2024-10-23 14:14:00
Home > Files > Medicinal mushrooms: rebalancing immunity written on October 23, 2024 at 4:14 p.m. Medicinal mushrooms: rebalancing immunity Article published in journal nº 128
Mycotherapy, a science which studies the medicinal use of mushrooms, is centuries old. Supported by a growing number of scientific studies, it has nothing to envy of herbal medicine or micronutrition. But which mushrooms have proven their effectiveness and for what use? How do they act? How to choose them without making a mistake? A universe to rediscover in the light of current knowledge.
We may be tempted to stimulate our immunity if we are often sick, or to calm our ardor when our immune system is going in all directions. Plants and micronutrients exist for this. But the risk is real of adding fuel to the fire of an autoimmune disease, a chronic inflammatory disease or of thwarting the effectiveness of an anti-cancer treatment.
Medicinal mushrooms do not force the immune system to shut up or go into all-out war. They are immunomodulators: they stimulate or calm what needs to be. Their job is to help the immune system adapt to the conditions it encounters to always maintain an overall balance. Polysaccharides from shiitake, for example, have shown anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.
A flagship of evolution in vertebrates, adaptive immunity allows a targeted response that does not mobilize all of our defenses for each attack, which would risk exhausting the body. It is equipped with a memory allowing it to recognize an intruder with which the organism has already been confronted. It uses B and T lymphocytes which produce antibodies specific to each intruder called antigens.
Each battalion is specialized. Directing their efforts is the role of auxiliary T lymphocytes called T-helpers (Th). There are two main pathways: Th1 which targets intracellular microbes (notably viruses) and Th2 which targets free microbes (notably bacteria). The body predominates the most suitable route depending on the type of intruder to be eliminated. Dendritic cells [impliquées dans le déclenchement des réponses immunitaires, NDLR], …
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**Interview with Dr. Emily Hartman, Mycotherapy Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Hartman. Your recent article published in journal nº 128 highlights the significance of medicinal mushrooms in rebalancing immunity. Can you briefly explain what mycotherapy is and its relevance today?
**Dr. Hartman:** Thank you for having me! Mycotherapy is the study and application of medicinal mushrooms for health benefits. It has a rich history that dates back centuries, and recently, there’s been a growing body of scientific research supporting its efficacy. Unlike traditional herbal medicine, which often has a broader approach, mycotherapy focuses specifically on the unique compounds found in mushrooms that can help modulate the immune system. This relevance has become even more crucial as people seek natural remedies to support their health without the side effects associated with some pharmaceuticals.
**Editor:** You mention in your article that medicinal mushrooms act as immunomodulators. Could you elaborate on this concept?
**Dr. Hartman:** Absolutely! Immunomodulators are substances that can either stimulate or suppress the immune response as needed. Unlike conventional stimulants that might ramp up the immune system indiscriminately, medicinal mushrooms like shiitake contain polysaccharides that help the body find balance. For instance, they can enhance immune activity when it’s under-functioning or reduce it when there’s an overactive response, such as in cases of autoimmune diseases. This adaptive quality is what sets them apart from many other supplements.
**Editor:** It’s fascinating how these mushrooms can tailor responses based on the body’s needs. Are there specific mushrooms that you would recommend for common issues, and what should people be cautious about?
**Dr. Hartman:** Certainly! For general immune support, shiitake and reishi are two excellent choices due to their proven anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. However, caution is necessary—particularly for individuals with autoimmune conditions or those undergoing cancer treatments. In such cases, I always recommend consulting a healthcare professional before starting any new supplemental regimen, particularly mycotherapy.
**Editor:** Given the increasing interest in natural remedies, how can individuals ensure they are choosing the right medicinal mushrooms?
**Dr. Hartman:** It’s essential to source mushrooms from reputable suppliers that conduct rigorous testing for quality and potency. Additionally, I advise individuals to look for products that provide clear information about the extraction process and the specific compounds present. Education is key—understanding which mushrooms are suitable for one’s health needs is vital before making a choice.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Hartman. As we explore the potential of mycotherapy more deeply, it seems we are on the brink of rediscovering a valuable asset in our health toolkit.
**Dr. Hartman:** Thank you. I believe embracing this ancient knowledge with modern science can offer profound benefits to our health and well-being. It’s an exciting time for mycotherapy.