A Short Guide to Functional Mushrooms

 New health trends emerge every day and start taking over the market. One of these trends encompasses Essential Mushrooms or functional mushrooms.

Now, when you look at the history of these seemingly magical fungi, you cannot consider them a true fad. After all, functional mushrooms have been around for centuries, even though they have recently started attracting attention in Western countries.

Functional mushrooms gained fame for their medicinal purposes, and they have been used for thousands of years in several Asian nations.

Continue reading to uncover the secrets of functional mushrooms and discover why you should join the fungi bandwagon.


About Functional Mushrooms

When someone mentions the term “functional mushroom,” they do not refer to white button mushrooms that you can find and buy from your local grocery store. Functional mushrooms refer to rarer fungi growing in dense forests, on fallen trees, high on the Himalayan plateau, or on the heads of insects.

According to scientists, researchers, and proponents, these mushrooms are packed with antioxidants and possess unmatched nutritional value. They also boast of a plethora of health benefits for each.

Functional mushrooms have been in use for hundreds of years owing to their medicinal properties and superfood benefits. Their rise in popularity is due to the intensive research conducted over the years and the increased demand for natural solutions to health.

Health Benefits of Functional Mushrooms

Research shows that consuming certain Essential Mushrooms might help strengthen the immune system. As a result, the body will be better able to ward off illnesses. Some mushrooms can be used as a dietary option because they are low in calories and high in protein. This is excellent for people who feel they lack these elements in their diet. Mushrooms also provide a healthy dose of several vitamins and minerals.

Which Mushrooms Are Considered Functional Mushrooms?

With an extensive range of functional mushrooms on the market, it can be difficult for a first-time buyer to find something suitable for them. Below, you will find a list of some of the most popular and beneficial functional mushrooms.

1. Lion’s Mane

This mushroom earned its name from its fluffy mane-like appearance. Lion’s Mane was traditionally used by Buddhist monks to focus during meditation. Supplementing with this mushroom may improve your ability to focus and concentrate.

2. Reishi

Also called Lingzhi in China, Reishi has been an integral part of ancient Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. It was used to increase longevity and bestow spirituality. Reishi is an adaptogenic mushroom. In simple terms, it contains a substance that helps the body adapt to stress and works to normalize various physical processes. Reishi is used primarily to support healthy and restful sleep and mood upliftment.

3. Cordyceps

Cordyceps is another popular functional mushroom that has been part of traditional medicine across the world. Cordyceps is unique because it is a parasitic mushroom that thrives on a living host. This fungus can be specifically found growing on the heads of caterpillars in the Tibetan high plateaus. Ancient Chinese people used it for thousands of years, particularly royal and elite families, as a tonic for vitality, endurance, and energy. Today, it is popularly used as a pre-workout energizer.

4. Chaga

This mushroom has more antioxidants than any other natural substance. Some even claim it has anti-inflammatory benefits. Taking a healthy dose of antioxidants may help strengthen the immune system.

5. Turkey Tail

The Turkey Tail mushroom is a polypore. In other words, the consumable portion of the mushroom grows on its underside. It can be found on dead trees in the wild. Turkey Tail is mostly used in cooking and making tea. It can improve the digestive system with its prebiotic and antioxidant content.

Final Words

Now that you know about Essential Mushrooms and how they can help improve wellness, sleep, beauty, and more, you may want to find out how to take them. Well, many brands manufacture and sell supplements containing the health-enhancing components of these mushrooms. They extract the good bits and make tinctures, capsules, and powders that you can incorporate into your daily wellness regimen with ease.

Location: United States

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