Functional mushrooms have been an integral part of traditional diets and lifestyles for centuries, particularly within Asian cultures. They are widely used in teas, extracts, and cooking, with many valuing them for their natural bioactive compounds and their role in traditional wellness practices. Their popularity in modern dietary supplements is due, in part, to their versatile applications and the presence of nutrients such as fibres and natural polysaccharides.
This article provides an overview of some of the most well-known functional mushrooms and their traditional uses. You will also learn how they can be incorporated into a balanced lifestyle without requiring major changes to your daily routine.
An Overview of Popular Functional Mushrooms
There are many different types of functional mushrooms that have been used throughout different cultures over time. Here are some of the most well-known ones and their characteristics:
- Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): Often referred to as the "mushroom of immortality" in traditional Chinese medicine. Historically, Reishi has been used in teas and extracts in connection with meditation and relaxation.
- Shiitake (Lentinula edodes): A popular edible mushroom also used in extracts and teas. Shiitake contains natural polysaccharides like beta-glucans and has a long history in Asian cuisine.
- Chaga (Inonotus obliquus): Grows on birch trees and has traditionally been used as tea, particularly in Siberia. Chaga is known for its high natural content of polyphenols and pigment compounds.
- Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus): A unique and distinctive mushroom with a white, "hair-like" structure. In Asia, it has been used in traditional recipes and is now popular in modern functional blends.
- Maitake (Grifola frondosa): Also known as the "dancing mushroom." Maitake has been a staple in Japanese and Chinese cooking, often used in soups and teas.
- Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): This mushroom has a notable history in Tibetan tradition and is used today in adaptogenic blends.
- Agaricus (Agaricus blazei Murill): Originating from Brazil, this mushroom has found its way into modern supplements due to its natural content of beta-glucans.
- Coriolus (Coriolus versicolor): Also known as "Turkey Tail" – used in traditional infusions in both Asia and North America.
- Poria (Poria cocos): Used in classic Chinese herbal medicine and valued in combination with other roots and mushrooms.
- Enoki (Flammulina velutipes): An edible mushroom with high fibre content. Popular in Japanese cuisine, especially in soups and stir-fries.
- Polyporus (Polyporus umbellatus): Traditionally used in tea form and mentioned in classic Chinese pharmacopoeias.
- Shimeji (Hypsizygus tessellatus): A staple of Japanese cuisine – known for its crisp texture and mild flavour.
- Mesima (Phellinus linteus): Historically used in Korean and Chinese herbal medicine as part of herbal blends.
- Tremella (Tremella fuciformis): A gelatinous mushroom traditionally used in Chinese dessert cuisine – known for its mild flavour and moisture-retaining properties in cosmetics.
How to Choose the Right Functional Mushrooms?
The choice of functional mushrooms depends on personal preferences and lifestyle. Many choose mushrooms based on their traditional use or how they fit into daily life. For instance, Lion’s Mane is often included in modern functional blends for those who wish to incorporate mushrooms into their morning routine, while Reishi has historically been used in relaxation rituals. Combinations of several mushrooms are also common, often based on ancient herbal principles where the synergy between different natural ingredients is in focus.
A Modern Take on a Classic Tradition
If you wish to integrate these traditional mushrooms into your daily routine simply, mixed mushroom gummies from Nordic Oil could be a good solution. These gummies contain four organic mushroom extracts – Reishi, Shiitake, Chaga, and Lion’s Mane – and serve as a plant-based alternative to powders and capsules. Each serving contains 200 mg of mushroom extract (50 mg of each), making them a practical companion in a busy everyday life.
Mixed mushroom gummies from Nordic Oil are designed for adults who seek a natural and modern supplement inspired by traditional ingredients. They are both vegan and sugar-free, making them easy to incorporate into daily life as part of a holistic approach to wellness.
What Do Functional Mushrooms Contain?
Functional mushrooms contain a wide range of naturally occurring compounds, which have made them popular in traditional use and modern functional products. Among the most well-known compounds are:
- Polysaccharides: Including beta-glucans, which are natural dietary fibres found in many mushrooms. These compounds have been studied for their role in plant defence and have made mushrooms an important part of traditional supplements.
- Triterpenes: Found especially in Reishi mushrooms and known for their bitter taste. Triterpenes are bioactive compounds that mushrooms produce naturally and are often mentioned in connection with herb-based applications.
- Ergosterol: A plant-based substance that serves as a precursor to vitamin D and is found in many mushroom species – especially when exposed to light. Ergosterol has been the subject of interest in nutritional science due to its natural origin.
- Antioxidants: Many functional mushrooms contain natural antioxidants such as melanin and polyphenols, which contribute to their characteristic colour and usage in centuries-old extracts and teas.
These natural compounds contribute to the growing interest in functional mushrooms in modern diets and lifestyles – not least as part of a balanced and plant-based everyday life.
Traditional Use of Functional Mushrooms
Functional mushrooms have been used for centuries, especially in traditional Chinese and Japanese practices, where they often form part of herbal teas, extracts, or dried blends. They were traditionally used as a natural support in everyday life, especially during periods of increased physical or mental stress.
In TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), mushrooms such as Reishi, Shiitake, and Maitake have been used to create balance in the body and support natural vitality. Lion's Mane has long been valued in East Asia for its place in tea culture and is often associated with concentration and inner peace. In Russia and Scandinavia, Chaga has been used in folk medicine as warm drinks based on mushroom extracts from birch trees.
While modern science is still investigating the numerous properties of these mushrooms, the interest in their traditional use and natural nutrient profile continues to grow – not least in functional foods and supplements.
How to Consume Functional Mushrooms – and for How Long?
Different Forms of Intake: Capsules, Powder, and Extract
Functional mushrooms come in many forms, making it easy to adapt the intake to your daily routine. You can find them as capsules, dried powder, or liquid extract – and often as combinations of several mushrooms in one product.
- Capsules: A practical and precise way to consume functional mushrooms – ideal for those who prefer a flavour-neutral solution.
- Powder: Can easily be mixed into smoothies, tea, yoghurt, or food, offering flexibility in everyday life.
- Extracts: Typically more concentrated and often used in smaller doses, e.g., as drops in hot water or juice.
Whatever form you choose, it is important to go for high-quality products – preferably organically grown and tested for purity and content.
Usage Period
Functional mushrooms can be consumed daily as part of your lifestyle. Many people choose to use them for periods of two to three months to gauge how the body responds. For some, it may make sense to switch between different mushrooms or take short breaks, especially during longer sessions.
If you're unsure about how to use functional mushrooms in your daily life, it may be beneficial to consult a health or dietary advisor who can help find the best solution for your needs.
Combining Functional Mushrooms: What to Be Aware of?
Popular Combinations
Several functional mushrooms can be combined to create a more versatile profile in your supplement. Many mushrooms work well together and are often used in adaptogenic blends, where their properties complement each other.
- Reishi + Lion’s Mane: A popular combination for those seeking support for both inner peace and mental focus.
- Chaga + Shiitake: Often used together in formulations focusing on antioxidant protection and general wellness.
- Cordyceps + Maitake: Often used in products targeting energy and vitality in everyday life.
When combining mushrooms, it is not about taking as much as possible but finding a balance that suits your lifestyle and goals.
Dosage and Adjustment
Start with a low dose – especially if you have never tried functional mushrooms before. This way, you can observe how your body reacts. Many products contain 50–500 mg of mushroom extract per dose, depending on concentration and type. If you combine multiple mushrooms, ensure that the total amount does not exceed the recommended daily intake on the product.
If you are on medication or have a chronic condition, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting new supplements – including mushrooms.
Purchasing Functional Mushrooms: What Should You Look Out For?
Quality Above All
When choosing products with functional mushrooms, quality is paramount. Mushrooms have the ability to absorb substances from their environment, making growing conditions important. Always choose products that come from controlled cultivation – preferably organic – and are tested for purity and content.
- Organic cultivation: Reduces the risk of unwanted substances like pesticides and heavy metals.
- Laboratory-tested extracts: Products tested for active compounds such as polysaccharides and beta-glucans ensure consistent quality and concentration.
- Transparent product information: Serious manufacturers provide open information about ingredients, origin, and manufacturing methods.
A Good Example: Nordic Oil Mixed Mushroom Gummies
A practical and tasty choice is Nordic Oil Mixed Mushroom Gummies. Our gummies combine four organic mushrooms – Lion’s Mane, Shiitake, Reishi, and Chaga – into one daily routine. Each jar contains 60 gummies and is both vegan and sugar-free. They offer an easy way to integrate functional mushrooms into daily life – whether you're a beginner or used to mushroom extracts.
Conclusion
Functional mushrooms have become a popular and natural way to support health and well-being. Their use is rooted in centuries-old traditions, and today they are valued for their rich content of bioactive compounds and their role in modern supplements. Whether it is about mental clarity, vitality, or daily balance, mushrooms like Reishi, Lion’s Mane, Shiitake, and Chaga offer a wide range of applications.
With products like our Mixed Mushroom Gummies – which combine four carefully selected organic mushrooms in a practical and delicious form – it is easier than ever to integrate mushrooms into your daily routine.
By choosing high-quality products, respecting the recommended usage period, and listening to your body's signals, you can enjoy the benefits of functional mushrooms in a safe and natural way.
In Summary: Functional mushrooms are not a quick fix, but a long-term investment in your well-being – and with the right approach, they can become a valuable part of your daily self-care.