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Edible Mushrooms as a Potential Component of Dietary Interventions for Major Depressive Disorder

Summary

This review examines how edible mushrooms, particularly Lion’s mane, Reishi, and Caterpillar mushroom, might help treat depression as part of a dietary approach. These mushrooms contain compounds that may influence brain chemistry, especially serotonin levels, which are important for mood regulation. While early studies show promising results, especially for Lion’s mane, more research is needed to confirm these benefits in larger groups of patients.

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects approximately 322 million people worldwide and is a leading cause of suicide and disability. Dietary interventions show promise in reducing depression symptoms, and edible mushrooms contain bioactive compounds including 5-HTP, a direct precursor of serotonin, which is targeted in MDD pharmacotherapy.

Objective

This review examines the potential use of edible medicinal mushrooms as adjunctive treatment for MDD, focusing on three species: Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus), Caterpillar mushroom (Cordyceps militaris), and Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), and their mechanisms of action related to stress, serotonergic neurotransmission, and depression.

Results

Lion’s mane shows promising preliminary evidence with reduced self-reported depression and anxiety symptoms in small clinical samples. Preclinical studies demonstrate mechanisms including anti-inflammatory effects, neurogenesis promotion, and monoamine neurotransmitter restoration. Reishi results are equivocal, while Cordyceps militaris studies are ongoing, with preclinical evidence supporting effects on stress-induced behavioral changes.

Conclusion

Edible mushrooms, particularly Lion’s mane and Cordyceps militaris, show potential as dietary adjuncts to MDD treatment through multiple biological mechanisms. However, large-scale, placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to establish efficacy. The high 5-HTP content in certain mushroom species, particularly Pleurotus species, suggests dietary sources could support serotonergic therapy.
  • Published in:Foods,
  • Study Type:Narrative Review,
  • Source: 35627059
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