Tag Archives: M/R/S Mushroom Formula by Pure Encapsulations

Say Yes to Mushrooms

YesToMushroomsJacquie Eubanks RN BSNAnthropologists, who studied the dental tartar found on the ancient teeth of a prehistoric woman who lived and died 18,700 years ago, discovered microscopic traces of pine pollen, seeds and meat, as well as several species of mushroom spores. These findings shed new light on the stone age diet, revealing that mushrooms have been a food source for many thousands of years. Valued by ancient Greeks, Romans and Chinese for their culinary uses and health promoting properties, mushrooms remain a highly regarded delicacy savored for their unique flavor and nutritional content. Mushrooms provide selenium, potassium, riboflavin, niacin, fatty acids, proteins, amino acids, fiber and vitamins C, D and E. Found in many international cuisines, fungi are also utilized to make cheese, alcohol, beer and bread.

In addition, many species are recognized for their nutraceutical properties, including immune system enhancement, cholesterol lowering agents, and bioactive, antibacterial and anti-tumor compounds. As a result, certain mushroom species in whole and dried form are used to promote wellness. Perhaps more importantly, fungi are widely utilized in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Amoxicillin, a semi-synthetic penicillin, three prescription anti-cholesterol statins, and the immunosuppressant drug cyclosporin are all derived from fungi. The discovery of fungi’s antibacterial properties, and hence the development of penicillin, cemented the value of mushroom’s germ-killing lifesaving power.

Today, not less than five top antibiotics are produced from fungi. The wide spread use of statin medications to control heart disease by removing cholesterol complexes from blood vessels, effectively reduces the risk of heart attacks, strokes and diabetes. Cyclosporin, a fungal anti-rejection metabolite, is widely used after bone marrow or organ transplants. By binding to certain proteins, cyclosporin suppresses the proliferation of T-cells, thereby preventing rejection of transplant tissue. As a result of their evidence-based synergistic biological properties, medicinal mushroom extracts or powders are widely utilized for health maintenance, the prevention and treatment of diseases, and the alleviation of oxidative stress.

In addition to their nutritional components, numerous bioactive polysaccharides appear to enhance innate and cell-mediated immune responses. Identified bioactive compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, antiparasitic, anticholesterolemic, antidiabetic and immunomodulating properties, as well as cardio- and hepatoprotective effects. Medicinal mushroom species include chaga, reishi, turkey tail, shiitake, lion’s mane and cordyceps. Combining multiple medicinal mushrooms when supplementing can increase their potent and synergistic effects.

Antioxidant activity – Cellular free radical damage contributes to increased risk of illness and chronic disease. Dietary antioxidants help to counter adverse health effects. Reishi, cordyceps and chaga medicinal mushrooms are known to possess strong antioxidant properties and may significantly increase total antioxidant capacity.

Immune system function – Chaga, reishi and shiitake mushrooms contain immunomodulating properties that support the production of two important immune system components, natural killer cells and macrophages.

Glycemic control – Polysaccharides, or beta-glucans, found in maitake mushrooms, have been shown to help regulate blood glucose and insulin levels. Maitake glycoproteins may also improve insulin sensitivity in insulin resistant individuals.

Cognitive function – Lion’s mane’s long history of use in Traditional Chinese medicine is due to its neuroprotective compounds that stimulate healthy cell-signaling and support neuronal growth, maintenance and survival. Lion’s mane may also support concentration and cognition, as well as healthy mood.

Exercise performance – Cordyceps increases metabolic efficiency, increasing blood flow and enhancing endurance. Cordyceps may improve stamina in athletic performance by stimulating the production of ATP, the main source of cellular energy.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality medicinal mushroom supplements:

Lion's Mane ...Lion’s Mane by Organic Mushroom Nutrition: This 100% organic single ingredient formula supports cognition, focus, creativity and mood, as well as the growth and normal function of nerve cells. Gluten, sugar and soy free, Non-GMO fermented vegan formulation.

M/R/S Mushroom...M/R/S Mushroom Formula by Pure Encapsulations®: TM/R/S Mushroom Formula by Pure Encapsulationshis dynamic blend of Maitake, Reishi, and Shiitake is formulated with whole plant bodies for optimal immune health and broad spectrum physiological support. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO, hypoallergenic, vegetarian formulation.

ChagaChaga by Organic Mushroom Nutrition: Highly revered for its anti-aging properties, this 100% organic legendary mushroom is a natural adaptogen that provides high levels of antioxidants in support of metabolic balance. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO, hypoallergenic, vegetarian formulation.

Cordyceps 750 mgCordyceps 750 mg by Now Foods: Traditionally used for its energizing, adaptogenic, and free radical scavenging properties, Cordyceps mushrooms have numerous bioactive constituents. Cordyceps 750 is formulated to support a healthy immune response and promote normal vascular function. Gluten, soy, and dairy free, Non-GMO, organic, kosher, vegan formulation.

Super ShiitakeSuper Shiitake by Mushroom Wisdom: This synergistic formulation combines shiitake and maitake mushrooms with vitamin C in support of healthy immune and liver function, healthy cholesterol levels and overall wellness. Free of gluten, soy, wheat, dairy, preservatives and artificial ingredients.

Lion's Mane Memory...Lion’s Mane Memory & Nerve Support by Host Defense®: USA grown 100% organic Lion’s Mane provides cerebral and nervous system support, promoting mental clarity, focus and memory. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

References:
Edible Mushrooms: Improving Human Health and Promoting Quality Life. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4320875/
Medicinal Uses of Fungi | Pseudomonas species. https://www.emlab.com/resources/education/environmental-reporter/medicinal-uses-of-fungi-pseudomonas-species/
Medicinal Mushrooms. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4095656/
Elaborate ‘Red Lady’ Grave Yields Secrets of Ice Age Culture. https://www.livescience.com/50274-red-lady-burial-site.html

Medicinal Mushrooms

MedicinalMushroomsJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Since at least 3000 BCE, traditional medical systems have utilized foods as medicines. Due to their numerous and significant health promoting properties, edible mushrooms have played a very old and continuously substantial role. Early records show that ancient Egyptian and traditional Chinese medicine practitioners used mushrooms to promote health and longevity, as well as to treat certain maladies and diseases. Per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), medicinal mushrooms are considered to be cardiovascular- and hepato-protective, and have been proven to possess anti-allergic, anti-cholesterol, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic and anti-tumor properties. Additionally, it is well established that mushrooms are adept at immune modulation, positively affecting hematopoietic stem cells, lymphocytes, macrophages, T cells, natural killer cells and more.

Medicinal mushrooms are high in protein, essential amino acids, and complex carbohydrates, as well as vitamins, minerals, fiber and trace elements. Perhaps more significantly, mushrooms possess non-digestible, bioactive polysaccharides, or prebiotics, that can stimulate the immune system, encourage the growth of beneficial gut microbes, and depress endogenous pathogens found within the gastrointestinal tract. A Chinese study on edible mushrooms revealed that mushrooms possess substantial antioxidant and metal chelating activity due to their phenolic (natural antioxidant) composition. Numerous studies focusing on the benefits of a healthy microbiome have shown that probiotics and prebiotics, or a synbiotic combination of both, can stimulate the microbiota, enhancing immune and general health.

Studies suggest that mushrooms are probiotic foods that help strengthen the body, restore and maintain homeostasis and provide natural resistance to disease. Extremely important to overall wellbeing, the gastrointestinal system is largely responsible for critical digestive and immune functions, hormone regulation, vitamin production, toxin elimination and micronutrient absorption; as well as mood, energy regulation, and mental health. On a daily basis, the microbiome plays many key roles in promoting efficient operations of bodily processes. In a healthy body, pathogenic and symbiotic microbiota naturally coexist without causing problems. An imbalance, or dysbiosis, brought on by factors such as poor diet, illness, and medications, can lead to obesity and inflammatory conditions, leaving the body more susceptible to disease. The human microbiome is a living dynamic environment subject to constant fluctuations, dependent upon our state of health, the foods we ingest, whether or not we exercise, and a host of environmental exposures.

Supplementing with medicinal mushrooms is any easy way to support overall wellness and healthy functioning of the gastrointestinal and immune systems:

Reishi: Highly praised as the King of mushrooms, strictly medicinal Reishi mushrooms are rich in complex carbohydrates, anti-inflammatory agents, and other components that support hormonal balance, and energy production; as well as immune, cardiovascular, blood vessel, liver, and overall health. Reishi’s antioxidant compounds help protect cellular DNA and mitochondria from oxidant damage, thereby combating signs of aging.

Lion’s Mane: Like other medicinal mushrooms, Lion’s Mane contains polysaccharides and antioxidants that support immune and overall healthy function. While research continues regarding this mushroom’s effects on the brain and nervous system, studies have shown that Lion’s Mane may support cognition and concentration, as well as a healthy mood.

Maitake: In addition to anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, Maitake has been shown to have anti-diabetic constituents, helping to decrease insulin resistance and increase insulin sensitivity.

Cordyceps: Used traditionally as a health tonic and asthma treatment, Cordyceps supports increased energy levels by helping to deliver oxygen to the cells. In addition to immune modulation, Cordyceps aids athletic performance by increasing metabolic efficiency.

Turkey Tail: As one of the most extensively studied medicinal mushrooms, Turkey Tail provides a full spectrum of polysaccharides, essential for natural immune support. Research has shown that in addition to its immune boosting effects, Turkey Tail has anti-tumor and antiviral activity, as well as moderating effects on blood sugar and cholesterol.

Professional Supplement Center carries many well respected medicinal mushroom formulas:

MyCommunityMyCommunity® by Host Defense®: This unique complex of 17 potent mushroom species includes the mycelium, fruitbodies, and a diverse range of constituents to help support and balance the immune system. Gluten, contaminant and pesticide free, Non-GMO, vegetarian formulation. Certified organic mushrooms are grown and processed in the USA.

M/R/S Mushroom...M/R/S Mushroom Formula by Pure Encapsulations®: This dynamic blend of Maitake, Reishi, and Shiitake is formulated with whole plant bodies for optimal immune health and broad spectrum physiological support. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO, hypoallergenic, vegetarian formulation.

Lion's Mane Memory...Lion’s Mane by Host Defense: This certified organic formula provides the full spectrum of constituents of Lion’s Mane best known for providing support for brain, immune, and nervous system functions. Sustainably cultivated and freeze dried to preserve nutrients. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

LifeShield ReishiLifeShield® Reishi by New Chapter®: Formulated with mycelium, fruiting bodies, spores and extracellular compounds to deliver whole life cycle, activated, organic Reishi mushrooms in support of vitality and overall wellness. Guaranteed minimum 15% beta-glucans for optimal potency and benefit. Naturally gluten free, Non-GMO, vegan formulation.

MycoceuticsMycoceutics® by Douglas Laboratories®: This formula contains an array of beta-glucans and other active constituents derived from 10 species of mushrooms including Cordyceps, Reishi, Maitake and Shitake, providing support for the natural immune response. These mushrooms are cultivated under carefully monitored conditions and contain no pollutants, heavy metals or contaminants.

Cordyceps 750 mgCordyceps 750 mg by Now Foods: Traditionally used for its energizing, adaptogenic, and free radical scavenging properties, Cordyceps mushrooms have numerous bioactive constituents. Cordyceps 750 is formulated to support a healthy immune response and promote normal vascular function. Gluten, soy, and dairy free, Non-GMO, organic, kosher, vegan formulation.

Turkey TailTurkey Tail by Host Defense®: This well documented mushroom species provides a wide spectrum of beneficial properties essential for supporting natural immunity and a healthy microbiome. Gluten free, Non-GMO, organic, vegetarian formulation.

References:
Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulating Properties of Fungal Metabolites. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1160565/
Amino Acid Composition of the Protein from a Mushroom. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1057970/
A Critical Review on Health Promoting Benefits of Edible Mushrooms through Gut Microbiota. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5618583/
Phenolic Compounds in Food. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/bk-1992-0506.ch001
Why the Gut Microbiome is Crucial for Your Health. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/gut-microbiome-and-health