Mushrooms are organisms that not only fascinate with their diversity but also possess incredible health properties. In the latest episode of the Ollywell: Code of Nature podcast, dietitian Gosia Pielichowska talks with Marta Wrzosek, PhD, a mycologist, who introduces us to the mysterious world of mushrooms. Listen to learn how mushrooms can support our health!
Mushrooms – More than just an ingredient in dishes
In the latest episode of the Ollywell: Code of Nature podcast, a dietican Gosia Pielichowska and Proffesor Marta Wrzosek discuss the role of mushrooms in health and their applications in medicine.
Although mushrooms are commonly used in the kitchen, their health benefits are often underestimated. Professor Wrzosek talks about species that have immense therapeutic potential, from supporting the nervous system, improving immunity, to protecting against oxidative stress.
What is Funga? – The forgotten kingdom of life
Funga, the kingdom of fungi, is as important as the world of plants and animals, yet it is still often ignored. In this podcast episode, Prof. Marta Wrzosek emphasizes how crucial mushrooms are in nature. Their role in ecosystems is invaluable, from decomposing organic matter to forming symbioses with plants, helping them grow and protecting them from pathogens.
Instead of seeing mushrooms only as a dietary ingredient, it is worth looking at them from the perspective of their vast potential in nature and medicine. Prof. Wrzosek also explains why we should respect and protect mushrooms, which are essential to many biological processes on our planet.
Read also: The Underrated Kingdom of Fungi – Conversation with Prof. Dr. Bożena Muszyńska
Zombie mushrooms and their mythical power – Discover the truth!
The podcast also addresses the fascinating issue of "zombie" fungi, which have become a popular topic in pop culture, thanks to the TV series "The Last of Us." Professor Wrzosek explains how fungi from the Ophiocordyceps genus, known for affecting insects, can take control of their behavior. It sounds like a movie plot, but in reality, these fungi influence insects naturally, changing their behavior in ways that support their life cycle.
Should we be afraid of mushrooms that might “infect” our minds, as depicted in shows? Prof. Wrzosek clarifies that although mushrooms have exceptional properties, they are nothing like the pop culture stories about zombie fungi.
Mushrooms in health protection – What you should know
The conversation touched on many fascinating topics related to mushrooms and their impact on our health. One of the main topics was the action of adaptogenic mushrooms, such as Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus), which support the nervous system and improve concentration. It turns out that these mushrooms can not only help treat neurological conditions but also improve mental health.
Professor Wrzosek highlighted how mushrooms, although rarely treated as medicine, play an important role in the prevention and treatment of various diseases. Reishi and Cordyceps support the immune system and help manage stress. More importantly, these mushrooms contain valuable substances that can aid our body in fighting chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
Listen to the full podcast
The Ollywell: Code of Nature podcast with Prof. Marta Wrzosek is a real treasure trove of knowledge about mushrooms, which hide immense therapeutic, ecological, and culinary potential. In this episode, we uncover not only fascinating facts about mushrooms but also debunk popular myths. This conversation will surely change your perception of mushrooms!
Don't miss this conversation! Listen to our podcast and immerse yourself in the incredible world of mushrooms, which may transform your approach to health and nature.