Functional mushrooms – nature's superheroes you don't want to miss
Functional mushrooms – nature's superheroes you don't want to miss
Have you heard of functional mushrooms? They have become increasingly popular among health enthusiasts, and are sometimes called “the new superfood” – and rightly so! These fascinating mushrooms are far from ordinary mushrooms – they have been used for thousands of years in Chinese and Japanese medicine to support both body and mind.
But what really makes them so special? How can they contribute to more energy, better focus or a stronger immune system? In this post, we go in depth – mushroom by mushroom – and tell you about their history, content and properties.
What are functional mushrooms – and why are they called superfoods?
Functional mushrooms are a special group of mushrooms that contain bioactive substances, that is, natural molecules that affect the body's functions.
That's why many call them superfoods – they are natural nutritional bombs that can support the body in several ways.
Antioxidants - protect cells from harmful free radicals.
Beta-glucans - fibers that strengthen the immune system.
Adaptogens - plant or mushroom-based substances that help the body regain balance and adapt to the body's needs.
Nootropics - substances that support the brain's cognitive functions such as memory and concentration.
Lion's Mane – The Brain's Favorite
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. In Japan, it is called Yamabushitake and has been eaten by Buddhist monks to increase focus and presence during meditation. With its white, spiky fruit bodies, it actually resembles a lion's mane, hence the name.
Features & content:
Lion's Mane is particularly known for its potential effects on the brain. It contains:
Hericenones & erinacines – bioactive substances that can stimulate the production of NGF (nerve growth factor), a protein that is important for brain growth and recovery.
B vitamins – supports the nervous system and energy metabolism.
Amino acids – building blocks for muscles and neurotransmitters.
Minerals such as zinc, iron and potassium – important for cognitive function and nerve signaling.
Suitable for you as:
Want better focus, memory or clear thinking?
Feeling mentally foggy or tired in the head
Studying, working on tasks that require concentration, or wanting to take care of your brain in the long term
Tip!
Start your day with capsules or gummies with breakfast. Take daily for at least 4–6 weeks for best results.
Chaga – Nature’s Black Gold
Chaga ( Inonotus obliquus ) grows as a black nodule on birch trees in northern Europe, Siberia, and Canada. It has long been used in folk medicine to strengthen the body, especially during winter. In Russia and Finland, it is often brewed into a tea, known to provide energy and protection against disease.
Features & content:
Chaga is a real antioxidant bomb and contains:
Melanin (gives the mushroom its black color – protects cells from oxidative stress)
Polyphenols (plant substances that act as antioxidants)
Beta-glucans (immune support)
Triterpenes (may have anti-inflammatory effects)
Zinc, iron, magnesium & vitamin D – important micronutrients
Suitable for you as:
Want to strengthen the body's defenses and reduce inflammation
Looking for a natural drink for energy and immune support
Want to promote skin health and glow from within
Reishi – For inner peace and recovery
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), also known as Lingzhi, has been called the “mushroom of immortality” in China. Often found growing on remote tree trunks in the forest, it was so highly prized that only emperors and monks had access to it. It was traditionally used to create inner peace, prolong life, and balance the body’s energy.
Features & content:
Reishi contains:
Triterpenes (may have anti-inflammatory properties and support the liver)
Polysaccharides (including beta-glucans – strengthens the immune system)
Peptidoglycans (may contribute to blood pressure and cholesterol regulation)
Suitable for you as:
Feeling stressed or mentally exhausted
Have difficulty relaxing or sleep restlessly
Need natural support for recovery and balance
Tip!
Drink Reishi as tea in the evening or take capsules as part of your evening routine.
Cordyceps – Natural Energy and Stamina
Cordyceps ( Cordyceps sinensis) is perhaps the most mythical of all functional mushrooms. In nature, it grows on insect larvae – but don’t worry, all modern supplements are grown on vegan substrates ( Cordyceps militaris). In China, it has been traditionally used to improve stamina, sexual energy, and physical strength.
Features & content:
Cordyceps contains:
Cordycepin - a nucleoside that supports cellular energy production
Adenosine - helps the body produce ATP - our cellular energy
Polysaccharides - strengthen the immune system
Suitable for you as:
Exercise regularly and want more energy
Feeling tired or having low energy
Need natural support for circulation and recovery
Tip!
Take Cordyceps before exercise or as a daily supplement in the morning to get a more consistent energy level.
How long does it take before you notice the effect?
Dietary supplements with functional mushrooms They don't work like a quick energy drink or headache pill – they work with the body , not against it. That's why it's important to give them time to do their job.
General recommendation:
We recommend taking the mushroom supplements daily for at least 4-6 weeks to feel a clear difference. For some, the effects come gradually, while others notice changes more quickly – such as increased clarity, more consistent energy, or better sleep.
Our best tip?
Think of them as long-term supportive friends – not miracles in a jar. Be consistent, listen to your body and give it time. Many people experience the greatest effect when the mushrooms become a natural part of everyday life.
How can you incorporate functional mushrooms into your everyday life?
The best thing about functional sponges is that they are easy to use. Here are some simple tips:
Dietary supplements: If you want to keep it simple, you can take the mushrooms in capsule or powder form, as well as gummies. Here you will find our entire range of different super mushrooms as powder, gummies and in capsules.
Tea, coffee smoothies and drinks: Many mushrooms are available as powders that can be mixed directly into your drink. There is also pre-mixed brewed coffee where you can easily get a dose of functional mushrooms.
Are functional mushrooms for you?
Functional mushrooms can provide many health benefits, but they are not necessarily suitable for everyone. If you have allergies to mushrooms, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking medications that may interact with the active ingredients in mushrooms, it is wise to consult a doctor before using them.
Listen to your body and introduce them gradually to see how they affect you.
If you’re looking for natural ways to support your health, functional mushrooms are worth a try. They can help you feel more energized, more balanced, and strengthen your body from the inside out. Start small and find what works for you – your body will thank you!