Mushrooms are Magic
Did you know that fungi are more-closely related to humans than to plants? Indeed, we share up to 50% of our human DNA with the diverse members of this kingdom. For this reason, the multitude of unique compounds mushrooms produce for their own longevity and survival can have a profound effect on human skin. Let’s explore:
Snow Mushroom
(Tremella Fuciformis)
Known as the “Beauty Mushroom,” this tropical specimen can hold 500 times its dried weight in water, and contains hydrophilic compounds similar to hyaluronic acid, but of a smaller molecular size that is better absorbed by the skin. Snow Mushroom provides deep, penetrating hydration, leaving skin with an instantly velvety texture, and a plump glowing appearance.
Shiitake Mushroom
(Lentinula Edodes)
Grown on oak logs, shiitake mushrooms are a powerful source of antioxidants and skin-loving micronutrients. This array of exotic compounds encourages the production of collagen, reduces inflammation, mitigates damage from environmental toxins, and produces an even skintone.
Pacific Golden Chanterelle
(Cantharellus Formosus)
A powerhouse of cellular repair with incredible wound healing abilities. A generous helping of copper, B-vitamins and vitamin D2 contribute to glowing, healthy skin.
Cauliflower Mushroom
(Sparassis Crispa)
A truly impressive forest specimen, this mushroom demonstrates a balancing and protective effect on the skin, due to its extremely high levels of beta glucan. Veratric acid and other elements within this fungus have shown remarkable promise in mitigating damage from UVB light.
Chaga Mushroom
(Inonotus Obliquus)
Chaga mushrooms boast one of the highest antioxidant capacities of any organism on Earth. This sclerotium (technically not a mushroom fruiting body) has immense anti-inflammatory, anti-acne, and collagen-building potential. Chaga mushrooms are also one of nature’s highest concentrations of melanin, a pigment that mitigates skin damage caused by UVB rays. Chaga supports healthy aging through its ability to increase skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles and mitigate free radicals which age skin prematurely.
Cordyceps Militaris
Cordyceps have been used as an “energy mushroom” in traditional Chinese medicine for ages. Indeed, these fruiting bodies are packed with powerful compounds that demonstrate antioxidant, antibiotic, and anti-cancer effects. Clinical studies have shown that Cordyceps can prevent or even reverse UVB damage to skin thereby reducing the risk of fine lines, wrinkles and even the development of malignant skin tumors. Although its better-known cousin, Cordyceps Sinensis, are only found growing from dead caterpillars in Tibet, Cordyceps Militaris can be easily grown on grain and has displayed the same amazing benefits.