Six Adaptogenic Mushrooms & Their Benefits

Let’s talk about magic mushrooms. No, not that kind!

Also referred to as “functional mushrooms”, adaptogenic mushrooms are now commonplace in the supplement space. Available in powders, capsules and even coffee, mushroom products are easy to come by in most major cities here in the U.S. So, do they really work? Which ones? We’ve done the foraging for you! Keep reading for your beginner’s guide to adaptogenic mushrooms.

What are adaptogens and what do they do for you?

Adaptogens are herbs and plants that are said to help manage stress in the body to maintain homeostasis. They work by interacting with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis — a complex system of neuroendocrine pathways, glands and receptors in the body. This system is critical to mediating stress response, energy levels and metabolism. Adaptogens are unique in that they “adapt” to the needs of the individual.

In addition to mushrooms, other widely used adaptogens include ashwagandha, tulsi and ginseng.

What are the health benefits of adaptogenic mushrooms?

Although their mainstream popularity may be fairly new, adaptogenic mushrooms have actually been used in Eastern medicine for centuries. There are 6…