Science Weekly Revisited: do medicinal mushroom products actually work?
Dec 30, 2025
Prof. Nik Money, a seasoned mycologist and author, dives into the booming world of medicinal mushrooms. He explains the biological wonders of fungi and their relation to molds and yeasts. They discuss the shaky scientific evidence supporting health claims and identify promising research areas like lion's mane and its potential benefits. The popularity of these products is linked to wellness trends and a desire to reconnect with nature. While mushrooms offer some nutritional benefits, Money emphasizes skepticism regarding their medicinal properties.
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Big Market, Thin Evidence
- Functional fungi products claim many benefits but the market is driven more by hype than strong evidence.
- Madeleine Finlay highlights a booming multi-billion pound market with wide-ranging health claims.
Hosts Try A Mushroom Drink
- Madeleine Finlay brings a mushroom drink to the studio and Ian Sample reluctantly tastes it.
- The drink contained only 0.4% mushroom extract and both hosts comment on cost and taste.
Fungi Are Not Plants
- Nik Money explains fungi are distinct from plants and closer to animals biologically.
- He notes the fungal kingdom includes mushrooms, molds, and yeasts, not just visible fruit bodies.