MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS

By Juliet Almendro

What if I was to tell you that mushrooms could be so much more than just a mundane ingredient in your nana’s favourite pasta dish? Well, it’s true! The mushroom mania that has taken the world by storm is not because they’re such fun-guys, but rather because of their incredible medicinal properties.

Although psilocybe cubensis – also known as magic mushrooms - have a history of being associated with recreational pursuits such as singing Pink Floyd songs around a campfire in the 70s, they’ve also been ingested throughout the ages as a tool for self-discovery and spiritual experiences. Today, they’re being increasingly used in both holistic and clinical settings to manage and treat a number of disorders, including Alzheimer’s, anorexia nervosa, opioid addiction, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

But magic mushrooms aren’t the only incredible species – their nonpsychoactive counterparts boast some impressive health benefits, too.

Here’s a guide to some of our favourites…

Mushroom Type Potential Health Benefits

Reishi • Immune support • Blood sugar control • Stress reduction • Sleep support

Cordyceps • Improved sporting performance • Anti-ageing properties • Assistance in type 2 diabetes management • Inflammation support

Lion’s Mane • Improved cognitive function • Immune support • Increased mental clarity and focus • Enhanced physical and mental relaxation

How to Take Them Fun Fact

• Eaten raw, cooked or dried • Capsules • Teas • Tinctures • Powders Originally, reishi and cordyceps mushrooms were so rare and sought after that they were served to royalty.

• Eaten cooked (consuming them raw is not advised, as you may experience nausea and an upset stomach) • Capsules • Teas • Tinctures • Powders

• Eaten raw, cooked or dried • Capsules • Teas • Tinctures • Powders Cordyceps is a favourite amongst athletes, as it increases our oxygen intake and ATP energy production. It’s best taken in the morning or before a workout, and avoided before bedtime.

Lion’s Mane stimulates and repairs the brain’s nerve cells, thus increasing cognitive function and reducing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia.

DID YOU KNOW? Cordyceps, known as the killer fungus, infects insects (mostly ants) and starts to control their muscles, directing them to a high perch, where a zombie-like metamorphosis begins. The fungus then slowly kills the insect, and sprouts a fruiting body from their head, spreading its spores to all unfortunate, unsuspecting insects below, in the hopes of the process repeating. Not to worry, though - humans are, of course, not affected in this way, and the powerful fungi actually has some incredible benefits for us!

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For Life!

Sfera Bio Nutrition manufactures innovative health supplements and complementary medicine, using only the finest raw materials. Sfera draws together years of expert skills, experience, and a dedicated focus on natural remedies with the goal of promoting health.

Sfera have established an ingenious range of medicinal mushroom products that support healthy living. Visit our website to view our entire range and learn more.

Promotes and maintains overall cognitive health Source of polysaccharides with immunomodulating properties

Provides antioxidants which help protect cells against the oxidative effects of free radicals

Helps support liver function May reduce fatigue

May increase energy and stamina, improving athletic performance