Disease: anxiety

Benefits, side effects, and uses of Hericium erinaceus as a supplement: a systematic review

Lion’s Mane mushroom shows promising benefits for brain health, potentially improving memory and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. It may help prevent cancer by triggering cancer cell death and supports digestive health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria. While generally safe, some people experience mild side effects like stomach discomfort or headaches, making it an accessible supplement for overall wellness.

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Exploring Psilocybe spp. mycelium and fruiting body chemistry for potential therapeutic compounds

This study analyzed the chemical composition of ‘magic mushrooms’ (Psilocybe) at different growth stages—liquid cultures, grain cultures, and mature fruiting bodies. Using advanced laboratory techniques, researchers found that fruiting bodies contain the highest levels of psilocybin (the psychoactive compound), while mycelium contains unique beneficial compounds like alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine that may have therapeutic value without strong psychedelic effects. The findings suggest that Psilocybe mycelium could be developed as a non-intoxicating health supplement with potential therapeutic applications.

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Review of Psilocybin Use for Depression among Cancer Patients after Approval in Oregon

Psilocybin, the active compound in certain mushrooms, shows promise as a treatment for depression and anxiety in cancer patients, particularly those nearing end of life. Oregon legalized supervised psilocybin therapy in 2020, making it the first U.S. state to do so. While clinical research shows the treatment can rapidly reduce depression and improve quality of life, the actual rollout has faced challenges including regulatory hurdles, lack of professional standards, and unequal geographic access.

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Exploring Psilocybe spp. mycelium and fruiting body chemistry for potential therapeutic compounds

This study compared the chemical makeup of psilocybin mushroom mycelium (the root-like growth) versus fruiting bodies (the mushrooms themselves) to understand their different therapeutic potential. While fruiting bodies contain much higher levels of psilocybin, the psychoactive compound, mycelium accumulates other beneficial compounds like α-GPC that may enhance cognition and motor function without strong psychedelic effects. This research suggests that mushroom mycelium could be developed as a non-intoxicating therapeutic alternative with its own unique health benefits.

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Exploring Psilocybe spp. mycelium and fruiting body chemistry for potential therapeutic compounds

Scientists studied magic mushrooms at different growth stages to understand their chemical makeup. They found that mature mushroom caps contain high levels of psilocybin (the psychedelic compound) but the root-like mycelium contains different beneficial compounds like ergothioneine and choline. This suggests mycelium could be developed as a therapeutic product without the psychedelic effects, potentially offering health benefits while avoiding the mind-altering properties.

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Influences of substrate and tissue type on erinacine production and biosynthetic gene expression in Hericium erinaceus

This study examined how different growing conditions and tissue types affect erinacine production in lion’s mane mushrooms. Researchers found that mycelium (the fungal threads) produced far more erinacines than fruit bodies, and that the type of growth medium significantly influenced which erinacines were produced. Interestingly, changes in erinacine production weren’t always reflected in gene activity levels, suggesting other cellular mechanisms control these beneficial compounds.

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Adaptation and latent structure of the Brazilian version of the Ego Dissolution Inventory (EDI-BR): an exploratory study

This study adapted a psychological assessment tool called the Ego Dissolution Inventory for use in Brazil. Ego dissolution refers to the profound sense of losing one’s sense of self that people experience when using psychedelics like psilocybin mushrooms and LSD. The researchers found that the adapted Brazilian version works well and identifies three dimensions of the experience: confidence/assertiveness, ego dissolution, and ego inflation. This validated tool can now help researchers in Brazil better understand psychedelic experiences and their potential therapeutic benefits.

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Exploring the relationship between dietary patterns and health-related quality of life among Iranian adult population: Tehran lipid and glucose study

This study examined how different eating patterns affect people’s overall quality of life in Iran. Researchers found that people who eat more vegetables, fruits, legumes, and lean proteins report better physical and mental health. In contrast, diets high in processed foods, red meat, and sweets were associated with worse mental health in men. Interestingly, the benefits of healthy eating appeared stronger in women than men, suggesting that gender may influence how diet affects quality of life.

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Acute effects of psilocybin on attention and executive functioning in healthy volunteers: a systematic review and multilevel meta-analysis

This comprehensive review examined how psilocybin affects thinking and attention. Researchers analyzed 13 studies and found that psilocybin slows down reaction times during tasks requiring focus and decision-making, though accuracy remains relatively stable. The effects increase with higher doses. Understanding these cognitive changes is important for both therapeutic applications and ensuring safe use of psilocybin in research and clinical settings.

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Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Psilocybe Mushrooms: Gaps and Perspectives

This review examined research on Psilocybe mushrooms and their chemical compounds, particularly psilocybin and psilocin, which show promise for treating depression and anxiety. The authors found that while these psychoactive compounds have been extensively studied, many other chemical substances in these mushrooms remain unexplored. Additionally, preliminary studies suggest these mushrooms may have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, though more research is needed. The review highlights significant gaps in understanding the full potential of Psilocybe mushrooms for medical applications.

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