Mushrooms are having their moment in the spotlight, and they’re showing up far beyond the dinner plate. From coffee blends, supplements, snacks, and much more, “functional” mushrooms are being integrated into everyday routines. These varieties are known for potential wellness benefits that set them apart from others. 

In this article, we’ll explore what functional mushrooms are, the key species, and how to incorporate them into your wellness routine. 

What are functional mushrooms? 

Mushrooms are a type of fungus with over 2,000 species, but only 25 are considered edible. Mushrooms are highly valued for their nutritional benefits, as they are high in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while being low in fat. They’re also versatile and delicious in the kitchen, especially as a meat alternative. 

Functional mushrooms have been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese wellness practices and by many indigenous cultures around the world. These varieties are known for their potential benefits and have long played a role in traditional approaches to maintaining general wellness. Some mushrooms are considered to be adaptogens, which means that they can help the body better cope with stress and maintain balance.* 

Key functional mushrooms 

These are some of the functional mushrooms that boast potential wellness benefits and have long-time use in traditional Chinese wellness practices. 

• Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): Living up to their name, these adaptogenic white mushrooms feature long spikes that hang downward, giving them the appearance of a lion’s mane.* Lion’s mane has a long history of use in Native American wellness practices as well. 
• Reishi (Ganoderma sichuanense): Reishi mushrooms grow in hot, humid locations in Asia and are often called the "mushroom of immortality." They are also considered adaptogens.* 
• Chaga (Inonotus obliquus): Found in Siberia, chaga mushrooms grow on birch trees and have a black color, as well as a more bitter taste. 
• Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): A parasitic fungus that grows on insect larvae (yuck!) and has gained some notoriety from a recent zombie television show, cordyceps is considered a rarer type of adaptogenic mushroom.* 
• Shiitake (Lentinula edodes): Native to east Asia and one of the most popular edible mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms have the typical wide brown cap and white body stem.

Adding functional mushrooms to your wellness routine 

There are plenty of simple ways to incorporate functional mushrooms into everyday habits. Here are a few approachable options: 

• Mushroom coffee: Coffee blends made with functional mushroom powders offer an easy swap for your morning cup. 
• Cooking: Try adding functional mushrooms to everyday meals. Sauté them, blend them into soups or sauces, or roast them as a simple side dish. Mushrooms can make an excellent vegan or vegetarian substitute for meat. 
• Snacks: Look for snack bars, granolas, or trail mixes made with functional mushroom ingredients for on-the-go convenience. 
• Supplements: Another easy way to make mushrooms a part of your daily habit is to incorporate supplements into your routine.

Nature’s Way mushroom supplements

Nature’s Way offers several supplement options that feature mushrooms.

• 5-Mushroom Blend: A thoughtful, trusted 5-mushroom blend featuring chaga, lion’s mane, shiitake, maitake, and reishi, delivering 1,000 mg per 2-capsule serving.
• Reishi Mushroom: This reishi mushroom standardized extract provides 376 mg per 2-capsule serving and supports immune function.*
• Echinacea Astragalus & Reishi Premium Blend: An herbal blend featuring echinacea, astragalus, and an extract from the adaptogenic reishi mushroom to support immune health.*