Medicinal mushrooms are healing powerhouses. They have been used as a therapeutic tool by humans for thousands of years, all over the globe- mummies dating back 4,000 years have actually been found alongside medicine kits containing mushrooms. Mushies owe the vast amount of their therapeutic effect to their beta-glucan content. Beta glucans are a type of polysaccharide found in a mushroom’s cell wall, which have a particularly well-researched action in the immune system, which is why they have been so sought after throughout this pandemic. Here are some of the most popular medicinal mushrooms being used in pop culture:
- Lion’s Mane: A shaggy white mushroom that resembles a lion’s mane! This beauty is revered for its incredible benefit to neuronal health. It is known to increase mental clarity, alertness, & focus- I’d recommend it to anyone in need of a bit of a brain boost, is studying, or has a long day in front of the computer ahead of them. I have seen clients who simply can’t start the day without Lion’s Mane in their morning beverage.
- Reishi: I studied Reishi in my herbal medicine classes, and I came to know it as a bit of a do-it-all mushroom. Reishi can be used as an immune-enhancer, particularly where there is chronic infection or a history of feeling ‘run-down’, post-virally to aid recovery, to aid sleep, and as an overall ‘tonic’ to the human body.
- Chaga: Chaga is a super antioxidant! This means it can protect our cells and tissues from free radical damage and oxidative stress. As such, it is sometimes known as the anti-aging mushroom, and I have spoken to women who claim that Chaga has helped to brighten their complexion. It is also a super immune-enhancing mushroom that supports the activity of our body’s infection-fighting cells.
- Cordyceps: This mushie stands out for its use as a physical performance enhancer; perfect for athletes and active individuals. It is believed to support a robust mind and body, increase endurance and performance, as well as support the body’s ability to cope with stress and increase resilience in true adaptogenic herb fashion.
We have a range of high-quality and therapeutic grade mushies available in-store, including the incredible Superfeast, Inner Atlas & life cykel. These products can be woven into your daily routine in a variety of ways: stir a ¼ teaspoon of Lion’s Mane powder into your morning coffee or matcha to give your mind some extra oomph, or spoon some Cordyceps into your pre-workout smoothie.
We also have some delicious mushroom-enhanced beverages on our café menu: try our warming Mushroom Cacao Elixir or wake up with a Mushroom Coffee smoothie.
