
Discover how mushrooms can help you
🍄 Mycotherapy: A natural approach to improving your health
If there's one thing I've learned on my health journey, it's that the body always seeks balance... you just have to give it the right tools to find it. And one of those tools that has greatly surprised me in recent years has been mycotherapy 🌿.
I remember starting to research medicinal mushrooms at a time when my digestion was completely out of whack: bloating, heartburn, discomfort... nothing seemed to help until I discovered Lion's Mane 🦁. Incorporating it into my daily routine along with other integrative tools was a turning point: it improved my digestion, reduced the irritation of my gastric mucosa, and also helped me with mental focus, something that was also affected when my gut was inflamed.
Another mushroom that's a staple in my routine is Reishi 🍂. It's been a great support during times of high stress, when I felt like my nervous system was overloaded. Taking it at night has helped me relax, improve my sleep quality, and face the day with more calm and clarity.
That's why today I want to share with you everything I've learned about mycotherapy and how it can help you improve your well-being naturally.
🌟 Why include mushrooms in your health routine?
Medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries in various cultures for their powerful healing properties. Thanks to their bioactive compounds, they can be an excellent addition to your daily routine to improve your health on multiple levels. Below, I explain why you should consider including them in your diet:
✅ Beta-glucans: strengthen the immune system 🛡️
One of the most important components of mushrooms is beta-glucans , a type of soluble fiber that plays a crucial role in activating and regulating the immune system. These compounds stimulate immune cells, such as macrophages and lymphocytes, helping to improve the immune response to infections and diseases. Furthermore, beta-glucans have the ability to balance the immune system , preventing excessive responses that can lead to chronic inflammation or autoimmunity.
✅ Triterpenes: anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties ✨
Triterpenes are another bioactive compound found in several medicinal mushrooms, such as Reishi and Cordyceps . These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects , making them a great ally in reducing inflammation in the body, especially in cases of chronic diseases or acute inflammatory processes. Triterpenes also help neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage cells and accelerate cellular aging, helping to protect healthy cells . In addition, they promote blood circulation , improving tissue oxygenation and helping to reduce fatigue.
✅ Ergothioneine and other antioxidants: protect cells from oxidative damage 🧬
Ergothioneine is a potent antioxidant found in various mushrooms, especially Chaga . This antioxidant has an exceptional ability to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, contributing to brain , heart , and liver health . Ergothioneine may also help prevent premature aging and improve cell regeneration by protecting cells’ DNA and reducing the risk of mutations that can lead to diseases like cancer. Additionally, mushrooms also contain other antioxidants such as vitamin D , polyphenols , and anthocyanins , which work together to neutralize the effects of oxidative stress and maintain overall health.
✅ Natural prebiotics: nourish the intestinal microbiota and promote digestion 🦠
Medicinal mushrooms are also rich in prebiotics , compounds that feed the good bacteria in our gut, promoting a healthy gut microbiota. A balanced microbiota is essential for efficient digestion , nutrient absorption , and immune system regulation . Prebiotics in mushrooms, such as those found in Lion's Mane and Maitake , promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, such as lactobacilli and bifidobacteria , which not only aid digestion, but also improve gut health, reduce inflammation, and promote bowel movement. Additionally, the fiber in mushrooms helps regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation, promoting a more efficient and balanced digestive system.
🍄 Types of mushrooms and their benefits
👉 Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) – "The mushroom of longevity" 🌿
• Powerful adaptogen, helps balance the nervous system and reduce stress 🧘♀️.
• Improves the quality of sleep and rest 💤.
• Strengthens the immune system and has anti-inflammatory effects 💪.
👉 Cordyceps – Energy and vitality ⚡
• Increases physical and mental endurance and energy 🏃♀️.
• Improves cellular oxygenation and athletic performance 🚀.
• Supports adrenal function and hormonal balance 🦋.
👉 Lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus) – Digestive and brain health 🧠
• Promotes neuronal regeneration and improves memory 🔥.
• Helps with brain fog and chronic stress 😵💫.
• Regenerates the digestive mucosa, ideal for intestinal problems such as gastritis and SIBO 🏥.
👉 Maitake – Metabolic regulator 🍏
• Supports blood sugar balance and insulin sensitivity 🩸.
• Promotes fat burning and weight control ⚖️.
• Strengthens the immune system and balances female hormones 💃.
👉 Chaga – Antioxidant and cell protector 🌿
• One of the most powerful natural antioxidants 🍫.
• Supports liver function and detoxification 🔄.
• Regulates inflammation and strengthens the skin ✨.
👉 Shiitake – Immune Booster and Cardiovascular Health 🦠
• Strengthens the immune system and fights infections 🛡️.
• Reduces cholesterol and improves cardiovascular health ❤️.
• Supports bone health by being a precursor to vitamin D 🌞.
🌿 How to get started with mycotherapy?
You can incorporate them in powder form into infusions, broths, smoothies, or concentrated extracts 💊. The important thing is to choose quality products, preferably organic and with certified active ingredients 🔍.
If you're looking for a natural strategy to improve your energy, reduce inflammation, and support your immune system, mycotherapy can be a great ally on your journey to wellness 🍃.
9 comments
Hola! me encantó el artículo, sólo una consulta, alguno está contraindicado para alguna enfermedad?…Gracias!
Justo llevo tiempo viendo un producto que anuncian y me planteaba probarlo. Se llama Cleary not coffee, pero no se si son de fiar o no. ¿Sabes si son de confianza? Justo combinan los hongos de los que hablas para hacer una bebida soluble como alternativa al café. Si alguien lo conoce, sería de gran ayuda saber opinión. Gracias
Hola Maria, me gustó mucho toda la explicación sobre los hongos medicinales, me puedes aconsejar o sugerir alguna marca de suplementación fiable para comenzar a introducirlos en mi día a día. Un saludo y muchas gracias.
Hola María, Nunca he sabido dónde está el riesgo de saber que se trata de un hongo seguro.Podrias aclararme? Saludos y gracias
Muy buen artículo María, Gracias!