Are you a mushroom soup lover and like to try different edible mushrooms? Well, this article is for you! Mushrooms are fleshy substances typically found on fungus-stricken soil, ground, and food sources. They are widely known for their umbrella shape; their beautiful looks add beauty to natural scenery, and edible ones are incredibly delicious with multiple health effects. They belong to the category of fungi, and most of them are found in North America and Europe. They are one of nature’s greatest blessings, with many beneficial effects that address specific psychological and physiological issues.  

Benefits of Edible Mushrooms: 

Mushrooms are best for diet-conscious people who are always concerned about their calorie intake. They hold various nutrients with low calories and serve the body with a complete diet. Mushrooms absorb nutrients from the external environment; for instance, absorbing Vitamin D that aids the immune system and bone health.  

• Boosts Immune System:

Inflammation and the immune system have a huge correlation. The inflammation invites the production and proliferation of various immune components. As the mushrooms enter the body, the inflamed sites get affected because of the mushroom’s anti-inflammatory properties. The macrophages get activated and reach the inflammation site, which is how it starts the immune system. It helps protect the body against various microorganisms and infections.  

• Regulating Blood Pressure:

Besides other nutrients, mushrooms are rich in Potassium. Potassium combines with Sodium in the calcium-potassium channels of the body. Sodium is well-known for accelerating blood pressure; Potassium competes with Sodium and ultimately hinders its blood pressure increasing property. That’s how I can regulate blood pressure with mushrooms. The regulation of blood pressure keeps the heart intact and healthy. 

• Improve neurodegenerative conditions:

Some edible mushrooms can be medicinal, I.e., they improve conditions that generally require medication. One such mushroom is Reishi, which helps with neurodegenerative disorders, especially Alzheimer’s disease. 

• Mediates Gastrointestinal Health:

Mushrooms contain certain compounds like prebiotics that aid the growth of beneficial bacteria and keep the gut in a healthy and favourable environment. Good gut health ensures proper digestion of food which serves adequate nutrition to the body. The functions of the body thus stay in a balance. 

Different Types of Edible Mushrooms: 

Edible mushrooms are present in various shapes, sizes, and colours worldwide. It is dangerous that a novice can mistake a poisonous mushroom for an edible mushroom. We will list a few common edible mushrooms so that we are able to figure out how they work.

• Oyster Mushroom:

These mushrooms come with beautiful light-coloured frills, and it is pretty easy to grow no matter where you live. You can taste the best oyster mushrooms if you roast them with herbs.

• Porcini or Cep:

Porcini are connected to the first winter rain around pine trees. Their flavour is nutty and earthy; guess what? You can cook them in any way.

• Morels:

Long, spongy morels are rare but worth all the effort. They have a nutty flavour, and you won’t want to overpower its flavour with something else with solid flavour. You may like to stuff it up with meat or vegetables.

• Truffles:

You smell it; you get it! Nature’s goodness, “Truffles”, grows underground. They may not be very attractive to the eyes, but they hold such a rich earthy flavour that even a tiny amount in your food is unbeatable.

They are rarely used because one can’t transport them over a considerable distance, and hence, it is challenging to grow.

• Portobello Mushrooms:

Portobello is for you if you love garlic or rosemary in your food as it cooks well with these two. Nonetheless, it can handle any sort of cooking. It is brown and white.

Are Edible Mushrooms Safe for Everyone?

You may like to test a small amount of mushroom when trying a new mushroom since you may unknowingly be allergic to its components. Mushrooms with Psilocybin may cause hallucinations, and hence, you need to take precautionary measures with them. The mushrooms you find at departmental stores are generally safe for everybody.

Tips to Consider before Consuming Mushrooms:

One must consider the following tips before picking, buying or consuming mushrooms for a safe experience.

• Always buy from a reputable store.
• Some edible mushrooms can be dangerous when eaten raw, so you must check how a mushroom works best before consuming it.
• Make sure that you are not mistaking poisonous mushrooms for edible mushrooms when picking yourself. Sound knowledge is necessary to identify them apart.
• Thoroughly wash and clean the mushroom before consuming it.

Takeaway:

Edible mushrooms are the best bet if you have found the one that suits you the most. We recommend trying different mushrooms to find your favourite one.