#1066 Medicinal Mushroom Supplements: Ancient Remedies, Modern Science, and Everyday Health Benefits(10 Credits/hours)

Course Details:
Launch Date: August 5, 2025
Expires: August 31, 2027

Course #1066
10 Credits/Hours

Course Overview

This comprehensive course examines the science, applications, and regulatory considerations of medicinal mushroom supplements. Students will explore the bioactive compounds found in therapeutic fungi, their mechanisms of action, clinical applications, and evidence-based usage in integrative health practices. The course provides a foundation in mycology relevant to human health while critically evaluating current research and commercial products in the medicinal mushroom industry.

 Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Medicinal Mushrooms: History, Classification, and Bioactive Compounds
2. Immune System Modulation and Therapeutic Mechanisms of Fungal Polysaccharides
3. Clinical Applications and Evidence-Based Research on Major Medicinal Species
4. Safety, Quality Control, and Regulatory Standards for Mushroom Supplements
5. Integration into Clinical Practice: Dosing, Interactions, and Patient Counseling

 Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Identify major medicinal mushroom species and their distinguishing characteristics, including historical and cultural contexts of use in traditional medicine systems.
• Explain the biochemical composition of medicinal mushrooms, with emphasis on beta-glucans, polysaccharides, triterpenes, and other bioactive compounds.
• Analyze the immunomodulatory mechanisms by which fungal compounds interact with human physiological systems, including effects on innate and adaptive immunity.
• Evaluate current scientific literature and clinical trials regarding the efficacy and applications of medicinal mushroom supplements for various health conditions.
• Assess quality control measures, extraction methods, and standardization practices used in the production of medicinal mushroom supplements.
• Apply knowledge of safety profiles, contraindications, and potential drug-nutrient interactions when considering medicinal mushroom supplementation.
• Demonstrate competency in evidence-based patient education regarding appropriate selection, dosing, and integration of medicinal mushroom supplements into healthcare regimens.