Can medicinal mushrooms be used to treat anxiety and stress?
Some species of mushrooms are currently being researched for their ability to lessen and alleviate mental health conditions, including stress, anxiety, and depression.
In this blog, we will review some of the data that drives the “mushroom for mental health” discussions.
Mushrooms for Anxiety - What’s the Reasoning?
Mushrooms for Sleep
It’s impossible to talk about sleep without first mentioning reishi. Reishi for sleep is well-known, as it has been used to soothe and help people sleep better for centuries [4]. It contains a unique compound known as triterpene that induces calming effects in the body. In fact, studies have even shown the potential to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and insomnia [5,6,7]. The effects of enjoying reishi mushroom, over time, was also shown to improve and increase states of deep sleep[8]
Chaga Mushroom Benefits
Chaga mushrooms are full of antioxidants that make them one of the most nutrient-dense teas of all. It is also considered an adaptogen, and adaptogens help increase the body's ability to cope with stress and fatigue. It is also very high in many minerals such as iron, calcium, and zinc, as well as vitamins D, K, and B to give your body that extra boost. While not specifically linked to mental health treatments, Chaga is also known for its anti-inflammatory benefits and potential treatment options for people with cancer [9].
Promising research has shown that chaga could also help reduce LDL cholesterol, which can lead to serious health problems [10].
Lion's Mane Benefits
In much of the literature, the lion’s mane mushroom is known as a “nutrient for the neurons” and is celebrated for its potential positive effects on the brain. In fact, researchers have found 70 different active compounds that could potentially treat neurological or cognitive disorders [11]; this is thanks to the production of myelin and the bioprotein nerve growth factor (NFG). Imbalances in these bio proteins contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease and Multiple Sclerosis [12, 13].
On top of that, a human study has shown that the lion’s mane mushroom could alleviate anxiety symptoms [14]. In another study published in Biomedical Research, findings suggest that consuming lion’s mane overtime made participants less irritable and anxious, and they had less difficulty concentrating than members who did not have lion’s mane [15]
Mushroom Tea Benefits
While there is still much to learn about using mushrooms as a treatment for anxiety, depression, and other health disorders, we are optimistic that the more the Western scientific community learns about the benefits of mushrooms, the more physicians trust them as a safe and effective alternative treatment option.
In the meantime, if you are interested in learning more about medicinal mushrooms and loose-leaf mushroom teas, you can sign up for our newsletter.
Also, check out our mushroom tea shop to sample some delicious mushroom tea for yourself!
