The chaga mushroom grows on birch trees throughout the northern hemisphere. It resembles a dark clump of dirt more than a mushroom, but is distinguished from other growths by its orange tissue.

Chaga is a nutrient dense superfood, rich in antioxidants. In studies, chaga has shown potential in treatment of cancer. Research also shows chaga can improve immunity, reduce chronic inflammation and balance blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) has been called the mushroom of immortality; in Chinese this mushroom is known as Ling Zhi. Native to Europe, Asia and North America, Reishi has been revered in China for thousands of years. It is depicted in many Chinese works of art and is utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

The fruiting bodies of this mushroom contain polysaccharides, specifically a type called beta-glucans, which have been studied to support immune health and overall wellness, as well as normal, healthy cell growth and turnover. Modern uses of Reishi include cardiovascular support, a healthy stress response, healthy energy/stamina, overall wellness and immune health.

Reishi has health benefits that are wide-reaching in effect beyond supporting our stress response.  It is antimicrobial against viruses, bacteria, and other fungi such as candida. It is anti-inflammatory and supports the immune system as well as promoting heart, liver, and kidney health.  But the focus of Reishi for this discussion is its ability to enhance our ability to handle the curve balls of life.

Reishi also appears to work on the HPA by improving the function of the adrenal glands themselves. Stress is perceived by the nervous system and the signal is transmitted to the command centre of the brain (the hypothalamus), which in turn relays the message to the adrenal glands stimulating the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine (a.k.a. adrenaline).  Targets for modulating the stress response, therefore, include the nervous system as well as the HPA or Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis.

This makes reishi an excellent herb choice for calming the mind, easing anxiety, promoting sleep, grounding and centering us, and fostering greater resilience to stress over time.

Maitake mushrooms are rich in:

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

In studies, Maitake has shown to be useful for suppressing tumor growth in mice, as well as killing human cancer cells. Another study has shown its potential to treat type 2 diabetes.

Shiitake contains polysaccharides, terpenoids, sterols, and lipids, some of which have cholesterol-lowering, immune-boosting, and anticancer effects.

Shiitake mushrooms may boost heart health. They have three compounds that help lower cholesterol:

• Eritadenine. This compound inhibits an enzyme involved in producing cholesterol.
• Sterols. These molecules help block cholesterol absorption in your gut.
• Beta glucans. This type of fiber can lower cholesterol.

One study gave people two dried shiitake daily. After one month, their immune markers improved and their inflammation levels dropped.

Polysaccharopeptides are protein-bound polysaccharides (carbohydrates) that are found in the turkey tail mushroom. Two types of polysaccharopeptides found in turkey tails are Krestin (PSK) and Polysaccharide Peptide (PSP). Both PSK and PSP possess powerful immune-boosting properties. They promote immune response by both activating and inhibiting specific types of immune cells and by suppressing inflammation.

Turkey tail contains an array of antioxidants, including phenols and flavonoids. Phenol and flavonoid antioxidants promote immune system health by reducing inflammation and stimulating the release of protective compounds.