Medicinal mushrooms are akin to The Incredibles: a family of heroes with mighty, unique superpowers. They help maintain peace and balance within our bodies by supporting the body systems that protect our health and allow us to feel our best.
Three of the most well-known members of the medicinal mushroom family are lion’s mane, reishi and chaga. This family of superheroes is a wellness powerhouse whose potential is available in a simple cup of tea.
What do these superheros have in common that makes them a family? What makes them stand out? Let’s investigate!
What do these medicinal mushrooms have in common?
Consuming a vitamin and nutrient rich diet supports the internal body systems, putting the body on a fast track to feeling good. Antioxidants found in all three mushrooms can help our bodies balance free radicals and may inhibit cancerous tumor growth [1].
Medicinal mushrooms, especially lion’s mane, reishi, and chaga, have been used for centuries as natural remedies to soothe and heal the body.
These popular medicinal mushrooms can support digestion, energy, mental clarity, mood, relaxation and sleep, and the immune system [3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8]. Chaga and lion’s mane can also be utilized as a natural antibacterial [9].
Adaptogens are herbs which aid the body’s stress response systems, improving our ability to adapt and restore after stress exposure.
Adaptogens encourage and support our parasympathetic nervous system (the system that is responsible for rest and digest mode). They do this by helping the body mitigate the harmful effects of stress hormones [10].
- Best consumed with hot water
Hot water breaks down the cell walls of mushrooms, making their nutrients and superpowers more easily accessible to our bodies [11]. Drinking medicinal mushrooms tea is an efficient, effective, and enjoyable way to absorb the many benefits these superheroes have to offer.
What sets them apart?
Superpower: Brain boost
When it comes to the brain, think lion’s mane! This medicinal mushroom is your brain’s best friend.
In today’s world of constant distractions, the ability to focus on specific tasks for extended periods of time is more valuable than ever. One study on lion’s mane demonstrates the mushroom’s potential to enhance memory, focus, and cognition [12].
Looking to support your brain health long term? Another study correlates use of lion’s mane to neurogenesis (the formation of new neurons) in frail and aging mice [13].
Powers
- Boosted cognitive function
- Mood support
- Physical and mental relaxation
- Mental clarity and focus
- Immune support
Flavor profile: Mild and slightly sweet
Superpower: Longevity
Reishi, sometimes referred to as “the mushroom of immortality”, is most studied and well known for its benefits related to immunity. Like turmeric and other natural anti-inflammatories, reishi has been observed to have similar properties that soothe symptoms of immune related conditions.
Relaxation and sleep are also essential to regulating our immune systems, as well as promoting general health and wellbeing. Studies suggest reishi promotes a better night's sleep by reducing stress and helping our muscles relax [13].
Powers
- Promotes sleep and relaxation
- Immune support
- Improved circulation
- Mood elevation
- Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties
Flavor profile: Earthy, woody, slightly bitter
Superpower: Defense
Chaga is the most antioxidant-rich medicinal mushroom, which is why its superpower is defense. Antioxidants have been shown to have a wide range of benefits, most notably in addressing oxidative stress [1]. Additionally, one study shows antioxidants are effective in protecting the liver by reducing fat accumulation in liver cells [14].
Chaga contains these essential vitamins and minerals which have been linked to brain defense and mood support: B-complex vitamins, potassium, cesium, amino acids, zinc, iron, selenium, copper, manganese, vitamin D, rubidium, fiber, magnesium, and calcium [15].
Protect, defend, enhance! The list of benefits continues...
Powers
- Immune support
- Stress reduction
- Natural energizer
- Digestive benefits
- Blood sugar regulation
Flavor profile: Earthy, slightly bitter
Better Together
In this superhero family each member is special on its own, but they’re even better together. These medicinal mushrooms become even more powerful as their healing, revitalizing properties combine. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts, a concept known as synergy.
We recommend some combination of lion’s mane, reishi, and chaga to receive the full range of benefits that these medicinal mushrooms have to offer. Their beneficial components are best absorbed and utilized by our bodies in the form of a delicious tea.
Meet our dream team of medicinal mushroom teas!
