Dear Friends,
I was recently joined by the world-renowned mycologist – my friend – Christopher Hobbs, from his new location in Santa Cruz, California to discuss the vast potential of mushrooms for healing and wellness.
Dr. Christopher Hobbs is a fourth generation, internationally known herbalist and mycologist, licensed acupuncturist, herbal clinician, research scientist, consultant to the dietary supplement industry, expert witness, botanist, public speaker, and author of over 20 books and numerous articles with over 40 years of experience.
He is the author of the recent book Christopher Hobbs’s Medicinal Mushrooms, the Essential Guide, with German and English editions.
He earned his Ph.D. at UC Berkeley with research and publication in evolutionary biology, biogeography, phylogenetics, the chemistry of plants and fungi, and ethnobotany, and is now faculty at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
Be sure to follow him on YouTube.
Here are some highlights from the conversation:
The Nutritional Power of Mushrooms
"Mushrooms are almost a complete food. Various cultures consume mushrooms daily, and they are packed with nutrients. High-quality mushroom fiber, in particular, plays an essential role in gut health. This fiber isn't digestible in the upper GI tract, making it to the lower GI tract where it supports microflora, aiding in serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate production. This can contribute to improved mood and overall health."
For listeners looking to start incorporating mushrooms into their diets, Christopher recommends the following varieties: shiitake, lion's mane, maitake, and oyster mushrooms.
Local grocery stores often stock a range of these beneficial fungi.
Mushrooms in Cancer Treatment
I asked him what mushrooms he recommends for cancer, and he mentioned Turkey tail due to their high beta-glucan content.
“Beta-glucans have been clinically shown to boost the immune system, which is crucial during chemotherapy. Regular intake of turkey tail can enhance the five-year survival rates, reduce chemotherapy side effects, and help maintain immune strength. For effective dosages, aim for about three grams of extract twice a day." – Christopher Hobbs
Growing Your Own Mushrooms
"Mushrooms can be cultivated at home using mushroom mycelium and fruiting bodies. Grow oyster mushrooms on substrates like straw or cardboard, and watch your health flourish. Eating mushrooms daily provides a wide array of nutrients, including protein, B vitamins, and immune-boosting properties."
Exploring Psychedelic Mushrooms
"Psilocybin mushrooms, such as Liberty Caps (Psilocybe semilanceata), have been a significant part of my spiritual journey. Microdosing, taking very low doses of these mushrooms, can foster brain health, increase neural flexibility, and even help prevent dementia. Recent studies suggest even small doses can positively impact cognition."
Jim Fadiman’s microdosing protocol recommends one day on, two days off.
Hobbs agrees, noting that the key is to start low and go slow, adjusting dosages as you learn your personal tolerance and needs.
For him, 150 to 250 milligrams of dried mushrooms every other day or every third day works well.
Hobbs also discussed the therapeutic potential of MDMA for PTSD and personal development. Despite FDA’s reluctance to approve MDMA as medicine, its ability to foster emotional openness and healing in controlled settings cannot be understated.
Healthy Aging with Mushrooms
"Mushrooms are excellent for healthy aging. They support a diverse microflora, enhance your immune system, and contribute to cognitive health. Being connected to nature, like foraging for mushrooms in the forest, is another facet of healthy living. I recently trekked up to Everest Base Camp and attribute my vitality to a lifestyle rich in mushrooms and nature."
I'm fortunate to live near Jackson Forest and Wilbur Hot Springs, both rich in nature for regular foraging and forest bathing.
Stay healthy and stay curious!
Until next time,
Dr. Richard Louis Miller
My Books:
Freeing Sexuality: Psychologists, Consent Teachers, Polyamory Experts, and Sex Workers Speak Out
Psychedelic Wisdom: The Astonishing Rewards of Mind-Altering Substances
Psychedelic Medicine: The Healing Powers of LSD, MDMA, Psilocybin, and Ayahuasca
Integral Psychedelic Therapy (co-edited with Jason A. Butler & Genesee Herzberg)
Mushroom Magic: Nature's Medicine