There are many benefits of mushrooms, but are they truly magical? While eating a mushroom-infused dish may not seem like a big deal, research suggests that the health benefits of eating mushrooms may be much more profound than previously thought.
One study suggests that psilocybin-infused mushrooms have the potential to alleviate depression. Other studies have hinted that mushrooms may have a positive impact on heart disease and cancer. Read on to learn more about the possible health benefits of eating mushrooms.
Psilocybin May Have Antidepressant Properties
For centuries, humans have turned to magic mushrooms for both spiritual and health reasons. A 1955 study found that psilocybin, a compound found in many mushrooms, was effective in treating anxiety in rabbits. The same year, a pilot study on cancer patients also found promise. Since then, several studies have looked at the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin.
In 1965, a double-blind study on patients who suffered from severe depression found that those who ingested psilocybin had a significantly higher rate of recovery than the placebo group. Moreover, the patients who benefited the most from psilocybin also reported the best treatment response.
Mushrooms Could Fight Cancer
Cancer is a complex disease that has a wide range of causes. While some cancers are caused by environmental factors, others are caused by genetic mutations. Fortunately, many types of cancer are also highly susceptible to treatment with anti-cancer drugs.
One type of mushroom that could be used to treat cancer is the burma shrooms or magicbutton mushroom. This species has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years for conditions such as cancer, inflammation, and aging.
Psilocybin May Help Heart Patients
Studies have found that patients who suffer from heart disease seem to benefit the most from the medicinal properties of magic mushrooms. In one double-blind trial, patients with chronic anxiety were the main group treated with psilocybin. Those who ingested the psychedelic compound reported significantly reduced anxiety compared to the placebo group. Moreover, post-treatment cardiac function in the patients who received psilocybin improved to a greater extent than in the placebo group.
Magic Mushroom Extract May Benefit Asthmatics
There has been a great deal of research into the potential benefits of mushrooms for treating asthma. One study found that a compound called psilocybin theanine was effective in treating symptoms in patients with pulmonary fibrosis. The researchers suggest that the compound could be a potential treatment for other lung diseases, including asthma.
Summary
Psilocybin is a psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms. While psychedelic mushrooms are illegal in most countries, they are often consumed recreationally. There are promising clinical research studies that psilocybin may have therapeutic benefits in treating various conditions, including cancer and anxiety.
There is also strong anecdotal evidence that psilocybin mushrooms can be beneficial for treating various conditions, including anxiety, depression, heart disease, asthma, and various other ailments. While the evidence is compelling, it is important to note that no medical claims can be made regarding the use of psilocybin for treating any disease. Please consult your doctor before taking any dietary supplements.