Whether or not you are a mushroom lover, there are new and exciting ways to get the benefits of these fungi without having to deal with the texture or taste (if that's not your thing)! Let's learn about 6 of the most powerful functional mushrooms and their benefits*. Here is the list as an overview.
Lion's Mane 🦁
Chaga🍄
Reishi 🍄
Turkey Tail🦃
Shiitake🍄
Maitake🍄
Now to get into the details!
*Always speak with your healthcare provider before adding any supplements to your diet.
1. Lion's Mane
First up we have Lion's Mane! Lion's Mane mushrooms get their name from their full and fluffy resemblance to a lion's mane 🦁 and grow on trees throughout many parts of the world. As their popularity grows, they are also found more frequently now in grocery stores and in supplement 💊 forms.
These fungi contain a variety of B vitamins and are also a good source of essential minerals. Although there is limited research in humans in regard to the health benefits of these fluffy fungi, they have been used for centuries in various cultures throughout the world for their medicinal properties. These include:
~reducing inflammation ⬇
~supporting brain health 🧠
~reducing anxiety 🤔
~regulating blood sugar 🔁
Try it for yourself and see what you think!
Source: Lion’s Mane Mushrooms: What Are the Benefits? (webmd.com)
2. Chaga
Next up is the Chaga Mushroom! Finding out that these mushrooms were edible must have been a trial borne of desperation by our ancestors! They don't look very palatable 🤨. Perhaps that's why they're most often found in supplement form!
Chaga mushrooms grow naturally in cold climates🥶 and have been used for centuries for their immune-boosting properties. Research indicates that the Chaga mushroom controls a protein called cytokines, which triggers the production of white blood cells. This mushroom 🍄, rich in antioxidants, is packed with zinc which supports the immune system in fighting off bacteria 🦠 and viruses.
Try it in a supplement like this:
Source: Chaga Mushroom: Uses, Benefits and Side Effects (healthline.com)
3. Reishi
Native to Asia 🌏 and with a long history of medicinal use, the Reishi fungus has gained recent popularity as one of the top mushrooms for promoting relaxation. Studies have revealed that Reishi is rich in triterpenes, which have been demonstrated to aid in stress reduction, sleep enhancement😴, mood elevation, and increased mental clarity. Used for its adaptogenic (helping the body to adapt to stress) properties, the Reishi is the king of calm.
Some of its proven benefits are:
~reducing inflammation⬇
~improving immunity🦠
~supporting healthy blood sugar🤗
~protecting against high blood pressure🩺
Ready to give this powerful fungus a try?
Source: 6 Benefits of Reishi Mushroom (Plus Side Effects and Dosage)
4. Turkey Tail
The Turkey Tail 🦃 mushroom, a fungus that grows on decaying wood 🌳, is so named due to its remarkable resemblance to a turkey's tail feathers. It is found globally 🌏 and has been used medicinally for centuries, most notably in Asian cultures.
Its popularity is well-earned due to its ability to:
~increase immunity💥
~possibly enhance chemotherapy 👩⚕️
~combat oxidative stress 💪
~improve gut health 🦠
If this sounds like something you need, try it in a popular brand like:
Source: Turkey Tail Mushroom Benefits: An Immune Booster and More
Shiitake
Like many of the varieties of mushrooms on this list, the Shiitake is native to Asia 🌏 and has been used for centuries for its powerfully potent health benefits. Some of these include their ability to:
~improve skin health 👧
~reduce inflammation ⬇
~increase energy 💫
~boost immunity 🦠
If you're ready to enjoy the benefits of the Shiitake, there are many ways to enjoy it! Try sautéing 🍳them for a meaty alternative or adding them to soups or stir fries. If you aren't a fan of mushrooms, reap the benefits in supplement form 💊 by trying something like:
Source: 12 Proven Benefits & Uses of Shiitake Mushrooms | Organic Facts
Maitake
The Maitake mushroom, also known as the 'hen-of-the-woods' 🐥 due to its resemblance to a hen's tail, is a fungus often found growing on oak trees. It is versatile in the kitchen👩🍳 and can be prepared in many ways. Consuming this mushroom has the following health benefits:
~improves heart health 💝
~provides cancer support 👩⚕️
~enhances the immune system 🦠
~aids in diabetes management ↘
Enjoy the amazing benefits of the Maitake mushroom in this popular brand:
Source: Maitake Mushroom: Health Benefits, Nutrients per Serving, Preparation Information, and More
Summary
This is a simple compilation of a variety of functional/medicinal mushrooms and some of their most potent properties. You may have been particularly drawn to one or another for a variety of reasons. If, like many of us, you are drawn to the healing potential of ALL of these amazing mushrooms, you may enjoy trying a mushroom blend like one of these:
No matter your preference or your goals, there is a mushroom or blend that is right for you! Share your favorites in the comments!
** As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission on products you choose to purchase through the links on my site at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
Jessica B.
