Sarah Brown
Adaptogenic mushrooms are a type of fungi that may help the body manage stress and maintain balance. They are thought to work by interacting with the body's stress response system, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which releases cortisol when you encounter stress. Adaptogenic mushrooms may help regulate cortisol levels, ensuring they don't get too high. While research on the effectiveness of adaptogenic mushrooms is still ongoing, they have been used in traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic practices, and ancient European cultures for thousands of years. Today, they are commonly consumed in the form of teas, tinctures, powders, and capsules, and are marketed as a way to boost energy, improve mood, promote relaxation, and support overall health and immunity.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Mushrooms with adaptogenic properties that help the body fight the negative effects of stress and improve overall health. |
| Other Names | Functional mushrooms |
| History | Used in traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic practices, and ancient European cultures for thousands of years. |
| Forms | Teas, tinctures, powders, capsules, chocolate, coffee, supplements, ice cream, elixirs, etc. |
| Benefits | Stress relief, improved mood, increased energy, improved cognitive function, improved sleep, reduced fatigue, anti-inflammatory, improved physical health, improved immunity, etc. |
| Side Effects | Dry mouth, itchiness, gastrointestinal distress, dizziness, headache, etc. |
| Precautions | Consult a healthcare professional before consuming, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or having underlying health conditions like low blood pressure, diabetes, or bleeding disorders. |
| Dosage | No standard dosage, but most studies suggest at least 500mg per day for noticeable effects. |
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What You'll Learn
Types of adaptogenic mushrooms
Adaptogenic mushrooms are a type of functional mushroom with adaptogenic properties that help the body fight the negative effects of stress and improve overall health. Adaptogens are substances that work to reduce the negative effects of stress on the body. They increase the body's resistance to physical, biological, and chemical stress, promote normal functioning during stressful periods, and protect against stress-related damage.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps is a type of fungus studied for its potential to reduce the effects of stress on the body. Research in humans is limited, but a 2014 study in 18 men found that taking 600 mg of Cordyceps with another plant adaptogen, Rhodiola crenulata, improved stress response and fatigue levels. Another study found that combining Cordyceps with Ganoderma lucidum may help protect athletes from the physical stress of overtraining.
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Lion's mane is a mushroom thought to offer adaptogenic effects. Rodent studies have shown that lion's mane extract may help reverse stress-related changes to neurotransmitters, including dopamine and serotonin. It may also reduce levels of inflammatory markers that increase in response to stress.
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Reishi, also known as Ganoderma lucidum, is a type of mushroom adaptogen used to boost the immune system and fight cancer. It has been documented in Asian cultures' earliest pharmacopoeia writings, where it is regarded as a powerful "Shen" tonic and said to "open the spirit" in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Reishi may cause side effects such as dizziness and headaches and should not be used by people with bleeding disorders, those taking blood pressure-lowering medication, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
While adaptogenic mushrooms show promising results in reducing stress and improving overall health, it is important to note that the research in humans is currently limited. More well-designed studies are needed to fully understand the effects of adaptogenic mushrooms on stress response. Additionally, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before using mushrooms or herbs for their adaptogenic properties, especially if you have any health conditions or are taking medication.
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The history of adaptogenic mushrooms
The use of adaptogenic mushrooms can be traced back to ancient times, with records of their application in traditional and folk medicines worldwide. One notable example is the discovery of Ötzi, a 3300 BCE body found frozen in an alpine glacier in 1991. Ötzi was carrying two types of mushrooms, one of which was a medicinal birch polypore used to combat parasites and infections. Similarly, ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics depict mushrooms as the "sons of the gods," associating them with immortality and nobility.
In ancient Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic practices from India, mushrooms were also employed to cure ailments and provide health benefits. These ancient societies recognised the adaptogenic properties of mushrooms, which help the body manage stress and maintain homeostasis or stability.
Over time, research on adaptogenic mushrooms has evolved, and they have gained popularity as people recognise their potential health benefits. Studies have shown that certain mushrooms, such as lion's mane, reishi, cordyceps, and chaga, possess adaptogenic effects. These mushrooms can reduce inflammation, improve brain function, boost the immune system, and provide anti-aging benefits.
However, it is important to note that the research on adaptogenic mushrooms is still ongoing, and more human-focused studies are needed to fully understand their effectiveness and potential risks. Additionally, the lack of regulation in the market for adaptogenic mushroom products means that consumers must be cautious and informed when choosing these products.
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How to take adaptogenic mushrooms
Adaptogenic mushrooms are a great way to be proactive about your health and lower the chances of chronic health issues. They are known to have anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties and are often used as herbal health products. While there is some evidence supporting the role of adaptogenic mushrooms in stress management, research in humans is limited. It is always a good idea to work with an experienced healthcare provider if you’re interested in using mushrooms for their adaptogenic properties.
Adaptogenic mushrooms come in various forms, including capsules, loose-leaf teas, tinctures, herbal blends, powders, and protein powders. They can be commonly found in grocery stores that feature a health section.
The frequency of dosing is usually mentioned on the nutrition labels, with once or twice a day being the standard dosing regimen. If you are buying powdered herbs, you can add them to smoothies, protein shakes, and acai bowls. Tinctures are a great option for optimal dosing, as you can take as many or as little drops as your body needs. Tinctures are also the best way to consume adaptogenic mushrooms as they allow the most optimal bioavailability of benefits.
It is important to remember that while functional mushrooms contain adaptogens that are beneficial for your health, they are not intended to replace prescribed medicine or treat specific conditions. They work to strengthen your immune system and improve your overall health. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking prescribed medication, or have a bleeding disorder, you should consult your doctor before taking functional mushrooms.
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Adaptogenic mushroom side effects
Adaptogenic mushrooms are a growing trend in stress relief. They are thought to reduce the negative effects of stress, anxiety, and fatigue on the body. However, despite their promising benefits, adaptogenic mushrooms may also cause side effects and interact with commonly prescribed medications.
Firstly, it is important to note that adaptogenic mushrooms are not intended to replace prescribed medicine or treat specific conditions. They are meant to be supplemental and work alongside standard treatments.
Secondly, adaptogenic mushrooms may have side effects. For instance, reishi mushrooms may cause dizziness and headaches. There have also been two documented cases of liver toxicity related to the consumption of reishi powder. Furthermore, adaptogens can interact with certain medications. For example, Astragalus membranaceus can interact with blood-thinning and blood-pressure-lowering drugs, and Andrographis paniculata may interact with anti-inflammatory medications and chemotherapy drugs.
Additionally, adaptogens can impact how certain medicines work if you have medical conditions like hypertension, diabetes, insomnia, hypothyroidism, and depression. They may increase blood pressure, decrease blood sugar levels, disrupt sleep patterns, and increase thyroid activity.
Finally, adaptogens may not be suitable for certain populations. For example, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, those with low blood pressure, bleeding disorders, or those taking blood-pressure-lowering medication should not consume reishi mushrooms without consulting a health professional first.
In conclusion, while adaptogenic mushrooms may offer various health benefits, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before taking them to ensure they are safe for your individual needs and will not interact with any medications or conditions.
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Adaptogenic mushroom research
Adaptogenic mushrooms are a type of fungi that help the body manage stress and maintain balance. They are not to be confused with medicinal mushrooms, which have medicinal effects like anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties. Adaptogenic mushrooms specifically affect the body's response to stress. They are thought to help the body "adapt" to physical, chemical, and biological stressors.
Adaptogenic mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic practices for thousands of years, as well as in ancient European cultures. They have been consumed in various forms, including teas, tinctures, powders, and capsules, making them easy to incorporate into daily routines.
Research on adaptogenic mushrooms is still in its early stages, and more human-focused studies are needed to fully understand their effects. However, existing studies have shown promising results. For example, a 2014 study found that taking a combination of Cordyceps sinensis and Rhodiola crenulata led to improvements in stress response and fatigue levels compared to a placebo. Other studies have shown that lion's mane, Cordyceps, and reishi mushrooms have beneficial effects on the body's stress response and are generally safe when taken in supplement form.
It is important to note that there is currently no regulation for the amount of mushroom a product must contain to be marketed as an adaptogenic mushroom product. As a result, many products may not contain enough mushroom extract to make a significant difference in health. It is recommended to look for companies that are transparent about the amount of mushroom extract in their products and to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if there are underlying health conditions or medications involved.
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Frequently asked questions
Adaptogenic mushrooms are special types of fungi that help the body manage stress and maintain balance. They are also known as functional mushrooms and have been used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic practices for thousands of years.
Adaptogenic mushrooms work by interacting with the body's stress response system, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. When you encounter stress, the HPA axis releases cortisol, a hormone that helps you cope. Adaptogenic mushrooms help regulate cortisol levels, ensuring they don't get too high.
Adaptogenic mushrooms may support quality sleep, reduce feelings of fatigue, calm the nervous system, and help with muscle recovery after intense physical activity. They are also believed to improve cognitive function, boost the immune system, and support overall physical health.
