5 Formula Mushroom Blend*

Boosts the body’s natural immune response. Supports mental clarity and focus. Can be used for dogs.*

Include these powerful mushrooms

Lions’ Mane Mushroom
Chaga Mushroom
Maitake Mushroom
Shiitake Mushroom
Reishi Mushroom

Can I give these Mushrooms to my dogs and cat?

This is one of my favorite supplements and something I take and also give this to my animals. I highly recommend it.

NOTE: Be aware that there is little or no scientific testing done on animals when it comes to mushrooms. My belief and the results I have observed are 100% anecdotal.

*This product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

BUY IT HERE

Below you will find an extensive research article I have written about the 5 mushrooms contained in this bottle. I have listed the possible benefits and uses. There are very few studies done on animals and humans when it comes to mushrooms. This is very unfortunate since I with many others (participating in my study) have observed significant benefits by adding mushrooms to the diet for a large number of health conditions and for the prevention of many diseases. The ones I list below are all backed up by scientific papers. I listed those at the very end.

More about Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Lion’s Mane Mushroom has been discovered in studies to be beneficial for preventing dementia, alleviating minor symptoms of anxiety and depression, and enhancing nerve healing. It also possesses significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties and has been shown to reduce the incidence of heart disease, cancer, ulcers, and diabetes in animals.*

Lion’s mane mushroom and its extracts have been shown to be quite safe in animal studies, even at high dosages.* However, allergic reactions have been reported in people, so those who are allergic to mushrooms should avoid this.

Possible benefits:

May protect against dementia. Lions main contain hericenones and erinacines that can stimulate the growth of brain cells.
May help relieve mild symptoms of anxiety and depression due to its inflammatory effects.
May shorten the recovery from nervous system injuries. Studies have shown that lions main can reduce recovery time by 23-41%. Lion’s main may also reduce the severity of damage to the brain after a stroke. In one study when high doses of lion’s mane mushroom extract were administered to rats after a stroke showed decreased inflammation and reduced the damage buy the stroke by 44%. (see study below)
May protect against ulcers in the digestive system. Ulcers can form in many places in the digestive tract mainly caused by two factors. Bacteria overgrowth and damage the stomach’s mucous layer caused by long-term use of anti-inflammatory and non-steroidal drugs (NSAIDS) (see study ebelow). Multiple studies have found that lion’s main can inhibit the growth of H. pylori bacteria, and prevent damage to the lining of the stomach. Several studies show that lion’s main can reduce the inflammation and tissue damage areas of the intestines. Studies show it can possibly treat inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Chrons disease (see studies below).
May reduce the risk of heart disease. The main risk factors for heart disease are: Obesity, High triglyceride, A high amount of oxidized cholesterol, Tendency to get blood clots.

Studies show promising results that lion’s main may help some of these factors and in turn lower the risk of heart disease. In a 28-day rat study where the rats were given a high-fat diet high in triglycerides administered a daily dose of lion’s main recorded lower levels of triglycerides by 27%, and less weight gain by 27% (see study below). Lion’s main can help heart health since triglycerides and obesity are both risk factors for heart disease.

In test-tube studies, lion’s main showed the prevention of oxidation of cholesterol in the bloodstream. (see study below). This is interesting since oxidized can attach to the arteries’ walls, hardening them causing an increased risk of stroke and heart attack.

Lion’s main mushroom also contains hericenone B a compound that can decrease blood clotting and lower the risk of stroke and heart attack (see study below).

May help manage symptoms of diabetes. Diabetes is caused by the body’s loss of its ability to control blood sugar levels. When the blood sugar reaches chronic levels the risk of kidney disease, nerve damage to feet, and vision loss increases significantly. Lion’s mane may be able to reduce these risk factors. Multiple studies indicate this showing a noticeable lower blood sugar level in both diabetic and normal mice. Even in a relatively small dosage, it seems effective. Lion’s mane is blocking the activity of the enzyme alpha-glucosidase whose main function is to break down carbs, the result is less sugar in the bloodstream. As this was not enough, lion’s main has shown to reduce nerve pain in hands and feet.
After six weeks of daily lion’s main administration to rats with diabetic nerve damage, a significant reduction in pain was observed, also reduced blood sugar levels, and an increase in antioxidant levels were recorded. (see study below)
May help fight cancer. As a cancer researcher this is what I fond the most interesting when it comes to mushrooms in general and Lion’s Mane is no exception. I simple terms cancer develops when DNA becomes damaged allowing cells to divide and duplicate without any interference from the body to prevent/manage it.

Several studies indicate that Lion’s Mane has abilities to interrupt the development of cancer cells based on several compounds (see study below). What is being observed is when cancer cells like liver, colon, stomach and blood cancer cells are being exposed to Lion’s Mane extract they die at a faster rate. (see study below)

There is also indications that the spread of cancer can be slowed down with Lion’s Mane. A mice study showed this to be the case. (see study below)

Another interesting study showed that Lion’s Mane to be more effective than cancer drugs when it comes to slowing down the growth or tumors. That’s something I will test on dogs and cats.
May Reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. These are in my opinion two of the main causes of many health issues in dogs and cats today. Research indicates that Lion’s Main can be a powerful antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory impact on these conditions.

More about Chaga Mushroom

Chaga is thought to have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making it a potential alternative treatment for diseases such as arthritis and high blood pressure. It may also aid in the management of diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer cell growth (see study below). Chaga might also assist with:

May Boost immune functions and fight inflammation

Inflammation is a normal, beneficial response of the body’s immune system. However, persistent inflammation has been linked to illnesses such as heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis.

Chaga extract has been shown to help boost immunity in a variety of ways. It has been found to decrease chronic inflammation and combat harmful bacteria and viruses, according to animal and laboratory studies. (see study below)

Because of this, Chaga may aid in the treatment of illnesses ranging from minor colds to more severe conditions. Furthermore, other animals and test-tube studies have shown that Chaga can reduce the formation of inflammatory cytokines, which promote inflammation and are linked with disease. (see study below)

May help in the prevention of cancer and fight cancer

Chaga has been shown in animal and test-tube studies to inhibit and even slow the development of cancer. See study below)

In research with mice with cancer, Chaga supplements resulted in a 60% reduction in tumor volume. (see study below)

Chaga extract has been found in tests on human liver cells to stop cancer cell growth. Similar findings were observed with lung, breast, prostate and colon cancer cells.

The high content of antioxidants in Chaga is argued to contribute to its anticancer properties, which protect cells from damage by free radicals.

Chaga contains an antioxidant called triterpene. Test-tube studies have shown that very concentrated triterpene extract can help kill cancer cells. Keep in mind that research on Chaga’s anti-cancer properties is still in its early stages. (see study below)

Chaga Mushroom May help lower blood sugar

Chaga has been linked to lower blood sugar levels in a number of studies. As a result, it may aid in the management of diabetes. (see study below)

Chaga extract reduced blood sugar levels and insulin resistance in diabetic mice when compared to those who did not get the treatment, according to a recent study. (see study below).

In another study on diabetic mice, Chaga supplements resulted in a 31 percent reduction in blood sugar levels over three weeks. (see study below)

Similar results have been found in other studies, although there is no human research to support it. It’s uncertain whether Chaga may aid in the management of diabetes in people because a human study isn’t available.

Chaga mushroom may lower cholesterol

Chaga extract may reduce your risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels. In an eight-week study in rats with elevated cholesterol, Chaga extract decreased “bad” LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides while increasing antioxidant levels. The results were the same in other studies, with Chaga increasing “good” HDL cholesterol in addition to reducing “bad” LDL cholesterol.

Researchers believe that the antioxidants present in Chaga are responsible for its effects on cholesterol.

Again, more research in humans is needed to clearly understand Chaga’s cholesterol impact.

Is Chaga Safe?

Chaga is generally well-tolerated. However, no human studies have been done to establish its safety or proper dose. In fact, Chaga can interact with numerous medicines and create potentially hazardous side effects. Chaga may cause problems with blood sugar for persons on insulin or with diabetes due to its effect on blood sugar levels.

More about Maitake Mushroom

Maitake has better success in preventing and treating cancer and other diseases than other mushrooms, according to studies. Maitake also helps boost the immune system’s overall effectiveness.

Maitake Mushrooms are rich in:

amino acids
antioxidants
beta-glucans
vitamins B and C
copper
potassium
fiber
Minerals

This mushroom is an adaptogen. Adaptogens help the body combat any kind of mental or physical stress. They also assist in the maintenance of health by restoring imbalanced bodily processes. While this mushroom may be utilized solely for flavor, it is classified as a medical mushroom.

Maitake mushroom has a long history in Japan and China, but it is relatively new to the United States. People are raving about this fungus because of its health, energy, and longevity benefits.

Maitake has been studied in a laboratory setting and appears to aid with various diseases. Because more research is required, its effect on people can’t be confirmed just yet, but the present findings are encouraging.

Maitake Mushrooms may be useful in preventing and treating cancer.

According to a 2013 study, maitake D-Fraction can help prevent and cure breast cancer. Researchers believe that this fungus inhibits the development and spread of malignant cells. (see study below)

In mice, maitake mushroom has been shown to slow tumor growth. It can also boost the number of cells engaged in the battle against cancer. When taken by mouth, it appears to be beneficial in treating human cancer as well. (see study below).

The study also revealed maitake D-Fraction, an extract, to be effective in killing human cancer cells. It was combined with a protein that combats cancer and improved the protein’s performance.

Maitake Mushroom may lower cholesterol.

In a 2013 study, researchers discovered that maitake powdered extract reduced cholesterol levels in mice. It was also shown to increase fatty acids, which provide energy. Researchers predict that eating maitake mushrooms may aid in the maintenance of healthy arteries as a result of this.

Maitake Mushroom may help with type 2 diabetes

According to a 2015 study, maitake mushrooms can improve the health of rats with type 2 diabetes. Maitake mushroom intake had a beneficial influence on rat glucose levels in the study. This implies that the mushroom may be used to treat type 2 diabetes in people.

Are there any known risks?

Maitake is digestible if the fungus isn’t too old. If the mushroom is older, its toughness can make it difficult to digest. The digestibility of maitake mushrooms may be improved by cooking them. Although allergic reactions and upset stomach are uncommon, they do occur.

Before taking maitake, consult your doctor. Maitake may affect blood sugar levels. It can also lower blood pressure, so if you have hypotension talk to your doctor about the alternatives.

Maitake mushrooms should not be eaten for at least two weeks after surgery or if you have a bleeding disorder. Check with your doctor before using if you’re pregnant, nursing, or have an autoimmune disease.

More about Shiitake Mushroom

Shiitake mushrooms are one of the most popular mushrooms in the world. Their flavor is described as rich and savory, and their health benefits include diverse anti-cancer effects. Shiitake compounds may aid in the prevention of cancer, enhanced immunity, and heart health.

Shiitake mushroom is edible and native to East Asia (83% grown in Japan). Shiitake is a fungus growing on decaying trees.

Shiitake also contains several amino acids found in meat.

Shiitake mushroom:

May aid heart health
May boost the immune system
Contain compounds with potential anticancer activity.

The approximate nutritional values of 4 dried shiitake mushrooms:

Calories: 44
Carbs: 11 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Protein: 1 gram
Riboflavin: 11% of the Daily Value (DV)
Niacin: 11% of the DV
Copper: 39% of the DV
Vitamin B5: 33% of the DV
Selenium: 10% of the DV
Manganese: 9% of the DV
Zinc: 8% of the DV
Vitamin B6: 7% of the DV
Folate: 6% of the DV
Vitamin D: 6% of the DV

Other potential benefits:

Shiitake mushroom contains antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties in addition to anti-inflammatory action.
May strengthen bones
Of all plants, Mushrooms are the only one that contains vitamin D.
In one study, mice fed a low-calcium, low-vitamin-D diet developed symptoms of osteoporosis. In comparison, those given calcium and UV-enhanced shiitake had higher bone density. Keep in mind that vitamin D from fish and certain meats are much more effective sources of vitamin D.

Shiitake Mushroom may aid in heart health

Shiitake mushrooms may be beneficial to heart health. They contain three compounds that reduce cholesterol.

Eritadenine. Inhibits an enzyme that contributes to cholesterol synthesis.
Sterols. Are molecules that assist in blocking cholesterol absorption in your gut.
Beta glucans. Is a type of fiber that helps with lowering cholesterol.

Shiitake powder was discovered in one study to protect against blood pressure increases in rats with high blood pressure. Rats fed a high-fat diet that received shiitake had less fat in their livers, plaque on their artery walls, and cholesterol levels than those who didn’t eat any mushrooms.

May boost the immune system

Shiitake may also be beneficial to your immune system. People who took two dried shiitake a day in one study had better immunological responses and lower inflammation levels after one month. (see study below)

A mouse study discovered that a supplement derived from shiitake helped reverse some age-related immunological decline. Immune function may weaken with age, but this mouse study revealed that a shiitake extract improved it. (see study below).

More about Reishi Mushroom

This fungus has been a mainstay in Eastern medicine for many years. Within the mushroom, several chemicals including triterpenoids, polysaccharides, and peptidoglycans might be responsible for its health benefits. While the mushrooms themselves may be eaten fresh, powdered forms of the mushroom or extracts containing these particular components are also common practice.

Here are some of the reported benefits of Reishi Mushroom.

Reishi Mushroom may boost the immune system

One of the most significant advantages of reishi is that it can improve your immune system. While some information is still missing, test-tube research has shown that reishi may affect white blood cells’ genes, which are vital components of your immune system. Furthermore, these studies revealed that certain types of reishi alter inflammation pathways in white blood cells.

Some of the compounds discovered in the mushroom have been shown in cancer patients to enhance the activity of a type of white blood cell known as natural killer cells. Natural killer cells fight germs and cancer in the body. Reishi has been found to increase the number of other white blood cells (lymphocytes) in persons with colorectal cancer, according to another research

Although reishi mushroom’s immune system advantages have been demonstrated only in people who are sick, some research indicates that it may help healthy individuals as well. In one study, the fungus increased lymphocyte activity, which helps to combat infections and cancer.

It is quite clear that reishi has an immunomodulating effect. It’s too early to tell what the long-term effects might be on healthy people and those with illnesses. Overall, it appears that reishi affects white blood cells and the immune system. More study is required to determine the degree of the benefits in both healthy and sick individuals.

Reishi Mushroom may have anti-cancer properties

The fungus is consumed by many people because of its anti-cancer benefits. In fact, according to one research of over 4,000 breast cancer survivors, around 59% took reishi mushrooms. Furthermore, several test-tube studies have shown that it can kill tumor cells. However, the findings of these investigations may or may not translate to effectiveness in animals or humans.

Due to the effects on the hormone, reishi has been investigated for its ability to help with prostate cancer. While one case study demonstrated that compounds found in this fungus may treat prostate cancer in people, a larger follow-up research did not support these findings. Reishi mushroom’s effect on preventing or treating colorectal cancer has also been researched.

According to research, reishi fungus inhibits the growth of cancer cells in the large intestine. Furthermore, a comprehensive report of several studies revealed that the mushroom can help cancer patients. These advantages included an increase in white blood cell activity, which aids in the fight against cancer, and a better quality of life for cancer sufferers.

Researchers, on the other hand, believe that reishi should be used in conjunction with conventional therapy rather than replacing it. Additionally, many of the research on reishi mushroom and cancer were of poor quality. As a result, further study is needed.

Reishi Mushroom may fight fatigue and depression.

The immunological effects of Reishi are frequently emphasized, but it has other potential benefits as well. These include reduced tiredness and sadness, as well as enhanced quality of life. In a study of 132 patients with neurasthenia, a poorly defined condition characterized by aches, pains, dizziness, headaches, and irritability, Reishi was found to have positive effects on mood.

After 8 weeks of taking the extracts, fatigue was diminished and well-being was enhanced, according to the researchers. Another study discovered that after 4 weeks of taking reishi powder in a group of 48 breast cancer survivors, tiredness was reduced and quality of life improved. In addition, anxiety and sadness were lessened among those studied.

Reishi Mushroom’s effect on heart health

A 12-week study of 26 people revealed that reishi mushroom might raise “good” HDL cholesterol and lower triglycerides. However, other studies in healthy individuals showed no change in these heart disease risk factors.

Furthermore, a comprehensive study found that reishi mushrooms do not improve heart health. The researchers discovered that consuming reishi mushroom for up to 16 weeks had no effect on cholesterol levels. In total, more research is needed on reishi mushrooms and heart health.

Reishi Mushroom’s effect on blood sugar.

According to several studies, compounds found in reishi mushrooms can lower blood sugar in animals. According to some early human research, similar findings were reported. However, the majority of research has not supported this advantage. Researchers discovered no advantages for fasting blood sugar after looking at hundreds of people.

Blood sugar levels after meals varied. In some cases, reishi mushroom reduced blood sugar, but in other circumstances, it raised it more than a placebo. More study is also required here.

Reishi Mushroom’s effect as an antioxidant

Antioxidants are compounds that may protect your cells from harm (31). Because of their vital function, there is a lot of attention being paid to foods and supplements that can boost antioxidant levels in the body. According to several people, reishi mushroom is capable of doing this. After consuming the fungus for 4 to 12 weeks, however, several studies have shown no change in two key antioxidant enzymes in blood concentrations.

References

References Lion’s Mane Mushroom:

Ulcer digestive tract:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25167134

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25532720

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26853960

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26364939

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23557368

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24302966

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29156761

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29677563

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26933886

Lion’s Mane Mushroom and Heart Disease

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3714447/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20622452

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24959591

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20637576

Lion’s Mane Mushroom and Diabetes

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28087447

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3852124/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4415746/

Lion’s Mane Mushroom and Cancer

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2896861/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26547693

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21779573

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24631140

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25306354

https://www.ncbi.nlmnih.gov/pubmed/15737684

Information

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3492709/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25529054

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/21716693

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23000690

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25960751

Lion’s Mane Mushroom Immune system:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28266682

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28713364

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22624604

Side effects:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14714963

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10344494

Chaga References

Chaga Mushroom and Inflammation:

Slavich GM. Understanding inflammation, its regulation, and relevance for health: a top scientific and public priority. Brain Behav Immun. 2015;45:13-14. doi:10.1016/j.bbi.2014.10.012
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4361086/

Kim YR. Immunomodulatory Activity of the Water Extract from Medicinal Mushroom Inonotus obliquus. Mycobiology. 2005;33(3):158-162. doi:10.4489/MYCO.2005.33.3.158
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3774877/

Ko SK, Jin M, Pyo MY. Inonotus obliquus extracts suppress antigen-specific IgE production through the modulation of Th1/Th2 cytokines in ovalbumin-sensitized mice. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Oct 11;137(3):1077-82. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2011.07.024. Epub 2011 Jul 28. PMID: 21820502.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21820502/

Se Young Choi, Sun Jin Hur, Chi Sun An, Yun Hui Jeon, Young Jun Jeoung, Jong Phil Bak, Beong Ou Lim, “Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Inonotus obliquus in Colitis Induced by Dextran Sodium Sulfate”, BioMed Research International, vol. 2010, Article ID 943516, 5 pages, 2010. https://doi.org/10.1155/2010/943516

Mishra SK, Kang JH, Kim DK, Oh SH, Kim MK. Orally administered aqueous extract of Inonotus obliquus ameliorates acute inflammation in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. J Ethnopharmacol. 2012 Sep 28;143(2):524-32. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2012.07.008. Epub 2012 Jul 20. PMID: 22819687.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22819687/

Chaga Mushroom and Cancer

Lee SH, Hwang HS, Yun JW. Antitumor activity of water extract of a mushroom, Inonotus obliquus, against HT-29 human colon cancer cells. Phytother Res. 2009 Dec;23(12):1784-9. doi: 10.1002/ptr.2836. PMID: 19367670.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19367670/

Arata S, Watanabe J, Maeda M, et al. Continuous intake of the Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) aqueous extract suppresses cancer progression and maintains body temperature in mice. Heliyon. 2016;2(5):e00111. Published 2016 May 12. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2016.e00111
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4946216/

Youn MJ, Kim JK, Park SY, Kim Y, Kim SJ, Lee JS, Chai KY, Kim HJ, Cui MX, So HS, Kim KY, Park R. Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) induces G0/G1 arrest and apoptosis in human hepatoma HepG2 cells. World J Gastroenterol. 2008 Jan 28;14(4):511-7. doi: 10.3748/wjg.14.511. PMID: 18203281; PMCID: PMC2681140.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18203281/

Anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities of extracts and compounds from the mushr https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308814613000526oom Inonotus obliquus, Food Chemistry, Volume 139, Issues 1–4, 2013,

Lee HS, Kim EJ, Kim SH. Ethanol extract of Innotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom) induces G1 cell cycle arrest in HT-29 human colon cancer cells. Nutr Res Pract. 2015 Apr;9(2):111-6. doi: 10.4162/nrp.2015.9.2.111. Epub 2015 Mar 12. PMID: 25861415; PMCID: PMC4388940.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25861415/

Chaga Mushroom and Blood Sugar

Wang C, Chen Z, Pan Y, Gao X, Chen H. Anti-diabetic effects of Inonotus obliquus polysaccharides-chromium (III) complex in type 2 diabetic mice and its sub-acute toxicity evaluation in normal mice. Food Chem Toxicol. 2017 Oct;108(Pt B):498-509. doi: 10.1016/j.fct.2017.01.007. Epub 2017 Jan 11. PMID: 28087233.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28087233/

Sun JE, Ao ZH, Lu ZM, Xu HY, Zhang XM, Dou WF, Xu ZH. Antihyperglycemic and antilipidperoxidative effects of dry matter of culture broth of Inonotus obliquus in submerged culture on normal and alloxan-diabetes mice. J Ethnopharmacol. 2008 Jun 19;118(1):7-13. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2008.02.030. Epub 2008 Mar 4. PMID: 18434051.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18434051/

Wang J, Wang C, Li S, Li W, Yuan G, Pan Y, Chen H. Anti-diabetic effects of Inonotus obliquus polysaccharides in streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic mice and potential mechanism via PI3K-Akt signal pathway. Biomed Pharmacother. 2017 Nov;95:1669-1677. doi: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.09.104. Epub 2017 Oct 6. PMID: 28954386.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28954386/

Hypoglycemic Effects of Fermented Chaga Mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) in the Diabetic Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) Rat [2006]

Cha, J.Y. (Daesun Distilling Co., Ltd., Busan, Republic of Korea); Jun, B.S. (Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea); Kim, J.W. (Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea); Park, S.H. (Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea); et al.
https://agris.fao.org/agris-search/search.do?recordID=KR2007000481

Diao BZ, Jin WR, Yu XJ. Protective Effect of Polysaccharides from Inonotus obliquus on Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Symptoms and Their Potential Mechanisms in Rats. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2014;2014:841496. doi:10.1155/2014/841496
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4100277/

Maitake Mushroom references:

Maitake Mushroom Cancer

Eliana Noelia Alonso, Manuela Orozco, Alvaro Eloy Nieto, and Gabriela Andrea Balogh.Journal of Medicinal Food.Jul 2013.602-617.http://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2012.0222

Masuda Y, Inoue H, Ohta H, Miyake A, Konishi M, Nanba H. Oral administration of soluble β-glucans extracted from Grifola frondosa induces systemic antitumor immune response and decreases immunosuppression in tumor-bearing mice. Int J Cancer. 2013 Jul;133(1):108-19. doi: 10.1002/ijc.27999. Epub 2013 Feb 15. PMID: 23280601.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23280601/

Maitake D-Fraction, a natural mushroom extract, synergizes with Interleukin-2 for increased lytic activity of peripheral blood mononuclear cells against various human tumor cell histologies

Derek M. Johnson; Eliot Edwards; Adriana Rosales; Timothy C. Birdsall; Edgar D. Staren; Donald P. Braun https://aacrjournals.org/cancerres/article/72/8_Supplement/3515/580445/Abstract-3515-Maitake-D-Fraction-a-natural

Maitake Mushroom and Cholesterol:

Effect of Dietary Maitake (Grifola frondosa) Mushrooms on Plasma Cholesterol and Hepatic Gene Expression in Cholesterol-Fed Mice. Mayumi Sato, Yoshihiko Tokuji, Shozo Yoneyama, Kyoko Fujii-Akiyama, Mikio Kinoshita, Hideyuki Chiji, Masao Ohnishi

Maitake Mushroom and Type 2 Diabetes

Chen YH, Lee CH, Hsu TH, Lo HC. Submerged-Culture Mycelia and Broth of the Maitake Medicinal Mushroom Grifola frondosa (Higher Basidiomycetes) Alleviate Type 2 Diabetes-Induced Alterations in Immunocytic Function. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2015;17(6):541-56. doi: 10.1615/intjmedmushrooms.v17.i6.50. PMID: 26349512.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26349512/

References Shiitake Mushroom

Shiitake Mushroom and Heart health

Eva Guillamón, Ana García-Lafuente, Miguel Lozano, Matilde D´Arrigo, Mauricio A. Rostagno, Ana Villares, José Alfredo Martínez,

Edible mushrooms: Role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases,

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0367326X10001358

Phillips KM, Ruggio DM, Horst RL, Minor B, Simon RR, Feeney MJ, Byrdwell WC, Haytowitz DB. Vitamin D and sterol composition of 10 types of mushrooms from retail suppliers in the United States. J Agric Food Chem. 2011 Jul 27;59(14):7841-53. doi: 10.1021/jf104246z. Epub 2011 Jun 23. PMID: 21663327.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21663327/

Bak WC, Park JH, Park YA, Ka KH. Determination of Glucan Contents in the Fruiting Bodies and Mycelia of Lentinula edodes Cultivars. Mycobiology. 2014 Sep;42(3):301-4. doi: 10.5941/MYCO.2014.42.3.301. Epub 2014 Sep 30. PMID: 25346611; PMCID: PMC4206800.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25346611/

Kabir Y, Yamaguchi M, Kimura S. Effect of shiitake (Lentinus edodes) and maitake (Grifola frondosa) mushrooms on blood pressure and plasma lipids of spontaneously hypertensive rats. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 1987 Oct;33(5):341-6. doi: 10.3177/jnsv.33.341. PMID: 3443885.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3443885/

Shiitake Mushroom and Immune system

Dai X, Stanilka JM, Rowe CA, Esteves EA, Nieves C Jr, Spaiser SJ, Christman MC, Langkamp-Henken B, Percival SS. Consuming Lentinula edodes (Shiitake) Mushrooms Daily Improves Human Immunity: A Randomized Dietary Intervention in Healthy Young Adults. J Am Coll Nutr. 2015;34(6):478-87. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2014.950391. Epub 2015 Apr 11. PMID: 25866155.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25866155/

Shiitake Mushroom and Cancer

Huang X, Nie S. The structure of mushroom polysaccharides and their beneficial role in health. Food Funct. 2015 Oct;6(10):3205-17. doi: 10.1039/c5fo00678c. PMID: 26345165. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26345165/

Xu T, Beelman RB, Lambert JD. The cancer preventive effects of edible mushrooms. Anticancer Agents Med Chem. 2012 Dec;12(10):1255-63. doi: 10.2174/187152012803833017. PMID: 22583406. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22583406/

Xin Meng, Hebin Liang, Lixin Luo,

Antitumor polysaccharides from mushrooms: a review on the structural characteristics, antitumor mechanisms and immunomodulating activities,

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0008621516300362

Xu X, Yan H, Tang J, Chen J, Zhang X. Polysaccharides in Lentinus edodes: isolation, structure, immunomodulating activity and future prospective. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2014;54(4):474-87. doi: 10.1080/10408398.2011.587616. PMID: 24236998.

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Shiitake Mushroom and Antibacterial and viral effects

Lindequist U, Niedermeyer TH, Jülich WD. The pharmacological potential of mushrooms. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2005;2(3):285-299. doi:10.1093/ecam/neh107 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1193547/

Kuo-Hsiung Lee, Susan L. Morris-Natschke, Xiaoming Yang, Rong Huang, Ting Zhou, Shou-Fang Wu, Qian Shi, Hideji Itokawa,

Recent progress of research on medicinal mushrooms, foods, and other herbal products used in traditional Chinese medicine,

Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2225411016300815

Shiitake Mushroom and bone strength

Lee GS, Byun HS , Yoon KH, Lee JS, Choi KC, Jeung EB. Dietary calcium and vitamin D2 supplementation with enhanced Lentinula edodes improves osteoporosis-like symptoms and induces duodenal and renal active calcium transport gene expression in mice. Eur J Nutr. 2009 Mar;48(2):75-83. doi: 10.1007/s00394-008-0763-2. Epub 2008 Dec 17. PMID: 19093162. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19093162/

Reishi Mushroom References

Reishi Mushroom and Immune System

Lin ZB. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of immuno-modulation by Ganoderma lucidum. J Pharmacol Sci. 2005 Oct;99(2):144-53. doi: 10.1254/jphs.crj05008x. PMID: 16230843. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16230843/

Cheng CH, Leung AY, Chen CF. The effects of two different ganoderma species (Lingzhi) on gene expression in human monocytic THP-1 cells. Nutr Cancer. 2010;62(5):648-58. doi: 10.1080/01635581003605516. PMID: 20574926. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20574926/

Gao Y, Zhou S, Jiang W, Huang M, Dai X. Effects of ganopoly (a Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide extract) on the immune functions in advanced-stage cancer patients. Immunol Invest. 2003 Aug;32(3):201-15. doi: 10.1081/imm-120022979. PMID: 12916709. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12916709/

Mandal A, Viswanathan C. Natural killer cells: In health and disease. Hematol Oncol Stem Cell Ther. 2015 Jun;8(2):47-55. doi: 10.1016/j.hemonc.2014.11.006. Epub 2014 Dec 27. PMID: 25571788. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25571788/

Chen X, Hu ZP, Yang XX, Huang M, Gao Y, Tang W, Chan SY, Dai X, Ye J, Ho PC, Duan W, Yang HY, Zhu YZ, Zhou SF. Monitoring of immune responses to a herbal immuno-modulator in patients with advanced colorectal cancer. Int Immunopharmacol. 2006 Mar;6(3):499-508. doi: 10.1016/j.intimp.2005.08.026. Epub 2005 Sep 15. PMID: 16428086. Https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16428086/

Zhang Y, Lin Z, Hu Y, Wang F. Effect of Ganoderma lucidum capsules on T lymphocyte subsets in football players on “living high-training low”. Br J Sports Med. 2008 Oct;42(10):819-22. doi: 10.1136/bjsm.2007.038620. Epub 2007 Nov 29. Erratum in: Br J Sports Med. 2009 Apr;43(4):310-1. PMID: 18048435. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18048435/

Wachtel-Galor S, Tomlinson B, Benzie IF. Ganoderma lucidum (“Lingzhi”), a Chinese medicinal mushroom: biomarker responses in a controlled human supplementation study. Br J Nutr. 2004 Feb;91(2):263-9. doi: 10.1079/BJN20041039. PMID: 14756912. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14756912/

Reishi Mushroom and Cancer

Yihuai Gao & Shufeng Zhou (2003) Cancer Prevention and Treatment by Ganoderma, a Mushroom with Medicinal Properties, Food Reviews International, 19:3, 275-325, DOI: 10.1081/FRI-120023480 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1081/FRI-120023480?scroll=top&needAccess=true

Liu YW, Gao JL, Guan J, Qian ZM, Feng K, Li SP. Evaluation of antiproliferative activities and action mechanisms of extracts from two species of Ganoderma on tumor cell lines. J Agric Food Chem. 2009 Apr 22;57(8):3087-93. doi: 10.1021/jf900011f. PMID: 19368349. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19368349/

Chung WT, Lee SH, Kim JD, Park YS, Hwang B, Lee SY, Lee HY. Effect of mycelial culture broth of Ganoderma lucidum on the growth characteristics of human cell lines. J Biosci Bioeng. 2001;92(6):550-5. doi: 10.1263/jbb.92.550. PMID: 16233144. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16233144/

Jie Liu, Kenji Kurashiki, Atsuko Fukuta, Shuhei Kaneko, Yoshitaro Suimi, Kuniyoshi Shimizu, Ryuichiro Kondo,

Quantitative determination of the representative triterpenoids in the extracts of Ganoderma lucidum with different growth stages using high-performance liquid chromatography for evaluation of their 5α-reductase inhibitory properties,

Food Chemistry, Volume 133, Issue 3, 2012, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308814612000672

Ghafar MA, Golliday E, Bingham J, Mansukhani MM, Anastasiadis AG, Katz AE. Regression of prostate cancer following administration of Genistein Combined Polysaccharide (GCP), a nutritional supplement: a case report. J Altern Complement Med. 2002 Aug;8(4):493-7. doi: 10.1089/107555302760253694. PMID: 12230910. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12230910/

deVere White RW, Hackman RM, Soares SE, Beckett LA, Li Y, Sun B. Effects of a genistein-rich extract on PSA levels in men with a history of prostate cancer. Urology. 2004 Feb;63(2):259-63. doi: 10.1016/j.urology.2003.09.061. PMID: 14972467. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14972467/

Oka S, Tanaka S, Yoshida S, Hiyama T, Ueno Y, Ito M, Kitadai Y, Yoshihara M, Chayama K. A water-soluble extract from culture medium of Ganoderma lucidum mycelia suppresses the development of colorectal adenomas. Hiroshima J Med Sci. 2010 Mar;59(1):1-6. PMID: 20518254. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20518254/

Jin X, Ruiz Beguerie J, Sze DM, Chan GC. Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom) for cancer treatment. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016 Apr 5;4(4):CD007731. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD007731.pub3. PMID: 27045603; PMCID: PMC6353236. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27045603/

Santesso N, Wieland LS. A Summary of a Cochrane Review: Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom) for the treatment of cancer. Eur J Integr Med. 2016 Oct;8(5):619-620. doi: 10.1016/j.eujim.2016.07.025. Epub 2016 Jul 20. PMID: 28083078; PMCID: PMC5222619. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28083078/

Reishi Mushroom and Fatigue and Depression

Tang W, Gao Y, Chen G, Gao H, Dai X, Ye J, Chan E, Huang M, Zhou S. A randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled study of a Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide extract in neurasthenia. J Med Food. 2005 Spring;8(1):53-8. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2005.8.53. PMID: 15857210. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15857210/

Zhao H, Zhang Q, Zhao L, Huang X, Wang J, Kang X. Spore Powder of Ganoderma lucidum Improves Cancer-Related Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Endocrine Therapy: A Pilot Clinical Trial. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012;2012:809614. doi: 10.1155/2012/809614. Epub 2011 Dec 10. PMID: 22203880; PMCID: PMC3236089. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22203880/

Reishi Mushroom and Heart Health

Chu TT, Benzie IF, Lam CW, Fok BS, Lee KK, Tomlinson B. Study of potential cardioprotective effects of Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi): results of a controlled human intervention trial. Br J Nutr. 2012 Apr;107(7):1017-27. doi: 10.1017/S0007114511003795. Epub 2011 Aug 1. PMID: 21801467. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21801467/

Klupp NL, Chang D, Hawke F, Kiat H, Cao H, Grant SJ, Bensoussan A. Ganoderma lucidum mushroom for the treatment of cardiovascular risk factors. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015 Feb 17;2015(2):CD007259. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD007259.pub2. PMID: 25686270; PMCID: PMC6486141. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25686270/

Reishi Mushroom and Blood Sugar

Xiao C, Wu QP, Cai W, Tan JB, Yang XB, Zhang JM. Hypoglycemic effects of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides in type 2 diabetic mice. Arch Pharm Res. 2012 Oct;35(10):1793-801. doi: 10.1007/s12272-012-1012-z. Epub 2012 Nov 9. PMID: 23139131. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23139131/

Pan D, Zhang D, Wu J, Chen C, Xu Z, Yang H, Zhou P. Antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant activities of a novel proteoglycan from ganoderma lucidum fruiting bodies on db/db mice and the possible mechanism. PLoS One. 2013 Jul 11;8(7):e68332. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0068332. PMID: 23874589; PMCID: PMC3708940. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23874589/

Reishi Mushroom and Antioxidants

Thomas Sandberg

The Animal Naturopath

Thomas Sandberg is a researcher, animal activist, author and Animal Naturopath that is board certified by the American Council of Animal Naturopathy and by American Association of Drugless Practitioners. He was born in Norway but now lives in Park City, Utah, with his pack of two Great Danes and two cats.

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