Are you trying to improve your performance at the gym? Would you like to spend more time running around in the garden with the kids? Or are you simply feeling fatigued and hoping to increase your alertness? Whatever the reason you want to boost your vitality, using medicinal mushrooms for energy could help. In this article we discuss the best functional fungi to get you energised, and how to add them to your daily routine.
An overview of medicinal mushrooms
If you already know a lot about medicinal mushrooms, feel free to skip this bit! But for those who are new to functional fungi, a quick introduction might be helpful. Then we’ll get into the specifics of the best mushrooms for energy and how to use them.
Medicinal mushrooms have been a staple of traditional medicine systems for generations. Basically, they’re specific species of fungi which practitioners believe have potent health-supporting properties that go beyond their nutritional value. And what’s exciting is that modern scientific research is finding evidence to back up those claims.
Some benefits of medicinal mushrooms are common to all varieties. As an example, all functional fungi are naturally rich in a type of soluble fiber called beta-glucans. These powerful polysaccharides help to enrich our gut health, immune system, and cardiovascular health. Meanwhile, individual secondary metabolites in different species — like cordycepin in cordyceps — give each fungi its own unique advantages.
This lets you choose the most appropriate shroom to suit your needs, whether that’s improving skin health or digestive health. Or, as we’re talking about today, selecting the most effective mushrooms for energy. So, without further ado, let’s explore which fungi can increase your vitality and how.
The best mushrooms for energy
Interestingly, it could be argued that all functional fungi can support healthy energy levels to some extent. For example, as adaptogens, they enable the mind and body to cope with physical and mental stress more effectively. Insomnia, low mood, and fatigue are all symptoms of chronic stress. As such, anything that decreases stress may help you feel more energized.
Likewise, as mentioned above, thanks to their high levels of beta-glucans, medicinal mushrooms have a positive effect on heart health. Because the cardiovascular system is vital for transporting oxygen around the body, keeping it in good condition can also increase energy.
Having said that, there are certain fungi which are especially beneficial for vitality. So, here are four of the best medicinal mushrooms for energy.
1. Cordyceps
The most famous of all mushrooms for energy is undoubtedly cordyceps. Several studies have found that the fungus is able to boost endurance and athletic performance in both animals and humans.
One reason cordyceps is among the best mushrooms for energy is that it improves the way the body uses oxygen. It can increase the production of a molecule called adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which helps transfer energy to our cells.(1)
This is supported by evidence suggesting that the mushroom could raise your VO2 max.(2) VO2 max is the maximum amount of oxygen that the body is able to use during exercise. The higher it is, the better your muscles can perform when working out. A high VO2 max also means you’re less likely to become fatigued. It’s even associated with greater longevity!(3)
Taking cordyceps powder might additionally make your body more efficient at clearing lactate from its cells.(4) Lactate is the ionized form of lactic acid, and builds up during anaerobic respiration (for example, during intense exercise). Too much of it may lead to lactate acidosis, causing muscle cramps, nausea, weakness, and exhaustion.
The best part is that you don’t have to be an exercise enthusiast to enjoy these benefits. Using cordyceps mushrooms for energy can reduce fatigue in people of all ages and fitness levels.
2. Shiitake
You’re probably no stranger to cooking with shiitake in the kitchen. But did you know it’s also one of the best mushrooms for energy?
Practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine have long been using shiitake to enhance stamina and vitality. One of the main reasons the fungus can boost energy is because it’s rich in B vitamins. B vitamins have many vital roles to play, including helping to produce energy from the food we eat. Certain B vitamins are also involved in making red blood cells, which transport oxygen around the body.
Indeed, fatigue and weakness are both signs of a deficiency in B vitamins — as are problems with memory and concentration. Adding shiitake powder to your diet could therefore be a natural way to boost both your physical and mental vitality. No wonder it’s a good choice if you want to use mushrooms for energy!
3. Reishi
When it comes to using mushrooms for energy, there’s more than one way in which they can reduce fatigue. For instance, reishi takes a rather different approach by helping to increase relaxation.
Research suggests that reishi is able to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.(5) Tiredness and lethargy are both common symptoms of these conditions. Therefore, if your lack of energy is related to mental health issues, reishi powder might be your best choice for tackling it. Studies have also found that taking reishi can decrease fatigue and improve our overall sense of wellbeing.(6)
In addition, evidence indicates that reishi could enhance both the quality and duration of your sleep.(7) This is partly because of valuable sterols and triterpenoids it contains, such as beta-sitosterol and ganoderic acid. Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for feeling alert, motivated, and active. Consequently, reishi is one of the best mushrooms for energy if you struggle with insomnia.
4. Lion’s mane
Energy comes in many different forms, and lion’s mane is a fantastic choice for boosting your mental vigour.
Research suggests that lion’s mane is able to stimulate the growth of certain types of brain cells. This is because of specific bioactive compounds, such as erinacines and hericenones, within the fungi.(8) Studies have additionally discovered that the mushroom could protect the brain against cognitive decline and neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s.(9)
All of which means that the fungi could be hugely beneficial for our cognitive health. This means lion’s mane powder is one of the best mushrooms for energy and focus.
Similar to reishi, lion’s mane can also significantly improve the symptoms of mood disorders such as depression.(10) This makes it another excellent choice if your fatigue is due to this kind of mental health condition.
Related reading
“Using medicinal mushrooms for energy can be a valuable piece of the puzzle when it comes to enhancing vitality.”
How to take medicinal mushrooms for energy
Once you’ve decided which mushrooms for energy you want to use, it’s time to think about how to take them. And in our opinion, a mushroom powder is the most convenient way to incorporate functional fungi into your diet.
To keep things traditional, simply stir half a teaspoon into hot water to make your very own mushroom tea. If you find the flavor too bitter or earthy, try adding ingredients like agave nectar, ginger, or lemon. Alternatively, pop the powder in a regular cup of tea.
Thinking of using cordyceps mushrooms for energy, or lion’s mane mushrooms for focus? Then mixing the powder with your morning coffee is a fabulous choice. It might sound like an unusual combination, however the coffee and mushroom flavors complement each other really well.
Conversely, mushroom hot chocolate is perfect for those planning to take reishi to boost their energy by improving their sleep. This delicious, indulgent beverage is an ideal way to relax before bed, and could make it easier to drift off.
And you’re not restricted to only using mushrooms for energy in drinks. You can also add the powders to meals. The best recipes to use them in tend to be dishes like soups, stews, and risottos. That’s because hot water helps to draw out the nutrients in mushroom powders, enabling you to maximize your results. If you need some inspiration, we’ve got plenty of ideas on the recipe section of our website!
Using medicinal mushrooms for energy safely
Experts generally agree that all the mushrooms for energy we’ve mentioned are fine for human consumption. However, they are quite potent, which means there are a few safety considerations to be aware of.
For example, functional fungi might not be suitable for everyone. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take medicinal mushrooms, nor should you give them to children. This is simply because there’s currently a lack of research into their safety for these groups.
Likewise, if you have an existing health condition or are on medication, speak to a doctor before using functional fungi. This is to ensure you don’t experience any unwanted side effects or interactions. Looking at reishi as an example, its immunity-stimulating properties may counteract the influence of immunosuppressants.
Whether you’re taking mushrooms for energy or another benefit, we suggest doing so in cycles. That means having a break of a few weeks after 6–8 weeks of using functional fungi. This is because medicinal mushrooms affect the functioning of the immune system. While this is one of their principal benefits, taking a break ensures that you don’t overstimulate your immune system. It also helps prevent you from building up a tolerance to the fungi.
Last but not least, always follow the instructions for your chosen medicinal mushroom product carefully. For our powders, we recommend taking half a teaspoon at a time, up to twice a day. That really is all you need to enjoy their benefits!
Medicinal mushrooms for energy: quality is key
We cannot understate the importance of quality if you want to use medicinal mushrooms for energy. Not only is it important for safety reasons, but it also affects what level of results you get. Which is exactly why we put quality at the forefront when cultivating our functional fungi.
We work with expert mycologists who combine their 20+ years of experience with the latest scientific findings in the field. They grow our cordyceps, shiitake, reishi, and lion’s mane on specially designed natural and organic substrates. These ensure the mushrooms get all the nutrients they need and, in turn, provide you with the maximum nutritional value.
We cultivate our fungi in small batches, under meticulously controlled conditions in Europe. Once mature, our team carefully dries them to prevent microbial contamination, then grinds them into a fine powder. We don’t add any filler ingredients, so what you receive is 100% pure mushroom.
To verify that our fungi are top quality, we have them checked by an independent and accredited tester. That’s how we know they are exceptionally rich in beta-glucans and key secondary metabolites. For example, our whole lion’s mane powder contains over 32% beta-glucans and 1.5mg of erinacine A per 1g serving. Meanwhile, our cordyceps contains 48% beta-glucans and 5.5mg of cordycepin per 1g. That makes them the UK’s most potent powders. Just what you want if you’re looking for medicinal mushrooms for energy!
Other effective ways to boost your energy levels
Using medicinal mushrooms for energy can be a wonderful way to increase your vitality. However, to enjoy the best results, you might like to combine their use with other energy-enhancing tactics, such as:
- Drinking plenty of water. Staying hydrated reduces fatigue, improves athletic performance, and enhances mood and cognition
- Eating a nutritious diet that’s rich in whole foods. These provide you with a steady source of energy throughout the day
- Prioritizing your sleep. A lack of it is likely to leave you feeling lethargic and irritable
- Limiting your alcohol intake. Not only does booze have a sedative effect, it reduces the quality of your sleep
- Quitting smoking. The habit makes it harder to fall asleep, plus decreases the efficiency of your lungs. The latter can decrease the amount of oxygen circulating in the body, increasing fatigue
- Staying active. Exercise increases energy levels and cognitive functions, plus improves the quality of your sleep
- Trying to reduce the amount of stress in your life. Stress has a negative impact on both physical and mental health, causing you to feel drained and fatigued
- Enjoying an active social life. Connecting with others and doing the things we love can boost both our mood and our energy levels
Final thoughts on using medicinal mushrooms for energy
Whether you’re hoping to boost your athletic performance or have simply been feeling sluggish lately, taking medicinal mushrooms for energy can be a big help. Of course, they’re not magic potions that will allow you to suddenly break world records or prevent you from ever being tired again! To get the best results using mushrooms for energy, think of them as one piece of the puzzle. Alongside the other suggestions above, these fabulous fungi could enable you to feel more alert or train that little bit harder. So, who’s ready to hit the gym?
