There are opinions that mushrooms do not have many nutritional properties, and that they can only burden digestion. However, it turns out that mushrooms have a lot of ingredients to support the body even in very severe diseases and are a very underrated part of the diet. Because of the proteins, vitamins, and minerals they contain, they can be a crucial part of your diet plan. Mushrooms such as Chaga or Lion's Mane and many others deserve special attention. They have been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Vital mushrooms are mostly protected by law and cannot be obtained on our own. Often it can also be too dangerous due to the lack of knowledge of which mushrooms are actually safe for us, let alone how to prepare them for consumption. Today we will describe a few of the most popular vital mushrooms.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

It derives its extraordinary power from the trees on which it grows. It grows on birch trees in colder regions of the world, particularly in Siberia, China, North America, and North Korea. Growing on birch trunks, they absorb betulin from the tree bark, which they then convert into betulinic acid. It has anti-cancer, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-microbial properties.

Due to its health benefits, it has been present and used for centuries in Eastern cultures and by Native Americans. Its beneficial properties are being discovered and researched all the time. A 1998 study showed that the mushroom inhibits brain tumor growth by killing advert cells while leaving healthy ones intact. Other studies, in turn, have shown its effectiveness in protecting human DNA. In Chinese medicine, Chaga mushroom extract is used to extend the human lifespan.

Considered to be one of the most beneficial vital mushrooms, Chaga mushrooms are naturally rich in B vitamins, potassium, copper, calcium, iron, and zinc. Chaga also contains beta-glucans, which effectively stimulate the immune system, resulting in less frequent illnesses. Chaga also has significant amounts of riboflavin, nicotinic acid, and melanin, as well as phenols, enzymes, and sterols. Additionally, thanks to its adaptogenic properties, it effectively combats problems associated with stress and anxiety.

According to the reports, Chaga has the following effects:

1. supports liver and heart health
2. regulates blood pressure
3. anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties
4. supports the immune system
5. helps in conventional cancer treatment
6. supports intestinal health

Lion's Mane (Hericium Erinaceus)

Lion's mane (Hericium Erinaceus) is especially loved by people who care about their brains. Its unique property is its ability to raise NGF (nerve growth factor) levels. This factor promotes the development of the nervous system and keeps it in good condition. Among the practical effects of Lion's Mane are improved memory and better concentration. It does not have a typically stimulating effect, although many users note that it improves the effects of caffeine. It is also a popular addition to coffee, especially in extract form.

Lion's Mane benefits:

1. It supports the proper functioning of the nervous system
2. Alleviating the negative effects of stress
3. Strengthening of the body's natural immunity
4. Protection against the damaging effects of free radicals
5. Reduced risk of developing diabetes
6. Relief of complaints of the digestive system