Let’s talk about stress and anxiety. We all face it, from juggling work deadlines to navigating life's uncertainties. But did you know mushrooms might be nature’s little secret to managing these mental health hurdles?
Mushrooms are popping up everywhere lately as natural remedies, and there's a good reason for it! Certain types of mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, with a growing body of research supporting their potential for helping with stress, anxiety, and overall mental well-being.
Mushrooms with Magic Potential?
When we talk about mushrooms for stress, some might immediately think of magic mushrooms. These psychedelic mushrooms, like those containing psilocybin, are being studied for their therapeutic effects on serious conditions like treatment-resistant depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. In fact, studies from institutions like John Hopkins have shown positive effects from a single dose of psilocybin, including improved emotional resilience and stress response.
That said, psilocybin mushrooms aren’t for everyone and can lead to a “bad trip” without proper guidance. And since they’re classified as a psychedelic substance, they aren’t widely available. But other mushrooms, without the mind-bending properties, have been shown to support mental wellness and are accessible as part of your daily routine.
Related article: The benefits of Functional mushrooms
Adaptogenic Mushrooms and Their Calming Effects
Adaptogenic mushrooms like reishi, lion’s mane, chaga, and cordyceps are where the magic happens—without the psychedelic experience. Known for their adaptogenic properties, these medicinal mushrooms help your body adapt to stressful situations and support a balanced stress response. Think of them as your personal stress shields, quietly working behind the scenes to bring you calm.
- Reishi: Often called the mushroom of immortality, reishi has been a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. Studies suggest reishi’s anti-inflammatory properties can ease chronic stress symptoms by lowering stress hormones like cortisol, regulating heart rate, and calming the HPA axis (our central stress response system). You can find Reishi in both our Functional Mushroom Formula or Relax and Sleep Gummies.
- Lion’s Mane: This shaggy mushroom isn't just known for its look; it’s famous for its impact on cognitive function. Research has shown that lion’s mane may stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), both essential for brain cell growth and maintenance. The positive impact on cognitive health can indirectly reduce anxiety and improve resilience in stressful situations. Enjoy it in a daily basis on our Functional Mushrooms Gummies.
- Chaga: Loaded with bioactive compounds and anti-inflammatory benefits, chaga fights oxidative stress and may help improve immune system health. Less oxidative stress means more mental clarity and reduced anxiety symptoms, leaving you feeling balanced and resilient. In both Functional Mushroom Gummies or our alcohol free Chaga Tincture
- Cordyceps: Often taken for an energy boost, cordyceps mushrooms are known to support energy levels and may have a positive effect on mood by managing stress hormones. Cordyceps can help maintain overall health, especially in times of low energy or emotional fatigue. Find it on our Functional Mushroom Gummies and Performance Gummies.
The Science Behind Mushrooms and Mental Health
The effects of these functional mushrooms go beyond anecdotes. A number of animal studies and clinical trials are diving into how these mushrooms interact with our nervous system and other crucial biological systems to help ease mood disorders and anxiety symptoms. For instance, studies on ganoderma lucidum (the active ingredient in reishi) show promise in reducing signs of mental illness and symptoms of anxiety disorder.
Even though these aren’t psychiatric drugs like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) commonly used for anxiety and depression, mushrooms can serve as a complementary therapy alongside traditional treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). And for people dealing with conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or substance use disorders, they might offer some much-needed support, though more recent studies are needed to solidify these findings.
How to Incorporate Mushrooms into Your Routine
Curious about adding mushrooms to your life? It’s a good idea to start small. Mushroom tinctures, capsules, and even teas are widely available, allowing you to choose what fits best with your lifestyle. Start with one type, like reishi mushrooms for stress, and gradually see how your body responds. Some may experience effects within a few weeks, while others notice subtle changes over a longer period. It’s all about listening to your body and finding what works for you.
Final Thoughts on Mushrooms and Mental Well-being
While anecdotal reports and previous studies highlight the benefits, there’s still little research on the long-term effects of adaptogenic mushrooms. However, recent years have seen a surge in animal research and human studies looking into their potential for managing stress and anxiety. From improving mental well-being and supporting cognitive health to protecting against the physical toll of stress—these mushrooms could be a natural addition to help you find calm amidst life’s chaos.
Whether you’re tackling symptoms of anxiety or just seeking a calming effect during hectic times, exploring functional fungi might just be the wellness step you need.