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Good connections
We are not trying to change the world. But we can make a difference to yours; by putting you back in touch with nature.
Every story has an origin. Ours begins deep in the earth and connects us all.
About Our Mushrooms
Lion's Mane
Nature’s big thinker, Lions Mane can help improve cognition, reduce symptoms of anxiety and support your immune system. Good energy for mind, body and soul.
We use organic double extracted Hericium Ericenacea powder at 30% Beta-Glucans.
Turkey Tail
Nature’s all-rounder, Turkey Tail contains powerful antioxidants and improves the balance of gut bacteria to help boost your immune system. A feel good fungi.
We use organic double extracted Trametes Versicolor powder at 30% Beta-Glucans.
Cordyceps
Beloved by Chinese Medicine, Cordyceps can improve heart health, fights inflammation and can reduce the signs of ageing. An historic fungi that never gets old.
We use organic double extracted Cordyceps Militaris powder at 30% Beta-Glucans.
Reishi
Full of Eastern promise, Reishi has been trusted for centuries to support the immune system, and can help to reduce fatigue. An ancient fungi packed with good energy.
We use organic double extracted Ganoderma Lucidum powder at 30% Beta-Glucans.
Chaga
Nature’s medic, Chaga is packed full of antioxidants, supports the immune system, reduces inflammation and can reduce cholesterol. Trusted for centuries to help today.
We use organic double extracted Inonotus Obliquus powder at 20% Beta-Glucans.
Good sense
Doing the right thing for our environment. Doing the right thing for your health. Giving tastebuds something to smile about.
About our other Ingredients
Cacao
High in polyphenols and flavanols both very potent anti-oxidants cacao has been used ceremonially by indigenous American cultures for thousands of years. We use only the finest, pure organic cacao in Shoom.
Turmeric
The use of Turmeric root in cooking and medicine dates back many years in Asian and Indian culture. Well know for its anti-oxidising properties Turmeric contains the highly active compound Curcumin, and is super potent when paired with black pepper.
Ginger
Another ancient root, ginger has been cultivated in India and China for millennia. High in anti-oxidants and well know as a digestive, the ginger paired with the Ancho Chilli in Shoom bring a little warmth to the finish.
Cinnamon
Long revered as a valuable spice, Cinnamon has been shown to help lower blood pressure and support brain function as well as being a strong anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant.
Green Cardamon
From the same family as Ginger, cardamon brings a very distinctive flavour to Shoom. Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to help digestion, Cardamon has anti-microbial and anti-oxidising properties.
Black Pepper
With anti-oxidising and anti-inflammatory properties, Black Pepper contains Piperine, which helps the body absorb Curcumin the main active compound in Turmeric.
Cloves
Another spice with anti-oxidising properties, Cloves are also ant-microbial, and have been shown to help control blood sugar levels.
Ancho Chilli
Rich in vitamin A and C Ancho like other chilli peppers is rich in anti-oxidants. We only put a very small amount of Ancho Chilli in Shoom and its there for mouth feel and body.
Himalayan Salt
Rich in essential minerals, we only use a tiny amount of salt in Shoom to unite the flavours. So we use the finest pink Himalayan Salt. Why not.
Our tins
We buy our tins from Ashfield Extrusions, one of the last companies still producing aluminium tins in the UK. It does cost us a little more but we believe strongly in supporting local suppliers.
Our packaging
We use aluminium for our tins and cardboard for our packaging. We did our research into recyclable packaging and there are a lot of companies selling all sorts of exotic materials; all recyclable in theory and very few in practice. So we keep it old school.
Talking about the power of mushrooms can get you into hot water when it comes to making health claims. So we encourage everyone to read some of the numerous peer reviewed scientific studies that have been carried out over many years. Some of our favourites are below.
Hericium Erinaceus (Lion's Mane)
Chemistry, Nutrition, and Health-Promoting Properties of Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane) Mushroom Fruiting Bodies and Mycelia and Their Bioactive Compounds
Summary: This study provides a comprehensive overview of the chemical composition, nutritional value, and potential health benefits of Hericium erinaceus, commonly known as lion's mane mushroom. Key points include:
The mushroom contains various bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides and secondary metabolites like erinacines, hericerins, hericenones, resorcinols, steroids, and terpenes.
The study highlights several health benefits associated with H. erinaceus
Antioxidant Effects: Compounds in the mushroom have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory effects.
The mushroom may enhance immune system function.Neuroprotective Effects: The mushroom has been associated with promoting nerve regeneration and cognitive function.
The study emphasizes the need for further research, particularly human clinical trials, to fully understand and confirm these health-promoting properties. It also suggests that due to its nutritional and potential health benefits, H. erinaceus could be considered for inclusion in diets and as a functional food ingredient.
Compounds for Dementia from Hericium Erinaceum (Lion's Mane)
Summary: In this study, the authors isolated compounds such as hericenones (C to H) and erinacines (A to I) from the mushroom Hericium erinaceum. These compounds were found to significantly induce the synthesis of nerve growth factor (NGF) both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, dilinoleoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine (DLPE) was identified as a compound that protects against neuronal cell death caused by β-amyloid peptide toxicity, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and oxidative stress.
The study also mentions preliminary clinical trials indicating that Hericium erinaceum was effective in patients with dementia, either improving the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) score or slowing disease progression.
Prevention of Early Alzheimer’s Disease by Erinacine A-Enriched Hericium erinaceus Mycelia Pilot Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study
Summary: This article discusses a pilot double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigating the potential of Erinacine A-enriched Hericium erinaceus mycelia in preventing early Alzheimer's disease. The study shows that this treatment might improve cognitive function and memory in participants. It suggests that Hericium erinaceus, particularly enriched with Erinacine A, could be a promising natural intervention for Alzheimer's.
The Acute and Chronic Effects of Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Stress and Mood in Young Adults: A Double-Blind, Parallel Groups, Pilot Study
Summary: The study explores the acute and chronic effects of Lion's Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) supplementation on cognitive function, mood, and stress in young adults. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either a supplement or placebo for four weeks. Results indicated that supplementation led to significant improvements in cognitive performance, particularly on tasks related to attention and memory, as well as reductions in perceived stress and anxiety. The study supports the potential of Lion’s Mane as a cognitive enhancer in neurotypical individuals.
Ganoderma Lucidum (Reishi)
Exploration of the anti-insomnia mechanism of Ganoderma by central-peripheral multi-level interaction network analysis
Summary: This study investigated how Ganoderma (commonly known as Reishi) alleviates insomnia through various biological pathways.
Background:
Ganoderma has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine to treat insomnia, restlessness, and palpitations. However, the specific mechanisms by which it exerts these effects were not well understood.
Methods:
The researchers employed a systems pharmacology approach, integrating data from multiple databases to identify active components in Ganoderma and their potential target genes related to insomnia. They conducted multi-level interaction network analyses, including protein-protein interactions, drug-component-target gene associations, and enrichment analyses to elucidate the pathways involved.
Results:
Active Components: Identified 34 sedative-hypnotic components in Ganoderma, with 5 being central active components.
Target Genes: These components corresponded to 51 target genes associated with insomnia.
Mechanisms: Ganoderma appears to exert its anti-insomnia effects through multiple central and peripheral mechanisms, primarily by regulating cell apoptosis/survival and cytokine expression. Core target genes involved include TNF, CASP3, JUN, and HSP90AA1, which are linked to immune regulation and apoptosis processes.
Conclusion:
The findings suggest that Ganoderma alleviates insomnia via complex interaction networks affecting both central and peripheral systems, highlighting its potential as an adjunct therapy for insomnia-related complications.
This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted mechanisms through which Ganoderma may improve sleep quality.
Exploring the Potential Medicinal Benefits of Ganoderma lucidum: From Metabolic Disorders to Coronavirus Infections
Summary: This article reviews the various bioactive compounds found in Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum) and their potential health benefits. It highlights key compounds such as polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and peptides, which have been shown to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating properties.
The review emphasizes the therapeutic potential of Reishi mushrooms in managing various health conditions, including immune system support, anti-cancer effects, anti-aging properties, and improving liver function. However, the article also discusses the need for more clinical trials and studies in humans to better understand the efficacy of these compounds for specific health outcomes.
Overall, the article suggests that Reishi mushrooms have promising health benefits due to their bioactive compounds, but further research is needed to validate these effects in clinical settings.
Ganoderma lucidum improves physical fitness in women with fibromyalgia
Summary: This study examined the effects of Ganoderma lucidum (GL) supplementation on physical fitness in women with fibromyalgia over six weeks. Participants were divided into two groups: one received 6g/day of GL, while the other received Ceratonia siliqua (CS). The GL group showed significant improvements in aerobic endurance, lower body flexibility, and walking speed, whereas the CS group had no notable changes. The study suggests Ganoderma lucidum may enhance specific physical performance aspects in fibromyalgia patients, though further research is needed.
Emerging Roles of Ganoderma Lucidum in Anti-Aging
Summary: The study "Emerging Roles of Ganoderma lucidum in Anti-Aging" delves into the potential anti-aging properties of Ganoderma lucidum (also known as reishi), a medicinal mushroom esteemed in traditional Chinese medicine. The authors highlight several bioactive components, notably polysaccharides and triterpenes, which are believed to contribute to its health benefits.
Key findings from the study include:
- G. lucidum has been shown to enhance the body's antioxidant systems by upregulating enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase. This activity helps combat oxidative stress, a significant factor in aging and various age-related diseases.
- The mushroom exhibits protective effects on vital organs. For instance, studies have demonstrated its ability to safeguard the heart, liver, and brain against aging-related damage, primarily through its antioxidant properties.
- Research indicates that G. lucidum may support cognitive function. Its neuroprotective effects are attributed to its capacity to reduce oxidative damage in neural tissues, suggesting potential in mitigating age-associated cognitive decline.
In summary, the study underscores G. lucidum's potential as a natural agent in promoting healthy aging, owing to its diverse bioactive compounds and their multifaceted physiological benefits.
Trametes Versicolor (Turkey Tail)
Polysaccharide Krestin Is a Novel TLR2 Agonist that Mediates Inhibition of Tumor Growth via Stimulation of CD8 T Cells and NK Cells
Summary: This study investigates the antitumor mechanisms of Polysaccharide Krestin (PSK), a mushroom extract commonly used in cancer treatment.
Key Findings:
PSK selectively activates Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), leading to the stimulation of dendritic cells (DCs) and T cells. This activation is dependent on TLR2, as demonstrated by experiments using TLR2 knockout mice.
Oral administration of PSK significantly inhibited breast cancer growth in neu transgenic mice. The antitumor effect was found to be dependent on both CD8+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, but not on CD4+ T cells.
PSK treatment enhanced the proliferation of splenocytes and increased the secretion of Th1 cytokines, indicating a potentiated immune response.
Conclusion:
The study concludes that PSK acts as a specific TLR2 agonist and exerts potent anti-tumor effects by stimulating both innate and adaptive immune pathways. These findings provide a mechanistic understanding of PSK's role in cancer therapy and suggest its potential as an immunotherapeutic agent.
Polysaccharide K and Coriolus versicolor Extracts for Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review
Summary: This study provides strong evidence supporting the potential benefits of Coriolus versicolor (Turkey Tail mushroom) and its key compound, Polysaccharide K (PSK), as an effective adjunct therapy for lung cancer.
Key Findings:
Enhanced Immune Function: PSK significantly boosts immune response, particularly in lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, by stimulating natural killer (NK) cells, T cells, and cytokine production.
Improved Survival Rates: The review indicates notable increases in survival times among lung cancer patients who included PSK alongside conventional treatments.
Reduced Tumor-Associated Symptoms: Patients reported improved quality of life, with PSK contributing to reduced tumor progression, less fatigue, and better overall well-being.
Safe and Well-Tolerated: Unlike many cancer treatments, PSK demonstrated minimal side effects, making it a promising non-toxic complementary therapy.
Conclusion:
This review presents compelling evidence that Coriolus versicolor extracts, particularly PSK, can play a crucial role in extending survival, strengthening immunity, and improving the quality of life in lung cancer patients. The findings strongly support the integration of Turkey Tail mushroom-based therapies into standard cancer care, emphasizing its immunomodulatory and anti-cancer potential. Further clinical trials are encouraged to solidify its role in mainstream oncology treatments.
The Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation's Cognitive Vitality Report on turkey tail mushrooms
Summary: This report provides a comprehensive overview of the potential health benefits of Trametes versicolor (Turkey Tail mushrooms), particularly focusing on their immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties.
Key Highlights:
Compounds such as Polysaccharide-K (PSK) and Polysaccharopeptide (PSP) derived from turkey tail mushrooms have been utilized as adjuncts in cancer therapy in Asia, owing to their ability to modulate immune responses.
The mushrooms contain antioxidants that may offer neuroprotective benefits by combating oxidative stress, which is implicated in neurodegenerative diseases.
Turkey tail mushroom products have a strong safety record, having been used traditionally in East Asia and shown to mitigate chemotherapy-related side effects in randomised controlled trials.
The report also notes that the medicinal properties of turkey tail mushrooms can vary depending on the preparation methods, parts of the fungus used, and extraction processes. While PSK is approved as an adjunct cancer therapy in Japan, further research is necessary to fully understand the efficacy of these compounds in various health contexts.
Immunomodulatory Properties of Coriolus versicolor: The Role of Polysaccharopeptide
Summary: This study examines the immunological effects of polysaccharopeptide (PSP), a bioactive compound extracted from the Coriolus versicolor mushroom, also known as turkey tail.
Key Findings:
PSP enhances macrophage activity, leading to increased phagocytosis and reactive oxygen species production.Natural Killer (NK) Cells:
T and B Lymphocytes: PSP promotes the proliferation and activation of T cells and B cells, strengthening adaptive immunity.
Conclusion:
The review highlights PSP's potential as an immunomodulatory agent, capable of enhancing both innate and adaptive immune responses. Its ability to induce pro-inflammatory cytokines and activate various immune cells underscores its therapeutic promise, especially as a complementary treatment in oncology.
Inonotus Obliquus (Chaga)
Extraction, Chemical Composition, Antiradical Capacity, and Photoprotective Effect of Inonotus obliquus from Eastern Canada
Summary: This study investigates the optimal extraction methods and seasonal variations affecting the bioactive compounds in Inonotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom) harvested in Eastern Canada.
Key Findings:
The study compared water and ethanol extractions at room temperature, with heating, and with ultrasound exposure. Results showed that heating enhanced the extraction of polyphenols and flavonoids, with aqueous extracts yielding higher amounts of betulinic acid, while ethanol extracts were richer in betulin.
No significant differences were observed in the quantities of extracted compounds across different seasons, suggesting consistent bioactive content year-round.
Chaga extracts exhibited high carbon content and were particularly rich in potassium—five times more than bananas—while being low in nitrogen and sulfur, indicating a composition rich in carbohydrates and low in proteins.
The aqueous extracts, especially those obtained from winter-harvested Chaga, demonstrated the highest antiradical (antioxidant) activity.
Chaga extracts showed significant photoprotective properties, with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) higher than 30 in the UVB wavelength range, indicating potential as a natural sunscreen ingredient.
Conclusion:
This study highlights the potential of Inonotus obliquus as a functional food or nutraceutical product, given its rich composition of bioactive compounds with antioxidant and photoprotective properties. The findings suggest that Chaga mushroom extracts could be utilized in developing natural health products, including sunscreens and dietary supplements.
The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Chaga Extracts Obtained by Different Extraction Methods against LPS-Induced RAW 264.7 Macrophages
Summary: This study investigates the anti-inflammatory effects of Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) extracts derived through various extraction techniques. The research focuses on how these extracts influence inflammatory mediators in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells.
Key Findings:
All Chaga extracts significantly reduced NO production in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Notably, the Accelerated Solvent Extraction (ASE1) and a six-minute hot water steeping of Chaga powder (P6) demonstrated the highest inhibitory activity, decreasing NO levels by 66.82% and 61.61%, respectively, at a concentration of 150 μg/mL.
The extracts notably downregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines:pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α)
ASE1 decreased IL-6 expression by 57.3%.
ASE1 led to a 58.6% reduction in IL-1β levels.
Specific phenolic acids present in Chaga, such as protocatechuic acid (PA), protocatechuic aldehyde (PCA), and caffeic acid (CA), significantly inhibited NO production and cytokine expression, suggesting their role in the anti-inflammatory effects observed.
Conclusion:
This study underscores the potent anti-inflammatory properties of Chaga mushroom extracts, particularly those obtained through optimized extraction methods like ASE1 and hot water steeping. The findings highlight Chaga's potential as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, attributed to its rich phenolic content, offering promising applications in managing inflammatory conditions.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Extracts of Inonotus obliquus and Microalgae
Summary: This study investigates the anti-inflammatory properties of extracts from Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) and marine microalgae. Utilizing a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cell model, the research evaluates the impact of these extracts on pro-inflammatory biomarkers.
Key Findings:
Both Chaga mushroom and microalgae extracts demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction in the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), which are key pro-inflammatory cytokines.
At a concentration of 500 µg/L, the Chaga mushroom extract significantly suppressed COX-2 levels, an enzyme associated with inflammation.
Neither extract significantly affected the secretion of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4.
Conclusion:
The findings suggest that extracts from Chaga mushroom and marine microalgae possess notable anti-inflammatory properties. These extracts have the potential to be developed into natural health products aimed at mitigating inflammation.
Antidiabetic Activities of Polysaccharides Separated from Inonotus obliquus via the Modulation of Oxidative Stress in Mice with Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes
Summary: This study investigated the effects of polysaccharides extracted from Inonotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom) on diabetic mice. The research aimed to assess how these polysaccharides influence oxidative stress and inflammation associated with diabetes.
Key Findings:
Administration of Chaga polysaccharides at a dose of 50 mg/kg over four weeks resulted in a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose levels in diabetic mice.
Treated mice exhibited increased serum insulin and pyruvate kinase levels, indicating improved glucose metabolism.
There was a notable restoration of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase in the serum of treated mice, suggesting a mitigation of oxidative stress.
Chaga polysaccharide treatment led to a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-2 receptor and matrix metalloproteinase-9, while enhancing interleukin-2 levels, indicating an anti-inflammatory effect.
Histological analysis revealed that Chaga polysaccharides ameliorated kidney tissue damage, reduced inflammatory infiltration, and decreased extracellular matrix deposition in diabetic mice.
Conclusion:
The findings suggest that polysaccharides extracted from Inonotus obliquus possess antidiabetic properties, potentially through the modulation of oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways. These results support the potential use of Chaga mushroom as a functional food or therapeutic agent for managing diabetes and its complications.
Cordyceps Militaris (Cordyceps)
Studies on the Antifatigue Activities of Cordyceps militaris Fruit Body Extract in Mouse Model
Summary: This study investigated the potential antifatigue effects of Cordyceps militaris (CM) extract in mice. Over a two-week period, mice were administered varying doses of CM extract (0.5 g/kg, 1.0 g/kg, and 2.0 g/kg) and subjected to fatigue-inducing tests, including rotating rod, forced swimming, and forced running assessments.
Key Findings:
Mice treated with CM extract demonstrated a significant delay in fatigue onset across all administered doses.
The CM-treated groups exhibited increased levels of ATP and antioxidative enzymes, alongside reduced concentrations of lactic acid, lactate dehydrogenase, malondialdehyde, and reactive oxygen species.
The antifatigue effects of CM extract were associated with the activation of 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways. Additionally, CM treatment modulated serum hormone levels, contributing to its antifatigue properties.
Conclusion:
The findings suggest that Cordyceps militaris extract possesses significant antifatigue properties, potentially through enhancing energy metabolism, reducing oxidative stress, and modulating key signaling pathways. These results support the potential use of CM as an effective agent against fatigue.
Beneficial Effect of Cordyceps militaris on Exercise Performance via Promoting Cellular Energy Production
Summary: This study investigated the potential of Cordyceps militaris ethyl acetate extract (CMEE) to enhance exercise performance by influencing cellular energy pathways. Over a 12-week period, mice were administered varying doses of CMEE (50 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg, and 300 mg/kg) or red ginseng (100 mg/kg) as a positive control. Grip strength tests were conducted weekly, and blood samples were collected at the study's conclusion for biochemical analysis.
Key Findings:
Mice treated with CMEE exhibited a slight increase in grip strength, comparable to the improvements observed in the red ginseng-treated group.
CMEE administration positively affected biomarkers associated with ATP generation pathways, suggesting enhanced cellular energy production. However, CMEE had minimal impact on biomarkers related to muscle fatigue.
Conclusion:
The findings indicate that Cordyceps militaris may improve exercise performance by promoting ATP production, thereby enhancing cellular energy availability. This effect appears to be independent of direct influences on muscle fatigue, highlighting the mushroom's potential as a natural supplement for boosting physical performance through metabolic pathways.
Effects of Cultured Cordyceps militaris on Sexual Performance and Erectile Function in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Male Rats
Summary: This study investigated the potential aphrodisiac properties of Cordyceps militaris (CM) in male rats with diabetes-induced erectile dysfunction (DIED). The research aimed to assess the effects of CM on sexual behavior, erectile function, and related biochemical markers.
Methodology:
Male rats were induced with diabetes using streptozotocin (STZ) to model DIED.
Diabetic rats were divided into groups receiving CM at doses of 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 g/kg body weight per day, respectively, for three weeks. A positive control group received sildenafil citrate (5 mg/kg), and a negative control group received a vehicle.
Parameters such as mount latency (ML), intromission latency (IL), mount frequency (MF), and intromission frequency (IF) were recorded.Erectile Function:
Biochemical Markers: Testosterone levels, nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were evaluated.
Key Findings:
Diabetic rats exhibited increased ML and IL, indicating impaired sexual performance. CM supplementation, particularly at 0.5 and 1.0 g/kg doses, significantly reduced ML and IL, and increased MF and IF, suggesting improved sexual behavior.
CM-treated groups showed a significant increase in ICP responses compared to untreated diabetic rats, indicating enhanced erectile function.
CM administration led to elevated serum testosterone levels and increased activities of NOS and SOD. These changes suggest that CM may enhance erectile function by boosting testosterone production and reducing oxidative stress.
Conclusion:
The study concludes that Cordyceps militaris exhibits aphrodisiac effects in diabetic male rats, potentially through mechanisms involving increased testosterone production and attenuation of oxidative stress. These findings support the traditional use of CM in enhancing male sexual health and suggest its potential as a therapeutic agent for erectile dysfunction, especially in diabetic conditions.
A randomized controlled clinical trial examining the effects of Cordyceps militaris beverage on the immune response in healthy adults
Summary: This randomized controlled clinical trial investigated the immunostimulant effects of a functional beverage derived from the submerged fermentation of Cordyceps militaris (FCM) in healthy male and female volunteers in Phayao Province, Thailand.
Study Design:
Healthy men and women were provided either FCM containing 2.85 mg of cordycepin or a placebo for 8 weeks (n = 10 for each gender).
Immune cell markers, immunoglobulins, and safety parameters were assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks.
Key Findings:
In the male FCM group, NK cell activity markedly increased from baseline (p = 0.049) to 4 weeks after receiving FCM. In women who received FCM for 8 weeks, NK activity significantly increased (p = 0.023) from baseline.
Within-group analysis revealed that interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) levels were markedly reduced in the male FCM group (p = 0.049). Additionally, interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels decreased from baseline in the female FCM group (p = 0.047).
Blood sugar, lipid profiles, and safety indices showed no significant differences between the experimental groups, indicating that FCM consumption did not adversely affect liver, kidney, or blood components.
Conclusion:
The study suggests that FCM can potentially be developed as an immune-boosting supplement without causing toxicity to the liver, kidneys, or blood components.
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