Mushrooms' Intriguing Self-Healing: Nature's Intricate Design

Mushrooms have been used for their healing properties for thousands of years, with around 40% of Western medicines today utilising mushrooms. Medicinal mushrooms such as chaga and reishi can be extracted in hot water and alcohol to make the bioactive components bioavailable. The process of decoction releases water-soluble benefits, mostly for the immune system, while fat-soluble compounds can be extracted with alcohol. Mushrooms have also been found to accelerate wound healing and exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, psilocybin, has been explored for its potential in treating psychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety. Beyond medicinal uses, mushrooms are being explored for their potential in sustainability and environmental restoration, with applications in fashion and self-healing concrete.

Magic mushrooms and mental health

Mushrooms have been used for their healing properties for thousands of years. Medicinal mushrooms like chaga and reishi are prepared in hot water and alcohol to extract their fat-soluble compounds and make their bioactive components bioavailable.

Psilocybin, the primary psychoactive ingredient in so-called "magic mushrooms," has been used by indigenous peoples in Mexico and Central America for thousands of years as part of sacred traditions. In the United States, psilocybin is considered a psychedelic drug that affects how the brain processes serotonin, a chemical that can change people's moods, thoughts, and perceptions.

In recent years, a growing body of research has shown that psilocybin has significant potential in treating mental and behavioral health disorders. Studies have found that psilocybin therapy can be beneficial in relieving symptoms of treatment-resistant depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. It has also shown effectiveness in easing fear and anxiety in people with terminal cancer and has positive results in smoking cessation and anorexia nervosa treatment studies.

When taken under supported conditions, psilocybin can induce self-described "spiritual" experiences that generally result in positive changes in a person's attitude, mood, and behavior. It appears to elevate a personality quality known as "openness," which includes sensitivity, imagination, and an appreciation for the values and viewpoints of others.

However, it is important to note that psilocybin carries risks when taken outside of a controlled setting, and it is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance by the federal government in the United States and as a Class A drug in the UK. It should only be taken while under the care of a trained therapist or facilitator to manage the set and setting of the experience, which are essential elements of safety for psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Medicinal mushrooms and their preparation

Mushrooms have been used for their medicinal properties for thousands of years. Ancient cultures worldwide have long recognised their healing properties, and around 40% of Western medicines today utilise mushrooms. For example, the psychedelic drug psilocybin, found in magic mushrooms, is being trialled for its potential to treat psychiatric conditions such as depression.

Medicinal mushrooms are characterised by a high content of biologically active compounds, including (1,3)(1,6)-β-d-glucans, triterpenes, phenolic compounds, and sterols. They exhibit a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities, including antiallergic, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antiviral, cytotoxic, immunomodulating, antidepressive, antihyperlipidemic, antidiabetic, digestive, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, nephroprotective, osteoprotective, and hypotensive activities.

Medicinal mushrooms include Lion's Mane, Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, Shiitake, and Turkey Tail. These mushrooms are considered functional foods, meaning they have a beneficial effect on the body by improving overall health and nutritional levels. They can be used to accelerate metabolism, help fight obesity, and slow down ageing processes.

To extract the medicinal compounds from mushrooms, they must be extracted in hot water and alcohol. This process is called decoction and takes 12 to 24 hours. The water-soluble benefits are mostly good for the immune system. The fat-soluble compounds, which are mostly adaptogenic, can be extracted with alcohol in a process called tincture. This involves placing the mushroom pieces in a strong alcohol for 4 to 8 weeks.

Mushrooms and the human body

Mushrooms have been used for their healing properties for thousands of years. Humans share almost half of their genetic makeup with mushrooms and are affected by many of the same diseases and problems. Medicinal mushrooms have been used to develop many important pharmaceutical medicines, from penicillin to statins and several anticancer treatments.

Mushrooms are a powerful source of ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant that prevents or slows cellular damage. They also contain a range of other antioxidants and nutrients that may contribute to heart health and protect the body from cancer. A review of 17 cancer studies from 1966 to 2020 showed that eating just 18 grams of mushrooms a day may lower your risk of cancer by up to 45%.

Mushrooms are also a good source of vitamin D, which assists with cell growth, boosts immune function, and reduces inflammation. They contain vitamin B6, which helps the body form red blood cells, proteins, and DNA, and vitamin B3 (niacin), which has been shown to lower cholesterol and protect against heart disease. The choline in mushrooms can help with muscle movement, learning, and memory, and may also reduce the risk of some types of cancer.

Some varieties of mushrooms, such as shiitake, oyster, maitake, and king oyster, have higher amounts of ergothioneine, while lion's mane mushrooms have been shown to improve brain cell growth and memory. In addition to their nutritional benefits, mushrooms have been studied for their potential use in treating depression and anxiety. Psilocybin, the psychedelic drug found in magic mushrooms, has been researched for its ability to 'reboot' the brain and treat psychiatric conditions.

When it comes to incorporating mushrooms into your diet, they can be easily substituted for meat in recipes, reducing the overall calories, fat, and cholesterol in a meal. They are also naturally low in sodium, which can help to lower blood pressure.

Mushrooms as a sustainable solution

Mushrooms have been used for their healing properties for thousands of years, with around 40% of Western medicines utilising mushrooms. They contain a variety of bioactive metabolites that can be used in the prevention and treatment of various health hazards.

Medicinal mushrooms, such as chaga and reishi, can be extracted in hot water and alcohol to make the bioactive components bioavailable. This process is similar to making bone broth at home and can take up to 24 hours. The resulting decoction provides water-soluble benefits, mainly for the immune system.

However, mushrooms are not just a potential solution for healing the human body; they are also being explored as a sustainable solution for the planet. Fungi have gained recognition in the past decade as a sustainable agent for environmental resilience and restoration. For example, mycelium, a thread-like membrane, has attracted attention for its potential to remedy pressing ecological challenges.

Additionally, companies like Ecovative and Bolt Threads are harnessing the potential of mushrooms in leather tanning. They have developed a process that resembles animal hide tanning, resulting in a product that meets the standards of top brands. This approach allows for the continuation of the traditional craft of leather tanning while providing a sustainable alternative.

Furthermore, mushrooms may even contribute to the development of self-healing concrete structures. Researchers have found that mixing T. reesei into concrete, along with nutrients that aid fungus growth, could help repair micro-cracks in buildings and bridges. This innovation has the potential to address infrastructure problems and provide a permanent self-healing solution for concrete.

Overall, mushrooms offer a range of sustainable solutions, from medicinal and therapeutic uses to environmental and industrial applications. With their unique properties, mushrooms may play a significant role in shaping a more sustainable future.

Mushrooms in construction

The construction industry is responsible for a large amount of carbon emissions, and researchers are developing more sustainable materials to address this issue. One such innovation is the use of mushrooms in construction.

Mycelium technology, which involves the use of the root structure of mushrooms, has been explored in building construction, insulation, art, and product design. Mycelium is a 100% biodegradable material that is stronger than concrete relative to its weight. It can be grown into solid bricks or panels that are lightweight, fireproof, and waterproof. These bricks can be produced with just a few sacks of preserved mushroom roots, also known as mycelium, and some starchy plant byproducts to feed the fungus, like straw or corn stalks. The bricks are alive and can be replicated by simply adding more feedstock. After use, they will naturally biodegrade and disappear back into the earth, leaving behind less harmful waste than traditional building materials.

However, mycelium technology is still in its experimental phase. One limitation is that when in contact with the ground, a mycelium panel may start to decompose in about six weeks, whereas in favourable and stable conditions, it can last for approximately 20 years. Mycelium also does not have the same compressive strength as concrete, which may limit its applications.

Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of using mushrooms in construction are significant, particularly in remote settings or at the scenes of natural disasters where construction materials may not be readily available. With further research and development, mushroom-based construction materials could play an important role in the fight against climate change and offer a more sustainable future for the construction industry.

Frequently asked questions