02 Feb To Your Health: “Beyond the Algorithm, The Art & Science of Medicinal Mushrooms!”
Welcome to our newly resurrected series which offers a deep dive into the fascinating world of health, wellness, and disease prevention with Telluride local Dr. Alan Safdi.
Dr. Alan is a board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, a Fellow of the American College of Gastroenterology, and a respected leader in healthcare. His blogs have featured and will continue to showcase the most current information in his fields: health, wellness and longevity. During Covid, Dr. Alan went radio silent – until now. Now we are resurrecting Dr. Alan’s “To Your Health.”
This installment of “To Your Heath,” “Beyond the Algorithm,” features the nexus of cutting-edge technology, human intuition and the timeless healing power of nature. The topic bridges ancient wisdom and modern science: medicinal mushrooms.
Mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, from the Reishi, known as the “mushroom of immortality,” to the energy-boosting Cordyceps, prized in ancient Tibetan practices. Today these natural wonders are being studied through the lens of modern science. The goal? To uncover their potential to support immunity, fight inflammation, enhance athletic performance, even combat certain cancers.
To that end, we are exploring the evolving research on mushrooms like Cordyceps, Lion’s Mane, and Turkey Tail. What do the human studies reveal? How are these fungi being incorporated into Western medicine? And where do traditional knowledge and cutting-edge research intersect to create new opportunities for health and healing? Also addressed below are the challenges of separating hype from evidence, the ethical considerations around wild harvesting, and the growing industry of mushroom supplements.
Whether you are curious about the science, interested in practical health tips, or just love learning about the intersection of nature and medicine, this episode of “To Your Health” has something for you.
Scroll down to read the salient details.
Additional Areas of Significant Current Research:
1. Medicinal Mushroom Varieties (all small studies and we need further human research):
◦ Cordyceps: Studied for athletic performance, immune support, and potential anti-cancer properties. Cordycepin has been shown to suppress the proliferation of various cancer cells, including lung, liver, breast, and colon cancer cells. It interferes with DNA and RNA synthesis in rapidly dividing cells, slowing tumor growth.
◦ Lion’s Mane: Linked to cognitive health, nerve regeneration, and possible neuroprotective effects. A Japanese study in 2009 looked at the effects of Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane) on patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The results indicated that Lion’s Mane supplementation significantly improved cognitive function compared to a placebo group. The mechanism is thought to involve the promotion of nerve growth factor (NGF), which supports neuron growth and function.
◦ Turkey Tail: Known for its immune-boosting compounds, often used alongside cancer therapies.
◦ Reishi: Promotes relaxation and is being studied for its anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. In 2012 a small study of Reishi showed it had the potential both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to regulate the immune system and potentially reduce the risks associated with chronic diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
2. Human Studies and Evidence:
◦ Studies on Cordyceps for improving VO2 max and endurance in athletes.
◦ Research on Lion’s Mane for early-stage cognitive decline and its potential role in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
◦ Clinical trials on Turkey Tail as an adjunct therapy in cancer treatment to enhance immune response.
3. Mechanisms of Action:
◦ Beta-glucans: Their role in immune modulation.
◦ Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds: Impacts on chronic diseases.
◦ Polysaccharides: Effects on gut health and immunity.
4. Cultural and Historical Context:
◦ Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic uses of mushrooms.
◦ Indigenous knowledge and the role of mushrooms in holistic healing practices.
Let’s venture beyond the algorithm and into the incredible world of medicinal mushrooms.
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