If you’re looking for medicinal mushrooms in Australia, let me start by telling you that the only medicinal mushrooms grown in Australia are Turkey Tail and Shiitake. Everything else is imported from Asia, in particular China, who is the largest producer of medicinal mushrooms in the world.
There are several ways to find medicinal mushrooms in Australia. You can forage for them in the wild, buy them from a retailer, or grow your own.
If you’d rather not go hunting for mushrooms, you can always buy them from a retailer. Health food stores and some supermarkets sell dried mushroom powders, capsules and tinctures. Traditional Chinese Medicine doctors also sell and dispense dried mushrooms which can be used to make teas or extracts. You can also find fresh mushrooms or dried mushrooms at some Asian grocers.
You can grow your own medicinal mushrooms. This is a great option if you want to be sure of the quality of the mushrooms you’re taking. There are several companies in Australia that sell mushroom growing kits. With a little bit of care and attention, you can have your own private supply of medicinal mushrooms in no time.
What are the different types of medicinal mushrooms?
There are many different types of medicinal mushrooms, each with its own unique set of benefits. The most common medicinal mushrooms are:
- Reishi
- Cordyceps
- Chaga
- Turkey Tail
- Shiitake
Each type of mushroom has different active compounds that offer different health benefits. For example, cordyceps mushrooms are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while chaga mushrooms are known for their immune-boosting properties.
What are the benefits of medicinal mushrooms?
The benefits of medicinal mushrooms depend on the type of mushroom you take. Some of the most well-known benefits include:
- Boosting immunity
- Reducing inflammation
- Supporting cognitive function
- Enhancing energy levels
- aiding in detoxification
If you’re looking for a specific benefit, it’s best to research the different types of mushrooms to see which one will suit your needs.
World Mushroom Society is an incredible resource for information on medicinal mushrooms in Australia. They have a team of contributors who specialise in science and health, sharing studies of the benefits of medicinal mushrooms.
How do I take medicinal mushrooms?
There are many different ways to take medicinal mushrooms. The most popular way is to make a tea by steeping dried mushrooms in hot water. This can be done with any type of mushroom, but the most popular choices are reishi and chaga. You can also find mushroom powders, capsules and tinctures at health food stores, which are a convenient way to take mushrooms on the go.
Types of Medicinal Mushrooms in Australia
Lion’s Mane
Lion’s mane mushrooms are a type of medicinal mushroom that is native to North America, Europe and Asia. They get their name from their furry appearance, which resembles a lion’s mane. Lion’s mane mushrooms have been used traditionally in Chinese medicine for centuries, and they are gaining popularity in the Western world for their health benefits such as cognitive support and enhanced nerve function.
Lion’s mane mushrooms are rich in compounds like hericenones and erinacines, which are believed to be responsible for their cognitive-supporting effects. Lion’s mane mushrooms are also a good source of beta-glucans, which are known to boost immunity. The most common type of Lion’s mane grown in Australia is called hericium coralloides- not be confused with hericium erinaceus!
Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms are a type of medicinal mushroom that is native to East Asia. They are one of the most popular types of mushrooms in the world, and they have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Shiitake mushrooms are known for their health benefits, which include supporting immunity, reducing inflammation and aiding in detoxification.
Turkey Tail Mushrooms
Turkey tail mushrooms are a type of medicinal mushroom that is native to North America, Europe and Asia. They get their name from their distinctively shaped caps, which resemble the tail of a turkey. Turkey tail mushrooms have been used traditionally in Chinese medicine for centuries, and they are gaining popularity in the Western world for their health benefits such as immunity support and enhanced cognitive function.
Turkey tail mushrooms are rich in compounds like polysaccharides and triterpenoids, which are believed to be responsible for their immune-supporting effects. Turkey tail mushrooms are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage.