Benefits of Adaptogenic Mushrooms - Mushroom Maestro (2024)

Adaptogens are mushrooms and plants that help your body to de-stress and maintain a steady state. In this article we discuss some adaptogenic mushrooms and their interesting and unique properties.

Chronic stress is a big deal these days. In fact, a lot of long-term health issues are rooted in chronic stress. Adaptogens are emerging as a solution to this problem. But what are they?

Adaptogens are a group of plant-derived ingredients known to help the body adapt to and combat stress. They work by helping to lower cortisol levels in the blood. (Cortisol is the “stress hormone” that causes the physiological stress response.) Side effects of high cortisol and stress levels include high blood pressure, weight gain, and heart trouble.

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This is where adaptogens, and specifically, adaptogenic mushrooms, enter the picture: they can help alleviate many of these symptoms. Adaptogenic mushrooms are revered for their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. However, there are quite a lot of options, and it may feel overwhelming to try to choose the right adaptogenic mushrooms for your needs. Read on to discover more about these helpful fungi.

Adaptogenic mushrooms:

Lion’s Mane

Lion’s Mane is a popular adaptogenic mushroom that is sometimes even used in salads. It is found throughout East Asia and has been used for centuries for its health properties. Most notably, these adaptogenic mushrooms are well-liked for reducing anxiety. Not only are they anti-inflammatory for the whole body, but they have some function in the hippocampus, which helps alleviate anxiety from stress.

The hippocampus plays a role in emotional regulation, so Lion’s Mane is very beneficial for individuals who struggle with emotions during times of stress. Also, Lion’s Mane can support digestion, which is a big plus since stress can weaken gut health. These adaptogenic mushrooms are also known for their ability to support mental function; some studies have even suggested that Lion’s Mane can help protect against dementia.

Benefits of Adaptogenic Mushrooms - Mushroom Maestro (1)

Adaptogenic mushrooms:

Reishi

Reishi is a lesser-known yet powerful adaptogenic mushroom. It has been used in China for centuries, although it isn’t commonly found in the wild. This mushroom is sometimes called “the mushroom of immortality” because it has so many benefits. Its primary adaptogenic function is helping the body adapt to stress by regulating energy levels and the natural stress response system. Additionally, Reishi mushrooms are a good source of triterpenes, which support the immune system, provide antiviral properties, and promote good gut health, all of which are crucial in preventing the physiological effects of stress.

Benefits of Adaptogenic Mushrooms - Mushroom Maestro (2)

Incorporating adaptogenic mushrooms into your life

For those who harbor a strong dislike for eating mushrooms, fret not; there are many ways to reap the benefits of adaptogenic mushrooms. There are powders, drink mixes, and more; however, the easiest (and tastiest) way to consume adaptogenic mushrooms might be through a gummy supplement. Luckily, there are some fantastic options on the market.

Troop Mushrooms is a trustworthy, premiere brand that offers excellent products featuring adaptogenic mushrooms. The products are vegan, organic, and gluten-free, making them accessible to individuals with all kinds of dietary needs. Their products are also dual-extracted, and this process ensures that Troop customers get the most nutrients possible from the mushrooms. Plus, Troop is committed to sustainability, and all its products are shipped in recyclable packaging.

Troop Mushrooms has the adaptogenic mushroom supplement to end all supplements: the Super Troop. Super Troop has the benefits of six adaptogenic mushrooms packed into one yummy gummy: Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Maitake (for maintaining blood pressure), Chaga (for an antioxidant boost), Cordyceps (for improving energy), and Turkey Tail (for immune support). These ingredients work together to create the ultimate adaptogenic mushroom gummy that supports stress relief, mental clarity, and overall health. This delicious supplement a great way to get all the benefits of adaptogenic mushrooms without actually having to eat them. Troop Mushrooms also offers single mushroom supplements (like their Lion’s Mane gummy for a brain boost) for individuals wanting more targeted benefits.

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It might be time to try adaptogenic mushrooms

Adaptogenic mushrooms can be important components of any stress relief regimen. They help the body balance the effects of stress, supporting better health and resiliency. And, with products like the ones from Troop Mushrooms, anyone can reap the benefits of adaptogenic mushrooms. If you haven’t incorporated adaptogenic mushrooms into your daily routine, it might be time to consider adding them to your supplement arsenal.

Further Reading:

Cleveland Clinic: What Are Adaptogens?

Women’s Health: What Are Adaptogenic Mushrooms And What Can They Do For You?

The Guardian: Mushroom magic: why the latest health fad might be on to something

Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.

Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Benefits of Adaptogenic Mushrooms - Mushroom Maestro (2024)

FAQs

What does adaptogenic mushrooms do for you? ›

Adaptogens are plants and mushrooms that help your body respond to stress, anxiety, fatigue and overall wellbeing. You can take adaptogens by adding them to food or beverages or take them as tinctures. Adaptogens bring your body back to a steady balance by managing both physical and mental stressors.

What do adaptogens do for the body? ›

Adaptogens increase the state of non-specific resistance in stress and decrease sensitivity to stressors, which results in stress protection, and prolong the phase of resistance (stimulatory effect). Instead of exhaustion, a higher level of equilibrium (the homeostasis) is attained the heterostasis.

Can you eat too many adaptogen mushrooms? ›

A person can safely use more than one adaptogenic herb or mushroom at the same time. However, some adaptogenic herbs may cause side effects and interact with common medications. For example, Astragalus membranaceus can interact with certain medications, including blood-thinning and blood-pressure-lowering drugs.

Do adaptogens give you a buzz? ›

Yes, some adaptogens can give you a buzz. These include green tea, holy basil, ginseng, cordyceps mushrooms, Schisandra berries and maca root. Medicinal mushrooms and maca root are well known for giving you an energy buzz without the anxiety or accelerated heart rate that caffeine often entails.

Do adaptogens make you sleepy? ›

Adaptogens and sleep

For instance, they can help control cortisol. So adaptogens can reduce cortisol. They can calm your nervous system. And they can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep.

What is the dark side of adaptogens? ›

Cautions for using adaptogens

Side effects of adaptogens are typically minor, but Ashwagandha and possibly other adaptogens can cause upper gastrointestinal discomfort or distress, loose stools, diarrhea, vomiting and drowsiness.

What are the cons of adaptogens? ›

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Adaptogenic Herbs
  • They may react with other medications. ...
  • They aren't universally applicable. ...
  • They are better in lower doses.
Jan 5, 2024

How quickly do adaptogens work? ›

It's often referred to as an adaptogen, which means it may help your body cope with stress and support overall well-being. While the effects of the herb can vary from person to person, you may notice short-term improvements in stress and fatigue within a week or two of consistent use.

Can adaptogens cause weight gain? ›

Adaptogens may help with weight loss by regulating hormones and metabolism. They can help reduce stress levels, which are often a contributing factor to weight gain. They also improve energy levels and circulation, potentially promoting weight loss.

Do adaptogens show up on drug tests? ›

Adaptogens may interact negatively with certain medications and, like all supplements, are not regulated by the FDA. Some adaptogens may cause drowsiness, increased thyroid hormone production, increased blood sugar, increased blood pressure, and in some cases could produce a false positive urinalysis result.

Who shouldn't take mushroom supplements? ›

Taking reishi mushroom may be riskier if you have low blood pressure or are taking therapy to raise your blood pressure, are taking diabetes medications, or have immune system disorders or medications. Higher doses of reishi mushroom might make bleeding more likely in people who have a very low platelet count.

What is the best adaptogen for anxiety? ›

These five adaptogens may give your brain a boost and help you handle stressful situations:
  1. Ashwagandha. This herb is one of the more studied varieties. ...
  2. Rhodiola rosea. ...
  3. Schisandra chinensis. ...
  4. Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng) ...
  5. Holy basil.

Do adaptogens increase estrogen? ›

When you take adaptogens, your endocrine system is freed from having to make cortisol and can instead produce more progesterone, estrogen, testosterone and human growth hormone.

Which is better Maca or ashwagandha? ›

Choose ashwagandha for stress management and improved sleep. Choose maca for energy, hormonal balance and libido support. Consider personal health goals, allergies, and health issues when choosing an adaptogen.

Do adaptogenic mushrooms keep you awake? ›

A Soothing Supplement for Sleep Time

Adding adaptogens like reishi mushrooms to them can help you fall asleep quickly, stay asleep, and wake up refreshed and ready for the day.

How long does it take for adaptogens to work? ›

It's often referred to as an adaptogen, which means it may help your body cope with stress and support overall well-being. While the effects of the herb can vary from person to person, you may notice short-term improvements in stress and fatigue within a week or two of consistent use.

How long does it take to feel the effects of medicinal mushrooms? ›

Finally, keep in mind that taking medicinal mushrooms requires patience and you won't see immediate benefits. "It takes at least two weeks to notice the effects of functional mushrooms, and it is recommended to take a week off every four to six months," says Kessler.

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