Many herbs and plants from around the world have medicinal properties and health benefits. Herbal remedies have been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of conditions, including headaches, colds, coughs, asthma, and arthritis. Today, herbal remedies are widely used in the United States and elsewhere.
Some of these shrubs, roots, and mushrooms are used to treat various physical and mental issues.
Two of the most popular mushrooms in this regard are lion’s mane and chaga mushrooms. They have been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine to help with a wide range of conditions, including fatigue, insomnia, diabetes, cancer, and heart problems. They are also known as medicinal mushrooms. Lion’s mane mushroom has a deep red cap and grows up to 20 cm in diameter. It has a strong odor and a very pungent taste. Chaga mushrooms have a white or light-brown cap, with a dark brownish-gray or black stem and a white, cream-colored, or tan gills. They grow up to 10 cm in diameter.
They’re popular because of their nootropic and adaptogenic properties.
These are native to Asian countries and are highly regarded for their host of physical and mental health benefits.
It’s due to these properties that they’ve found their way into dietary supplements as extracts along with being the key ingredients in some medications too.
Having said that, the biggest advantage of the lion’s mane and chaga mushrooms is that they are natural and organic. In fact, these are the only mushrooms that are legal to eat in many countries. They are not poisonous, and their medicinal properties have been used by indigenous people for thousands of years. They are also rich in nutrients like zinc, copper, and vitamins A, B, C, and E. They are also rich in antioxidants that protect the body from disease and cancer.
In other words, they pose little to no side-effects unless one is allergic.
What are Lion’s Mane Mushrooms?
As the name suggests, lion’s mane is a long, white shaggy fungus that largely resembles a lion’s bushy mane as it grows bigger. It can be found on decaying wood and has a powerful, pungent odor that some people find unpleasant. Lion’s mane contains a high concentration of the amino acid proline, which is used to manufacture collagen and is a component of the hair of mammals. Because of this, it is commonly used in cosmeceutical products and as a natural moisturizer. However, it is not recommended for use on human skin because of its high concentration of proline, which can irritate the skin and cause dermatitis.
It’s widely used in preparing foods and in medicines, given its umpteen health benefits.
Lion’s mane beneficially influences the gut, heart, and brain to function smoothly in addition to enhancing the overall immunity. Lion’s mane is known to be one of the best natural remedies for depression. It also helps in improving your memory and in treating anxiety. Lion’s mane is a herb which has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. This herb is said to have been used to cure fever, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach ache. It is used to boost the immune system and to prevent cancer. It is known to help improve the health of the brain and liver. It has also been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. (1)
The extract of this fungus forms a major ingredient in many dietary supplements too.
Even though it’s native to Asian countries like China, Japan, and India, lion’s mane is now quite popular all across the globe. This is due to the fact that it has become a popular ingredient in many beauty and hair products. In the past, lion’s mane was thought to be a sign of wealth and prosperity, but now it’s considered a symbol of strength and health. It has been used as a hair growth supplement, and as a remedy for hair loss.
It can be consumed raw, cooked, or dried as per one’s own personal preferences.
What are Chaga Mushrooms?
Scientifically known as Nonotus Obliquus, chaga mushroom is quite popular for its health benefits. Chaga mushroom, or Pleurotus Ostreatus, has been used for centuries to treat various health conditions. It is also considered a tonic for the body and mind and an immune system booster. Chaga mushrooms contain an active compound called glycoprotein that helps to boost the immune system. They also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that are good for maintaining a healthy body. In addition to its healing powers, chaga mushrooms are also believed to help lower blood sugar levels. Chaga mushrooms can be consumed in its raw form or added to dishes as a nutritional supplement.
It’s a type of fungus that usually grows in cold climates on the bark of trees.
Being high in traditional medicinal properties, it’s widely used to boost immunity and promote overall physical health.
Russians and people in the northern European countries use chaga mushrooms to address diabetes and cardiovascular disorders too. Chaga mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments. They are rich in antioxidants, which help to protect against cell damage, and they also contain vitamins, minerals and polyphenols. Chaga mushrooms can improve the function of the pancreas, liver and digestive system. They are believed to have the ability to regulate blood sugar levels, as well as having cholesterol-lowering and anti-inflammatory properties.(2)
It has a dark, black appearance similar to that of burnt charcoal.
This is why it’s also referred to as black mass, cinder conk, sterile conk trunk rot, and clinker polypore.
What are the benefits of Lion’s Mane and Chaga Mushrooms?
Physical Benefits
May Decreases Risk Of Cardiovascular Disorders
Chaga mushrooms are good sources of antioxidants too. This is true for some species of mushrooms. In fact, some species of mushrooms are known to contain more antioxidants than blueberries. However, there are different types of antioxidants in mushrooms. Some are water-soluble while others are fat-soluble. Antioxidants that are water soluble tend to be more effective in the body than those that are fat soluble.(3)
Which is why they people think of them as good for supporting cardiovascular disorders and their risk factors.
The extract of chaga and lion’s mane has been found to help support the work towards reducing the levels of LDL cholesterol in the body and raising the HDL LDL and HDL are considered good and bad cholesterol types respectively given their functions in the human body. (4,5)
Boosts Immunity System
In addition to providing the body with endurance, the extracts of these mushrooms may also help support the overall immunity in the body. (6) The most commonly used mushroom for food is the Agaricus bisporus, which is often referred to as the common mushroom or button mushroom. It is generally eaten raw or cooked. A. bisporus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years, and it is considered a healthy and safe food by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is a good source of protein and has a low glycemic index. In fact, it contains a substance called agaritine, which has been shown to inhibit tumor growth and decrease cholesterol levels. In addition, it has been suggested that mushrooms provide a way to support the immune system. Some studies have found that mushrooms may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. For example, they may help prevent the growth of cancer cells in the colon. There is also evidence that mushrooms can help protect against some types of bacteria and viruses.
In other words, one may be better able to fend off sickness and keep a healthy body through it all.
Regular consumers say that it decreases their muscle fatigue and lethargy and promotes an active lifestyle.
Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation largely occurs as a result of over-secretion of cytokines in the system.
Recent studies have shown that when compounds of the chaga mushroom are introduced into the body, they limit the production of cytokine thereby ensuring that inflammation doesn’t flare up to the point of damage. (7) Chaga mushroom contains a number of chemicals called triterpenoids that are known to act as anti-inflammatory agents. These chemicals seem to be responsible for the beneficial effects of chaga mushrooms. The best known of these is ursolic acid, which is also found in other plants and has been used in the past for the treatment of arthritis.
Lowers Cholesterol And Blood Sugar
Reducing the level of bad cholesterol in the body is one of the most important benefits of both these mushrooms. (8) Cholesterol is a waxy substance that forms part of cell membranes and is vital for the formation of hormones and sex cells. But high levels of cholesterol in the blood (called hypercholesterolemia) can cause heart disease and other problems. There are two types of cholesterol in the body – the good cholesterol (HDL) and the bad cholesterol (LDL). Both can be measured in blood tests. Reducing the level of bad cholesterol can be done by eating foods rich in fiber and certain antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which are found in mushrooms. Antioxidants can help prevent LDL from being oxidized and damaged, and so it can be used as a treatment for heart disease.
In fact, it even helps lower blood sugar levels in the system which, in turn, may support the decrease in chances of diabetes in the long run.
Mental Benefits
Reduces Stress
Stress usually happens as a result of over-secretion of stress hormone cortisol.
Chaga mushroom and lion’s mane may help work towards decreasing the level of cortisol and increasing the production of happy hormones like serotonin and dopamine. (9) Chaga mushrooms are a species of fungus that grows on birch trees. They have been used for centuries in Eastern medicine to help people feel better. In Russia, they are called “the universal remedy.” Some believe that they may improve brain function, and may be helpful for people who have anxiety or depression. However, there is not much scientific evidence to support this belief.
This, in turn, can help support mood and uplift spirit thereby reducing stress.
May Help Address Depression And Anxiety
Depression and anxiety stem from a chronic case of sadness resulting due to stress hormone cortisol.
Having said that, anxiety and depression are medical symptoms that need due intervention and treatment. (10, 11) Having said that, anxiety and depression are medical symptoms that need due intervention and treatment. These symptoms can be treated by medication and therapy. However, these treatments have been shown to be only partially effective and there are side effects to their use. Some people will not respond to any of the available medications or therapies. In this case, the best course of action is to focus on lifestyle changes, such as exercise and healthy eating.
However, using these mushrooms can address the symptomatic conditions thereby providing some relief in the long run.
Why are these mushrooms a perfect combination with instant coffee?
Consuming instant coffee infused with extracts of chaga mushroom and lion’s mane has immense advantages that can help support overall mental health. Chaga mushrooms, also known as Inonotus obliquus, are native to northern regions of Europe, Siberia, and northern North America. The chaga mushroom is a large fungus that grows on birch trees, which have been used in traditional medicine since ancient times. The active ingredient in chaga mushroom is polysaccharide-peptide, which is an important component of the cell wall of fungi.
For centuries people have used these mushrooms to enhance concentration, boosts memory retention, and increase productivity.
In addition to that, they may help regulate sleep cycles and reduce anxiety.
They may help support the prevention of one’s heat rate from accelerating (if one was prone to that condition).
Caffeine and mushroom extracts can be a great combination to help support symptoms of depression and anxiety levels in the long run. (12)
Lion’s mane and chaga may help people from falling asleep. (13) Lion’s Mane is used in traditional Chinese medicine to promote mental clarity and memory and is known to help improve sleep quality. Chaga is a mushroom that grows on birch trees in Siberia. Chaga is also used in traditional medicine to strengthen the immune system and to prevent infections. Chaga contains a chemical compound called lentinan that stimulates the production of the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin in the body.
They also been shown to help support people be more productive when they’re functioning on inadequate sleep. (14)
If you’re looking to start consuming chaga and lion’s mane, the best way is to start drinking it in coffee.
You can add mushroom extracts to your morning beverage.
Try some now to start experiencing the long-term benefits.
Mushrooms And Coffee
Chaga mushrooms and lion’s mane mushrooms are two of the most promising and effective herbal ancient remedies used to address both physical as well as mental challenges. Chaga mushroom is a fungus that grows on birch trees and is native to Russia, Siberia, Canada, and Alaska. It has been used for centuries to improve the health of humans, animals, and plants. It is believed that chaga improves the body’s resistance to stress, boosts immunity, increases energy, and improves overall health.
It’s important to first get yourself checked for any allergies or similar conditions.
In case of any chronic disorders like diabetes or hypertension, make sure you consult your doctor before consuming any medications, supplements, or diets containing the extracts of these mushrooms.
Using chaga mushroom and lion’s mane in coffee is a good way to get into the habit. Many people drink coffee to stay awake. Coffee contains caffeine, a stimulant. This means that it can make you feel jittery, nervous, or irritable. Caffeine can also increase your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. It can also make you feel anxious. Coffee also contains tannins, which are plant chemicals that have astringent or drying qualities. Tannins help prevent oxidation of fats and proteins in foods, which can result in rancidity. In addition, the caffeine content of coffee decreases over time, so older coffee tends to taste better than newer coffee.
They may help support overall health and if consumed daily, may improve certain physical condition gradually, steadily, and effectively.
The trick here is to be consistent and regular with its use.
Only then will you be able to experience the magic of mushrooms on your mind and body.
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