If you’ve been scrolling through wellness TikTok or eyeing trendy coffee alternatives, you’ve likely heard about functional mushrooms. No, they’re not the psychedelic kind, but they might be just as mind-blowing in their own way. These natural powerhouses are gaining traction for their impressive health benefits, so let’s break down what functional mushrooms are and explore why they’re worth adding to your daily routine. 

What Are Functional Mushrooms?

Functional mushrooms refer to a group of fungi known for their health-boosting properties. Unlike the white button mushrooms you toss in a stir-fry, these are often consumed as powders, capsules, teas, or in beverages like mushroom coffee. They’ve been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Asia, but modern science is now catching up with their potential.

Functional mushrooms are packed with bioactive compounds like beta-glucans, triterpenes, and antioxidants that support immunity, brain health, and energy levels. Their effects aren’t just anecdotal either – many benefits are backed by scientific research.

Meet the All-Stars

1. Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

Lion’s mane gets its name from its shaggy, white appearance – think a pom-pom crossed with a mop. Native to North America, Europe, and Asia, this mushroom has been celebrated for its brain-boosting properties

Benefits:

• Cognitive Function: Studies show lion’s mane promotes nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein crucial for the growth and repair of neurons. Research published in Biomedical Research (2010) found that lion’s mane improved cognitive function in adults with mild cognitive impairment.

• Mood Support: Preliminary studies suggest it may reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by modulating inflammation and enhancing brain health.

2. Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris & Cordyceps sinensis)

Cordyceps might be the strangest-looking of the bunch. Naturally growing on insect larvae in the wild, most cordyceps products today are cultivated to avoid the “ew” factor. These mushrooms are renowned for boosting energy and endurance.

• Benefits:

  • Energy & Performance: Cordyceps enhance ATP production, the energy currency of your cells. A 2010 study in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise demonstrated improved exercise performance in athletes supplementing with cordyceps.

  • Anti-Aging Properties: Packed with antioxidants, cordyceps help combat oxidative stress, a key player in aging and chronic disease.

3. Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

Chaga is found growing on birch trees in cold climates like Siberia and Canada, chaga has long been used as a traditional remedy.

• Benefits:

  • Immune Support: Chaga is rich in beta-glucans, which modulate immune responses. Recent studies (2024) highlights its potential to enhance immunity and fight inflammation.

  • Skin Health: Its high antioxidant content, particularly melanin, may protect skin from environmental stress and aging.

Why Should You Care?

As a generation balancing side hustles, endless notifications, and the search for self-care, genzenials are uniquely positioned to benefit from functional mushrooms:

• Boost Focus and Creativity: Lion’s mane can sharpen cognitive function, helping you ace work or school projects.

• Support Active Lifestyles: Cordyceps can fuel workouts and combat fatigue, perfect for fitness enthusiasts.

• Enhance Resilience: Chaga’s immune-boosting properties can keep you feeling your best, even during flu season.

Functional mushrooms offer a natural way to optimise health without the jittery effects of caffeine or synthetic supplements, which is why we created the productivity powder.