What Are Adaptogenic Mushrooms? Benefits, Risks, and Types
Capsules, powders and more containing adaptogenic mushrooms have become popular in the world of health and wellness! At Kanna CBD, we offer gummies infused with these powerful mushrooms, bringing their potential benefits directly to you.
Click here to check out all of our adaptogenic gummies!
You may wonder whether adaptogenic mushrooms offer health benefits and if you should be adding them or related products to your diet. This article explains everything you need to know about adaptogenic mushrooms, including the types, potential benefits, and possible risks.
What Are Adaptogenic Mushrooms?
Adaptogenic mushrooms are a special category of mushrooms that may help reduce the effects of stress on your body. Unlike hallucinogenic mushrooms, adaptogenic mushrooms do not act on the mind or perception. Instead, they work to support the body's resistance to stress, promoting balance and normal functioning during stressful times.
The body’s stress response involves multiple systems, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which releases glucocorticoids like cortisol to activate the stress response. Adaptogens help by influencing the HPA axis and other key stress response mediators, enhancing resistance to stress and promoting recovery and stability in the body.
Researchers have identified certain plants and fungi, including some mushrooms, that possess adaptogenic properties. Research suggests that several types of mushrooms have beneficial effects on the body’s stress response. While many mushrooms have medicinal effects, adaptogenic mushrooms specifically help with the body's response to stress.
Here are some mushrooms known for their adaptogenic effects:
Cordyceps
Cordyceps is a fungus studied for its potential to reduce stress. Although research in humans is limited, rodent studies suggest it may reduce stress-related markers and increase resistance to stress-inducing activities.
Lion’s Mane
Hericium erinaceus, commonly known as lion’s mane, may offer adaptogenic effects. Rodent studies have shown that lion’s mane extract can help reverse stress-related changes in neurotransmitters and reduce levels of inflammatory markers associated with stress. Benefits can also include improvement of nerve development and function, memory improvement, and can slow down the progression of Dementia. Customers need to consistently take Lion’s Mane and will feel benefits within 2-3 weeks.
Reishi
Ganoderma lucidum, or reishi, is known for its adaptogenic properties. Reishi supports adrenal gland function, helping to manage the body's cortisol levels and stress response. Benefits can include help boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, promoting relaxation, and stress/anxiety management. Some customers can feel an immediate effect but for most it can take up to 2 weeks.
Turkey Tail
A fungus that grows on the trunks of dead hardwood trees, has a long term history of medicinal use in Asia. Benefits can include help boost the immune system, boost exercise performance, help with reducing inflammation, and aid patients who are in chemo recovery.
Chaga
A fungus that grows on the bark of birch trees, Chaga has been used since the 12th century in Eastern Europe. From past history, Russian Prince Vladimir Monomakh had a lip tumor and got rid of the disease thanks to the treatment of Chaga. Benefits can include help with boosting the immune system, fight the production of cancer cells, and lower your blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Are Adaptogenic Mushrooms Safe?
Research shows that these mushrooms are generally safe and well-tolerated when taken in supplement form. They are available in various forms, including capsules, tinctures, teas, powders, and now, in Kanna CBD's gummies.
However, side effects can occur, and certain populations should avoid these mushrooms. For example, reishi may cause dizziness and headache and should be avoided by people with bleeding disorders, those taking blood-pressure-lowering medication, and pregnant or breastfeeding women. Additionally, some documented cases of liver toxicity and allergic reactions exist.
It’s important to consult your healthcare provider before taking adaptogenic mushrooms to ensure they are safe and appropriate for you.
Should You Try Adaptogenic Mushroom Products?
If you’re considering adding adaptogenic mushrooms to your diet, consult your healthcare provider first. While these mushrooms may be safe for many people, they’re not suitable for everyone.
At Kanna CBD, we provide a holistic approach to stress management. However, it's essential to use other stress reduction techniques as well, such as identifying stress causes, getting adequate rest, following a nutrient-dense diet, and using methods like therapy, massage, exercise, and meditation.
Adaptogenic supplements, including those containing mushrooms, can be expensive and often contain proprietary blends without revealing the dose of each ingredient. This means the amounts of adaptogenic mushrooms you consume may be too small to have noticeable effects on your stress levels.
If you’re experiencing significant stress, seek advice from your healthcare provider.
The Bottom Line
Some mushrooms, including reishi, Cordyceps, and lion’s mane, may have adaptogenic properties and help reduce the negative effects of stress in the body. However, more research is needed to fully understand how these mushrooms affect stress response in humans.
At Kanna CBD, our gummies with adaptogenic mushrooms offer a convenient and enjoyable way to incorporate these benefits into your daily routine. Always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure they’re safe and appropriate for your needs.
