Ever wondered how medicinal mushrooms actually work in your body!

Today we're diving into the beautiful science behind some of my favourite mushroom allies: Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, and Chaga. These aren’t just wellness buzzwords—they’re powerful natural supports, each working in unique ways to nourish your mind and body.

1. Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)Brain + Nerve Health | Focus | Mood | Fatigue

Lion’s Mane is best known as a natural nootropic—meaning it supports cognitive function. But how?

• Stimulates NGF (Nerve Growth Factor): Lion’s Mane contains hericenones and erinacines, compounds shown to promote the production of NGF. This supports the growth, repair, and regeneration of neurons.

• Supports Neuroplasticity: It may help with the creation of new synapses (brain connections), which is why it’s being studied for memory, focus, and long-term brain health.

• Mood + Anxiety: While it doesn't directly bind to GABA receptors like some herbs do, it may help modulate the nervous system, reduce inflammation in the brain, and support balanced mood, helping to ease brain fog and fatigue.

  
  

Why it’s great for fatigue: If your brain is clearer and your nervous system more regulated, you naturally feel more energised and focused.

🍄 Lion’s Mane 

Brain Blend

Best used for: Focus, clarity, cognitive support

How to take (powder): Stir into coffee, matcha, or smoothies

Recipe idea:✨ Lion’s Mane Cacao Latte

• 1 tsp Lion’s Mane powder

• 1 tbsp raw cacao powder

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tsp maple syrup or date syrup

• 1 cup hot oat milk (or milk of choice)Blend and enjoy. Add 1 dropper of tincture if using instead of powder.

2. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)Immunity | Stress Support | Sleep | Heart Health

Often called the “Mushroom of Immortality,” Reishi is deeply calming and adaptogenic.

• Balances the HPA axis: It helps regulate your stress response over time by supporting your adrenal function and balancing cortisol levels.

• Supports immunity: Reishi contains beta-glucans that enhance immune system activity—making it a great ally during times of stress or recovery.

• Calms the nervous system: It promotes parasympathetic (rest and digest) activity, helping to reduce anxiety and promote better sleep.

  
  

Why it’s great for deep fatigue: Chronic stress drains the body. Reishi helps you recover by calming the system and building resilience.

🍄 Reishi 

Calm Blend

Best used for: Stress, sleep, immunity

How to take (powder): Evening hot drink or mixed into warm milk

Recipe idea:🌙 Reishi Moon Milk

• 1 tsp Reishi powder

• 1/2 tsp nutmeg

• 1/2 tsp ashwagandha (optional)

• 1 tsp honey

• 1 cup warm almond or coconut milk, Whisk and sip before bed. Add a dropper of tincture for extra potency.

3. Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris/sinensis)Energy | Athletic Performance | Lung Function | Libido

Cordyceps is your go-to for stamina and vitality.

• Boosts ATP production: It works on a cellular level to enhance how your mitochondria (your cells’ energy factories) produce energy.

• Supports oxygen uptake: Great for lungs, breath, and endurance.

• Improves circulation + libido: Increases blood flow, making it helpful for fatigue, physical recovery, and low energy.

  
  

Why it’s great for fatigue: It gives your body more fuel and helps you use oxygen more efficiently—key for both physical and mental energy.

🍄 Cordyceps 

Energy Blend

Best used for: Fatigue, stamina, breathwork

How to take (powder): Morning smoothie or pre-workout boost

Recipe idea:⚡ Cordyceps Power Smoothie

• 1 tsp Cordyceps powder

• 1 banana

• 1 tbsp peanut butter

• 1 cup oat or almond milk

• Handful of oats or protein powder, Blend until creamy. You can add 1 dropper of tincture for convenience on the go.

4. Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)Antioxidants | Immune Strength | Inflammation | Skin Health

Chaga is like a shield—protecting and fortifying the body.

• Rich in antioxidants: It’s one of the highest antioxidant foods in the world, helping to fight free radicals and slow oxidative stress (a big factor in ageing and fatigue).

• Immune-modulating: Like Reishi, it contains beta-glucans that help balance immune responses—whether underactive or overactive.

• Supports inflammation: Chronic fatigue is often tied to low-grade inflammation. Chaga helps calm that fire down.

  
  

Why it’s great for fatigue: Think of it as a deep tonic—it doesn't give a quick buzz but works steadily to rebuild and defend from within.

🍄 Chaga 

Defence Blend

Best used for: Immunity, inflammation, skin health

How to take (powder): In teas, tonics, or mixed into porridge

Recipe idea:🛡️ Chaga Immune-Tea

• 1 tsp Chaga powder

• 1 slice fresh ginger

• Juice of 1/2 lemon

• 1 tsp raw honey

• Hot water, Let steep for 10 mins, strain if needed. Add a tincture dropper for a quick version.

🌿🍄 Final Thoughts

Medicinal mushrooms offer a powerful yet gentle way to support your body and mind—whether you're seeking sharper focus, deeper rest, natural energy, or stronger immune defences. Each mushroom brings its own wisdom, and when used with intention, they can become beautiful allies in your daily wellness rituals.

Whether you enjoy them in a warm latte, nourishing smoothie, or as a quick tincture drop—there’s no one right way to start. It’s about finding what fits into your rhythm and supports your unique needs.

✨ Ready to explore their benefits for yourself? You can shop my range of high-quality mushroom tinctures and instant blends on the website store.

And remember, small steps in your herbal journey can lead to big shifts in your wellbeing.

Tracy 🌱