Michael Davis
Mushroom matcha is a relatively new invention that combines the health benefits of matcha with those of medicinal mushrooms. Matcha is a type of powdered green tea that contains numerous health benefits and is packed with nutrients, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. Medicinal mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine, and by indigenous cultures for centuries. When combined with matcha, they create a powerhouse of benefits for your brain and body.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taste | Some people find the taste of mushroom matcha unpleasant. |
| Cost | Mushroom matcha is expensive. |
| Health benefits | May improve digestive health, boost energy, enhance athletic performance, support respiratory health, strengthen the immune system, improve cognitive function, memory, and focus, reduce inflammation, improve heart health, lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of cancer, improve mood, and reduce anxiety. |
| Caffeine content | Mushroom matcha contains less caffeine than coffee. |
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What You'll Learn
- Lion's Mane Mushroom for cognitive function, memory, and focus
- Reishi Mushroom for immune-boosting, stress relief, and anti-cancer properties
- Chaga Mushroom for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
- Shiitake Mushroom for cardiovascular function and antimicrobial properties
- Cordyceps for energy-boosting and respiratory health
Lion's Mane Mushroom for cognitive function, memory, and focus
Mushroom matcha is a relatively new invention that combines the well-known benefits of green tea with those of mushrooms. While mushroom matcha is said to have numerous health benefits, one mushroom in particular, Lion's Mane, is known for its ability to enhance cognitive function, memory, and focus.
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a type of mushroom that has been shown to improve cognitive function and mood in young, middle-aged, and older adults. A 2023 study from the University of Queensland found that Lion's Mane mushroom had a significant impact on the growth of brain cells and improving memory. The study found that the active compounds in Lion's Mane promote neuron projections, which extend and connect to other neurons. This helps brain cells to sense their environment and establish new connections, resulting in improved memory formation.
Another study, published in PMC, investigated the acute and chronic (28-day) cognitive and mood-enhancing effects of Lion's Mane in healthy young adults. The results revealed that following a single dose of Lion's Mane, participants performed quicker on a Stroop task (a test of attention and response inhibition). A trend towards reduced subjective stress was also observed following 28 days of supplementation.
Lion's Mane mushroom is also said to support nerve regeneration and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. A study of menopausal women found that those who consumed Lion's Mane-containing cookies for four weeks had lower depression and anxiety scores. Similar results were observed in overweight and obese adults following an 8-week supplementation of Lion's Mane in combination with a low-calorie diet.
Overall, Lion's Mane mushroom shows promise in enhancing cognitive function, memory, and focus, as well as supporting nerve regeneration and improving mental health. When combined with matcha, which is known for its energy-boosting and nutritional properties, Lion's Mane may provide additional benefits for cognitive health and overall well-being.
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Reishi Mushroom for immune-boosting, stress relief, and anti-cancer properties
Reishi mushrooms, also known as lingzhi, are a type of fungus that has been used in traditional medicine in China, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries for hundreds of years. They are known for their potential health-promoting effects and are often touted for their immune-boosting, stress-relieving, and potential anti-cancer properties.
Reishi mushrooms are thought to boost the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells, which are critical for fighting infections and cancer. They contain beta-glucan polysaccharides, which have been shown to have antitumor and immunostimulating activities. Additionally, the triterpene compounds in reishi mushrooms may inhibit tumor invasion and metastasis, making them a potential adjunct to standard cancer treatments.
Reishi mushrooms are also believed to help manage stress and improve mental health. Some studies suggest that they may reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as fatigue. They have been shown to enhance cognitive function and improve sleep quality.
In terms of other health benefits, reishi mushrooms are thought to possess anti-inflammatory properties, support heart health, and improve cholesterol and blood sugar levels. They have been used to treat infections and pulmonary diseases, and may also help manage diabetes and lower urinary tract symptoms in males.
While Reishi mushrooms have a long history of use in traditional medicine, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming them, especially for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking certain medications.
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Chaga Mushroom for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
Mushroom matcha is a combination of premium ceremonial matcha and mushrooms. Ceremonial matcha is a type of Japanese powdered green tea made from special tea leaves. The tea leaves are shaded for three weeks before harvest to reduce bitterness, and their stems are removed to improve the flavour. The mushrooms are dried and ground before being mixed with the matcha.
Chaga mushrooms are a type of fungus that grows mainly on the bark of birch trees in cold climates, such as Siberia, Northern Europe, Northern Canada, Alaska, and some northern parts of the United States. Chaga mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine in Siberia and other parts of Asia. They are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and are believed to provide a range of health benefits.
Chaga mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the body from free radicals, also known as oxidants. Free radicals are unattached electrons that bounce around in our cells and can cause cell degeneration and oxidative stress, leading to fatigue, chronic illness, pain, and signs of ageing. The antioxidants in Chaga mushrooms, such as the enzyme SOD (superoxide dismutage), neutralise these free radicals, preventing oxidative damage to cells and tissues. Chaga mushrooms have one of the highest concentrations of SOD compared to other medicinal mushrooms, outperforming Reishi mushrooms by about 50 times.
In addition to its antioxidant properties, Chaga mushrooms have been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that Chaga extract can reduce inflammation and gut damage by inhibiting inflammatory cytokines, which are associated with disease and triggering inflammation. Chaga mushrooms can help fight inflammation in the gut, reducing the risk of problems like irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.
Chaga mushrooms can be consumed as a tea or as a powdered or capsuled supplement. When prepared with warm or cold water, it is believed that the medicinal properties of Chaga are released. Chaga mushroom tea has a bitter yet vanilla flavour and is packed with antioxidants, offering a range of potential health benefits.
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Shiitake Mushroom for cardiovascular function and antimicrobial properties
Shiitake mushrooms are a powerful source of nutrients and are prized for their diverse health benefits. They are native to East Asia and have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. In terms of cardiovascular function, shiitake mushrooms have been shown to reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease. This includes lowering cholesterol levels, reducing inflammation, and decreasing blood pressure. A study conducted at Tohoku University in Japan found that shiitake feeding resulted in a decrease in both VLDL and HDL cholesterol. Additionally, eritadenine substances found in shiitake mushrooms support cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol levels.
Shiitake mushrooms also possess antimicrobial properties. They are a source of natural antimicrobials, which are in high demand due to consumer preferences for food free of chemical preservatives. A study at Tohoku University in Japan found that shiitake mushroom extract lowered the numbers of some pathogenic organisms without affecting beneficial organisms. Another study examined the antimicrobial properties of aqueous extracts of shiitake mushrooms on a range of environmental and clinically important microorganisms. Shiitake mushrooms have also been found to have antimicrobial effects against gingivitis, a disease involving inflammation of the gums due to microbial biofilm buildup.
Shiitake mushrooms are a functional food that can be easily incorporated into various dishes, providing numerous health benefits, including supporting cardiovascular function and providing antimicrobial properties.
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Cordyceps for energy-boosting and respiratory health
Cordyceps is a genus of parasitic fungi that grows on insect larvae. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat fatigue, sickness, kidney disease, and low sex drive. Cordyceps supplements have become popular due to their purported health benefits, and they are often marketed as energy-boosting and performance-enhancing products.
Cordyceps may help increase the body's production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is essential for delivering energy to the muscles. This may improve the way the body uses oxygen, especially during exercise. For example, a 2024 study found that participants who took Cordyceps before a high-intensity interval exercise session experienced less muscle damage and faster cell repair, leading to quicker recovery. However, it is important to note that this was a small study with only 14 young adult participants, and more human research is needed to confirm these effects.
Cordyceps is also believed to have respiratory benefits due to its potential anti-inflammatory properties. Respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD are characterized by inflammation that damages the lungs and bronchi, resulting in decreased lung function. Studies have shown that Cordyceps supplementation can decrease levels of inflammatory compounds, reduce the thickness of airways, and improve lung function in individuals with COPD and asthma. Additionally, Cordyceps may help inhibit disease-causing inflammation and maintain healthy airways, supporting overall lung function and respiratory health.
While initial studies on Cordyceps look promising, more comprehensive research is needed to confirm its full range of health benefits and potential side effects.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushroom matcha has been associated with a wide range of health benefits, including improved immunity, digestion, mental health, and overall well-being. It is also believed to be a good source of antioxidants, essential amino acids, and anti-inflammatory properties.
The main complaint about mushroom matcha is its flavour. It is also a high-caffeine food, so overuse might lead to negative consequences. It is recommended that you consult a physician before consuming it.
Some popular brands of mushroom matcha include RYZE, Om, and Wonder Matcha.
