Organic medicinal mushrooms for dogs and cats are a healing source of prebiotics. However, it's important to know that not all types of mushrooms are safe for pets. Some mushrooms are toxic and can cause serious health problems. Therefore only give your pet mushrooms that are safe to eat.
Try PetWell DIGEST Digestion Relief supplement, it contains medicinal mushrooms and other ingredients that support gut health and work to keep your PetWell.
Mushrooms that ARE safe to eat
Some examples of medicinal mushrooms that are considered safe for pets include;
- reishi
- shiitake
- maitake
- turkey tail
- lion's main
- chaga
- cordyceps
All of these mushrooms are used in traditional Chinese medicine and are believed to have a range of health benefits. Including supporting the digestive and immune system and improving overall health and well-being.
PetWell’s DIGEST Digestion Relief contains four very powerful organic medicinal mushrooms - chaga, maitake, reishi & turkey tail. This blend is an excellent source of natural prebiotics. Each of these mushrooms have anti-allergic, anti-cholesterol, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumour, and anti-cancer properties.
One of the primary benefits of the organic medicinal mushrooms in PetWell's DIGEST is the ability to support digestive function. Mushrooms contain polysaccharides, which are complex sugars. They can help to stimulate the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improve overall gut health. This can be particularly useful for pets who struggle with digestive issues such as diarrhoea, constipation, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Why organic?
PetWell only use and recommend organic medicinal mushrooms. Organic mushrooms are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilisers. Meaning they are free from harmful chemical residues. Organic farming practices also promote soil health and biodiversity, leading to a more nutrient-rich and balanced product.
Organic mushroom are grown on certified organic farms or in controlled indoor environments. This ensures they are not contaminated with heavy metals or other environmental toxins that can be found in some wild mushrooms.
The safest way to give your pet organic medicinal mushrooms is via an all-natural supplements. This ensures a high quality, effective product that is safe for your pet.
Benefits of organic medicinal mushrooms
Chaga
Chaga mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their health benefits. Recent research suggests that they have beneficial effects on pets including:
- Boosting immune function: They contain beta-glucans, which are compounds that may help stimulate the immune system. This could be particularly beneficial for pets with weakened immune systems or those who are recovering from illness.
- Supporting digestive health: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help reduce inflammation and support digestive health, making it beneficial for pets with digestive issues or those who are prone to inflammation.
- Fighting inflammation: The antioxidants help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Beneficial for pets with chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
- Reducing stress: They contain adaptogens, which are compounds that reduce stress and anxiety. Helping pets who are easily stressed or anxious.
Maitake
Maitake (Grifola frondosa) is a type of medicinal mushroom that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. Some potential benefits include:
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Immune system support: Maitake helps regulate and support the immune system in both cats and dogs.
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Anti-inflammatory properties: Maitake has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory effects in humans, and may have similar effects in pets. Making it potentially beneficial for conditions such as arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.
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Anti-tumour activity: Some studies have suggested that Maitake may have anti-tumour effects
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Blood sugar regulation: Beneficial for pets with diabetes
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Cardiovascular health: Supports good heart health
Reishi
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a type of medicinal mushroom that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Potential benefits include:
- Immune system support: Reishi can have immunomodulatory effects, meaning it may help regulate and support the immune system.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Beneficial for pets with conditions such as arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.
- Anti-tumour activity: Research suggests that Reishi may have antitumour properties
- Anti-anxiety effects: Reishi has been studied for its potential anxiety-reducing effects in pets.
Turkey Tail
Turkey tail mushroom (Trametes versicolor) is indigenous to various regions across the globe, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and other herbal practices worldwide. Some benefits include:
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Immune Support: Turkey tail contains polysaccharopeptides (PSP) and polysaccharides (PSK) which are believed to help modulate the immune system, potentially enhancing the dog's ability to fight off infections and diseases.
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Digestive Health: The prebiotic properties of turkey tail can promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria in cats and dogs, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption.
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Anti-inflammatory Effects: Compounds found in turkey tail, such as beta-glucans, have been studied for their anti-inflammatory properties. This could be beneficial for pets suffering from inflammatory conditions like arthritis or gastrointestinal issues.
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Antioxidant Protection: Turkey tail contains antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenols, which can help neutralise harmful free radicals in the body, potentially reducing oxidative stress and supporting overall health.
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Cancer Support: Some research suggests that the bioactive compounds in turkey tail may have anti-cancer properties. While more studies are needed, there is emerging evidence that turkey tail supplementation could complement conventional cancer treatments for dogs and cats, potentially improving outcomes and quality of life.
How to give your pet organic medicinal mushrooms
A supplement created by a qualified pet naturopath is the safest and most reliable way to provide organic medicinal mushrooms to pets. PetWell supplements have been professionally developed and are designed to provide the appropriate dosage and balance of nutrients to support optimal health.
The science behind it
Don’t just take our word for it, here are some evidence-based studies for you to review.
Chemical studies on bioactive compounds related to higher fungi
Hirokazu Kawagishi. January 7, 2021.
Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake Mayumi Nagano, Kuniyoshi Shimizu, Ryuichiro Kondo, et al. August 31, 2010.
Extracts from Hericium erinaceus relieve inflammatory bowel disease by regulating immunity and gut microbiotaImmunomodulatory effects of beta-glucansHericium erinaceus polysaccharide facilitates restoration of injured intestinal mucosal immunity in Muscovy duck reovirus-infected Muscovy ducklings
Can maitake MD-fraction aid cancer patients?
Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharides as an anti-cancer agent
Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi or Reishi)Medicinal mushroom science: Current perspectives, advances, evidences, and challenges
Disclaimer: The entire contents of this email and website are not to be taken as medical advice. The team at Pet Squad Pty Ltd trading as PetWell encourages you to make your own pet healthcare decisions based on your research and in partnership with a qualified pet healthcare professional.