What Are Functional Mushrooms: A Guide Functional Mushrooms

By Danny S.June 16, 2023

Functional mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine practices around the world, but they have recently gained popularity in the wellness and health industry. These powerful mushrooms go beyond just adding flavor to dishes, they offer a wide range of health benefits that can help support immune health, mental clarity, and even help the body fight off diseases. In this guide, we’ll explore what functional mushrooms are, their benefits, and how you can incorporate them into your daily routine.*

What Are Functional Mushrooms?

Functional mushrooms are a group of mushrooms that are known for their medicinal and health benefits. They are different from the common varieties that we typically consume for culinary purposes. Functional mushrooms are often used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda to treat a variety of ailments. Functional mushrooms contain bioactive compounds that are believed to have therapeutic properties.

What Are The Types Of Functional Mushrooms?

With the increased prevalence of auto-immune disorders, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, and a variety of other health problems, many researchers have been on the hunt for substances that can protect and support our wellbeing. Mushrooms have been the subject of much of this promising research. There are many types of functional mushrooms, each with their own unique health benefits. Here are some of the most popular types:

Reishi Mushroom: Known for its ability to support a healthy immune and stress response, the reishi mushroom is often referred to as the "queen of mushrooms".*
Chaga Mushroom: Rich in antioxidants, the chaga mushroom has been used to support overall health. It aids immune health and supports a normal inflammatory response.*
Lion's Mane Mushroom: This mushroom is said to have neuroprotective properties, helping to support normal cognitive function and memory as well as a healthy mood.*
Cordyceps Mushroom: Often used for supporting energy and endurance, the cordyceps mushroom also supports a healthy inflammation response and provides antioxidant benefits.*
Shiitake Mushroom: Acknowledged for its ability to support immune health and abundance of vitamins and minerals, the shiitake mushroom is widely valued for its support of overall health and well-being.
Turkey Tail Mushroom: Recognized for its potential to support immune health and its role in helping the body with normal cellular growth, the turkey tail mushroom is often regarded as a valuable inclusion in various health routines.*
Maitake Mushroom: Rich in beta-glucans, the maitake mushroom is often used for supporting a healthy immune and inflammatory response.*

These are just a few of the many types of functional mushrooms available. Each type has its own unique health benefits, making it important to find the right one to suit your needs.

Do Functional Mushrooms Help With Sleep?

While functional mushrooms are not a direct sleep aid, they can indirectly improve the quality of your sleep. Many functional mushrooms may have the potential to support a healthy stress response, which can help to calm your mind and relax your body before bedtime. Additionally, some mushrooms, like lion's mane, support normal cognitive function and memory, which can lead to better sleep quality overall.*

What Health Benefits Do Functional Mushrooms Provide?

Here are some of the potential benefits associated with functional mushrooms:

Immune Health: Functional mushrooms are rich in substances like beta-glucans which are thought to have properties that support a healthy immune response, which could potentially aid in the body's defense against infections and diseases.*
Healthy Inflammatory Response: Functional mushrooms are reported to contain compounds that support a healthy inflammation response. Chronic inflammation has been linked to various conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's, among others.*
Healthy Cognitive Function: Modern-day stress, anxiety, and lifestyle have brought about an increase in age-related cognitive decline. Functional mushrooms are said to contain compounds that can support normal brain function as well as a healthy stress response.*
Healthy Blood Sugar Balance: Functional mushrooms support normal sugar metabolism and overall digestive health. This aspect may be particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those who may be at risk of developing diabetes.*
Heart and Cardiovascular Health: Functional mushrooms reportedly contain compounds that could potentially contribute to lowering healthy cholesterol levels. Moreover, their ability to support a healthy inflammation response aids the body’s own natural ability to ward off heart disease.*

Are Functional Mushrooms Edible?

Yes, functional mushrooms are edible and can be consumed in a variety of ways. Some people prefer to cook them as a part of their meals, while others use them in tea or coffee. Functional mushroom supplements are also available in the form of capsules or powders, making it easy to incorporate them into your daily routine. However, it is important to note that some types of functional mushrooms may have side effects or interactions with certain medications. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your regimen.

What Is The Nutritional Value Of Functional Mushrooms?

Functional mushrooms are known to be a source of various vitamins and minerals. They possess notable levels of antioxidants, which are believed to aid in protecting cells against potential damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, functional mushrooms contain beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and other compounds that are associated with potential health benefits.*

It is worth noting that the nutritional value of functional mushrooms may vary depending on the specific mushroom type. For instance, shiitake mushrooms are recognized as a noteworthy source of B vitamins, while maitake mushrooms are relatively rich in potassium and fiber.

How To Consume Functional Mushrooms

There are several ways to consume functional mushrooms. One of the most popular ways is to cook them as a part of your meals. You can add them to soups, stews, and stir-fry dishes. You can also sauté them with garlic and herbs for a tasty and healthy side dish.

Another way to consume functional mushrooms is to make tea or coffee with them. You can use dried mushrooms to make a tea or coffee infusion. Simply add one or two teaspoons of dried mushrooms to a cup of hot water and let it steep for a few minutes. You can also add honey or other natural sweeteners to enhance the flavor.

Functional mushroom supplements are also available in the form of capsules or powders and extracts. This makes it easy to incorporate them into your daily routine. You can take them with water or add them to smoothies or other beverages.

Are There Any Side Effects Associated With Consuming Functional Mushrooms?

It's important to note that functional mushrooms are generally considered safe for consumption. They are widely used in traditional medicine practices around the world for their medicinal properties.

However, as with any supplement or natural remedy, there may be some potential side effects to be aware of. These can vary depending on the type of mushroom and the individual consuming it.

For example, some people may experience digestive issues such as bloating or gas when consuming functional mushrooms. This is more likely to occur if the mushrooms are consumed in large quantities or if the individual has a sensitive digestive system.

Other potential side effects may include allergic reactions or interactions with certain medications. It's always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider before adding any new supplement or natural remedy to your routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication.

In general, functional mushrooms are considered safe and well-tolerated by most people. However, it's important to be aware of potential side effects and to use these supplements in moderation. As with any health-related decision, it's always best to speak with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your routine.

Conclusion

Functional mushrooms are believed to offer a diverse array of potential health benefits, making them a potentially valuable addition to one's daily regimen. They can be enjoyed in different forms such as food, tea, supplements, or extracts. Although functional mushrooms are generally considered safe for consumption, it is advisable to exercise caution and be aware of potential side effects. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating them into your routine, particularly if you have existing health conditions or are taking medication. By approaching their use with moderation and taking necessary precautions, functional mushrooms may potentially serve as a helpful aid in fostering overall health and well-being.

Final Thoughts

At Feral Fungi, we're experts in all things mushrooms. Our specialty lies in creating top-notch mushroom extracts sourced from within Oregon, using ingredients sourced from the US. Join the thousands of Americans who have already embarked on a journey to better health with Feral Fungi.

Sources

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our product has not gone under clinical trial and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease such as heart disease, diabetes, breast cancer, or any other diseases listed in this article.

0 comments