As National Mushroom Day approaches and the cold and flu season looms, we caught up with Yarrow Willard, a second-generation Clinical/Master Herbalist and co-founder of Harmonic Arts. With his expertise in botanical medicine, Yarrow shares the latest science and research on functional mushrooms, fresh from the International Medicinal Mushroom Conference in Italy. From boosting immunity to enhancing beauty, discover how these powerful fungi can support your health this season. Read on to explore the incredible benefits of mushrooms and how to incorporate them into your daily routine. —Noa Nichol
After attending the International Medicinal Mushroom Conference in Italy, what exciting new research or trends in functional mushrooms can you share with us?
Researchers are diving deeper into how specific compounds in medicinal mushrooms interact with the body, especially focusing on polysaccharides like beta-glucans — these are complex sugars known for their immune-boosting effects. More studies are exploring exactly how they work.
A standout presentation discussed a mushroom called Chicken of the Woods, which identified differences based on weight and size of sulfated polysaccharides on breast cancer cells. This research furthers the overall understanding of how this type of chemistry works.
Another study showed significant results in Lion’s Mane boosting cognitive function within two hours, emphasizing this mushroom’s ability to act quickly and not just have benefits for long-term brain health.
Overall, the research presented at IMMC 12 showed more evidence-based findings that support the growing popularity of functional mushrooms as natural wellness tools, offering everything from immune support to improved mental clarity.
Tremella mushroom is often highlighted for its anti-aging benefits. Can you explain how it works to boost skin elasticity and reduce signs of aging?
The main active ingredient in Tremella is polysaccharides. It’s been proven to have anti-inflammatory properties and to promote better moisture retention in the skin. One of the ways this works is by preventing the degeneration of small blood vessels and maintaining proper blood flow, which can reduce wrinkles and keep skin looking fresh.
There’s even a related type, called Witches Butter, which grows on decaying wood in urban and forest areas. It has a jelly-like appearance and was once rumored to help witches stay youthful. It can be applied topically as a moisturizer and skin tonic, or consumed internally for its overall beauty benefits.
For someone new to incorporating functional mushrooms into their routine, which five mushrooms would you recommend for overall fall health and why?
The top five mushrooms to know about for health are Reishi, Chaga, Turkeytail, Cordyceps, and Lion’s Mane. Each brings something different to the table—Lion’s Mane supports brain and nervous system health, while Cordyceps boosts energy and helps fight stress. Combining all five is even more effective for strengthening your immune system and keeping your body balanced. Studies show that taking a blend of these mushrooms helps reduce inflammation, supports gut health, and can even help lower the risk of certain diseases like cancer compared to using individual types. Adding a mix of these mushrooms to your routine is a great way to promote a healthy gut micorbiome and level up your wellness game.
Reishi is known for aiding sleep. How does it support better sleep, and what other benefits does this mushroom offer during cold and flu season?
In China, Reishi is known as the “Mushroom of Spiritual Potency” and is said to “protect the academic from their own mind.” While it doesn’t make you feel sleepy or tired, Reishi helps calm the body and mind, making it great for anxiety and over thinking, which often causes sleeplessness. It’s perfect for grounding yourself and finding balance.
Reishi has anti-pathogenic properties, making it effective against bacteria, viruses, and even fungi. Its immune-boosting compounds help your body fight colds and flu while also keeping your immune system in check during flare-ups like autoimmune issues.
Lion’s Mane has gained popularity for its brain health benefits. Can you explain how it supports cognitive function and mental clarity?
Lion’s Mane mushroom, often called “Nature’s Nutrient for the Neurons,” is known for boosting brain health by helping your body produce nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is super important for keeping your nervous system strong and healthy, and studies suggest low levels are linked to early stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia. The active compounds in Lion’s Mane, hericenones and erinacines, are small enough to pass through the blood-brain barrier, further supporting its claims for improving focus and memory.
While research mostly focuses on long-term benefits, new studies show Lion’s Mane can improve cognitive function in as little as 60 minutes. With its growing popularity, expect to see more research on how Lion’s Mane can support both brain health and mental clarity in the future.
What are some simple and accessible ways people can add functional mushrooms into their daily routine—whether through coffee, smoothies, or other methods?
I love adding mushroom extract powders to coffee, hot chocolate, smoothies, and even soups. I’ve also mixed them into oatmeal, pancakes, and sauces.They usually have a mild, savory flavor (except for Reishi, which can be a bit bitter). If you’re busy and need something quick, mushroom capsules are a super easy way to include them in your wellness routine without any fuss.
When choosing mushroom products, look for organic and certified sources that use the fruiting body, not just the mycelium. Fruiting bodies contain higher concentrations of beneficial compounds and are what most of the research is based on. This was another hot topic at the conference in Italy as mycelium products are currently banned in Europe.
With cold and flu season approaching, how can mushrooms like Chaga or Turkey Tail help boost immunity and overall wellness?
Chaga, Turkey Tail, and Reishi mushrooms are packed with immune-boosting polysaccharides, which help strengthen your immune system. They’re great to take as a daily supplement, especially as cold and flu season kicks in, to help your body fight off germs before you get sick.
While these mushrooms do have some antibacterial and antiviral effects, if you’re already feeling sick, stronger herbs are better. Powerful herbs like Goldenseal, Osha, and Usnea are perfect for fighting colds and flu in their early stages.
What advice do you have for individuals looking to incorporate mushrooms into their beauty routine, especially in terms of skin care or combating the effects of aging?
True beauty comes from within—what we put into our bodies affects how we look on the outside. That’s why focusing on your internal health is key for maintaining beauty as you age.
Functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, and Tremella are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that support your skin, heart, and overall wellness.
Research shows they can also boost liver, brain, and digestive health, all of which keep you feeling and looking vibrant. Some studies even suggest mushrooms like Reishi and Chaga might protect your DNA and help slow down aging.
In places like Asia, these mushrooms are already being used in beauty products like wrinkle creams, and this trend is quickly spreading. As the popularity of mushrooms grows, it is likely that we will see more of this trend in our own marketplaces as well.
share:
Be the first to comment