Edible Mushrooms
A familiar sight in savory dishes, the mushroom has trecked throughout history earning a worthy place in cuisines around the globe. It was considered a "plant of immortality" by the Ancient Egyptians, who entitled it strictly for the pharaoh's enjoyment. The medicinal properties were held into account as well as its culinary purpose. In Rome, wild-foraged mushrooms were thoroughly enjoyed in the diet. Different ways of cultivating the mushrooms were introduced early in Roman civilization, around 200 BC.[1,2]
Mushroom farming became popular in the Western world by a French gardener by the name of Chambry. He discovered the effectiveness of growing mushrooms in caves, where the humidity was high. With the abundance of deserted caves, mushrooms were grown all throughout Paris. [3]
The most recognized and used mushrooms in the US are White Buttons, Portabella, and Criminis ( Baby Bellas- which are just immature portabella mushrooms) These mushrooms are a great source of B vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals such as copper and selenium. According to studies, they contain cancer-fighting properties as well.[4,5]
There are some outlandish looking mushrooms out there that are actually edible and contain many beneficial properties:
Clearly, this does not look like your traditional mushroom! Although it is not as foreign as you may think. You can find Lion's Mane growing on decaying hardwood logs all over North America.
This mushroom is very beneficial for brain health and shows promise for those who are at risk or suffering from neurodegenerative diseases ( like dementia).[6,7]
Native to Asia, this mushroom has gain popularity in recent years and can be found in many grocery markets. It has a very meaty texture and is a great addition to savory recipes. It is a great source of B vitamins including riboflavin (B2) and niacin (B3). B vitamins play a role in supporting brain health, reducing stroke risk, and boosting immunity. Studies have shown that supplementing with Shiitake mushrooms may fight obesity by preventing fat deposition[8].
These mushrooms have European origins and are called 'oyster mushrooms' due to their resemblance to an oyster shell. They can be found growing on deciduous trees. They are fairly versatile in cooking and are quite easy to grow.
A highlighted property of these mushrooms is their ability to reduce inflammation. Aside from the anti-inflammatory activities found in studies, oyster mushrooms contain potassium and this can help reduce acidity and inflammation in the body. [9]
It is common to see enoki floating on top of savory soups, but they can be eaten raw or even stir-fried. Because of its shape and texture, some use it as a replacement for noodles. They don't take very long to cook so do keep a close eye on them. As with other mushrooms, like Shiitake, they can be bought dried and rehydrated.
Enoki has antiviral and antibacterial properties that prove to aid the body in preventing disease and infection by supporting the immune system.[10]
Due to the complex nature of mushrooms in general, edible mushrooms are limited compared to the myriad number of species that are recognized. Many mushrooms have not even been identified and could possibly be poisonous, leading to a fatal casualty. This makes it dangerous to forage for wild mushrooms and should only be done with a professional guide.
Some may look extremely similar to safe and edible mushrooms, so if you ever see a wild mushroom, it is best to leave it be.
Mushroom farming became popular in the Western world by a French gardener by the name of Chambry. He discovered the effectiveness of growing mushrooms in caves, where the humidity was high. With the abundance of deserted caves, mushrooms were grown all throughout Paris. [3]
Types of Mushrooms and Their Benefits
The most recognized and used mushrooms in the US are White Buttons, Portabella, and Criminis ( Baby Bellas- which are just immature portabella mushrooms) These mushrooms are a great source of B vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals such as copper and selenium. According to studies, they contain cancer-fighting properties as well.[4,5]
There are some outlandish looking mushrooms out there that are actually edible and contain many beneficial properties:
Lion's Mane
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| By Jim Champion |
This mushroom is very beneficial for brain health and shows promise for those who are at risk or suffering from neurodegenerative diseases ( like dementia).[6,7]
Shiitake
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| By frakenstoen |
Oyster
These mushrooms have European origins and are called 'oyster mushrooms' due to their resemblance to an oyster shell. They can be found growing on deciduous trees. They are fairly versatile in cooking and are quite easy to grow. |
| By Jörg Hempel |
Enokitake (Enoki)
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| Fiber Of Life Mushrooms |
Enoki has antiviral and antibacterial properties that prove to aid the body in preventing disease and infection by supporting the immune system.[10]
Wild Mushrooms
Due to the complex nature of mushrooms in general, edible mushrooms are limited compared to the myriad number of species that are recognized. Many mushrooms have not even been identified and could possibly be poisonous, leading to a fatal casualty. This makes it dangerous to forage for wild mushrooms and should only be done with a professional guide.
Some may look extremely similar to safe and edible mushrooms, so if you ever see a wild mushroom, it is best to leave it be.
Disclaimers
- All product reviews are based on my experiences. Please be advised that everyone may not have the same experience. I am not affiliated with any product or marketing unless otherwise noted. Please check with manufacture disclaimers prior to use of any product.
- All advice, information, and remedies should be taken into severe consideration. Please contact your health practitioner or holistic practitioner if you are struggling with a disease or currently taking any form of medication, pregnant or breastfeeding.
- These statements-unless otherwise noted- have not been evaluated by the FDA
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