Fungi naturally produce many compounds that kill harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This review explores how these fungal compounds could replace antibiotics that no longer work due to drug resistance. These natural substances could be used not only as medicines but also in cosmetic products to prevent bacterial growth and improve skin health.
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.
Sulphur shelf fungus, known as ‘chicken of the woods,’ is a bright yellow mushroom that grows on tree trunks and has remarkable health benefits. Research shows it contains compounds with antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer properties, making it valuable for both food and medicine. The fungus can be cultivated relatively quickly and easily, and some countries already recognize it as safe for food use, potentially opening new applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Mushrooms are nutrient-rich foods containing compounds that protect our bodies from damage and reduce inflammation. When mushrooms are processed into powders, extracts, or specially designed capsules, they can be added to ordinary foods like bread, pasta, and yogurt to make them healthier. This review shows that these mushroom-enriched foods successfully boost the antioxidant power of products, though the best results depend on how the mushrooms are prepared and which type of food they’re added to.
This research examined how Lion’s Mane mushroom extracts made with different liquids can fight infections and oxidative damage. The water-based extract was best at preventing viruses and free radical damage, while the ethyl acetate extract worked best against bacteria and fungi. The study identified 16 beneficial compounds in the mushroom and suggests it could be used as a daily supplement to protect against infections and oxidative stress.
This study tested 30 different mushroom species to determine which ones are the best sources of natural antioxidants that can help protect the body from damage caused by harmful free radicals. Researchers grew the mushrooms in laboratory conditions and measured their antioxidant power and beneficial compounds like polyphenols and polysaccharides. Oyster-like mushrooms called Lentinula edodes and Fomitopsis pinicola showed the strongest antioxidant activity, making them promising candidates for use in health supplements and functional foods.
Researchers discovered that mushroom fruiting bodies can effectively remove bisphenol A (BPA), a harmful plastic component, from water. Five mushroom species were particularly efficient, removing between 72-82% of BPA from solutions. The mushroom biomass works best at room temperature and neutral pH, can be reused multiple times after treatment with ethanol, and could potentially clean enormous volumes of contaminated water using small amounts of material.
Swedish researchers tested 26 types of white-rot fungi to clean up polluted sediments from old pulp and paper mills called fiberbanks. These contaminated sediments contain harmful chemicals and heavy metals. The study found that three fungal species, especially Diplomitoporus crustulinus, were excellent at breaking down pollutants and could tolerate the toxic environment, making them promising for environmental cleanup efforts.
Mycelium, the thread-like root structure of fungi, could help solve world hunger by providing nutritious, sustainable protein in just days. Unlike meat production which takes months to years, mycelium grows rapidly using minimal water and produces far less greenhouse gas. Early research suggests it may help lower cholesterol and improve blood sugar control while supporting a healthier planet.
Mushrooms contain special compounds that may help protect the brain from Alzheimer’s disease. Research shows that eating mushrooms regularly could reduce the risk of memory problems and cognitive decline in older adults. These compounds work by reducing brain inflammation, protecting nerve cells, and helping the brain clear out harmful proteins. While these findings are promising, more human studies are needed to confirm how effective mushrooms are as an Alzheimer’s treatment.