The Magic of Mushrooms

The medicinal value of mushrooms might be dismissed as another trending dietary addition, but the benefits of fungi as a food and medicine are very real and have been known to humans for quite some time.

For centuries, mushrooms have provided a valuable food source rich in antioxidants and nutrients that promote immunity, energy and longevity. They may even have cancer-fighting properties.

In the last 25 years or so, science has demonstrated the functional value of mushrooms. Asian cultures have known the power of mushrooms for a long time, and now research is validating their use.

Some of the most commonly consumed mushrooms are shiitake, chaga, lion’s mane and turkey tail, and they can be used to make products from coffee , tea and hot chocolate to juices and elixirs.

Whether you consume them via tea, coffee or capsule, mushroom blends can be eaten according to the season or health issue.

It’s good to be concerned about the origins of the mushrooms you’re about to consume. Are they truly organic? Are they harvested sustainably? Is the whole mushroom being used, or just the root? Before you buy a year’s supply of mushroom matcha mix, make sure the fungi fruiting bodies are dual extracted, which means you’ll get both the water- and fat-soluble compounds of that mushroom — aka all the good, immunity-boosting stuff.

Plain or powdered, mushrooms provide undeniable health benefits. So, whether you want to better your mood, boost your energy, strengthen your immune system or just get a better night’s sleep, there’s a ‘shroom for you.