A booming market for mushroom supplements
There is a fast-growing awareness of functional food amongst health-conscious consumers – natural foods that contain nutrients that affect a particular bodily function in a positive way.
This idea is linked to the scientific discipline that looks at the integral relationship between diet and health.
These trends have, in turn, created a booming interest in medicinal mushrooms and their potential health benefits, because of their extraordinary nutritive properties.
In this modern age of ever-increasing time pressures, stresses, pollutants, toxins and other immune system and nervous system stressors, the average consumer in this market is looking for a natural means of supporting their immune system and general health, as well as enhancing their longevity.
And, in this age of growing environmental concern, it is worth noting that mushrooms are little “eco-warriors” in their own right. Medicinal mushrooms have the ability to absorb and decompose compounds in the soil around them, including toxic waste (such as petroleum and some pesticides). Mushroom mycelium also plays a vital role in helping to maintain the ecosystem by decomposing plant material and providing a food source for insects.
How can mushroom supplements support health?
If you are a natural health practitioner or clinician, or supplements retailer, it is worth looking at medicinal mushrooms for resale or recommendation (particularly under your own branding).
They are particularly notable for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, antinociceptive, antidiabetic, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties.
They are used to:
- support immunity
- protect against oxidative stress
- boost brain function
- reduce inflammation
- fight infection
- fight obesity
- boost energy levels
- promote skin health
- provide vitamin D
- lower blood sugar levels
- help lower cholesterol
- regulate mood
- promote heart health
- protect the digestive tract
- and more.
What’s more, they have gained much notoriety for their ability to convert ultraviolet light from the sun into vitamin D – of particular interest in the Northern hemisphere.
As an increasing body of scientific research backs up claims of immune system support, increased stamina, mood enhancement and longevity, these mushrooms are more than just the latest health fad; the market for quality mushroom supplements is set to continue growing, and rapidly.