One of today’s most talked about natural wellness trends?

I’d have to say it’s the “adaptogens.”

These are a small group of plants and fungi with some super-interesting compounds—compounds that may help your body adapt to stress, and actually improve your stress response over time.

As an advocate for all things fungi, I can’t help but get excited about the powerhouse potential of these organisms.

Adaptogenic mushrooms like reishi, chaga, and (yes), cordyceps, are changing our understanding of wellness, and are about to help millions of people.

In this post, We’ll check out some of the most popular adaptogenic mushrooms, and I’ll show what separates the best mushroom supplements from the rest. 

It’s wild out there, you’ll want to know what to look for when you’re shopping!

So, What Makes an “Adaptogen?” How Do Adaptogens Work?

Adaptogens are a classification of natural substances that appear in plants and certain fungi. These substances interact with the body in a lot of ways, some of which we are only beginning to understand.

(Except for the world’s indigenous communities, who have been using these medicines for thousands of years!)

These adaptogenic mushrooms seem to mostly interact with your body’s immune system and HPA axis.

The HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) is your body’s stress response system. This collection of glands and neurotransmitters basically turn your body’s stress “on” and “off.”

But when any of those get out of whack? It can really take a toll on the rest of your body! When the HPA axis is activated or overstimulated for prolonged periods, it can lead to negative health effects. Things like adrenal fatigue, chronic pain, and weakened immune function.

Adaptogenic mushrooms are believed to help balance out your body’s natural HPA-axis levels. And with stress everywhere these days, it’s never been more important to have your HPA-axis in a healthy spot.

Adaptogens, including adaptogenic mushrooms, can help us cope with stress more effectively, reducing the negative impact it has on our physical and mental health.

Which Mushrooms Are Adaptogens?

So, which mushrooms are adaptogens? Some of my favorites are chaga, cordyceps and reishi. While just a few examples, these are the adaptogenic mushrooms that have gained popularity in the wellness world. 

Chaga has some of the highest antioxidant values ever tested, and has been shown to support immune function. 

Cordyceps, with its ability to support energy and recovery, has become a popular supplement for athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and gymgoers.

And reishi, with its calming and immune-support properties, is still known as the “mushroom of immortality” in traditional Chinese medicine. 

You can find these adaptogenic mushrooms in Wholesun Wellness Blends, as well as individual species products.

What to Look for In Adaptogenic Mushroom Supplements?

Even today, shopping for supplements can still feel like stepping into the Wild West.

With such a lack of regulation and oversight, it is vital to remember:

Not all adaptogenic mushroom supplements are created equal.

Part of my mission at Wholesun Wellness is to help educate and guide people to discover the best-quality supplements, while avoiding the others.

It’s important to do your research, and choose a high-quality supplement that contains the bioactive compounds you’re looking for. Look for supplements that are made from whole mushrooms or mushroom extracts, and choose brands that are transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing processes.

This guide is a quick breakdown on what to look for when shopping for mushroom extracts and mushroom supplements.

READ: All About Mushroom Extacts: The Good, the Bad, and the Terrible

Conclusion

adaptogenic mushrooms are a promising natural solution to managing your stress and supporting your well-being. While we have much to learn before we fully understand how these medicines work, the existing studies suggest they could be a valuable tool for human prosperity in the next decades.

Whether you’re a fan of reishi, chaga, or cordyceps, incorporating adaptogenic mushrooms into your diet could be a game-changer for your health.  

Author: stuart ordley