If the pandemic’s taught us anything, it’s the importance of keeping our immune system in check. You might have seen new products pop up, and media and experts alike talk about what to take or eat to improve your immunity.
Fortunately, our fungi friends are an easy way we can harness the power of nature to stay healthy and virus-free. Certain mushrooms have been studied for their therapeutic effects, such as fighting cancer, allergies, and autoimmune diseases. Researchers have discovered that some mushrooms like maitake (also known as hen-of-the-woods) may combat viruses and bacteria. Consuming mushrooms in winter can help prevent the common cold and flu.
In this blog, we’ll feature two of the most popular mushrooms that are known to boost immunity.
Chaga for immunity
Most of the studies on chaga (Inonotus obliquus) have been done on human cells and mice, but it’s long been talked about for its antioxidant component and its ability to fight free radicals, which can cause damage to DNA and other parts of human cells.
It’s also anti-inflammatory, which could help to prevent or slow cancer growth and reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL), a harmful cholesterol.
Cool fact: Even though chaga is called a mushroom, it’s actually a canker that grows on birch trees in cold parts of the Northern Hemisphere, which provide its medicinal compounds.
If you feel like you might need some extra immune support, try out our Chaga Immunity.
Energizing Cordyceps
As our bodies fight illnesses, it’s good to support yourself with foods and supplements that aid in your recovery. Enter cordyceps!
A reliable mushroom for athletes and fitness buffs, studies have shown cordyceps can help your body use oxygen more efficiently and enhance blood flow, and speed up post-workout muscle recovery after a workout or other athletic performance.
In addition to increasing the number of natural killer (NK) cells in our body, the adenosine and cordycepin present in this companion mushroom increases our body’s natural production of Adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which delivers energy to our body’s cells.
For some much needed energy, check out HAVN Life’s supplement, Cordyceps Perform.
Strengthening your immune system
In addition to these fungi, reishi and lion’s mane mushrooms are great for strengthening our immune system too.
Remember that while mushrooms are potent and powerful immunity boosters, prevention is the way to go when it comes to sickness. Warding off free radical cell damage and balancing your immune system fights illness in the long run. On a daily basis, your body will benefit from exercise, adequate sleep, and a healthy diet based on whole foods.
The compounds found in HAVN Retail’s natural health products are formulated with 100% plant and mushroom extracts and are made to support you with energy and other immune-boosting benefits to help you achieve wellness and peak performance in your daily life.