Feelings of anxiety and stress have become increasingly common in our fast-paced modern world. While there are many avenues for managing anxiety, many people are turning to natural sources like medicinal mushrooms to find relief and soothe their feelings of anxiety.
Today will be exploring five of our favorite mushrooms for their ability to reduce feelings of anxiety, and promote natural relaxation. We’ll look at how you can incorporate mushrooms into your wellness routines and take a look at some other techniques for managing feelings of anxiety.
Understanding Anxiety
Before we take a look at the mushrooms it’s important we understand what anxiety is at its root and how it affects the body. Stress is a normal part of life, however, when stress becomes chronic, it can negatively impact your health and wellness.
Anxiety is a natural response to stress, and includes feelings of worry and fear. It also can include physical symptoms including fidgeting, tension headaches, rapid breathing, changes in weight, appetite, hair thinning, and more.
Many researchers suspect a link between chronic stress and the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis, or HPA axis. The interaction between these three components, the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and the adrenal glands are critical for your body’s ability to manage stress.
The Role of Medicinal Mushrooms
Medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Ayurvedic practices. these mushrooms have been prized for their various bioactive compounds, and the way that they interact with the body.
Over the centuries, certain mushrooms have developed a reputation for their calming and stress-relieving properties. Some also show adaptogenic ability to help the body adapt to, and overcome feelings of chronic stress. Some mushrooms can also indirectly help your body’s stress level, by supporting healthy sleep, recovery, and greater levels of daytime clarity and energy.
5 of the Best Mushrooms for Anxiety
Reishi
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), also known as the “mushroom of immortality,” has been used in traditional medicine around the world, and is known to be an adaptogen. Reishi contains compounds called triterpenes and polysaccharides, which have been studied for their ability to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Regular Reishi use can help individuals feel more calm and centered.
Lion’s Mane
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) mushroom is being studied for its potential cognitive benefits, but it may also have applications for anxiety management. By promoting focus, clarity, and and reducing inflammation, Lion’s Mane may help prevent wandering anxious thoughts and improve mood.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris) is well known for providing a source of energy and performance benefits, but it may also offer benefits for anxiety relief. As an adaptogen, cordyceps may support the body’s stress response and improve energy levels, to better cope with feelings of anxiety and fatigue.
Turkey Tail
Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor) is very rich in polysaccharides and beta-glucans, whose immune system support properties may help to deal with anxiety. By supporting immune function and reducing sources of gut inflammation, Turkey Tail helps promote overall well-being and resilience to stress, and may support a healthy mood.
Chaga
A potent source of antioxidants, chaga (Inonotus obliquus) also helps to support the immune system. With betulinic acid and polysaccharides, Chaga may help to calm the body’s stress response and promote relaxation, while fighting inflammation and supporting recovery.
Incorporating Mushrooms into Your Wellness Routine
If you’re already struggling with anxiety, the last thing you want to worry about is what’s in your mushroom products, or if they are truly high quality. with so many products on the market, it’s important to choose high-quality products from reputable vendors.
This is the reason that we founded WholeSun Wellness. Our pure fruiting body extracts are available in convenient powder or capsule form, and are always tested for purity and quality. By incorporating these mushrooms into your daily routine, you can support your body and help relieve stress naturally as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Other Techniques for Reducing Anxiety
Dealing with anxiety requires a holistic approach. No supplement or any one thing should be relied on to completely handle feelings of anxiety. in addition to incorporating these natural mushrooms in your wellness routine, consider a habit of regular exercise, spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness and connection with loved ones, eating a healthy diet, and getting adequate, restful sleep.
If these daily habits are not effective, or if you feel as though you need additional support, consider reaching out to a qualified mental health professional who can help you develop effective strategies.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing feelings of anxiety, you are not alone. The modern world places a lot of requirements on your mind and body, and it is normal to feel anxious and overwhelmed at times. If you’re looking for a natural source to help deal with feelings of anxiety, consider these ancient medicinal mushrooms as another tool in your toolbox. We’re proud to stand behind the quality of our products, and hope they can be beneficial in your life.