Sarah Brown
Despite their differences in appearance, humans and mushrooms share a number of similarities. Both are able to produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight and store carbohydrate energy as glycogen. Genetic studies have also found that humans and mushrooms share about 50% of their DNA, which is due to their shared origins over a billion years ago. In addition, mushrooms possess medicinal properties, such as boosting immunity and lowering inflammation, and have been used ceremonially to treat mental health issues and facilitate psychological growth.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| DNA similarity | Humans share about 50% of their DNA with mushrooms |
| Carbohydrate storage | Both mushrooms and humans store carbohydrate energy as glycogen |
| Cell walls | Both fungi and insects use the polysaccharide chitin to build cell walls |
| Vitamin D | Mushrooms, like humans, produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight |
| Medicinal properties | Both humans and mushrooms have developed powerful medicinal properties |
| Motility | Mushrooms can move or crawl, which is a form of motility achieved through flagella |
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What You'll Learn
Humans and mushrooms share DNA
The first hypotheses about the relationship between fungi and animals emerged in the 1950s. Fungi, including mushrooms, are more closely related to animals than plants, as they share genetic characteristics that plants do not have. For example, both mushrooms and humans store carbohydrate energy as glycogen, while plants use starch to store energy. Mushrooms, like humans, also produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight.
Paul Stamets, a mycologist and author, told WBUR that "humans share nearly 50% of their DNA with fungi". This is because fungi and animals share a more recent common ancestor than either does with the lineage leading to plants. The lineage that became fungi and animals was over a billion years removed from the plant lineage when the first true plants appeared.
Mushrooms have developed powerful medicinal properties, with varieties such as reishi, lion's mane, and chaga, acting as adaptogens that can boost immunity, fight tumours, lower inflammation, and support brain health. Ongoing research on psilocybin and other hallucinogenic mushroom compounds shows promise for treating mental health issues and facilitating psychological growth.
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Both produce vitamin D in sunlight
Mushrooms and humans have a lot more in common than one might think. While mushrooms may look quite different from humans, they share more genetic traits with humans than with plants. Humans and mushrooms share about 50% of their DNA. This is because mushrooms and humans evolved from ancestors who engaged in multicellularity over a billion years ago. Mushrooms took a different path in their evolution but still retain genetic DNA remnants from our shared origins.
One of the most interesting similarities between the two is that both mushrooms and humans produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. This is a unique characteristic that further highlights the close relationship between humans and fungi.
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for maintaining bone health, supporting the immune system, and regulating mood. In humans, vitamin D is produced when the skin is exposed to sunlight. The body synthesizes a precursor molecule, which is then converted into the active form of vitamin D. This process is crucial for maintaining optimal health.
Similarly, mushrooms also produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. This process is facilitated by the presence of ergosterol, a compound found in the cell membranes of fungi. When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, ergosterol is converted into vitamin D2, also known as ergocalciferol. This form of vitamin D is unique to fungi and is not produced by plants or animals.
The ability to produce vitamin D in sunlight is a remarkable trait shared by humans and mushrooms. It showcases the interconnectedness between different life forms and provides valuable insights into the evolutionary paths of various organisms. Furthermore, the medicinal properties of mushrooms in treating mental health issues and facilitating psychological growth are also being explored.
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Mushrooms have medicinal properties like humans
Mushrooms have long been a source of fascination for humans, and it turns out that we may have more in common with them than meets the eye. While mushrooms may look quite different from humans, we share more genetic traits with them than with plants. This is because mushrooms and humans evolved from ancestors engaged in multicellularity over a billion years ago.
One of the most intriguing similarities between mushrooms and humans is their medicinal properties. Mushrooms have been revered by ancient cultures for their psychedelic compounds and ability to induce dream-like states, and modern research supports their potential in treating mental health issues and facilitating psychological growth. Additionally, certain varieties of mushrooms, such as reishi, lion's mane, and chaga, are known for their adaptogenic properties, boosting immunity, fighting tumors, lowering inflammation, and supporting brain health.
The medicinal benefits of mushrooms can be attributed to their unique protein complexes and polysaccharides, which interact positively with human cells. For example, the polysaccharide beta-glucan found in mushrooms has been shown to stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, contributing to a stronger immune system. Furthermore, mushrooms are a rich source of ergothioneine, an amino acid with powerful antioxidant properties that can protect cells from damage and help maintain healthy blood pressure, weight, and blood sugar levels.
Research also indicates that mushrooms can support kidney health, increase libido in women, and improve sperm health in men. The compound ergosterol, present in all fungi, has recently been discovered to have immunomodulating and antioxidant effects. Additionally, mushrooms are naturally low in sodium and can help reduce the risk of cancer when incorporated into the diet.
In conclusion, mushrooms possess a range of medicinal properties that can support and enhance human health. While further research is needed to fully understand the potential of mushrooms in medicine, their healing abilities offer natural alternatives that work in synergy with our bodies, showcasing the kinship we share with these fascinating fungi.
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They share a common ancestor
Mushrooms and humans share a common ancestor, with humans sharing nearly 50% of their DNA with fungi. 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 deep in time.
Fungi and animals share a more recent common ancestor than either does with the lineage leading to plants. The lineage that would become fungi and animals was over a billion years removed from the plant lineage when the first true plants appeared. This is why mushrooms are more closely related to animals than plants.
Both mushrooms and humans store carbohydrate energy as glycogen, while plants use starch to store energy. Fungi and insects use the polysaccharide chitin to build cell walls, while plants use cellulose. Mushrooms, like humans, produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight.
Mushrooms form symbiotic relationships with plant roots through their mycelial networks. Through a process called mycorrhizal association, mushrooms trade nutrients with plants for carbohydrates. This allows information and resources to flow between diverse species across vast underground territories.
The spiritual and imaginative qualities of mushrooms have inspired creativity in art, design, folklore, and more. Ancient cultures revered mushrooms for their psychedelic compounds and ability to induce dreamlike states. Today, research on hallucinogenic mushroom compounds shows promise for treating mental health issues and facilitating psychological growth.
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Mushrooms are a symbol of spirituality
Mushrooms have long been a source of mystery, fascination, and intrigue. They have been used for medicine, food, and spiritual practice in cultures worldwide. Their ability to appear overnight seems almost magical, and they have been associated with folklore and fairy tales for centuries.
The spiritual significance of mushrooms dates back thousands of years. Ancient civilizations, including the Aztecs, Egyptians, and Indigenous cultures, recognized and revered the power of mushrooms for their ability to induce altered states of consciousness. Mushrooms were often used in sacred rituals, shamanic practices, and spiritual ceremonies to connect with higher realms and gain spiritual insights.
Shamans, the spiritual leaders and healers of their communities, would often incorporate mushrooms into their rituals to access altered states of consciousness. The shamanic journey, facilitated by mushrooms, was seen as a means of connecting with the spirit world, receiving guidance, and healing the mind, body, and soul. Mushrooms were believed to offer insight into the visionary world of spirits, ancestors, and the Underworld.
The life cycle of a mushroom, with its ability to emerge from darkness and decay, represents the cyclical nature of life, death, and transformation. Their intricate patterns and shapes have inspired awe and wonder, leading many to see them as gateways to the spiritual realm.
Today, research on psilocybin and other hallucinogenic mushroom compounds shows promise for treating mental health issues and facilitating psychological growth. Used ceremonially with intention and integration, mushrooms can help people expand their consciousness and work through emotional blocks.
Mushrooms symbolize spiritual growth, enlightenment, and rebirth. They demonstrate sustainable solutions through balanced interchange with the environment, mirroring humanity's aim to live more regeneratively. With their mystical mycelial fibres, mushrooms are a reminder of our shared origin with fungi and the interconnectedness of all beings.
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Frequently asked questions
No, humans are not mushrooms. However, mushrooms and humans share key genetic traits. Humans share about a quarter to nearly half of their DNA with mushrooms.
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.
Both mushrooms and humans store carbohydrate energy as glycogen, produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, and possess medicinal properties.
Mushrooms have a meaty texture due to their genetic relationship with animals. The taste likely comes from glutamate, a neurotransmitter found in some meats and savory foods.
