The immunomodulatory virtues of medicinal mushrooms offer therapeutic value in the treatment of immune conditions, such as MS, rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid conditions.
For centuries, medicinal mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of disorders and enhance health. Research has begun to validate these practices in recent years, revealing several health benefits associated with these fungi (1). A wide variety of medicinal mushrooms are used today to support the immune system and overall immune function, as well as for conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and thyroid disorders like Graves’ and Hashimoto’s.
How can medicinal mushrooms support the immune system?
Medicinal mushrooms contain a variety of pharmacologically active compounds that contribute to their health-promoting properties. These compounds include polysaccharides such as beta-glucans, triterpenoids, and lectins, which can modulate the immune system in several ways (2).
Enhance immune surveillance
Mushrooms like reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) and shiitake (Lentinula edodes) contain beta-glucans, which are known to enhance the activity of macrophages, natural killer (NK) cells, and dendritic cells (3). These cells are crucial for identifying and eliminating pathogens and cancer cells.
Anti-inflammatory effects
Chronic inflammation is a common factor in many autoimmune diseases. Mushrooms such as reishi and chaga (Inonotus obliquus) have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of inflammatory responses and protect tissues from damage (4).
Please note: Chaga populations are under threat, so we strongly discourage the use of chaga, especially from wild-harvested sources.
Antioxidant properties
Medicinal mushrooms are high in antioxidants, which provide protection from oxidative stress. The effects of oxidative stress can lead to immune dysfunction and chronic inflammation (25). Several antioxidant properties in chaga and cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) have been shown to reduce the oxidative stress in inflammatory conditions (5).
Modulate immune responses
Certain mushrooms can help balance immune responses, making them particularly beneficial for autoimmune conditions. For instance, turkey tail (Trametes versicolor) contains polysaccharides that can modulate immune activity, potentially reducing the overactive immune responses seen in autoimmune conditions (7).
Medicinal mushrooms for multiple sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerves known as the myelin sheath, leading to nerve damage and impaired communication between the brain and the rest of the body (8). Medicinal mushrooms may offer supportive benefits for MS patients through their immune-modulating and neuroprotective effects; however, current clinical trials to evidence this is limited.
Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Known for its neuroprotective properties, lion’s mane contains compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which can stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production. NGF is crucial for the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons (9). By promoting NGF production, lion’s mane may help protect nerve cells in MS patients. There may be further benefit for those suffering with MS in taking the extract of the fruiting body of lion’s mane as it has been demonstrated to support the myelination process of mature myelinating fibres (10).
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
The beta-glucans found in reishi have been shown to have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial in managing MS. It can help regulate immune responses and reduce inflammation, potentially alleviating some symptoms associated with the disease (11).
Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis)
Cordyceps has been shown to improve energy levels and reduce fatigue, which are common issues for individuals with MS (12). Additionally, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can support overall immune health and potentially mitigate disease progression (13).
Medicinal mushrooms for rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder characterised by chronic inflammation of the joints. Medicinal mushrooms can help manage RA symptoms through their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties (14).
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Among some of reishi’s constituents, the polysaccharides have been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect to reduce joint inflammation and pain in RA patients. Extracts of reishi mushroom have been shown to have an immunomodulatory effect, which may help to regulate the immune system in RA thereby reducing the damage that occurs in joints and tissues (15).
Black hoof mushroom (Phellinus linteus)
In one study that used polysaccharide extracts from the black hoof mushroom (Phellinus linteus), there was a reduction in the pro-inflammatory signalling molecules and an increase the anti-inflammatory signalling molecules which resulted in reduction of RA symptoms of the murine subjects, which shows promising use for RA in future human clinical trials (16).
Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)
Shiitake mushrooms contain polysaccharides that have been shown to enhance immune function and reduce inflammation. These properties can be beneficial in managing RA symptoms and improving joint health (17).
You can try this delicious shiitake mushroom soup.
Maitake (Grifola frondosa)
Maitake mushrooms contain a polysaccharide called D-fraction, which has immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that maitake can help reduce inflammation and pain in RA patients, improving their quality of life (18).
Medicinal mushrooms for thyroid autoimmune conditions (Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease)
Thyroid autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease involve the immune system attacking the thyroid gland, leading to either hypothyroidism (Hashimoto’s) or hyperthyroidism (Graves’ disease. Through their immunomodulating, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, medicinal mushrooms can support thyroid health and help to regulate immune responses in these conditions (19).
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Reishi’s immunomodulatory properties can support the regulation of a type of white blood cell, known as T cells, potentially reducing the immune system attacking the thyroid gland. Several studies have been done on mice that have demonstrated T-cell regulation in induced colitis resulting in a reduction in intestinal inflammation, which may provide insights into its immunomodulatory role in anti-inflammatory effects (20, 21).
Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis)
Cordyceps can help regulate immune function and improve energy levels, which is particularly beneficial for those with hypothyroidism. Its adaptogenic properties support overall endocrine health, which can be advantageous for thyroid conditions (19).
Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor)
Turkey tail mushrooms contain polysaccharide-K (PSK) and polysaccharopeptide (PSP), which have immune-modulating effects. These compounds can help balance the immune system and potentially reduce the autoimmune response against the thyroid (24).
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)
There are no direct studies currently indicating specific use for autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease, however, chaga’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may support thyroid health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation (22). The extract of chaga has been shown to reduce T-cells (white blood cells related to the immune system) and the immune reactions they trigger (23). Its immune-modulating effects could potentially balance immune activity in thyroid autoimmune conditions.
Practical considerations and usage of medicinal mushrooms for immune support
When considering medicinal mushrooms for immune support and autoimmune conditions, it is essential to use high-quality products from reputable sources.
It is important to consider not only the mushroom you wish to use, but also the extraction method and part of the mushroom being used before purchasing it. Mushrooms can be consumed in various forms, including powders, capsules, extracts such as tinctures, and teas.
Ensure the mushrooms are organically grown and free from contaminants. Look for third-party testing and certification to guarantee quality as well as full traceability. Labels on the packaging should state the extraction method used, part of the mushroom used, quantity of the part of the mushroom used per dosage and recommended dosages.
Some commercial products may advertise their products as ‘immune boosting’, whereas some of the mushrooms are immune-modulating which is important to consider with auto-immune conditions. Some mushrooms and their extracts may be contraindicated with medication, so it is important to seek guidance from a qualified medical herbalist if you are taking medication or have any complex conditions, to ensure safety and appropriateness. Dosage varies depending on the specific mushroom and individual health needs.
Medicinal mushrooms offer a promising avenue for supporting immune function and managing autoimmune conditions. Their bioactive compounds provide anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects that can benefit individuals with MS, RA, and thyroid autoimmune disorders. As scientific research continues to explore and validate these benefits, medicinal mushrooms are gaining recognition as valuable tools in the realm of integrative medicine. By incorporating these fungi into a comprehensive healthcare plan, individuals can use medicinal mushrooms to support their immune health and overall well-being.
For further guidance on how medicinal mushrooms can help support your health needs, you can work with a qualified medical herbalist and mycotherapist. Explore our resources to find a herbalist.
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