Mushroom extracts are experiencing a real craze among natural health professionals, particularly naturopaths. With properties that were once unknown, these adaptogenic mushrooms are now gaining popularity in the West.
But why are these extracts so fascinating to naturopaths, those health professionals who advocate the use of natural methods? What are their real health benefits? And how can they be effectively integrated into a therapeutic approach? At French Mush, we take you on a journey to discover the scientific and practical reasons behind the growing interest of naturopaths in these natural extracts.
Medicinal mushrooms: an ancient tradition approved by science
Medicinal mushrooms are used in different cultures around the world for their therapeutic properties. In China, Japan, and Korea, they hold a central place in traditional medicine for treating various health disorders such as:
- chronic stress
- inflammation
- immune imbalances
Today, modern scientific research confirms these ancestral uses, which were once based on empirical evidence. Numerous studies highlight their exceptional richness in bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides (notably beta-glucans), triterpenes, and other antioxidant molecules.
Instant lexicon
Polysaccharides are macromolecules composed of long chains of simple sugars. They play a key role in biological functions such as immunomodulation, cellular protection, and energy support.
Triterpenes are bioactive lipid compounds found in medicinal mushrooms, known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties.
Why do naturopaths favor mushroom extracts?
Naturopaths are constantly seeking effective natural solutions to support the well-being of their patients. Medicinal mushroom extracts, with their wide range of beneficial actions, meet this quest. They particularly offer versatile solutions for many aspects of health.
An effective action against chronic stress
One of the main reasons why naturopaths particularly appreciate mushroom extracts is their adaptogenic action. In fact, an adaptogen is a natural substance that helps the body better manage physical and mental stress by regulating, in particular, the production of cortisol, the stress hormone.
Among these adaptogenic mushrooms, we find notably Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), nicknamed the "mushroom of immortality." It is known for its ability to significantly reduce chronic stress, improve sleep quality, and generally enhance resistance to stress. The cordyceps mushroom is also highly valued for its stimulating effect on physical and mental energy. It thus allows for better adaptation to stressful everyday situations.
A powerful modulation of the immune system
Naturopaths place great importance on maintaining a balanced immune system. Now, the polysaccharides present in medicinal mushrooms possess remarkable immunomodulatory properties. These complex molecules particularly stimulate the activity of key immune cells such as macrophages and T lymphocytes, thereby strengthening the immune response to infections.
Instant lexicon
Macrophages are key immune cells that eliminate pathogens, dead cells, and cellular debris from the body by triggering an immune response.
The T lymphocytes are cells of the adaptive immune system that play a central role in the body's defense by identifying and destroying infected or abnormal cells.
The Shiitake (Lentinula edodes), for example, contains a beta-glucan called lentinan that powerfully activates these immune cells. Similarly, the Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) is rich in polysaccharides capable of significantly enhancing immune resistance while reducing chronic inflammation thanks to its powerful antioxidants.
Recognized benefits on cognitive and nervous health
Cognitive health is another major focus of naturopathic consultations. Mild cognitive disorders such as memory decline or difficulty concentrating are common in people subjected to chronic stress or natural aging.
In these contexts, the Lion's Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is particularly valued by naturopaths for its beneficial effects on the brain. It contains unique compounds called hericenones that stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein essential for neuronal regeneration. It is a mushroom that is highly recognized for its ability to significantly improve memory, concentration, and even reduce some mild anxious or depressive symptoms.
A valuable support in the management of chronic diseases
Naturopaths are often sought after to naturally support certain chronic conditions such as persistent inflammation or even some cancers, in complement to conventional treatments.
Mushroom extracts have shown interesting potential in this field. Recent research (Jéssica Fonseca & al) clearly indicates that certain fungal compounds can enhance the effectiveness of conventional treatments like chemotherapy while reducing their side effects such as nausea or severe fatigue.
The reishi mushroom and the chaga mushroom are particularly studied for their ability to inhibit certain inflammatory pathways involved in tumor development. They also play a role in the active protection of healthy cells thanks to their powerful antioxidant properties.
Why choose concentrated extracts over whole mushrooms?
While regularly consuming fresh mushrooms already provides some interesting nutritional benefits (dietary fiber, B vitamins...), their real therapeutic potential mainly lies in their specific active compounds such as polysaccharides or triterpenes.
However, these bioactive molecules are not always easily assimilable by our body in their raw form. This is why it is preferable to use concentrated extracts obtained through gentle methods (such as ultrasound extraction used at French Mush) which ensures high bioavailability and an optimal concentration of essential active ingredients.
French Mush: a concrete response to the expectations of naturopaths
At French Mush, we understand the need to offer both professionals and individuals reliable products that perfectly meet modern therapeutic requirements:
- Our extracts come exclusively from controlled organic farms located in France or Europe (Finland)
- We use a gentle ultrasonic extraction method. This allows for a bioavailability of 92%, which promotes optimal absorption of active ingredients that are more concentrated than a standard extract.
- Each product is rigorously inspected before being put on sale.
By choosing French Mush, you benefit not only from the best possible therapeutic potential but also from perfect traceability (from production to your finalized ready-to-use dietary supplement).
Sources:
- American Association of Naturopathic Physicians - You'll Definitely Want to Try These Shrooms
https://naturopathic.org/news/658013/Youll-Definitely-Want-to-Try-These-Shrooms.htm - A Naturopath's Guide to Medicinal Mushrooms
https://www.drlanawellness.com/new-blog/naturopath-guide-to-medicinal-mushrooms - The Potential of Mushroom Extracts to Improve Chemotherapy Efficacy in Cancer Cells: A Systematic Review
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10969097/
