Benefits for the Immune System of Extracts from Certain Mushrooms

Mushrooms have been valued for millennia in both traditional and modern medicine for their various health benefits, especially concerning the immune system. These organisms contain a rich variety of bioactive compounds that can enhance the body’s immune response.

Immune System Benefits of AHCC

The term AHCC stands for Active Hexose Correlated Compound. It is a dietary supplement derived from the mycelium (vegetative part) of certain mushrooms.

Immune System Stimulation

• Increases the activity of NK (natural killer) cells, which are crucial for fighting infections and tumor cells.
• Enhances the production and function of dendritic cells, which are important for the adaptive immune response.

Antitumor Properties

• Used as a supplement in cancer treatments to improve the immune response and the quality of life of patients.

Inflammation Reduction

• Contains compounds that help reduce chronic inflammation, which is beneficial for maintaining a healthy immune system.

Shiitake

Agaricus

Chaga

Turkey tail

Maitake

Lion mane

Reishi

Cordyceps

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

The Reishi mushroom is known as the “mushroom of immortality” in traditional Chinese medicine. It contains polysaccharides, triterpenes, and peptidoglycans that contribute to its immunomodulatory properties. These compounds can:

• Increase the activity of NK (natural killer) cells, which are crucial for fighting viral infections and tumors.
• Stimulate the production of cytokines, proteins that regulate the immune response.
• Reduce chronic inflammation, which can weaken the immune system.

Maitake (Grifola frondosa)

The Maitake mushroom, also known as the “dancing mushroom,” is valued for its ability to stimulate the immune system. Its benefits include:

• Increasing the activity of macrophages, which are immune cells that engulf and destroy pathogens.
• Activating T cells, which play a vital role in the adaptive immune response.
• Contains a compound called D-fraction, which has shown promising effects in boosting immunity and fighting cancer.

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)

Shiitake is another mushroom used in both cuisine and traditional medicine. Its main immunological benefits are:

• Stimulating the production of antibodies, essential for the body’s defense against pathogens.
• Contains lentinan, a polysaccharide that has been shown to boost the immune system and have antitumor effects.
• Strengthening overall immune system function, enhancing resistance to infections.

Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis)

Cordyceps is a mushroom with a long history in traditional Tibetan and Chinese medicine. Its immune system benefits include:

• Increasing the production and activity of T cells, which are essential for the immune response.
• Enhancing the function of macrophages and NK cells, strengthening the body’s ability to fight infections.
• Contains cordycepin, a bioactive compound with antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

Chaga is a parasitic mushroom that grows on birch trees and is known for its potent antioxidant and immune-boosting properties:

• Stimulating cytokine production, improving communication between immune cells.
• Contains betulin and betulinic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
• Helps regulate the immune response, preventing both immunodeficiency and immune hyperactivity.

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a medicinal mushroom that offers several benefits for the immune system.

• Activates and enhances the activity of immune cells, helping to improve the body’s immune response.
• By reducing oxidative stress, Lion’s Mane can contribute to a stronger and healthier immune system.
• Anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce chronic inflammation, a condition that can compromise the immune system and increase susceptibility to diseases.

Agaricus blazei

Agaricus blazei, also known as the almond mushroom or Brazilian mushroom, is renowned for its multiple benefits for the immune system. Here are four of them:

• Contains polysaccharides, such as beta-glucan, that help activate and increase the activity of immune cells like macrophages and lymphocytes, enhancing the body’s immune response.
• Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, contributing to a stronger and more resilient immune system.
• Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce chronic inflammation, which is beneficial for immune health, as persistent inflammation can weaken the immune response.

Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor)

Turkey Tail is a mushroom known for its significant benefits for the immune system:

• Contains Polysaccharide-K (PSK) and Polysaccharide-P (PSP), which increase the activity of T cells and NK cells, crucial in defending against infections and cancer.
• Stimulates cytokine production, enhancing the immune response.
• Antitumor properties, used in complementary cancer treatments to improve survival and quality of life.
• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, protecting cells from oxidative damage and reducing chronic inflammation.
• Promotes a healthy gut microbiome, essential for robust immune function.

Where Can You Find Them in Nature?

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)
Shiitake naturally grows on the hardwood of oak, chestnut, and mulberry trees in Eastern Asia. It is extensively cultivated on logs and sawdust.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)
Chaga primarily develops on birch trees in cold climates, such as Siberia, Canada, and parts of Northern Europe. It grows on the bark and forms a dense, black mass.

Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor)
Turkey Tail primarily grows on fallen and decomposing trees in temperate forests. It is commonly found on oak and beech logs.

Maitake (Grifola frondosa)
Maitake appears at the base of oaks and other large trees, often in wooded areas of Japan, China, and North America. It prefers temperate climates.

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Lion’s Mane is found on dead and wounded broadleaf trees, particularly oaks, beeches, and maples. It prefers temperate and humid climates.

Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis)
Cordyceps grows on insect larvae at high altitudes and in moist forests, particularly in mountainous regions of China, Nepal, and Tibet. It is known for parasitizing caterpillars and other insects.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Reishi grows at the base of dead or dying trees, as well as on decomposing logs. It prefers hardwood trees such as oaks, maples, and beeches.

Agaricus blazei
Agaricus blazei can be found in forest clearings and meadows where the soil is fertile and there is adequate shade and moisture for its development.

Raw or Cooked?

Medicinal mushrooms are not recommended to be eaten raw because they can cause digestive discomfort or be difficult to digest in their raw state. They are safer and more beneficial when cooked or processed into extracts, powders, or capsules. This not only improves their digestibility but also helps release and concentrate their bioactive compounds.

Fresh or Extract?

Regarding nutrition and potential immune-stimulating properties, there are some differences between fresh and extracted forms of shiitake mushrooms:

Fresh Shiitake Mushrooms:

• Nutritional Content: Fresh shiitake mushrooms are a good source of several important nutrients. They contain B vitamins, such as niacin, riboflavin, and pantothenic acid, as well as minerals like copper, selenium, and zinc.
• Dietary Fiber: Fresh shiitake mushrooms also provide dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.
• Immune Benefits: While fresh shiitake mushrooms contain nutrients that support overall health, immune-stimulating properties are often attributed to compounds like beta-glucans, which are more concentrated in the mushroom’s cell walls.

Shiitake Extract or Dried Mushrooms:

• Concentrated Compounds: Extracts or dried forms of shiitake mushrooms may offer a more concentrated source of certain bioactive compounds, including beta-glucans. Beta-glucans are polysaccharides known for their potential immune-modulating effects.
• Caloric Density: Extracts and dried forms may be more calorie-dense than fresh mushrooms due to reduced or eliminated water content. This could be relevant for those on calorie-restricted diets.

Immune Support:

• Beta-Glucans: Both fresh and extracted forms of shiitake mushrooms contain beta-glucans, which have been studied for their potential to modulate the immune system. These compounds may enhance the activity of immune cells and help the body respond to infections.

Considerations:

• Preparation: The method of preparation is important. Cooking fresh shiitake mushrooms can make certain nutrients more bioavailable, and heat can also help release some beneficial compounds.
• Supplementation: Some people choose to take shiitake mushroom supplements or extracts for their potential health benefits. These supplements often focus on specific compounds like beta-glucans.

In conclusion, both fresh and extracted forms of shiitake mushrooms can contribute to a nutritious diet and offer immune system benefits. The choice between them may depend on personal preferences, culinary needs, and the desired concentration of bioactive compounds. It is important to incorporate a variety of nutrient-rich foods into the diet for overall health and to consult a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized advice.