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The Healf Source
Making Mushrooms Make Sense
Written by: Pippa Thackeray
Written on: March 12, 2025
Groundbreaking and unique, there are an estimated 650 species of medicinal mushroom types globally and the evidence to support their expansive range of uses keeps on growing with every study.
In this article, we’ll be providing an overview of the rich world of medicinal mushrooms, breaking it down into bite size pieces and covering exciting developments in the latest research.
A 2023 study found that a single 1.8g dose of Lion’s Mane mushroom extract significantly improved cognitive performance in adults, incredibly within just one hour.
A trial with 52 healthy adults showed that daily shiitake mushroom consumption for four weeks significantly increased immune cell activity.
A 2010 study found that daily supplementation with 3g of Cordyceps sinensis (Cs-4) boosted metabolic threshold by 10.5%.
Why medicinal mushrooms are a big topic in health
These ancient species have been present long before human existence and continued to evolve to survive predators of their own. Therefore, many of the chemicals that fungi produce to help them thrive also interact with human biology in similar ways. They produce a number of compounds with antibiotic, immune system modulating and cholesterol-lowering potential, of which the current research is only beginning to reveal in greater detail.
Traditionally celebrated for its neuroprotective properties, Lion's Mane has been shown to support brain health and enhance memory. A 2024 study demonstrated that supplementation with Lion's Mane improved cognitive function in older adults, suggesting a potential for mitigating age-related cognitive decline.
Healf recommends: Mushrooms For Life's Organic Lion's Mane Focus Capsules
Used historically to power athletic performance, Cordyceps has been found to improve oxygen utilisation and stamina as a nutraceutical. Research from 2020 shows that it improves renal (kidney) function, maintains bone health, as well as protecting the liver and the immune system.
Further studies indicate that athletes supplementing with Cordyceps experienced a significant increase in VO₂ max, highlighting its potential in boosting endurance.
Healf recommends: Rainbo Cordyceps - Energy Super-Mushroom
Rich in antioxidants, Chaga is highly regarded for its immune-supporting properties and its ability to combat oxidative stress. It has been used medicinally since the sixteenth century. Studies have shown that Chaga extract has the ability to reduce inflammation and strengthen the body's natural defences.
Healf recommends: Chaga from Dirtea
Recognised for its diverse range of polysaccharides, Turkey Tail has been extensively studied for its immune-modulating effects. Perhaps most notably, research has demonstrated its potential in supporting cancer patients by enhancing immune function during treatment.
Healf recommends: Wild Crafted Turkey Tail by Mushrooms for life
Beyond the popular culinary uses, Shiitake is known for its potential to support cardiovascular health and immune function. Compounds found in Shiitake have been linked to cholesterol reduction and improved heart health.
Healf recommends: Bristol Fungarium Organic Shiitake Tincture
Often referred to as "nature's sleeping pill," Reishi is valued for its calming effects, aiding in mood regulation, sleep improvement, and anxiety reduction. Recent studies have shown the extent of Reishi's role in supporting mental well-being and its potential as a natural remedy for stress-related conditions.
Healf recommends: Rainbo's Reishi Adaptogen Super-Mushroom
Lion’s Mane for optimising brain health
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is in the headlines a lot at the moment, and it is far from just another passing wellbeing trend, it’s a shining light at the centre of neurological research.
A 2024 study published by the Oncology Nursing Society found that Lion’s Mane supplementation may help reduce stress and depression, alongside improving cognition and memory. The findings suggest that this mushroom could play a role in mental resilience and neurodegenerative disease prevention.
Healf recommends: Pistachio & Lion's Mane - Cosmic Dealer
What can we expect to learn about mushrooms in the near future?
Future research into medicinal mushrooms is expected to uncover more insights into their mental health benefits, immune-boosting properties, and longevity potential. Studies may be successful in their further clarification of how Lion’s Mane supports neuroplasticity, how Reishi and Turkey Tail enhance immunity, and how mushroom-derived antioxidants combat ageing at a cellular level.
The takeaways
While it’s true that medicinal mushrooms have made their way into the mainstream, researchers continue to uncover new therapeutic potentials, and these fungi may become vitally important in areas we never expected. We look forward to seeing more pioneering research in the near future.
Shop Superfood at Healf for our extensive range of carefully curated medicinal mushrooms and other items for EAT, MIND, MOVE, SLEEP, and beyond.
This article is for informational purposes only, even if and regardless of whether it features the advice of physicians and medical practitioners. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. The views expressed in this article are the views of the expert and do not necessarily represent the views of Healf
Pippa is a content writer and qualified Nutritional Therapist (DipNT) creating research-based content with a passion for many areas of wellbeing, including hormonal health, mental health and digestive health.
As a contributor to The Healf Source, she regularly attends seminars and programmes on a plethora of contemporary health issues and modern research insights with a drive to never stop learning. In addition, interviewing experts and specialists across The Four Pillars: EAT, MOVE, MIND, SLEEP.
In her spare time, she is an avid swimmer, mindfulness and yoga lover, occasionally bringing a raw, honest approach to the topics she faces. You may also discover some personal accounts of eye-opening wellbeing experiences amidst the reality of a disorientating, and often conflicting, modern wellbeing space.
