Top Uses for Reishi, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane Functional Mushrooms

For centuries, wise humans have recognized the importance of eating functional foods and have used specific plants and fungi to treat common conditions and ailments. Today, with a movement that supports using food to maintain lifelong health, we finally have some scientific studies to back these ancient expert opinions.[1][2]

Exceptional Functions of Three Mushrooms

As a food, many mushrooms hold a wealth of nutritional value and are a source of multiple vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and carbohydrates. For some fabulous fungi like Reishi, Cordyceps, and Lion’s Mane, the advantages don't end there. There's growing evidence that these mushrooms may have multiple health benefits.[1][2]

Reishi Mushroom Benefits

Reishi is the Japanese name given to a shiny, woody-textured fungus that grows on tree bark in warm Asian and European climates. In Chinese culture, it is called "the herb of spiritual potency" because of its medicinal uses.[3]

• Supports the Immune System: Reishi has been the topic of many studies for its positive effects on the immune system in healthy people and sick patients. Some research shows it works by boosting the production of several factors supporting the immune system. This includes the increase of certain white blood cells.[4][5]
• Promotes Energy in Patients: Some research shows that Reishi could help with fatigue associated with illnesses, including cancer and a debilitating condition that causes fatigue called neurasthenia. In separate studies, patients with these conditions had improved energy after taking a Reishi supplement for several weeks.[6][7]
• Improves Sleep Quality: Some studies show that Reishi supplementation may help decrease the time it takes to fall asleep and increase the total sleep time. While the reasons for the improvement seem complex, one study showed a positive change in the gut microbiome, which increased sleep-promoting neurotransmitters like serotonin.[8][9][10]

Cordyceps Benefits

The name of this fungus means "club headed" and mainly grows parasitically on insects. It has many historical uses in Chinese medicine and is gaining interest in Western scientific research.[11]

• Exercise Endurance: Some research indicates that Cordyceps supplementation may increase athletic performance. In one animal study involving swimming mice, the subjects had improved fatigue-related biomarkers and increased swim time. In another human study on older adults, supplementing with Cordyceps for 12 weeks improved some aspects of exercise performance.[12][13][14]
• Helps Maintain Normal Blood Sugar Levels: High blood sugar can cause damage to blood vessels and body organs over time. Cordyceps supplementation may act like insulin in the body, helping to control blood sugar levels in patients.[15][16]
• Supports Longevity: When it comes to healthy aging, antioxidants are our preventative friends because they help the body avoid damage at the cellular level. Cordyceps are full of antioxidants and have been shown to ward off damage to our organs, ultimately supporting anti-aging.[17][18]

Lion's Mane Benefits

As its name implies, Lion’s Mane mushrooms have the unique look of fluffy animal fur. Its scientific name means "hedgehog," and it thrives on the wood of tree trunks. The fungus can be enjoyed as food and is often consumed for its medicinal properties.[19]

• Boosts Brain Health: Lion’s Mane is being seriously studied for its use in the fight against brain-altering diseases. Some research indicates that it contains compounds that promote brain cell regeneration and prevent cell damage.[20][21][22]
• Maintains Mood: Some research indicates that Lion’s Mane can help combat mood disorders. Its nerve growth factor properties, which have been linked to the compounds hericenones and erinacines, may be responsible for improving symptoms for people.[23][24]

Supplement Functional Mushrooms with Tasty Gummies

The growing research surrounding Reishi, Cordyceps, and Lion’s Mane supplementation could be helpful for people already suffering from common problems or those interested in prevention. You can get the benefits of all of these mushroom extracts in a delicious, efficient way! Try our tasty gummies today!

References

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