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Mushrooms are having a moment. Even though they are 800 million years old, it’s like they are having a comeback and becoming more newsworthy every day.
And for good reason!
The vast array of health benefits makes them pure magic. Each mushroom possesses powerful properties, unique in its own right. Let me break down the ones at the top of the all-star list and why they are so popular…
Lion's Mane
The king of mushrooms., known as the ‘brain’ mushroom because it’s been proven to increase cognitive function and memory whilst reducing brain fog.
Lion's Mane contains bioactive compounds that help to repair nerves and regenerate nerve tissue. It does this by stimulating the production of the Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which is crucial for maintaining and regenerating neurons. What does that mean for you? Improved memory, better focus, and overall enhanced cognitive function. A study in 2009 found that people who took 250 milligrams of lion’s mane every day scored higher on cognitive tests than those who didn’t.
Another reason it’s great for the brain is because it inhibits structural deterioration of the brain, which is why it’s being studied for Alzheimer’s disease. It is thought to improve levels of beta-amyloid plaque, the hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease, and improve short-term memory after 12 weeks of daily supplementation.
It also has anti-inflammatory properties which are thought to help reduce depression and anxiety by increasing levels of dopamine in the body which is the pleasure hormone.
It doesn’t stop there – it’s also great for the gut. Lion's mane contains microbes that strengthen the immune system and encourage the growth of healthy bacteria in your gut.
They are also rich in vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin and a great source of essential minerals such as manganese, zinc, and potassium.
Reishi
The reishi mushroom is the top-selling medicinal mushroom around the world and for good reason. Known as the ‘mood’ mushroom and that is because it’s gaining notable traction for its mood-enhancing properties. Reishi mushrooms contain compounds called ‘triterpenes’ which work to calm and relax the nervous system. It also interacts with the GABA, the calming neurotransmitter. Research also suggests that reishi mushrooms may reduce anxiety and depression.
In a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial, participants were given 6 grams of reishi mushroom a day. After six weeks, participants' results showed improved levels of satisfaction with life and reduced depressive symptoms.
It’s also excellent for sleep. It’s been clinically proven to reduce latency and improve the overall quality of your sleep - so you can mix Honest Mushrooms and hot milk to create a sleep-friendly hot chocolate drink!
Reishi has also been shown to support a balanced microbiome by promoting the growth of friendly flora like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. If you’re struggling with your digestive tract then this is the mushroom for you.
Chaga
Known as the ‘immunity’ mushroom, Chaga stimulates the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off harmful bacteria or viruses.
Fungi has been used in medicine for years. One of the biggest breakthroughs was In 1929 when Alexander Fleming isolated a substance from mold, and from there, penicillin was discovered. It was the first of a series of antibiotics derived directly from fungi that revolutionized the medical world.
At the root of all immune system diseases is chronic inflammation. By promoting the formation of beneficial cytokines (special proteins that regulate the immune system), chaga can help to reduce levels of chronic inflammation. It also stimulates white blood cells which are essential for fighting off harmful bacteria or viruses.
Chaga contains a biologically active compound called botulinic acid. This particular acid has anti-cancer, antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-parasitic effects. We also know that chaga can help promote healthy metabolic function since it regulates blood sugar and insulin levels - so this mushroom is excellent for diabetics!
Cordyceps
Deemed the ‘energy’ mushroom for its enhanced production of ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate), your body’s energy molecule. Every cell in the body relies on ATP to function optimally, with low levels of ATP associated with energy conditions such as chronic fatigue and myalgic encephalomyelitis. The mechanisms of cordyceps are quite clever - it assists with oxygen receptivity by delivering oxygen to the muscles - in turn enhancing energy, making so it an excellent choice if you are struggling or need additional fuel to boost your performance if working out regularly.
This mushroom is known for its apoptogenic properties. It does this by supporting the function of the adrenal glands, helping your body adapt to stress more effectively. Cordyceps have also been found to enhance the body’s resistance to stress and fatigue by balancing cortisol levels.
So, if you’re struggling with your energy levels day to day then this is the mushroom for you.
Tremella
Also known as the 'beauty mushroom', tremella has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to promote lustrous locks and a youthful complexion by supporting the gut-skin connection. They act as prebiotics, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus to work on the gut-skin axis.
Another reason why this mushroom is the 'beauty' mushroom is because it’s been shown to stimulate collagen synthesis and improve skin hydration, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Many studies have confirmed that tremella can reduce the formation of free radicals and prevent lipid oxidation caused by the damage of free radicals to cell structure.
Conclusion
As a nutritionist, my take on mushrooms is that they are superfoods that contain a treasure trove of bioactive compounds that work together to nourish your skin, hair, nails, and overall health - if you can take them daily!
My favourite mushroom product on the market right now is the Honest Mushroom powder by Verve. It contains all five of the famous five: lion's mane, reishi, chaga, and cordyceps and it tastes absolutely amazing.
-Rosie Millen, 2025
