Posted by Cheryl Cryer on Oct 18th 2023
Immune Support (part two): Mushroom Compounds
Maintaining a strong and resilient immune system is crucial for overall health and well-being. While there are various ways to support your immune system, such as medicinal plants and herbs, mushrooms and their medicinal compounds have gained recognition for major immune supporting benefits.
While there are several mushrooms noted for immune support, here are a few found we love, found in the Host Defense Stamets 7 powder, also is available in capsules and extracts.
Host Defense Stamets 7 is a dietary supplement that contains seven mushrooms to support the immune system. The blend includes: Royal Sun Blazei, Cordyceps, Reishi, Maitake, Lion's Mane, Chaga, Mesima and was formulated by mycologist Paul Stamets. It uses activated mushroom mycelium to provide polysaccharides and myco-nutrients.
This combination helps to:
- Augment the immune system
- Reduce stress and fatigue
- Support the body against daily environmental assaults
- Deliver enzymes to support digestion and absorption of nutrients
The mushroom mycelium used in Stamets 7 is cultivated organically, ensuring a pure and natural source of immune-boosting compounds.
Here is a breakdown of the mushrooms found in this blend:
Agaricus Blazei: Also known as the "Brazilian mushroom," Agaricus Blazei is a key component and is rich in beta-glucans, which are known for their immune-enhancing properties. Beta-glucans activate immune cells and help the body recognize and respond to potential threats more effectively.
Cordyceps: Cordyceps is a well-known medicinal mushroom with a history of use in traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicine. It's packed with antioxidants and has been linked to increased energy and vitality. Cordyceps contributes to immune support while providing an extra boost to your stamina.
Reishi: Reishi mushrooms, often referred to as the "mushroom of immortality," have a long history of use in traditional medicine. Reishi is known for its calming and adaptogenic properties, helping your body cope with stress and maintain a healthy balance. This ingredient supports your overall well-being and, in turn, your immune system.
Maitake: Maitake mushrooms are revered for their potential to enhance the immune response. They contain a unique compound called beta-D-glucan, which stimulates various immune cells, ultimately strengthening your body's defenses against harmful invaders.
Lion's Mane: Lion's Mane is a fascinating mushroom with potential cognitive and neurological benefits. While not directly related to immune support, a healthy brain contributes to overall well-being, which indirectly affects the immune system. Stamets 7's inclusion of Lion's Mane adds an extra layer of support for mental clarity and focus.
Chaga: Chaga mushrooms are a rich source of antioxidants, particularly betulinic acid, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body. By reducing the burden of oxidative stress, Chaga contributes to overall health and supports the immune system in its vital role.
Mesima: Mesima, also known as Phellinus linteus, has gained recognition for its remarkable immune-boosting properties. Mesima is rich in polysaccharides, which have been shown to enhance the body's immune response.
These seven, highly regarded medicinal mushrooms play a unique and complementary role in supporting your immune system, and when combined, they create a powerhouse of immune support that can benefit your overall health in several ways.
Synergistic Action: One of the most significant advantages of combining these ingredients is their synergistic action. These mushrooms contain different bioactive compounds, such as beta-glucans, triterpenes, and antioxidants. When taken together, they work in harmony to stimulate and modulate the immune response. They activate immune cells, enhance their communication, and help your body recognize and respond to potential threats more effectively.
Comprehensive Immune Support: Each mushroom contributes to different aspects of your immune system's function. Agaricus Blazei and Maitake mushrooms are rich in beta-glucans, which activate immune cells. Cordyceps provides an energy boost, ensuring that your immune system remains active and alert. Reishi and Chaga help reduce the impact of oxidative stress on your immune system, while Mesima adds its unique immune-enhancing properties to the mix. The combination of these ingredients provides comprehensive support for your immune system, making it more resilient against various challenges.
Balanced Well-being: The inclusion of Lion's Mane contributes to cognitive health and mental clarity. By supporting a healthy brain, it indirectly benefits your overall well-being, which, in turn, has a positive impact on the immune system. A healthy body and mind create a balanced environment where your immune system can function optimally.
Enhance and boost your immune system and support your overall well being with this proprietary blend from Host Defense and world reknown mycologist Paul Stamtets. This holistic approach to immune support ensures that your body is better prepared to face everyday challenges and maintain its natural defenses.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your regimen, but the ingredients in Host Defense Stamets 7 are backed by centuries of traditional use and modern scientific research, making it a compelling choice for immune support.
Want more on immune support? Check out our related blog, Elderberry with a Twist.
Where to purchase: Check out our selection of immune-supporting medicinal plants, herbs and mushrooms: