Seasonal allergies, often called hay fever, affect millions of people each year. They cause annoying symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion. These reactions are the result of an excessive immune system response to allergens like pollen or dust mites.
If conventional treatments offer temporary relief, more and more research is focusing on natural solutions. Among these alternatives, medicinal mushrooms stand out for their unique immunomodulatory properties. In this article, French Mush introduces you to how these fascinating organic mushrooms can become your natural allies in better managing seasonal allergies.
The immune response, what to remember?
The immune response is the body's natural defense mechanism against pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, or even allergens. It relies on two main branches: innate immunity, which is the first rapid but non-specific line of defense, and adaptive immunity, slower but highly targeted, which remembers intruders to better combat them during future exposures.
In the case of seasonal allergies, the immune response becomes excessive and inappropriate. The immune system mistakenly identifies harmless substances, such as pollen, as threats. This triggers a cascade of inflammatory reactions involving notably the release of histamine by mast cells, responsible for itching and inflammation.
⚠️ Lexicon point
Histamine: molecule involved in allergic and inflammatory reactions, it causes symptoms like itching, redness, or swelling.
Mastocytes: immune system cells present in tissues, which notably release histamine during an allergic reaction or an attack.
Which medicinal mushrooms effectively modulate the immune response?
Medicinal mushrooms are true natural allies for regulating the immune response. Thanks to their bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides (particularly beta-glucans) and triterpenes, they work deeply to balance the immune system and soothe excessive reactions.
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Reishi, nicknamed the mushroom of immortality, is one of the most used mushrooms for its immunomodulatory properties. Its polysaccharides stimulate macrophages and T lymphocytes, key cells of the immune system. As for its triterpenes, they reduce the release of histamine. The Reishi mushroom thus helps to calm excessive reactions and strengthens natural defenses.
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)
Rich in antioxidants such as melanin and bioactive polysaccharides, the Chaga mushroom is a powerful immune regulator. It strengthens the intestinal barrier and soothes chronic inflammations. Its antioxidant effects help limit the damage caused by an excessive response to allergens.
⚠️ Lexicon point
Melanin: natural pigment that protects against UV, also present in certain fungi.
Polysaccharides: complex carbohydrates with energy, moisturizing, and immune-stimulating properties.
The Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)
Shiitake contains a specific beta-glucan, lentinan, which stimulates immune cells and balances their activity. It promotes a balanced immune response by avoiding overactivations responsible for allergies. It is even used in Japan as an adjuvant in oncology for the treatment of certain cancers.
⚠️ Lexicon point
Beta-glucans: natural fibers that boost immunity and digestive health.
Overactivations: excessive or inappropriate immune responses.
The Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Known for its effects on the nervous system, the Lion's Mane mushroom also has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. It soothes inflammations caused by allergic reactions and supports tissue regeneration.
These medicinal mushrooms also work in synergy: their bioactive compounds complement each other to modulate the immune system as a whole. Result: better management of allergies and increased resistance to external aggressions.
French Mush, quality medicinal mushrooms for your health
At French Mush, we believe in the power of medicinal mushrooms to naturally support optimal health. That's why we offer a range of carefully crafted products to meet your specific wellness needs, including managing seasonal allergies.
Our mushrooms, such as Reishi, Cordyceps, Chaga, Shiitake, and Lion's Mane, are cultivated according to strict organic standards and then processed using a gentle ultrasonic extraction method. This technique ensures an optimal concentration of active ingredients.
By choosing French Mush, you opt for impeccable traceability and premium quality. Whether to soothe allergy symptoms or to support your overall health, our medicinal mushrooms are your natural allies every day.
Sources:
This compound hidden in mushrooms could protect you from the flu
Suppression of inflammatory and allergic responses by pharmacologically potent fungus Ganoderma lucidum
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24948193/
Lentinan
