What are functional mushrooms & why do we need them?
If you're looking for natural ways to support your energy, stress resilience, recovery or even inflammation – functional mushrooms might be worth exploring. These aren't your typical supermarket mushrooms. Instead, they’ve been used for centuries in traditional medicine and are now gaining attention in modern wellness circles for their wide range of benefits.
In this article, we take a closer look at what functional mushrooms are, how they work and who might benefit when using them.
What are the benefits of functional mushrooms?
Functional mushrooms are packed with bioactive compounds like beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and antioxidants that support the body’s natural systems - from immunity to energy to inflammation control.
Two of the most well-researched mushrooms are Reishi and Cordyceps.
1. Reishi – The calm and resilient one
Often called the 'mushroom of immortality,' Reishi is known for its adaptogenic properties, which means it helps the body cope with physical and emotional stress. It’s also commonly used to support:
2. Cordyceps - The natural energiser
Cordyceps is popular with athletes and anyone looking for a natural energy lift - without caffeine. It’s thought to support:
Together, these two mushrooms make a powerful combination: Reishi for calm and restoration and Cordyceps for vitality and resilience.
Do functional mushrooms help with pain?
While functional mushrooms aren’t painkillers in the conventional sense, some do help manage the underlying inflammation that can contribute to chronic pain or discomfort. Reishi, in particular, contains compounds like triterpenes that may support a healthy inflammatory response. Cordyceps has shown anti-fatigue and anti-inflammatory properties in studies related to physical performance and recovery.
In other words, while mushrooms don’t directly block pain, they may help reduce the source of pain over time by supporting the body’s natural healing and repair processes - especially after exercise or in conditions involving chronic, low-grade inflammation.
What are the side effects of functional mushrooms?
Functional mushrooms are generally well tolerated, especially when used in extract form and moderate doses (e.g. 200 mg of Cordyceps or Reishi per day, as found in many supplements).
However, potential side effects can include:
- Mild digestive upset (such as bloating or gas)
- Headaches or drowsiness (especially with Reishi in high doses)
- Rare allergic reactions (more likely if you’re allergic to moulds or fungi)
As with any natural supplement, it’s a good idea to start low and go slow and observe how your body responds.
Who should not take functional mushrooms?
Although safe for most healthy adults, certain people should take extra care or avoid functional mushrooms altogether:
| Reason | |
| Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals | Safety data is limited |
| People with mushroom allergies | Obviously, these should be avoided |
| Those on immunosuppressive medication | Mushrooms like Reishi may stimulate immune activity, which could interfere with certain treatments |
| People on blood thinners | Some mushrooms may affect clotting and platelet function |
Always consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure or have a medical condition.
Which mushroom is best for inflammation?
If you're looking to reduce inflammation naturally, Reishi is one of the best-researched functional mushrooms for this purpose. Its triterpenes and polysaccharides have shown anti-inflammatory effects in both traditional use and modern research. It may help with:
- Joint stiffness or discomfort
- Post-exercise recovery
- Overall immune and inflammation balance
Cordyceps also offers anti-inflammatory benefits, especially when inflammation is related to physical stress or overtraining, making it a useful partner to Reishi in blends designed for recovery and resilience.
Functional mushrooms like Reishi and Cordyceps are more than just a health trend - they’re backed by centuries of use and growing modern science. Whether you’re seeking more energy, better sleep, immune support, or natural ways to manage inflammation, these powerful fungi offer a gentle but effective way to support your wellbeing.
Blending them into your daily routine - especially alongside plant-based protein and creatine - can offer a well-rounded approach to health, recovery, and resilience as you age.
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