Laura Smith
Mushrooms have long been a source of fascination for humans, and it turns out that we may have more in common with them than we think. Humans and mushrooms share key genetic traits, with studies showing that we share about a quarter to nearly half of our active genes with mushrooms. This is because mushrooms and humans evolved from ancestors engaged in multicellularity over a billion years ago. Beyond genetics, mushrooms have powerful medicinal properties, with varieties such as reishi, lion's mane, and chaga, known for their ability to boost immunity, fight tumours, lower inflammation, and support brain health. They also possess psychedelic compounds, which have been used ceremonially to induce dreamlike states and facilitate psychological growth. Additionally, mushrooms demonstrate sustainable solutions through their balanced interchange with the environment, showcasing a thriving relationship within natural limits.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Genetic similarity | Humans share about a quarter to nearly half of their DNA with mushrooms. |
| Medicinal properties | Mushrooms have been used for their medicinal properties for thousands of years, and modern research supports their use in boosting immunity, fighting tumours, lowering inflammation, and supporting brain health. |
| Environmental impact | Mushrooms demonstrate sustainable solutions through their ability to break down waste, recycle nutrients, remediate pollution, break down plastics, and restore depleted soils. |
| Spiritual and cultural significance | Mushrooms have been revered in various ancient cultures for their psychedelic compounds and ability to induce dreamlike states, and they continue to hold symbolic value in modern times. |
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What You'll Learn
Humans and mushrooms share key genetic traits
Humans and mushrooms, or fungi, share key genetic traits that connect us. While mushrooms may look quite different from humans, we share more genetic traits with mushrooms than with plants. Humans share about a quarter to nearly 50% of their active genes with mushrooms. This is because mushrooms and humans evolved from ancestors engaged in multicellularity over a billion years ago. Mushrooms branched off on their evolutionary path but still retain genetic DNA remnants from our shared origins.
On a molecular level, we share a kinship with mushrooms. For example, when exposed to sunlight, mushrooms can produce vitamin D, just like humans. Mushrooms have also long been revered for their medicinal properties, just as humans have. Many varieties, such as reishi, lion's mane, and chaga, are renowned adaptogens that can boost immunity, fight tumours, lower inflammation, and support brain health. Research is ongoing, but some studies have found mushrooms help alleviate conditions like anxiety and depression.
The first hypotheses about the relationship between fungi and animals emerged in the 1950s, and scientists have since tested and confirmed these suspicions. Fungi and animals share genetic characteristics that plants do not have. This includes the ability of some fungi to move or seem to crawl, which is achieved through flagella, a tail that whips like a sperm cell. This motility brings to mind our shared origins with fungi and the invisible threads that bind all beings on the planet.
Mushrooms also demonstrate sustainable solutions through their balanced interchange with the environment, just as humans aim to live more regeneratively. They show us a path of thriving within natural limits and inspire creativity in art, design, folklore, and more. With their mystical mycelial fibres linking all life, mushrooms have long been a symbol of nature, spirituality, and interconnectedness.
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Mushrooms have medicinal properties
Mushrooms have long been revered for their medicinal properties. Ancient cultures celebrated their psychedelic compounds and ability to induce dreamlike states, which are now being explored in the treatment of mental health issues.
Today, mushrooms are recognised for their medicinal properties, including their ability to boost immunity, fight tumours, lower inflammation, and support brain health. Research has found that mushrooms can help alleviate conditions like anxiety and depression. Their healing abilities stem from unique protein complexes and polysaccharides that interact with human cells.
Mushrooms are a powerful source of ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant that prevents or slows cellular damage. They are also rich in vitamin D, which is essential for maintaining and building strong bones. Certain mushrooms, such as shiitake, oyster, maitake, and king oyster, have higher amounts of ergothioneine and are known to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Shiitake mushrooms, in particular, have been found to contain compounds that inhibit cholesterol production, block absorption, and lower overall cholesterol levels in the blood. Additionally, they are a good source of B vitamins, which help modulate blood sugar levels and support liver health.
The polysaccharides in mushrooms also have health benefits. As the most abundant carbohydrate in mushrooms, polysaccharides stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, contributing to overall well-being.
Overall, mushrooms offer a range of medicinal properties that support immune function, enhance mental clarity, and promote overall health and well-being.
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Mushrooms can induce psychedelic states
Mushrooms have long been a source of fascination for humans, and ancient cultures revered them for their psychedelic compounds and ability to induce dreamlike states. Today, mushrooms containing psilocybin, also known as magic mushrooms, are consumed for their hallucinogenic effects. These mushrooms are classified as psychedelic drugs, which can alter a person's thinking, sense of time, emotions, and perception of reality.
Psilocybin is a hallucinogenic chemical found in certain mushrooms that can induce a range of effects, from euphoria to hallucinations. When ingested, psilocybin binds to and activates serotonin receptors in parts of the brain that affect mood, cognition, and perception. The hallucinogenic effects typically occur within 30 minutes and can last between four and six hours. However, changes in sensory perception and thought patterns can sometimes last longer. The quantity of psilocybin consumed, past experiences, and expectations can influence an individual's reaction to the drug.
Magic mushrooms can induce a mystical experience, where users enter a dreamlike, euphoric state, possibly having visions or reliving memories. They may feel a sense of oneness with the universe, a loss of personal boundaries, and intense emotions ranging from bliss to terror. Additionally, psilocybin can cause physical side effects, such as an increased heart rate or nausea. While current research does not indicate that psilocybin is addictive, some users may experience disturbing hallucinations, anxiety, and panic during or after ingestion.
The use of psilocybin mushrooms carries certain risks, including the possibility of misidentifying mushrooms and consuming toxic varieties. Some commercial products marketed as containing psilocybin have been found to contain harmful chemicals. The setting and state of mind in which psilocybin is ingested can also influence the experience, with calm and familiar environments contributing to more positive experiences. Mixing magic mushrooms with other drugs or certain medications can lead to unpredictable and dangerous consequences.
Despite the risks, psilocybin shows potential in treating mental health issues and facilitating psychological growth. Research is ongoing, and psilocybin is being investigated as a possible treatment for substance use disorders and other mental illnesses.
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Mushrooms can break down waste
Humans and mushrooms share key genetic traits that connect us. Studies have found that humans and mushrooms share about a quarter of their active genes. This is because mushrooms and humans evolved from ancestors engaged in multicellularity over a billion years ago. Mushrooms retain genetic DNA remnants from our shared origins.
Mycoremediation is a form of bioremediation that uses fungi to break down environmental pollutants in contaminated areas. Mycelia, the thread-like root systems of fungi, consume food externally, using their enzymes to break down molecules in pollutants and toxins. They digest the surface they’re growing on and convert it into nutrients.
Mushrooms have been used to clean up industrial and agricultural waste, such as cyanotoxins, herbicides, and pesticides. They can also break down plastic. Oyster mushrooms, for example, can break down items containing non-recyclable plastic, such as microplastics in cigarette butts.
In addition to breaking down waste, mushrooms can also render pollutants safe. Audrey Speyer, founder of PuriFungi, calls fungi "nature's recyclers." Through mycoremediation, fungi have been used to clean up oil spills, pesticide-laced soil, and toxic wildfire ash.
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Mushrooms are a source of fascination
Today, mushrooms continue to capture our imagination with their whimsical shapes, textures, and colours, inspiring creativity in art, design, and folklore. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, mushrooms possess unique abilities that set them apart. They can appear overnight, seemingly out of thin air, adding to their mystique. Furthermore, they play a crucial role in breaking down waste materials and restoring depleted soils, showcasing their importance in the natural world.
The relationship between humans and mushrooms goes beyond shared genetic traits. Mushrooms have developed powerful medicinal properties, offering natural alternatives to support human wellness. Varieties such as reishi, lion's mane, and chaga are known for their immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and brain health-supporting benefits. They have also shown promise in treating mental health issues and facilitating psychological growth.
Mushrooms symbolise spiritual growth, nature's interconnectedness, and humanity's shared origins. Their ability to thrive within natural limits and form symbiotic relationships with plant roots through their mycelial networks is a reminder of the delicate balance in our ecosystem. The discovery that mushrooms share a significant percentage of their DNA with humans has only deepened our fascination with these fungi, leading to further exploration of their potential benefits and symbolic significance.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, humans and mushrooms share key genetic traits that connect us. Humans share about a quarter to nearly half of their active genes with mushrooms. This is because mushrooms and humans evolved from ancestors engaged in multicellularity over a billion years ago.
Mushrooms have developed powerful medicinal properties. Many varieties, such as reishi, lion's mane, and chaga, are renowned adaptogens that can boost immunity, fight tumours, lower inflammation, and support brain health. Research is ongoing, but some studies have found mushrooms help alleviate conditions like anxiety and depression.
Mushrooms have been revered in ancient cultures for their psychedelic compounds and ability to induce dream-like states. Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics depict mushrooms, and they were so respected in Egyptian society that it was against the law for citizens to touch them. In China, reishi mushrooms were once reserved for royalty as they were believed to increase longevity.
