"Unity is strength." This popular saying seems to find particularly relevant resonance when it comes to medicinal mushrooms. While the individual virtues of Reishi, Chaga, or Cordyceps are increasingly documented and appreciated by an audience seeking natural solutions for their well-being, a question emerges acutely. Is their combination within the same formula a simple marketing trick or is it based on a true amplification of their benefits?
While traditional Chinese medicine has exploited these synergies for millennia, modern science also provides concrete arguments demonstrating the complex mechanisms by which the combination of these natural treasures could surpass their isolated effects. Recent studies suggest that, far from being trivial, the alliance of certain medicinal mushrooms could trigger numerous synergistic effects. At French Mush, we take you to the heart of this research to understand what science reveals today about the combined effects of medicinal mushrooms.
When do we concretely talk about fungal synergy?
The notion of fungal synergy takes on its full meaning when a combination of different mushrooms produces a therapeutic effect that transcends the simple sum of their individual benefits. This phenomenon results from the complex and often subtle interactions between the multitude of bioactive compounds they contain, such as polysaccharides (notably beta-glucans, explained below), triterpenes (below), and a multitude of other metabolites (below).
⚠️ Lexicon point
The triterpenes are natural compounds formed of three terpene units (30 carbon atoms). They generally have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, or antitumor properties.
The metabolites are substances produced during chemical reactions of metabolism (in a cell or organism). They can be an intermediate or final product, useful or toxic, depending on the context.
The polysaccharides are long chains of sugars (carbohydrates) linked together that often have immunomodulatory or energetic effects.
Concretely, this synergy can manifest as an improvement in the absorption of nutrients from one mushroom by another, or by the concerted targeting of multiple metabolic pathways for a more global and profound action on the organism. Thus, rather than a simple addition of isolated effects, the goal is to achieve a potentiation of effects to pave the way for more significant results for well-being.
What do studies say about the effects of synergies between medicinal mushrooms?
The scientific exploration of fungal synergies, although relatively recent compared to their traditional use, is beginning to deliver promising results and shed light on the underlying mechanisms. Researchers are working to dissect how the association of different mushrooms can transcend their individual effects, particularly in the field of immune modulation.
Research by Gene Bruno
A significant contribution to this discussion comes from Gene Bruno, a recognized expert with over four decades of experience in the dietary supplement industry and holding master's degrees in nutrition and herbal medicine. In an article published in August 2022 in the journal Nutritional Outlook, Mr. Bruno directly addresses the question of the real value of mushroom combinations.
His conclusion is unequivocal: yes, there is tangible value. He specifically highlights the association of reishi, shiitake, and maitake, stating that this combination presents a synergistic immunostimulant effect. He emphasizes that while this does not mean that any combination of mushrooms will automatically produce synergy, the joint use of these three pillars of mycotherapy is validated for immune function support. This analysis, from an expert pen, supports the idea that certain associations are particularly judicious.
Research by Brody Mallard and his team
The previous perspective is corroborated by more fundamental research, such as that published in PLoS One in November 2019 by Brody Mallard and his team. This research focused on a specific formulation combining extracts of Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), Shiitake (Lentinula edodes), and Maitake (Grifola frondosa). The scientists analyzed the impact of these extracts, taken individually and in combination, on the expression of cytokines (key messengers of the immune system[1] ) by human macrophages, which are frontline immune cells.
The results are particularly enlightening: the formula combining the three mushrooms demonstrated a synergistic effect on the expression of pro-inflammatory and immunostimulant cytokines. This means that the effect of the combination was greater than the sum of the effects of the individual extracts.
The researchers concluded that their study represents the first report of a synergistic immuno-modulatory response in human macrophages, triggered by a mushroom formula rationally designed based on their β-glucan and α-glucan content.
Professor Tiralongo, a member of the team, even emphasized that a specific ratio of these three extracts "provides an increase in immune stimulation compared to the additive effect of the three individual extracts". These works lay the foundation for future research aimed at elucidating the exact nature of this synergistic effect and identifying other potential synergistic formulations.
Our best medicinal mushroom combos for your health
At French Mush, we are convinced of the power of fungal synergies in optimizing well-being. That's why we have carefully designed our 5 Mushroom Complex, a unique formula that harmoniously combines the benefits of Reishi, Shiitake, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane. This combination is designed to offer comprehensive support to your body, particularly in terms of vitality and immune balance.
Our capsules, 100% vegan, are developed to ensure an exceptional bioavailability of 92% thanks to our ultrasound extraction method. This ensures optimal assimilation of the valuable active compounds. To fully enjoy their virtues, we recommend a regular intake following 6 days out of 7 for about 3 months at least.
This should be combined with a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Also, consider spacing the intake of your supplements from other medications for better absorption. Our products are also available in many pharmacies near you, for easy access to these natural treasures.
Sources:
Synergistic immuno-modulatory activity in human macrophages of a medicinal mushroom formulation consisting of Reishi, Shiitake and Maitake
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6837746/
Do mushroom species work better when combined?
https://www.nutritionaloutlook.com/view/do-mushroom-species-work-better-when-combined
