We might not get to grasp of it, but there are so many different types of mushrooms out there. The mushroom kingdom is huge!! There are poisonous mushrooms, psychedelic mushrooms, but also edible and medicinal mushrooms. Medicinal Mushrooms are edible mushrooms, that are classified as “food” under the EU regulations.
As the power of mushrooms is becoming more and more known to us and with science backing up more and more evidence about this fascinating kingdom, I also feel a strong pull to clarify the misconception people hold in understanding the difference between certain mushrooms.
My name is Sharon Fernie, and I am the Founder of Herbal Cacao, providing the world with high-quality Medicinal Ceremonial Cacao Blends. Our mission is to support our community in their journey of self and spiritual discovery. I have a deep passion for holistic wellness and ancient traditions.
Through Herbal Cacao, I aim to spread awareness about the profound benefits of ceremonial cacao and other medicinal herbs and mushrooms. I strive to create a space where individuals can connect with themselves and each other on a deeper level, to be the love, share the love, and spread the love.
Medicinal mushrooms, or 'functional mushrooms,' are non-psychoactive and packed with bioactive compounds that support immunity, cognitive health, energy, and digestion. They're widely recognised in Eastern medicine and are now gaining attention in the West.
Join me here in the “Herbal Cacao Journal” as we explore the fascinating world of our active medicinal ingredients, cacao rituals, ancient healing practices, and modern wellness techniques.
Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just beginning your journey, this blog post in the “Herbal Cacao Journal” is your invitation to deepen your understanding of this sacred plant and its profound impact on mind, body, and spirit.
Let’s embark on this journey together, cultivating a community rooted in love, healing, and spiritual exploration.
Understanding the Difference Between Medicinal Mushrooms and Psychedelic Mushrooms
In the vast kingdom of fungi, mushrooms come in diverse forms, each with unique properties that range from medicinal to mind-altering. Among these, two categories stand out prominently: medicinal mushrooms, often referred to as “functional mushrooms,” and psychedelic mushrooms, commonly known as “magic mushrooms” or “shrooms.” Let’s delve into what sets them apart and how they each contribute to our understanding of nature’s pharmacopeia.
Medicinal Mushrooms:
For thousands of years, medicinal mushrooms or “functional mushrooms” have been consumed in Eastern medicine for their benefits beyond essential nutrients. Only recently have they been recognised in the West for their powerful health benefits.
A medicinal mushroom is a mushroom that contains a high amount of health-beneficial compounds and is tested to be used to fight illnesses and diseases. From certain mushrooms, they create penicillin and other antibiotics, whilst others are used for culinary dishes.
Most of us have even seen some of them in our local (super) market like; Shiitake mushroom, Oyster mushroom, Maitake mushroom, and Lion’s Mane mushroom.
What Defines Medicinal Mushrooms?
Medicinal mushrooms are distinguished by their rich content of health-beneficial compounds, which have been extensively studied for their therapeutic properties. Unlike their psychedelic counterparts, these mushrooms are non-psychoactive and are widely accepted as immune-boosting foods.
You might be surprised to find some of them in your local supermarket, such as Shiitake, Oyster, Maitake, and Lion’s Mane mushrooms, each with its own unique profile of benefits.
The Health Benefits of Medicinal Mushrooms
Immune System Support: One of the primary benefits of medicinal mushrooms lies in their ability to modulate the immune system. They contain bioactive compounds like beta-glucans, polysaccharides known for their immune-stimulating effects. These compounds activate macrophages and natural killer cells, key players in our body’s defense against infections and diseases.
Stress Management and Cognitive Health: Beyond immune support, medicinal mushrooms contribute to stress management and cognitive health. Compounds like triterpenoids, found abundantly in mushrooms like Reishi and Chaga, exhibit anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, supporting brain function and nerve health.
Energy and Digestive Support: Many medicinal mushrooms are prized for their energy-boosting and digestive support properties. Whether consumed in culinary dishes or as extracts, these fungi aid in digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, and promote overall vitality.
Key Bioactive Compounds
Beta-Glucans: Among the most studied compounds in medicinal mushrooms, beta-glucans are polysaccharides that enhance immune function by promoting cytokine production and activating immune cells. This immune-modulating effect makes them valuable for both immune support and managing autoimmune disorders.
Triterpenoids: Found in higher plants and fungi, triterpenoids offer a wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds play a crucial role in supporting liver function, lowering lipid levels, and promoting wound healing.
Extracts vs. Whole Mushrooms
While some medicinal mushrooms like Shiitake are culinary delights readily available in whole form, others are best consumed as extracts to maximise their health benefits. Extracts concentrate the bioactive compounds, making them more potent and bioavailable than powdered forms.
This ensures you receive a higher dose of health-beneficial compounds in every serving, up to 8-10 times more concentrated than the raw mushroom itself.
Embracing the Power of Medicinal Mushrooms
Whether you’re seeking to bolster your immune system, enhance cognitive function, or simply promote overall vitality, medicinal mushrooms offer a natural and holistic approach to well-being. Integrating these functional fungi into your daily routine, either through culinary creations or specialised extracts, can help unlock their full potential for supporting your health goals.
Psychedelic Mushrooms:
What Defines Psychedelic Mushrooms?
Psychedelic mushrooms contain psilocybin, a naturally-occurring psychoactive compound found in more than 180 mushroom species worldwide. When ingested, psilocybin converts into psilocin in the body, which crosses the blood-brain barrier and binds to serotonin receptors. This interaction can induce vivid sensory experiences, altered perceptions of reality, and profound shifts in consciousness.
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Throughout history, psychedelic mushrooms have been revered as sacred tools for spiritual and medicinal purposes. Ancient tribes, such as the Aztecs who called them Teonanacatl, meaning “God’s flesh,” utilised these mushrooms in rituals to connect with divine realms and explore altered states of consciousness. This deep cultural connection underscores their profound importance in spiritual practices worldwide.
Embracing the Magic of Fungi
If you’re intrigued by the profound world of mushrooms, I recommend watching the enlightening documentary “Fantastic Fungi.” Available on Netflix, this film explores the magical, medicinal, and ecological roles of fungi in our world, showcasing their ability to heal, sustain, and contribute to the regeneration of life on Earth - a journey that began over 3.5 billion years ago.
Legal and Medical Considerations
Despite their long history of spiritual use, psychedelic mushrooms remain illegal in many countries and are classified as Schedule 1 substances due to their perceived potential for abuse and lack of recognised medical use under international conventions.
However, emerging research is shedding new light on their therapeutic potential, particularly in treating mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Some researchers argue that psychedelic mushrooms should also be considered medicinal mushrooms for their therapeutic benefits.
The Healing Potential of Psychedelic Mushrooms
Recent studies have demonstrated that psilocybin, when used under controlled settings and with proper guidance, can lead to transformative experiences and long-term improvements in mental well-being.
These mushrooms are increasingly recognised for their potential in alleviating treatment-resistant depression and anxiety, offering a promising avenue for mental health care that transcends conventional approaches.
Explore More with Herbal Cacao
Are you ready to integrate the wisdom of mushrooms into your wellness routine? Discover our collection of medicinal mushrooms and ceremonial cacao blends at Herbal Cacao.
Whether you’re seeking immune support, stress relief, or simply curious about enhancing your spiritual journey, our products offer a unique fusion of ancient wisdom and modern wellness practices.
Try combining your favourite medicinal mushroom with Ceremonial Cacao. View our full collection of Herbal Cacao blends
Join the Movement
In the Herbal Cacao Journal, we’re passionate about exploring the transformative potential of mushrooms and other natural remedies. Join us as we delve deeper into the science, traditions, and practical applications of these remarkable fungi. Together, let’s harness the power of nature to nurture our bodies and elevate our health journey.
