There is always a new trend to try when it comes to wellness. The latest seems to be the natural health benefits of the humble mushroom. The market for health-boosting mushrooms or ‘functional fungi’ in the UK is expected to get more valuable, growing by about 11.5% each year from 2024 to 2030.[1]
Only certain mushrooms though, not the kind you cook with, like button or portobello. Some mushrooms such as Lion’s Mane or Reishi are believed to contain something called adaptogens.
To be very clear, adaptogenic mushrooms are not the same as hallucinogenic or “magic” mushrooms and do not act on the mind or perception, because they don’t contain psilocybin – the active ingredient in ‘magic mushrooms’.
What Are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are substances that may help the body adjust to stress and normalise bodily functions. They are used in herbal medicine to support against physical, emotional, and environmental stressors. They are believed to have antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and cardio-protective properties.[2] They’ve been used for many years in traditional Chinese medicine and the western world is now taking notice.
Still wondering if they are worth a try? Let’s dive into The New Health and Wellness Trend: Mushrooms with Adaptogens For Stress Relief.
What Adaptogenic Mushrooms are good for Stress Relief?
Stress is a common issue many of us face daily. In fact, in a recent study by mentalhealth.org, 74% of people have felt so stressed that they’ve been overwhelmed or unable to cope.[3] Adaptogenic mushrooms like Reishi, Lion’s Mane, and Cordyceps are supposed to be best for potentially reducing stress.[4] These mushrooms are known for their calming effects, and can be taken in a variety of forms, like capsules, teas, and powders.
How does Lion’s Mane Help With Stress?
Lion’s mane mushrooms, known scientifically as Hericium erinaceus, have a fluffy white appearance, hence the name! Research suggests it may alleviate anxiety and depression by promoting neurogenesis and improving hippocampus health. By balancing mood and reducing stress, Lion’s Mane may enhance your overall well-being.[5]
How does Reishi Help With Stress?
Reishi mushrooms, scientific name: Ganadoma lucidum, can help support the adrenal glands, which regulate stress hormones like cortisol. While cortisol is a natural anti-inflammatory, too much stress and cortisol can disrupt the body’s balance, leading to anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, and fatigue. Reishi may help maintain healthy cortisol levels, reducing stress and supporting both mental and physical well-being.[6]
How does Cordyceps Help With Stress?
Cordyceps include over 400 species of mushrooms, with Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris being the most well-known. (For the ‘Last Of US’ TV Show and Game fans, don’t worry, they’re not the same fictional mushrooms in the franchise.)
Cordyceps mushrooms may help improve mood and reduce stress. They support healthy inflammation and help stabilize blood sugar levels, which is important for mental health. Balanced blood sugar can prevent energy crashes, irritability, and mood swings, helping the brain respond more calmly to stress.[7]
What else can Mushroom Adaptogens Help With?
Mushrooms like Lion’s Mane and Maitake are celebrated for their cognitive and immune-boosting properties. Research from the University of Queensland has shown that Lion’s Mane mushrooms contain compounds that may significantly boost nerve growth and enhance memory.
In pre-clinical trials, these mushrooms were found to improve brain cell growth and memory formation. This supports the claim that incorporating Lion’s Mane into your diet can help enhance brain function and mental clarity.[8]
Is it Safe to Try Adaptogenic Mushroom Products?
Consult your healthcare provider before trying adaptogens. Although some mushrooms may be safe for healthy individuals, they aren’t suitable for everyone.
Using herbal formulations with many ingredients carries risks.
Seek guidance from an experienced healthcare provider if you’re considering adaptogens.
Are There Mushroom Adaptogen Products on the Market?
The popularity of mushrooms, adaptogens and functional fungi, means there’s now lots of products available in the UK market. You can easily find them online and in high street health food stores, as well as in the wellness sections of larger supermarkets and pharmacies.
These products come in many forms, including capsules, powders that you can add to porridge or a smoothie, teas, and even infused snacks and drinks. Buying online can provide the widest selection and let you compare ingredients and read reviews.
As we explore the wellness benefits of trending mushrooms for stress relief, it’s clear these functional fungi are more than just a mushroom. They offer a host of health benefits, from stress relief to cognitive enhancement.
If you enjoyed this blog, check out The Ultimate Guide to Matcha and it’s Possible Health Benefits .
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[1] Functional Mushroom Market Size And Share Report, 2030
[2] Chemistry, Nutrition, and Health-Promoting Properties of Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane) Mushroom Fruiting Bodies and Mycelia and Their Bioactive Compounds – PubMed
[3] https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/statistics/stress-statistics
[4] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/adaptogenic-mushrooms
[5] https://www.optimaclinics.co.uk/blog/unlocking-the-power-of-lion-s-mane-supplements/
[6] https://wellgard.co.uk/blogs/health-insiders/what-does-reishi-do-for-the-brain
[7] https://www.realmushrooms.com/best-mushrooms-for-anxiety-fungi-for-calming-the-mind-body/
[8] Mushrooms magnify memory by boosting nerve growth – UQ News – The University of Queensland, Australia
