Nature contains therapeutic treasures that greatly fascinate scientists. Among them, beta-glucans, these bioactive compounds derived from medicinal mushrooms, are attracting growing interest. What can we learn from these compounds and what are their properties? Let's discover together these extraordinary molecules which are an integral part of medicinal mushrooms.
Discovering beta-glucans: fascinating molecules 🧬
Beta-glucans are natural polysaccharides, that is to say complex glucose chains, true molecular treasures that nature has placed at the heart of medicinal mushrooms. These bioactive compounds are particularly concentrated in the cell wall of exceptional fungi such as:
- reishi (Ganoderma lucidum),
- cordyceps, et le
- shiitake (Lentinula edodes) par exemple.
You should know that the molecular structure of beta-glucans is a true biological masterpiece ⚛️. These natural compounds can be extracted and used in different forms to optimize their benefits: directly by consumption of mushrooms, in the form of standardized food supplements, or even by intravenous routein certain specific therapeutic contexts.
The extraordinary benefits of beta-glucans: what does science bring us? 💡
You may be wondering why these molecules fascinate the scientific community so much? The answer lies in their multiple benefits.
A natural immune shield 🛡️
Beta-glucans act as real conductors of our immune system. How ? By stimulating the activity of macrophages, these “sentinel” cells that patrol our body, they strengthen our first line of defense.
This activation triggers a cascade of immune reactions which mobilize other defense cells such as T and B lymphocytes. Even more fascinating, these compounds support the health of our intestinal microbiota, a true immune “second brain”. Indeed, a large majority of our immune cells are found in our intestines, and beta-glucans help to keep this complex ecosystem in balance.
An ally for our skin ✨
Beta-glucans have become the new stars of cosmetics, and it's no coincidence! Their unique molecular structure allows them to penetrate to the deep layers of the dermis, where they stimulate fibroblasts, the cells responsible for the production of collagen. This profound action, coupled with their film-forming and humectant properties, makes them particularly effective anti-aging active ingredients.
Valuable metabolic support 💪
As soluble fibers, beta-glucans are true metabolic regulators. They form a gel in the intestine which slows down the absorption of sugars. This contributes to more stable blood sugar levels. In addition, they bind to cholesterol in the intestine and promote its natural elimination. This multiple action is very favorable to our cardiovascular health.
Potential promising effects against cancer 🎯
Studies on beta-glucans in the oncological context reveal interesting prospects. Since their discovery in the 1940s by Pillemer and his research on zymosan, these natural polysaccharides have been the subject of numerous scientific studies.
Beta-glucans act as “biological response modifiers” (BRM) and modulate our immune system in a remarkable way. Their action is twofold: they first stimulate our innate immunity by activating macrophages and dendritic cells. This first response then triggers the activation of our adaptive immunity, notably T (CD4+ and CD8+) and B lymphocytes.
Clinical research highlights several significant effects during conventional treatments:
- An improvement in the quality of life;
- Reduction of side effects;
- A potential synergistic effect with certain treatments.
It is important to note that results may vary depending on the source, chemical structure and molecular weight of the beta-glucans used. In addition, these compounds do not constitute an anti-cancer treatment in themselves, but represent a promising complement in a global therapeutic approach, always under medical supervision.
What precautions and recommendations should you follow when consuming products rich in beta glucans?
Beta-glucans, despite their excellent tolerance, require a thoughtful approach. Some people may have particular sensitivities, manifested by mild allergic reactions. Interactions with certain medications, particularly immunosuppressants (which reduce the activity of the immune system), require special attention.
This vigilance is particularly important during chemotherapy treatments, where cisplatin (a common anticancer drug) may interact with beta-glucans. Compliance with recommended doses is essential to optimize benefits while avoiding adverse effects. For anyone following medical treatment, particularly in the case of autoimmune disease or cancer, prior medical consultation remains essential.
French Mush: mycological excellence at the service of your health 🌿
At French, we are innovating in the world of medicinal mushrooms thanks to our ultrasonic extraction technology. This unique method allows us to achieve an exceptional bioavailability of 92%, which guarantees optimal absorption of active ingredients.
Our range consists of rigorously selected medicinal mushroom extracts. These include:
- Reishi Mushroom, revered for millennia for its exceptional virtues,
- Cordyceps Mushroom, treasure of the Tibetan plateaus, are available in capsules and powder.
- Chaga Mushroom, jewel of the boreal forests, known for its powerful antioxidant properties, offered in concentrated extracts.
- Lion's mane mushroom, a gem of traditional Asian mycotherapy, famous for its benefits on cognition, available in capsule or powder form.
- Our 5 Mushroom Complex combines the benefits of five medicinal mushrooms, including shiitake mushroom for a powerful synergistic action.
We apply strict quality standards at every stage of production. From cultivation to extraction, our processes ensure products of optimal quality and effectiveness, rich in beta-glucans and other essential bioactive compounds.
Sources:
Beta-Glucans - Cancer Foundation
https://cancer.be/vivre-avec-et-apres-le-cancer/jai-un-cancer/bien-etre/alimentation/beta-glucanes/
The effects of β-glucans on cancer metastasis – PubMed
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23140352/