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Macrofungi as a Nutraceutical Source: Promising Bioactive Compounds and Market Value

Summary

This research examines how edible and medicinal mushrooms can benefit human health through their natural compounds and potential as dietary supplements. Mushrooms contain various beneficial substances that can help fight diseases, boost immunity, and promote overall wellness. The study shows growing consumer interest in mushroom-based health products, with the market expected to expand significantly. Impacts on everyday life: • Provides natural alternatives to conventional medicines through mushroom supplements • Offers new healthy food options as more mushroom products enter the market • Creates economic opportunities in mushroom cultivation and processing industries • Helps prevent and manage common health conditions through dietary intervention • Promotes sustainable healthcare solutions through natural products

Background

Macrofungi production and economic value have been increasing globally due to their popularity among consumers, pleasant taste, unique flavors, and health benefits. Macrofungi contain high quality proteins, polysaccharides, unsaturated fatty acids, minerals, triterpene sterols, and secondary metabolites that make them an important commodity. Around 14,000 species exist globally with about 350 species consumed as food. Many studies have demonstrated their medicinal properties through in vivo and in vitro experimental studies and clinical trials.

Objective

This review aims to establish the potential of mushrooms as nutraceuticals, with emphasis on their medicinal properties and bioactive compounds. The review compiles experimental studies supporting the bioactivities of different compounds from edible mushrooms and establishes the market value of medicinal mushrooms and bioactive compounds based on market studies.

Results

The review found that macrofungi contain numerous bioactive compounds with therapeutic properties including anticancer, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Key compounds include polysaccharides like β-glucans (lentinan, pleuran, schizophyllan), proteins (lectins, ergothioneine), ergosterol, phenolic compounds, and vitamins. The global edible mushrooms market is projected to reach USD 62.19 billion by 2023. The medicinal mushroom market is expected to increase by USD 13.88 billion from 2018-2022.

Conclusion

Macrofungi show great promise as nutraceuticals due to their diverse bioactive compounds with therapeutic properties. The growing demand for functional foods and dietary supplements is driving market growth. However, only a handful of species are currently utilized commercially despite hundreds having medicinal potential. More research is needed on toxicity, quality control, and validation of health claims. The key to success lies in consumer awareness, innovation, and evidence-based marketing.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.3390/jof7050397
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