Mushrooms have long been used as culinary ingredients; now, however, they’re becoming increasingly sought-after as functional mushrooms, with claims that they can help the body adapt to stress and support equilibrium.

One of the easiest (and tastiest!) ways to incorporate mushroom-rich foods into your diet is mushroom tea. Here’s everything you need to know about this popular beverage!

Boosts Immune System

Adaptogenic mushrooms like Chaga, Lion’s Mane, Reishi and Cordyceps have become an increasingly popular addition to health drinks. Unlike hallucinogenic varieties, adaptogenics don’t alter your mind but instead enhance the body’s natural ability to manage stress and maintain balance. Rich in beta-glucans and polysaccharides that activate immune cells, adaptogenics also play an integral part in managing the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis which regulates stress response response mechanisms in your body.

Mushroom powders have long been touted for their ability to reduce inflammation, boost energy production and even enhance cognitive function. Indeed, one recent study demonstrated how daily consumption of mushroom powders improved both overall health and brain functioning among participants (1)

Finding the ideal adaptogenic mushrooms supplements means knowing exactly what your requirements are. Some are available as teas while others come in capsule form – though whole mushrooms provide greater health benefits and offer immediate satisfaction. Supplements offer another quick route to enjoying these health-promoting herbs.

GT’s Living Foods ALIVE Ancient Mushroom Elixirs offer adaptogenic mushrooms in one convenient package. Containing 1800 milligrams of adaptogenic mushroom magic per bottle, this powerful elixir combats oxidative, mental, and physical stress while strengthening immunity internally for long-term positive impact on well-being.

There are numerous varieties of mushroom elixirs, each one offering distinct benefits and properties. Popular options include Shiitake, Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps and Chaga; however they can often be combined with other health-boosting herbs like Tulsi, Chaga Ashwagandha Maca for optimal performance.

Find these elixirs either online or at specialty health stores, or make your own homemade tea using any combination of the above ingredients – for instance Teeccino Chaga Ashwagandha Mushroom Tea provides natural benefits of Chaga and Reishi combined with adaptogens that boost endurance, immunity and overall wellness.

Boosts Energy

Adaptogenic mushrooms have made headlines as more than just pizza toppings; they’re now being brewed into teas to relieve stress, boost immunity, and enhance mood. Not only is mushroom tea full of delicious flavors and soothing aromas; its functional ingredients also offer numerous health benefits.

Adaptogenic mushrooms offer an alternative solution, offering lasting energy without the crash experienced with coffee or energy drinks. By stabilizing cortisol levels and supporting homeostasis, adaptogenic mushrooms provide more lasting energy without the crash associated with coffee and energy drinks. They may provide a better option for brain and body health than caffeine while still giving an energizing boost. A combination of Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), cordyceps, chaga and reishi with Rhodiola, ginger and white tea creates a sustainable energy level that calmly elevates mood, focus and performance.

When it comes to stress management, adaptogens have long been revered for their ability to restore equilibrium between the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and other organ systems which may become disrupted due to physical, emotional and chemical stressors. They also assist in alleviating chronic stress effects while decreasing inflammation levels and correcting hormone imbalances.

Mushrooms are an excellent source of antioxidants, believed to help support immunity and gut health. Some popular adaptogenic mushrooms used in tea include lion’s mane, reishi and turkey tail – each offering different benefits. Lion’s mane has been shown to improve cognitive function and memory retention; reishi helps relax mind and improve sleep quality; while turkey tail offers powerful immune-supporting and anti-inflammatory benefits.

When selecting a mushroom tea, look for one made with high-quality ingredients that has undergone minimal processing to preserve their bioactive compounds. Steeping for 10 minutes at least will increase availability of mushroom therapeutic compounds while keeping temperatures between 71-72 degrees Celsius can help preserve nutrients while providing you with a warm beverage to sip on.

Supports Mental Focus

Research increasingly supports the cognitive benefits of adaptogenic mushrooms and herbs, including Chaga, Reishi and Lion’s Mane fungi. Together these work together to balance your nervous system and boost mental focus – some studies indicate they even stimulate neurogenesis, meaning new neurons grow within you; this may help enhance memory recall as well as reduce stress and anxiety levels.

Mushroom teas contain beta-glucans and polysaccharides that can help the body adapt to stress, reduce inflammation and boost immune function. Furthermore, many mushrooms contain antioxidants which provide protection for your brain and other organs.

Many mushroom tea blends use multiple varieties to produce an additive effect on both body and mind. A popular blend features Reishi, Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps; Reishi is known for its relaxing properties that support healthy sleep while Cordyceps is an energy booster known for enhancing mood while helping the adrenal glands.

Popular adaptogenic mushroom teas combine chaga, reishi and rhodiola with turmeric and ginger for an invigorating yet balanced boost of energy. These beverages offer a healthy alternative to coffee or energy drinks by providing sustained energy without the risk of sudden caffeine crashes.

These teas may also be effective treatments for those suffering from mental health conditions like depression, anxiety and poor concentration. Reishi and turkey tail mushrooms have been found to positively influence neurotransmitter pathways associated with mood disorders and can restore normal levels of serotonin for improved cognitive functions. Furthermore, these teas are rich in antioxidants which protect the mind further while providing mental clarity and focus. If more serious disorders exist then neurotransmitter testing (such as ZRT NeuroAdvanced Profile from zRT Laboratories) can identify imbalances and provide insight into treatment plans tailored specifically towards your unique needs.

Supports Gut Health

Adaptogenic mushrooms provide more than energy and mental focus – they also offer digestive support! Mushrooms contain polysaccharides – long chains of sugar molecules which feed your gut with good bacteria, providing essential food. When they enter your digestive tract, these polysaccharides are broken down by these beneficial microbes into short-chain fatty acids which keep the digestive tract regular and healthy.

Mushrooms are packed with fiber, making them an excellent way to promote regular bowel movement and keep the insides of your intestines clear and healthy. If eating whole mushrooms isn’t your cup of tea or herbal remedy of choice, try sipping on mushroom tea instead and reap the same benefits!

Mushrooms can help improve digestion and strengthen immunity, making them one of the best foods to add into your diet for improved digestion and immunity. You can easily incorporate them into soup recipes or enjoy them raw as snacks – they are a rich source of protein as well as essential nutrients!

Some adaptogenic mushrooms have even been known to combat cancerous cells! Himematsutake (aka God’s mushroom) contains the protein blazein, which has been proven to decrease cancer cell growth; and Chaga is thought to decrease lung, brain, and liver cancer cells (21). (21)

Other mushrooms that can assist with maintaining a strong immune system include shiitake, cordyceps, reishi, lion’s mane and maitake mushrooms. Shiitake was recently found to protect cells of your immune system while increasing natural killer cell production; 3 Cordyceps can reduce stress; Reishi can aid with sleep; while Jiaogulan was shown to ease anxiety while increasing overall wellness. (32)

Have you heard of mushroom coffee or seen your favorite influencer sipping one on TikTok or Instagram? However, did you know this type of beverage could actually boost immunity and promote digestive health?

If you’re seeking natural ways to reduce stress, give adaptogenic mushroom tea a try! It is an amazing way to remain calm, focused, and resilient while tasting great.