness and affects mood? The prebiotics in mushrooms keep your gut and your mood healthy.

  • Improves Immunity - 

Mushrooms contain antioxidants like selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin B6. They also consist of macronutrients, which support your immunity. So, next time you are sick, incorporate mushrooms into your diet to see the difference.

Types of Mushroom Supplements in India

We have listed the four readily available mushroom superfoods in India. So, let's closely look at the health benefits of these mushroom supplements.

  • Enoki Mushrooms

Enoki mushrooms are low in calories and high in antioxidants. They consist of gallic acid, ferulic acid, quercetin, etc. These may help with conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer, as mentioned before. 

Add it to sautéed veggies or your favourite dishes like noodles, soup, or rice.

  • Lion's mane

Lion's mane has a vast number of health benefits. It helps with poor immune systems, high blood pressure, blood sugar, heart, liver, and kidney health. It may also help with stress, anxiety, cognitive impairment, and brain injury.

It can be consumed in the form of pills or powder. The powder can be used in coffee or tea instead of sugar due to its earthy taste. Otherwise, you can simply cook it like a vegetable. It is also a substitute for red meat. 

  • Maitake

Maitake mushrooms contain antioxidants and are low-calorie, fat-free and low-sodium. Recent studies show that maitake can help with cancer and type 2 diabetes.

Improper cooking of this mushroom may cause stomach aches. Also, if the mushroom is old, it becomes too hard to digest. Consult your doctor before consuming this mushroom, especially for diabetes patients.