
The extensive research surrounding mushrooms like Lion's Mane, Tremella, Cordyceps, Reishi, and Chaga reveals their significant potential in health and wellness.
This article shows some of most impactful studies for each of these mushrooms.
Highlighting Lions Mane and Tremella for their potential to boost cognitive function, nerve growth, Cordyceps for energy production. Reishi, Chaga and Turkey Tail for variety of health boosting properties such as anti cancer, anti viral, inflammation, organ health and helping to reduce stress-related fatigue and improve overall well-being. ***NOTE- These references should all have a hyper link that will take you to the sources. It is a small number at the end of each reference. *****EXTRA NOTE- For the biggest and best list to medicinal mushroom studies go here! https://mushroomreferences.com/category/lions-mane/ It very well might be the most comprehensive list in the world Reishi Mushroom Research

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is often called the "mushroom of immortality" and is well-known for promoting health. Here are key studies that outline its remarkable properties:
A study on people with certain medical conditions found that taking Reishi powder for 4 weeks reduced fatigue, anxiety, and depression while improving quality of life 7.
Research indicates that Reishi mushrooms have adaptogenic properties, helping to reduce stress-related fatigue and improve overall well-being 3.
Studies have shown that Reishi mushrooms may help improve sleep due to their impact on the GABA pathway, which can be beneficial during times of stress 3.A 2023 randomized controlled trial found that Reishi β-glucan modulated immune responses in healthy adults, increasing CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T-lymphocytes, improving the CD4/CD8 ratio, and enhancing natural killer cell counts and cytotoxicity 4.
A study on athletes showed that taking a combination of Reishi and Cordyceps helped protect against stress-related damage from overtraining 5.
A 2020 rodent study found that Reishi treatment reduced stress-induced brain inflammation in rats exposed to low oxygen levels and protected against nerve damage and memory impairment 5.
Research has shown that Reishi helps support adrenal gland function, which secretes cortisol to help the body respond to stress 5.
Studies in rats demonstrated that Reishi may help protect against stress-induced anxiety and exercise-induced damage to muscle cells 5.
A 2006 study found that Reishi could increase the number of white blood cells in those with colorectal cancer 7.
An older study showed that Reishi improved lymphocyte function in athletes exposed to stressful conditions 7 Lion's Mane Mushroom Studies

Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is widely recognized for its positive impact on brain health. Here are five studies that underline the significant benefits of this remarkable mushroom:
A 2020 study of people with mild Alzheimer's disease found that supplementation with 1 gram of lion's mane mushroom daily for 49 weeks significantly improved cognitive test scores compared to a placebo 4.
A study involving 50- to 80-year-olds with mild cognitive impairment showed that those taking lion's mane dry powder tablets scored higher on cognitive tests compared to a placebo group 4.
A 2023 study found that lion's mane mushroom extract significantly improved speed of performance on the Stroop task in healthy young adults 60 minutes after a single dose 5.
Research from the University of Queensland in 2023 demonstrated that lion's mane mushroom extract promoted neuron projections and increased the size of growth cones, which are important for brain cells to establish new connections 1.
A study on mice showed that dietary supplementation with lion's mane mushroom crude extracts significantly enhanced recognition memory 2.
Lab research demonstrated that lion's mane's anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidant properties may help minimize inflammation and protect cells against damage 4
Research suggested that lion's mane may have a role in preventing or treating cognitive decline, including Alzheimer's disease 3
Lab studies showed that lion's mane mushrooms are a good source of hericenones and erinacines, two chemicals that accelerate the growth of brain cells 3.
A trend towards reduced subjective stress was observed in healthy young adults following 28 days of lion's mane supplementation 5
Research indicated that lion's mane may increase the expression and secretion of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF)to lower inflammation and protect against ER stress in laboratory studies and may increase myelination and protect against oxidative stress in the brain 7
Cordyceps Mushroom Studies
Cordyceps, especially Cordyceps sinensis, has gained fame for its role in enhancing

performance and energy through increased ATP (ATP stands for adenosine triphosphate, a molecule that provides energy for cells. It's found in all living cells, including nerve cells, muscle cells, and plant cells) But enhanced ATP is not all it helps with! Cordyceps shows both in vitro and in vivo stimulation of testosterone levels in lab studies, (Hsu,C.-C. et al. 2003) Fun Fact- Athletes taking Cordyceps extract shattered 9 world records at the Chinese National Games in 1993. Here are 10 key studies emphasizing some of Cordyceps capabilities:
A 2024 clinical trial demonstrated that Cordyceps sinensis hydroethanolic extract significantly increased energy, 1.
A 2015 study involving human participants found that acute supplementation with a Cordyceps militaris-containing mushroom blend improved tolerance to high-intensity exercise, potentially due to increased ATP production 5.
A 2021 review highlighted Cordyceps' anti-cancer, anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic, and immunomodulatory effects 3.
Research showed that Cordyceps might reduce inflammation in the body, potentially easing symptoms of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis6.
A study found that Cordyceps militaris may safely and effectively boost the immune system by inducing cytokine production and stimulating macrophage activity 3.
Lab studies suggested cordyceps could reduce blood sugar and improve insulin resistance 6.
A review identified cordycepin, a bioactive component in cordyceps, as a potential nutraceutical for treating inflammation-related conditions like Parkinson's disease and hepatitis 7.
Research indicated that Cordyceps could enhance the activity of natural killer cells, potentially improving immune function 4.
A study on rats demonstrated that Cordyceps sinensis upregulated skeletal muscle metabolic regulators and promoted angiogenesis, potentially improving endurance capacity 2.
An investigation into Cordyceps militaris fruit body extract revealed increased ATP levels in mice after two weeks of administration, along with improved performance in various fatigue tests 2.
Turkey Tail Mushroom Research Turkey tail mushrooms (Trametes versicolor) have been extensively studied and utilized in Japan for their potential benefits in cancer treatment. Here are several key studies and articles highlighting their use:

National Cancer Institute (NCI) Overview: The NCI notes that medicinal mushrooms, including turkey tail, have been approved as adjuncts to standard cancer treatments in Japan for over 30 years. They have an extensive clinical history of safe use, either as single agents or combined with radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
Polysaccharide K (PSK) Usage: In Japan, PSK, an extract from turkey tail mushrooms, is an approved product used to treat cancer. It is commonly administered alongside standard cancer treatments to strengthen the immune system.
Bastyr University Presentation in Tokyo: Dr. Cynthia Wenner from Bastyr University presented findings in Tokyo to approximately 100 clinical oncologists from Japan and other parts of Asia. Her presentation focused on the anti-tumor and immune-boosting effects of PSK derived from turkey tail mushrooms.
UCLA Health Article: A preparation made from turkey tail mushrooms, known as krestin, has been used as a supportive therapy in cancer treatment in Japan for decades. This includes treatments for breast, lung, gastric, pancreatic, and liver cancers.
CANCERactive Article: Turkey tail is a medicinal mushroom approved in Japan for cancer treatment. Used as an extract in powdered form, it boosts the immune system, even during chemotherapy, increasing survival times and reducing toxicity and side effects. It has been shown to work integratively with chemotherapy to produce improved anti-cancer effects.
A study in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms demonstrated that turkey tail compounds have antitumor properties, likely related to immune-boosting effects 3.
The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine reported that PSK inhibited the growth and spread of human colon cancer cells in vitro 4.
A clinical trial published in ISRN Oncology found that cancer patients given 1-3 .6 grams of turkey tail mushroom daily experienced a 9% reduction in 5-year mortality 5.
Research in Biomedicines showed that turkey tail contains active compounds PSK and PSP, studied in lung, breast, gastric, and colorectal cancer patients 6.
A study in Integrative Medicine: A Clinician's Journal found that turkey tail extract boosts the activity of several immune cell types essential for fighting infection 7.
The Journal of Ethnopharmacology reported that turkey tail extracts counter immunosuppression caused by tumors and boost the immune system during chemotherapy 8
Chaga Mushroom Research

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is recognized for its powerful antioxidant capabilities and therapeutic advantages. Here are significant studies worth noting:
A 2024 study published in Nature found that Chaga mushroom extract suppresses oral cancer cell growth via downregulation of STAT3 signaling 7.
A 2023 review in Frontiers in Pharmacology examined the anti-cancer activity of Chaga mushroom against dog bladder cancer organoids 3.
A 2023 study published in Mycology demonstrated Chaga's potential as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antitumor agent 10.
Research published in 2023 showed that Chaga extract could protect liver tissue from chemical-induced damage 4.
A study on mice found that Chaga extract reduced inflammation and gut damage by inhibiting inflammatory cytokines 2.
A 2023 review highlighted Chaga's ability to fight harmful bacteria and viruses, potentially boosting the immune system 1.
Research published in Integrative Cancer Therapies in 2023 found that Chaga triterpenoids possess cytotoxicity to cancer cells without impacting normal cells 6.
A study showed that Chaga extract could slow the growth of lung, breast, and cervical cancer cells in vitro and tumor growth in mice 4.
Research demonstrated that Chaga extract may help reduce blood sugar levels and improve insulin resistance in animal models of diabetes 1.
A study found that Chaga extract increased exercise endurance and improved biological measures related to fatigue in mice 9 Tremella Mushroom Studies
Tremella fuciformis, or snow mushroom, appears to have similar benefits to Lions Mane yet is has not gained the popularity of Lions Mane yet. Here are 10 influential studies focused on its benefits:

A 2020 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial showed that Tremella supplementation improved subjective memory complaints and enhanced cognition in individuals with subjective cognitive impairment 3.
A study demonstrated that Tremella polysaccharides have anticancer, antioxidant, anti-aging, and regulatory effects on blood glucose and lipids 4.
A 2023 review published in Archives of Dermatological Research demonstrated Tremella extract's potential role in skin antiaging, photoprotection, wound
healing, and barrier protection 1.
A 2022 study in Frontiers in Pharmacology found that Tremella polysaccharides alleviated atopic dermatitis in mice by regulating immune response and gut microbiota 4.
Research published in 2021 in Frontiers in Immunology demonstrated that Tremella polysaccharides inhibited colonic inflammation in dextran sulfate sodium-treated mice via Foxp3+ T cells, gut microbiota, and bacterial metabolites. 6
A 2022 study in Foods explored the preparation and antioxidant activity of fermented Tremella extracellular polysaccharides for potential functional food applications. 5
A 2021 study showed that Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides alleviated dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis in mice through immunomodulation and restoration of intestinal microbiota and metabolites 4
Research published in 2022 revealed that Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides were stable under simulated digestive conditions and could be utilized by human fecal gut microbiota to increase short-chain fatty acid production 4
Research showed that Tremella fuciformis extract could protect liver tissue from chemical-induced damage 4.
A clinical trial displayed that oral administration of Tremella fuciformis extracts at a dose of 600 mg per day improved memory and cognitive function in individuals with subjective cognitive impairment 7
Oyster, Maitake, and Shitake Mushroom Research

Oyster Mushroom Studies
A 2020 systematic review found that Pleurotus ostreatus intake may improve cardiometabolic health, including glucose metabolism, lipid profiles, and blood pressure 7.
A 2021 rodent study demonstrated that oyster mushrooms decreased the growth of pathogenic bacteria and increased the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids in the guts of obese rats 1.
A 2020 rat study observed that oyster mushroom extract showed antioxidant effects and helped reduce liver damage caused by toxic chemicals 1.
An 8-week study in 41 people found that taking a daily oyster mushroom extract supplement heightened the immune system by activating interferon-γ (IFN-γ) 1.
A study of 89 participants with diabetes found that eating oyster mushrooms for 7 days lowered blood sugar, cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure 3.
A study of 663 participants aged 60 and above showed that those who ate more than two portions of mushrooms a week had a lower risk of developing mild cognitive impairment 3.
A review of several scientific studies found that eating about 18 grams of mushrooms daily may help lower cancer risk by 45 percent 3.
A 2020 rat study found that oral treatment with P. ostreatus extract significantly reduced induced paw inflammation 1.
A 2023 study evaluated the nutritional quality of Pleurotus ostreatus, analyzing its vitamin, mineral, and amino acid content 10.
Research published in 2023 demonstrated the potential of using hazelnut husk and spent coffee ground wastes for oyster mushroom cultivation, highlighting its sustainability aspects
Maitake Mushroom Studies

A 2014 study found that short-term oral application of maitake mushroom extract
strongly stimulated both cellular and humoral immune reactions, outperforming other mushroom extracts 39.
A 2024 comprehensive review highlighted maitake's diverse health benefits, including anti-cancer, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, and immunomodulatory effects 10.
A study published in 2013 showed that the β-glucan component of maitake's D-fraction influenced gene expression in human breast cancer cells, leading to apoptosis induction 10.
Research in 2017 demonstrated that combining maitake D-fraction with vitamin C resulted in a 70% reduction in human hepatocarcinoma cell viability 10.
Animal studies have shown the safety and efficacy of maitake D-fraction proteoglucan treatment in various types of cancer, including colon, bladder, brain, leukemia, liver, breast, and kidney cancers 10.
A small case series observed tumor regression or significant symptom improvements in some subjects who took maitake extract 4.
Studies have shown that maitake extract can promote maturation of hematopoietic cells and enhance peripheral blood leukocyte recovery following chemotoxic bone marrow injury 4.
Research has demonstrated maitake's potential to protect against cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression 4.
A study on lab animals showed that a water-soluble extract of maitake supported insulin response, resulting in healthy blood sugar and insulin levels 2.
Clinical trials have shown that maitake's SX-fraction can lower blood glucose levels by activating insulin receptors and reducing insulin resistance 1
Shitake Mushroom Studies
A 2015 study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that consuming shiitake mushrooms daily for four weeks improved immune function, including increased cell proliferation and activation 7.
Research published in 2006 in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine demonstrated shiitake mushrooms' potential to inhibit growth in tumor cells, particularly in breast cancer cell lines 5.
A study at Tohoku University in Japan showed that shiitake mushrooms prevented blood pressure increases in hypertensive rats and decreased VLDL and HDL cholesterol levels 5.
A 2011 study at the UCL Eastman Dental Institute in London found that shiitake mushroom extract had antimicrobial effects on gingivitis, lowering the numbers of pathogenic organisms without affecting beneficial ones5.
Research published in 2015 by the University of Florida demonstrated increased immunity in people who ate a cooked shiitake mushroom every day for four weeks, showing better-functioning gamma delta T-cells and reductions in inflammatory proteins9.
A study published in 2013 showed that the β-glucan component of shiitake's D-fraction influenced gene expression in human breast cancer cells, leading to apoptosis induction 1.
Research in 2017 demonstrated that combining shiitake D-fraction with vitamin C resulted in a 70% reduction in human hepatocarcinoma cell viability1.
A study on lab animals showed that a water-soluble extract of shiitake supported insulin response, resulting in healthy blood sugar and insulin levels1.
Research published in 2023 demonstrated shiitake's potential as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antitumor agent 3.
A 2011 study explored the anticaries potential of shiitake mushrooms, demonstrating caries preventive activities and reduction in oral biofilm formation 10
Well Congratulations if you made it this far! YOU DESERVE SOME BONUS CONTENT Mushrooms have so many rare nutrients in them, some of which that are unique to each mushroom. Here are some links and resources to explore. Oyster Mushroom  https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168580/nutrients Lions Mane Mushroom  https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/1999626/nutrients Shiitake https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/1999628/nutrients
Medicinal mushroom reduces Obesity and Diabetes by modulating microbiota
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