I have a deep reverence for medicinal mushrooms, and have the absolute pleasure and honour of including them in many of my herbal blends. Their attributes are so well-rounded and versatile, leading to a wide range of health benefits. Medicinal mushrooms are an absolute staple in my life and my clinical practice. It is not often a Herbal Tonic goes out my door without including a medicinal mushroom in the mix!

Three of my favourites were discussed in Part 1 (Reishi, Cordyceps and Lion’s Mane).

This post will highlight the more emerging and maybe less-known mushrooms: Tramella, Turkey Tail, Poria and Chaga.

Medicinal mushrooms are such beautiful tonic and adaptogenic phytomedicines. Many medicinal mushrooms have organ-protective affinities, for example, Reishi: Liver and Heart (Spirit or Shen in TCM); Cordyceps: Kidney and mitochondria; Lions Mane: Brain and nervous system; Chaga: Skin and metabolic health; Turkey tail: Immune system; Poria: Kidney/fluid balance and hormones; Tramella: Skin and connective tissue. BUT, of course, they are SO much more than that. They no doubt have many health benefits and physiological effects that research is yet to reveal or understand. Medicinal mushrooms, like many herbs, are often put in a ‘box’, and I have my reservations about a “this for that” mentality when it comes to herbalism. The essence of Herbalism is far beyond an increasingly impatient Western/modern approach that unfortunately follows the “pill for an ill” mentality of prescribing. I could go on for hours about lack of reverence and respect for plant medicines, the attitudes of reducing them into plant pharmaceuticals essentially; but I will contain myself for the purpose of this post! Here I will highlight what research suggests are the main therapeutic applications for these incredible mushrooms, but I acknowledge that this is just scraping the surface. My intention for these articles is more to help people decipher some of the information out there and to perhaps help you to settle on the most appropriate mushroom/s for you to try for specific concerns.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus): Chaga is known for its potent antioxidant properties. Rich in betulinic acid, polysaccharides and melanin, Chaga also offers immune support, promotes cellular health, and may even assist in managing inflammation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Chaga is revered for its ability to tonify Qi and nourish the kidneys and skin. Its bitter flavor corresponds to the Water element, making it an invaluable ally for fortifying the body's foundational energy.

In clinical herbalism, research suggests that Chaga may play a role in managing diabetes by helping to regulate blood sugar levels. Its polysaccharide content, particularly beta-glucans, exhibits anti-hyperglycemic effects, aiding in glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. By modulating these pathways, Chaga may offer support in managing diabetes and preventing associated complications. Chaga’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties also plays a part in its use for these common conditions; diabetes is often accompanied by oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, contributing to tissue damage and impaired wound healing. Chaga's potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help counteract these processes, protecting pancreatic beta cells, reducing oxidative damage, and alleviating inflammation associated with diabetic complications. Beyond its direct impact on diabetes management, Chaga's holistic approach to health offers additional benefits for individuals with diabetes. Its immune-modulating effects support immune function, helping to fend off infections and reduce the risk of diabetic complications. Furthermore, Chaga's adaptogenic properties may help alleviate stress, which can exacerbate diabetes symptoms and impact overall well-being.

Another one of Chaga's most celebrated attributes is its ability to promote skin health and vitality. Chaga exhibits moisturizing and hydrating properties, helping to replenish the skin's moisture barrier and combat dryness. I like to use Chaga to modulate the immune system and support the skin in conditions such as acne and psoriasis, in combination with other herbs and nutrients. It is also believed that Chaga may help reduce premature aging, sun damage, and protect from increased risk of skin cancer. * More research is needed in this area.

Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor): Turkey Tail is known for its immune-modulating effects, thanks to its polysaccharide-rich composition. In TCM, Turkey Tail is esteemed for its ability to strengthen the Spleen and harmonize the Middle Jiao. Its sweet and neutral nature corresponds to the Earth element, making it a valuable addition to formulas aimed at restoring digestive harmony. At the heart of Turkey Tail's immune-boosting prowess lies its rich concentration of polysaccharides, including beta-glucans. These bioactive compounds stimulate various components of the immune system, including macrophages, natural killer cells, and cytokines, enhancing the body's ability to recognize and combat pathogens. Turkey Tail also exerts a balancing effect on the immune system, helping to regulate its response. In cases of immune hyperactivity, such as autoimmune disorders, Turkey Tail's immunomodulatory properties help temper excessive inflammation and prevent immune-mediated damage. Conversely, in cases of immune suppression, Turkey Tail works to revitalize and strengthen immune function, fostering resilience against infections. Chronic oxidative stress can compromise immune function and leave the body vulnerable to infections and diseases. Turkey Tail's antioxidant constituents, including phenols and flavonoids, act as cellular bodyguards, scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative damage. By shielding immune cells from oxidative stress, Turkey Tail preserves their vitality and enhances their ability to mount an effective immune response. Turkey Tail's immune-boosting properties make it a valuable ally in protecting against respiratory infections, including the common cold, flu, and even more serious respiratory illnesses. By fortifying the body's first line of defense in the respiratory tract, Turkey Tail helps fend off invading pathogens and reduces the risk of infection.

Poria (Wolfiporia extensa): Poria, ahhh my new favourite… it is gentle, nourishing and has very ‘Yin’ qualities, yet its effects are profound. It is actually one of the most frequently used medicinals (not just mushrooms) in TCM formulas. It has recently captured the attention of herbalists seeking to support the body's fluid balance and promote a sense of calm. Its diuretic properties make it a valuable phytomedicine in managing fluid retention. I also love Poria for women’s health and hormone balance. Its affinity for the Water element allows it to address conditions of dampness and stagnation, restoring flow and vitality. In TCM, Poria is revered for its ability to drain Dampness, tonify the Spleen, and calm the Shen. Its bland and sweet flavor resonates with the Earth element, making it an indispensable herb for supporting digestive health and emotional well-being. It is also one of my favourite tasting mushroom tinctures, with its sweet Yin quality really shining through!

Also known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as "Fu Ling," Poria has multifaceted benefits, offering therapeutic support for kidney health and women's wellness. In TCM, the Kidneys are revered as the source of vitality and the foundation of Yin and Yang balance. By promoting diuresis and draining Dampness, Poria helps alleviate conditions such as edema, urinary retention, and damp-heat patterns that affect the Kidneys. Research indicates that Poria exhibits nephroprotective properties, offering support for renal health and function. Studies have highlighted Poria's ability to reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis in the kidneys, thereby preserving renal tissue integrity and mitigating the progression of kidney-related disorders. Poria is revered for its ability to tonify the Spleen, nourish Yin, and regulate the menstrual cycle. As a cornerstone herb in women's health formulations, Poria helps harmonize hormonal balance, alleviate menstrual irregularities, and ease symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood fluctuations. Emerging research suggests that Poria may exert estrogenic activity, offering potential benefits for women's health. Studies have explored Poria's impact on estrogen receptor signaling pathways and its ability to modulate hormonal balance in preclinical models. These findings underscore Poria's potential as a natural alternative for managing hormonal imbalances and supporting women's wellness.

Tremella (Tremella fuciformis): Tremella is gaining popularity and buzz around its coined name: the "Beauty Mushroom," simply because it has a deeply nourishing and moistening property for the skin. Also rich in polysaccharides and antioxidants, Tremella supports hydration, collagen production, and overall skin health. In TCM, Tremella is also esteemed for its ability to tonify Yin, moisten the Lungs, and promote fluid production. Its sweet and neutral nature corresponds to the Lung and Stomach meridians, making it a prized ingredient in formulas aimed at nourishing Yin and promoting radiant health Tremella's unique polysaccharide composition, including beta-glucans and polysaccharide-protein complexes, forms a gel-like matrix when applied to the skin. This matrix has exceptional water-holding capabilities, surpassing even hyaluronic acid in its ability to attract and retain moisture. By providing intense hydration to the skin, Tremella helps plump up fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in a smoother, more supple complexion. I am yet to use Tremella topically , but watch this space as I devise a face mask that can perhaps incorporate this beautiful mushroom into my skincare routine! At the moment I am adding the powder into smoothies and other recipes. I spend a lot of time in the sun, and protect myself as well as I can from a functional point of view, but incorporating mushrooms such as Chaga and Tramella is something I am playing around with. Antioxidants have a much wider scope of practice than surface-value skincare, but it’s still a factor worth considering in this space, especially when it comes to protection from the sun, maintaining collagen production, and preventing or reducing pigmentation. I have tried many a skincare products for this, some have been great and some have been a little disappointing, but I am learning as much as I can so that I can be confident in recommending different approaches to my community and clients.

My go-to high quality and authentic mushrooms are Optimal Rx liquid extracts (what I use in Herbal Tonic formulations and single herbs dispensed in clinic) and Superfeast full spectrum powders and capsules. (They also formulate their own beautiful blends that I highly recommend to my clients).

For liquid herbs please get in touch, to order Superfeast mushrooms via: https://superfeast.com.au/?rfsn=7833000.513d9c&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=7833000.513d9c use the code : YINANDTONIC10 for 10% off your order.

Have Fun Fellow Funghi Friends!