What Are Adaptogenic Mushrooms?

The answer to “what are adaptogenic mushrooms?” is that these are fungi that contain healthy compounds and are often used to support focus and the body’s stress response. The most common examples include lion’s mane, chaga, reishi, turkey tail and cordyceps, which are studied for their effects on the HPA axis and cortisol levels. 

In this guide, we will discuss what adaptogenic mushrooms do, how to start taking them for beginners, and how they can support your well-being.

Important notice: not all functional mushrooms are considered adaptogens, and their effects are still being studied. Use this guide for general education and wellness, not as a medical source.

What Are Adaptogens and How Do They Work?

Adaptogens are plants and fungi that may help the body adapt to mental or physical stress. They are also studied for their bioactive compounds, which may have the potential to positively affect certain bodily functions, especially immunity, reduced inflammation, energy levels and focus.

Some adaptogenic mushrooms, like lion’s mane and chaga, have been used in medical and wellness practices for centuries. However, the term shouldn’t be applied to every fungus with a wellness application. Currently, the concept is still developing and the evidence that a specific mushroom can lower cortisol, reduce stress or have other similar effects is limited. 

Adaptogenic Mushrooms vs. Functional Mushrooms: What's the Difference?

Now that we know about adaptogens, let’s figure out what functional mushrooms are. They’re also fungi with bioactive compounds, especially beta-glucans, phenolics and triterpenes.

These typically don’t have stress-reducing properties and are mostly used for other potential health benefits. When the flavor and the texture allow for it, some functional mushrooms are also used in cooking.

Disclaimer: categories may overlap, e.g., shiitake is both a culinary and a functional mushroom. 

How Do Adaptogenic Mushrooms Work in the Body?

Proposed mechanisms for how these fungi function inside the body include HPA-axis signaling, antioxidant pathways and immune modulation. However, there isn’t one process that every mushroom shares, and each affects the body’s stress response in its own way.

Types of Adaptogenic Mushrooms

What is an adaptogenic mushroom that you should use for overall wellness? Some options include reishi, lion’s mane, cordyceps, chaga and turkey tail.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

Reishi mushrooms are common in traditional Chinese medicine, where they have been used to reduce fatigue and improve body recovery. A double-blind trial involved people with neurasthenia taking reishi extract. At the end of the research, they reported reduced fatigue and improved overall well-being. The reason could be the polysaccharides contained within reishi, but further study is needed.

Best for: recovery and fatigue.

Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

Lion’s mane is often used to support cognitive function. A small trial in healthy young adults found tentative improvements in processing speed and subjective stress. However, the study also reported null and negative findings, so further research is needed.

MDLA Organic Mushroom Coffee combines Lion’s Mane and Chaga with organic Arabica coffee in a Nespresso Original-compatible capsule, making these ingredients easy to include in an existing coffee ritual.

Best for: mental clarity and focus.

Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis)

Cordyceps is traditionally used for its effect on stamina and fatigue. One study found that a Cordyceps sinensis extract improved some exercise-performance measures in healthy older adults.

Best for: supporting physical activity.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

Chaga is rich in polysaccharides, polyphenols and triterpenoids, which are studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Strong clinical evidence is still limited, but preliminary research is exploring potential effects relating to immune function and glucose metabolism, although human evidence remains limited.

Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor)

Turkey tail has been studied for its polysaccharide content and potential immune-related biological activity. However, its effect on stress is still under research. For this reason, turkey tail is often considered a medicinal mushroom, although some sources classify it as an adaptogen, too.

Best for: immunity support.

Want to start taking adaptogens safely? Explore MDLA Organic Mushroom Coffee with Lion’s Mane and Chaga.

Adaptogenic Mushroom Benefits

Different mushroom species have been investigated for different purposes, and the quality of evidence varies considerably by species and preparation. Although the research on all these fungi is ongoing, preliminary results are already showing possible adaptogenic mushroom benefits for health and well-being. 

Why adaptogens are worth taking:

How to Choose a High-Quality Adaptogenic Mushroom Supplement

Check the species. The label should provide both the common name and scientific name. This is especially important for Cordyceps products, which may use different species or cultivated strains. Avoid products that only list a generic mushroom blend.

Identify the mushroom material. Fruiting body and mycelium extracts have different chemical profiles. Neither form is automatically better, but the manufacturer should explain which material is used. A label that does not distinguish between the fruiting body and the mycelium lacks useful quality information.

Look for transparent sourcing. Choose the mushroom products with traceable origins. Ideally, choose the companies with reliable Ingredient & Quality statements, as well as documented sourcing.

Prioritize independent testing. Testing can check for heavy metals, mycotoxins and microbial contamination. Make sure that the provider you choose has a strong and consistent dedication to Product Quality, backed by third-party testing.

FAQ

What do adaptogenic mushrooms do?

Adaptogenic mushrooms help your body deal with physical, chemical, and biological stress.

What's the difference between adaptogenic and functional mushrooms?

Functional mushrooms are all mushrooms that may have health benefits, and adaptogens are a subset which may have a stress-response effect.

What are the best adaptogenic mushrooms for beginners?

The best adaptogenic mushrooms for beginners include lion’s mane for cognition, chaga for immunity and reishi for recovery.

Can you take more than one adaptogenic mushroom at once?

Yes, many products (like mushroom coffee) include multiple adaptogens.

How long does it take to feel the benefits?

Human studies usually assess the benefits of adaptogenic mushrooms over several weeks, but your personal experience may vary.

Transparent sourcing, high-quality ingredients, and research-informed formula. Explore MDLA Wellness Organic Mushroom Coffee!