Functional mushrooms are gaining popularity as a natural support for immunity, metabolic health and even anti-cancer therapy. A growing body of research confirms their effectiveness, thanks to the presence of bioactive compounds like β-glucans. What powers do mushrooms really hold? Here’s a scientific overview of their potential.
Health from nature
Functional mushrooms, used in traditional medicine for centuries, are now attracting growing scientific interest. They are a rich source of nutrients—proteins, fiber, vitamins—and most importantly, bioactive polysaccharides.
Among them are β-glucans, compounds with strong immunomodulatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties.
Bioactive mushroom compounds and their properties
Mushroom cell walls are dominated by polysaccharides—mainly β-(1→3), β-(1→6) D-glucans—that activate the immune system. They also contain triterpenes, polyphenols, sterols (e.g. ergosterol), selenium, and health-supporting proteins.
β-glucans stimulate immune cells—macrophages, T-cells, NK cells, and dendritic cells—boosting phagocytosis and cytokine production. Acting as natural immunostimulants, they help the body fight infections and tumors.
See also: Functional mushrooms and diabetes. Scientific research
Extraction - the key to effectiveness
Not all mushroom extracts are created equal—the method of extraction is critical to the quality and efficacy of the final product. It determines how much of the valuable compounds—such as β-glucans, triterpenes and polyphenols—end up in the extract and how well they work.
The hot water extraction method, widely used in scientific studies, effectively draws out water-soluble polysaccharides like β-glucans, known for immune-boosting effects. However, it misses fat-soluble compounds like triterpenes.
Organic solvent extraction (e.g., ethanol, hexane) captures lipophilic compounds such as triterpenes and sterols. While efficient, it requires precise control to avoid leaving chemical residues.
Ultrasound-assisted extraction represents a modern approach. These advanced technologies allow for the preservation of the full spectrum of bioactive compounds while minimizing any impact on their chemical structure. Ultrasound effectively breaks down fungal cell walls, releasing substances that may remain unrecovered with other methods. Importantly, the process is fast, efficient, and does not require high temperatures, which protects delicate compounds from degradation.
This is precisely the method used by the brand Ollywell. Why is this so important? Because thanks to this technology:
- The maximum amount of active ingredients is released and preserved in the final extract.
- Each batch is consistent, standardized, and carefully controlled.
Read also: Ollywell - quality that you can trust
Functional mushrooms in research - antitumor and antimicrobial support
According to a review by Patel et al. (2021), functional mushrooms have significant potential as supportive agents in cancer and infection therapies. Extracts from mushrooms like Maitake and Shiitake may inhibit tumor growth by enhancing immune response (T-cell activation) and inducing apoptosis in cancer cells.
In one study, β-glucan from Pleurotus tuber-regium, enriched with gold nanoparticles, effectively destroyed breast cancer cells in photothermal therapy—a novel approach using heat and light.
The review also highlights antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of mushrooms. Polysaccharides from Russula vinosa neutralize free radicals, while Laetiporus sulphureus shows antibacterial activity—even against Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
These findings confirm that functional mushrooms may serve as important complementary tools in managing chronic and infectious diseases—though more human research is still needed.
Why trust functional mushrooms from Ollywell?
Ollywell is a brand focused on the highest standards of quality and safety.
All adaptogens:
- Come from local farms: reducing carbon footprint and supporting regional growers.
- Are standardized: each dose contains a measured amount of proven active compounds.
- Are extracted with advanced technology: ultrasonic double extraction retains the full spectrum of bioactives.
- Are thoroughly tested: every batch undergoes rigorous quality control.
By choosing Ollywell adaptogens, you invest in natural, science-backed support for your health. Take care of yourself holistically—let nature help you thrive.
Source: Patel, D.K. et al. (2021). Mushroom-Derived Bioactive Molecules as Immunotherapeutic Agents: A Review. Molecules, 26(5), 1359.