From Kitchen to Clinic: The Healing Power of Medicinal and Culinary Mushrooms with Dr. Anna Sitkoff

In this episode, Dr. Gillian Lockitch welcomes Dr. Anna Sitkoff for a fascinating discussion on medicinal mushrooms and their role in promoting healthy aging. Listeners will learn how mushrooms support brain function, mood, cortisol balance, immune health, and longevity. From shiitake and oyster mushrooms to reishi and lion’s mane, Anna explains the science behind these ancient remedies and shares practical tips for integrating culinary and medicinal mushrooms into your daily routine.  Dr. Anna Sitkoff is a licensed naturopathic doctor and medicinal mushroom expert with over a decade of experience blending clinical practice with hands-on laboratory research. She is the co-founder and Chief Science Officer of Lucidum Medicinals, where she formulates evidence-based mushroom supplements designed to support immune, lung, and nervous system health. Internationally recognized for her expertise in functional medicine, women’s health, and herbalism, Dr. Sitkoff is passionate about empowering patients and practitioners with natural, science-based therapies and recipes that fit into everyday life. Episode Timeline  00:00 – Guest introduction and welcome to the podcast  05:24 – Anna’s early influences, family health challenges, and discovery of medicinal mushrooms  08:29 – Journey through naturopathic school, laboratory cancer research, and starting her mushroom supplement company  12:29 – What defines a mushroom, the role of mycelium, and why substrate matters for bioactive compounds  17:00 – Culinary vs. medicinal mushrooms: oyster, shiitake, maitake, and the common white mushroom  19:52 – Ergothioneine and its neuroprotective role in aging and mitochondrial health  25:10 – Reishi: the “mushroom of immortality,” immune benefits, and bone broth extractions  30:08 – Lion’s Mane, nerve growth factor, BDNF, mood, memory, and cognitive protection  34:09 – Practical tips for daily mushroom use: cooking, extracts, powders, and broths  35:40 – Wrap-up, gratitude, and where to connect with Dr. Sitkoff  Download your complimentary Guide from Dr. Lockitch Quick Guide to Medicinal and Culinary Mushrooms Learn about Dr. Sitkoff and medicinal mushrooms drannasitkoff.com  lucidummedicinals.com  Instagram @drannasitkoff Connect with Dr. Gillian Lockitch Email: askdrgill@gmail.com Subscribe to Growing Older Living Younger on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to help others discover the show. Share this episode with friends  Growing Older Living Younger Short Guide: The Benefits of Reishi and Cordyceps