Renowned as the most extensively researched mushroom globally, Turkey Tail has earned its reputation as a phenomenal fungus. At its core lie two crucial compounds, Polysaccharopeptide (PSP) and Polysaccharide Krestin (PSK), responsible for its distinctive benefits. In this blog, we’ll primarily be discussing PSP’s effects.

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Maintaining optimal gut health is essential for overall well-being. The intricate web of the gut microbiome significantly influences our immune system, metabolism, and the crucial connection between our gut and brain. Disruptions in this balance can lead to a spectrum of health issues, affecting not only the gut but also contributing to complications in other bodily systems such as allergies and skin health. Emerging studies highlight the potential of PSP, found in turkey tail mushrooms, to support the human gut microbiome through various pathways. It actively modulates gut pH, creating a nurturing environment for beneficial bacteria, acts as a prebiotic source of nourishment for microbiota, and stimulates the microbiome itself.

While often recognized for their immune-boosting and gut-nurturing capabilities, the compounds in turkey tail offer a spectrum of advantages. Notably, a pivotal 2011 study shed light on PSP's ability to specifically target cancer progenitor cells in vivo, unveiling its potential subject of further research for supporting prostate health. What’s the best part about the compounds found in turkey tail? PSP and PSK are both water-soluble compounds, so Turkey Tail is a great choice for those who cannot tolerate alcohol. Turkey Tail is also abundant in nature all over the world, making it a perfect option for taking your wellness into your own hands.

While Artist’s Conk may not be a household name in the realm of healing fungi (yet!), it has a number of incredibly interesting, and somewhat unique properties that make it a phenomenal addition to any mushroom regimen. What’s the secret component that makes Artist’s Conk so intriguing? Ganoderic acids, a class of closely-related triterpenes found in the mushrooms of Ganoderma species.

Artist Conk extracts offer a valuable benefit to men by promoting the synthesis of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is essential for maintaining cardiovascular and circulatory health, as well as a healthy libido. Moreover, it serves as the neurotransmitter responsible for initiating penile erections. The study notes that both hot water and alcohol extractions of Artist’s Conk support healthy nitric oxide levels.

A recent study from 2022 revealed that compounds extracted from Artist’s Conk possess the ability to hinder lipid (fat) accumulation in vitro. While four compounds exhibited efficacy similar to the control, five compounds from artist’s conk surpassed the positive control in their anti-adipogenic effects, and two others displayed properties reducing the amount of lipids accumulated in vitro. These compounds are lanostane-type triterpenes, only soluble in an alcohol extraction (and a few other, less common non-water solvents).

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In January 2018, a study examined the impact of Artist’s Conk extracts on uric acid levels in hyperuricemic mice. The results were impressive: the extracts not only lowered serum uric acid but also increased urine uric acid while reducing the absorption of purine compounds in the mice's gastrointestinal tracts. Alcohol extracts decreased mice serum uric acid by 53%, while water extracts showed a similar effect, reducing it to 46%. Both alcohol and water extracts notably boosted urine uric acid levels. These findings were characterized as “outstanding” by the researchers.

When you think of mushrooms, I'm sure the ever-popular culinary fungus, white button mushrooms, are the first to come to mind. Even if you're unfamiliar, you've certainly seen these popular mushies on pizza, in salads, and even canned! They are the most common culinary mushroom, but did you know they also harbor the potential for powerful healing?

In 2005, research was conducted on white button mushrooms, both in laboratory settings (in vitro) and in living organisms (in vivo), to assess their potential in promoting prostate health. The findings were significant: these mushrooms possess alcohol-soluble phytonutrients that can effectively reduce the activity of 5a-reductase. This particular enzyme plays a role in converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a compound associated with prostate cancer development. Moreover, the study revealed that compounds from white button mushrooms can even target hormone-resistant prostate cancer cells, while leaving normal, healthy prostate cells unharmed.

White button mushrooms hold promise in boosting the immune system through various mechanisms of action. In a 2007 study, these mushrooms were found to amp up the activity of natural killer cells—cells crucial in limiting tumor spread and fighting microbial infections. Another research in 2010 revealed that these mushrooms also enhance the production of antimicrobial proteins released by tissue-repairing cells. Additionally, in cell cultures, Agaricus bisporus was observed to improve the maturation of dendritic cells, which are key players in producing fighter T-cells, thus contributing significantly to a proper immune response.

Maitake or Grifola frondosa, is a phenomenal mushroom that has a wealth of beneficial compounds. It even boasts the highest beta glucan (1,3-1,6) content among our range of tinctures. This exceptional concentration makes it a powerhouse in supporting the immune system. Additionally, the glycoproteins and mycosterols present in Maitake have demonstrated their potential to contribute to maintaining healthy body weight, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Maitake is a must-have in any mushroom routine, but make sure to opt for a dual or double extract tincture for maximized benefits.  

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No mushroom-centric blog would be complete without a mention of Lion’s Mane. Lion’s mane, Hericium erinaceus, has captivated the world with its noticeably brain-boosting, nootropic effects. Lion’s Mane contains hericenone, which is responsible for its powerful work in the brain. Nearly all people can benefit from the addition of Lion’s Mane into their diet, where it will help to support healthy memory, focus and cognition in addition to supporting a positive mood. It’s our top seller, so we definitely recommend trying it out.

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