Know Your Functional Mushrooms
While there are over 2,000 different species of edible mushrooms, functional mushrooms like turkey tail, shiitake, reishi, and antrodia are a unique subset containing health-boosting compounds that can enhance overall immune support. Maybe you have heard about functional mushrooms but don’t really know what they are, or are totally unfamiliar. However much you know about functional mushrooms, this blog is for you. Functional mushrooms are types of fungi that are known for their superior health benefits. For thousands of years, functional mushrooms have been touted as a magic cure-all. At The Functionist, we’re more data-driven and science-based than claiming anything is magic, but we agree that everyone should be eating more mushrooms. But do you know the difference between different types of functional mushrooms? We’re here to help. Here are four of our favorite mushrooms & why you should add them to your everyday routine:
Organic Turkey Tail Mushrooms
- Vibrant and Distinctive: Named for its striking colors and fan-like growth pattern, Coriolus Versicolor (Turkey Tail) is a common North American mushroom found on tree stumps and decaying wood.
- Immune Support: Turkey Tail contains polysaccharide peptide (PSP) and polysaccharide krestin (PSK), bolstering the immune system and assisting in the fight against various cancers.
- Gut Health: This mushroom may enhance gut bacteria balance, further boosting your immunity.
Organic Shiitake Mushrooms
- Centuries of Cultivation: First cultivated over a thousand years ago, shiitake mushrooms are among the world's most cultivated fungi.
- Rich in Copper: Shiitake mushrooms are exceptionally high in natural copper, a mineral crucial for healthy blood vessels, bones, and immune function.1/2 cup of shiitake mushrooms have 72% of the daily recommended copper intake.
- Cardiovascular and Bone Health: Consuming shiitake mushrooms supports cardiovascular health and can help prevent conditions like osteoporosis.
Organic Reishi Mushrooms
- Distinct Appearance: Reishi mushrooms are fan-like and orangish-red, with a smooth white underside.
- Immune Benefits: Reishi offers immune support, particularly for those with conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and lung issues, but it's beneficial for healthy individuals too.
- Stress Reduction: It reduces stress, improves sleep, and combats fatigue while fighting free radical damage.
- Energy Regulation: Reishi helps regulate testosterone levels, promoting sustained energy
Organic Antrodia Camphorata Mushrooms
- Hidden Treasure: Found exclusively within the decaying heartwood of the indigenous bull camphor tree, Antrodia camphorata is a unique mushroom with diverse compounds.
- Immunity and Allergy Relief: It supports immunity, fights fatigue, and relieves itching and inflammation, making it ideal for allergy sufferers.
- Cholesterol and Circulation: Antrodia camphorata contains beta-D-glucan, triterpenoids, and lectin, promoting healthy cholesterol levels and circulation