Mushrooms have long been used as adaptogens in traditional medicine for stress, anxiety and fatigue relief. This mushroom elixir tea combines chaga, lion’s mane and cordyceps for optimal mental agility and stamina boosting without the jitters or crashes associated with regular caffeine sources.

Cordyceps & Reishi & Shiitake

Chinese herbalists have long recognized reishi and shiitake mushrooms and cordyceps (commonly referred to as “caterpillar fungus”) as powerful tonics to strengthen immunity during times of increased stress. Swanson offers state-of-the-art extracts from these esteemed fungal defenders in its product lineup to support a strong, balanced immune response*.

Cordyceps sinensis grows wild on the Tibetan high plateau on caterpillar heads and has long been recognized for its adaptogenic properties that help support endurance and stamina*. Lab tests have demonstrated this substance’s ability to boost production of ATP energy cells use for energy. Furthermore, it acts as an enhancer of sexual desire as well as possessing hormone-regulating qualities*.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to nourish Jing (essence), Qi (vitality) and Shen (spirit). Reishi has become one of the most revered tonic herbs in TCM for nurturing Jing, Qi and Shen energies as well as its spiritual counterpart, Shen. Reishi also supports cardiovascular, kidney, lung, spleen energetic functions while being an anti-ageing herb with multiple health benefits ranging from supporting cellular repair, inflammation reduction protection against stress relief as well as improved sleep quality. Reishi has become one of the most extensively researched medicinal mushrooms with regard to its antioxidant, antiviral qualities as well as its many anti-tumor, antiviral qualities against tumor growth as well as its immune boosting properties compared to its counterparts such as Reishi.

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to support liver and gastric health, with studies proving its lentinan metabolite has antitumor, antiviral, antibacterial, as well as analgesic properties and potency anti-inflammatory qualities – as well as protecting against oxidative damage to both the liver and digestive tract.

Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceum) is an ancient, sacred mushroom with multiple health benefits. Often recommended to help relieve fatigue and protect brain and nervous systems; monks often used it in meditation sessions to focus their minds. Modern research indicates it contains beta-glucans with potent anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties as well as immunomodulatory properties – modern studies also demonstrate its immunomodulatory potential.

Lion’s Mane & Cordyceps

As functional mushrooms become more widely consumed and transported, new forms are emerging. No longer limited to just their “magic” use (with tryptamine binding with serotonin receptors in your brain and gut to produce mind-expanding effects), these mushrooms can now help boost your immunity, digestion and energy on multiple levels while remaining completely legal to consume and transport.

Lion’s mane and cordyceps are two of the more well-known species, both available as instant teas, coffees, and supplement powders from companies like Four Sigmatic. You may also come across them at hip cafes in chaga-ccino drinks or as part of their signature blends for lattes and cappuccinos.

Cordyceps is not only an energy source; it’s also a potency antioxidant which can strengthen your immune system. In addition, cordyceps may be used to ease menopausal symptoms such as mood swings and fatigue. Lion’s mane mushroom may help reduce cognitive decline with age by increasing nerve growth factor production within brain tissue – this has also been demonstrated in animal studies demonstrating positive neurological benefits after nervous system injury or impairment.

Many mushroom enthusiasts enjoy mixing medicinal fungi to produce an effective nootropic and physical energy boost, like that found in mushroom elixir teas. You can incorporate lion’s mane and cordyceps into instant tea or coffee mixes, chaga-ccino beverages or take them as standalone supplements for an energizing boost.

Though their taste might not match that of portobellos, these mushrooms still provide an earthy punch that blends nicely in flavorful hot drinks and cuts down black coffee’s acidity. Plus, their smooth, almost herbal taste that recalls green tea makes it easy for these mushrooms to hide within cups of joe or lattes without getting spotted! Plus, since these extracts come already prepared so there’s no steeping time necessary. Four Sigmatic’s Flow contains organic lion’s mane, rhodiola, cordyceps; Zen contains L-theanine and ashwagandha for stress-free sleep!

Chaga & Maca & Lion’s Mane

Have you seen those viral social media videos touting the benefits of Lion’s Mane mushroom for brain enhancement? This hairy, fungus (Hericium Erinaceus) is considered an “adaptogen”, or herb that helps the body adapt to stress by supporting hormone balance and supporting cognitive functions such as memory and focus. Furthermore, Lion’s Mane may help increase axon growth which in turn aids memory recall.

Chaga, another adaptogen found in North American forests, is often used to support lung health, strengthen immunity and aid detoxification. Rich in polyphenols, its unique flavor pairs perfectly with chocolate!

Maca root is an herb known to increase libido and help women achieve hormonal equilibrium. Additionally, it serves as a plant-based source of protein with valuable phytonutrients such as calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron zinc magnesium. Maca is an excellent energy booster and blends perfectly in beverages like tea coffee and cacao-based beverages.

OM has a cacao-based drink packed with organic ingredients and both chaga and maca. Mix it with hot water or add it to your morning power smoothie to start the day right!

These mushrooms can also be found in purer and more concentrated forms that can be taken as capsules, powder, or liquid drinks like those offered by Four Sigmatic and Host Defense.

Health elixirs are not only delicious low-cal beverages but they’re also an easy and delicious way to introduce medicinal mushrooms into your diet. With abundant antioxidants and no caffeine content, they offer an effective solution for maintaining optimal body function and keeping you at peak performance.

Want a quick, nutritious drink on the go? Make your own mushroom elixir! All of the ingredients can easily be found and the resulting drink is delicious and nourishing – but always seek professional advice before adding supplements or herbal herbs into your diet. Toby Amidor, MS, RD, CDN is an experienced dietitian and food writer specializing in whole foods nutrition who has written extensively for numerous publications as well as having served as recipe developer.