Functional Mushrooms

For thousands of years, medicinal mushrooms or “functional mushrooms” have been consumed in Eastern medicine for their benefits beyond essential nutrients, but only recently have they been recognized in the West for their powerful health benefits.

Functional Mushrooms are accepted as immune system-boosting foods. They may offer benefits beyond basic nutrition including physical and immune health, cognitive health, and regulating the effects of stress on the body. These super mushrooms also have the potential to support energy levels and aid digestion.

The seven mushrooms below are found in the "7 SHROOMS" adaptogen blend.

LION’S MANE (HERICIUM ERINACEUS)

Lion’s Mane is known primarily for its anti-inflammatory benefits resulting from its antioxidant activity, which may offer dietary support to those with diabetes, autoimmune diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, or depression. In addition, Lion’s Mane may improve cognitive functions, boost the immune system, and improve heart health. Studies in mice show how Lion’s Mane promotes nervous system recovery, and potentially fights certain cancer cells.

CORDYCEPS (OPHIOCORDYCEPS SINENSIS)

Cordyceps has a variety of benefits, most often consumed for natural energy and respiratory health. It may also serve as a cholesterol reducer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant. Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, Cordyceps may lower blood pressure by improving circulation and also loosen airways to provide asthma relief. Additionally, Cordyceps has been found to trigger apoptosis with breast and colon cancer cells along with leukemia cells in test tubes. (2)

TURKEY TAIL (TRAMETES VERSICOLOR)

Turkey Tail is most well-known for its immune enhancing benefits. This is due to its antioxidant activity, polysaccharopeptides, anti-tumor properties, and prebiotics that promote gut health. Turkey Tail contains phenol and flavonoid antioxidants, which reduce inflammation and promote the release of protective compounds. Two types of polysaccharopeptides found in Turkey Tail are Krestin (PSK) and Polysaccharide Peptide (PSP). PSP increases the amount of white blood cells that fight infection (monocytes), and PSK promotes immunity to toxins and regulates the overall immune response. (3)

SHIITAKE (LENTINULA EDODES)

Shiitake mushroom benefits include its anti-bacterial, anti-tumor, immune enhancing properties, and it may also improve skin health, energy levels, and overall cardiovascular health through cholesterol reduction. Shiitake is able to affect tumor growth by inducing apoptosis, similar to other functional mushrooms. It is also rich in B vitamins, which support the transformation of food into energy along with hormone balance. As for skin health, shiitake mushrooms contain selenium which helps prevent and heal scarring from acne. (4)

CHAGA (INONOTUS OBLIQUUS)

Chaga, often referred to as the king of medicinal mushrooms, supports the immune system through its potential anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-tumor properties. Taking chaga may help fight infections because of its ability to stimulate white blood cells, and it can reduce inflammation, potentially reducing risk of developing certain diseases or providing relief if already present. (5)

REISHI (GANODERMA LUCIDUM)

Reishi has many purported health benefits, including high antioxidant activity, anti-tumor properties, immune boosting properties, and cardiovascular health. Similar to other functional mushroom benefits, it has been used for immune purposes in Eastern medicine for centuries likely because of their effects on white blood cell activity. Further, it has the potential to boost the immune system through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral properties. (6)

TREMELLA (Tremella fuciformis)

Historically, in China, the Tremella mushroom is considered the “Fountain of Youth,” and in Chinese medicine, it is known for its many health benefits. It is believed that the snow mushroom reduces inflammation, boosts the immune system, supports lung function, and helps maintain clear, glowing skin. Tremella mushrooms are claimed to preserve one’s natural beauty. In fact, it is one of the most beneficial ingredients for maintaining a radiant and youthful complexion. This medicinal mushroom also contains additional health benefits, such as supporting healthy blood pressure and reducing the signs of redness and swelling.