Free shipping on all NZ orders over ${value1} and all AUS orders over ${value2}.
Shop Now What's Best For Me? Wholesale Resources About Account
Resources Recipes Blog
At a glance: Functional mushrooms
At a glance: Functional mushrooms

Functional mushrooms have become a leading trend in the wellness world. Traditionally used in Eastern medicine, these remarkable fungi offer an array of health-supporting properties, from supporting cognitive function and mental focus to immune health and relaxation. We’ve broken down several popular functional mushrooms offered by Matakana Superfoods below, discussing when and how to use them throughout the day, and providing tips for incorporating them into your routine.

Reishi Mushroom Powder
Often referred to as the “Mushroom of Immortality,” Reishi is prized for its potential calming and immune-supporting properties. It’s frequently used to support relaxation and a healthy response to stress.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom Powder
Best known for its ability to support cognitive function, memory, and focus, Lion’s Mane is popular among students and professionals looking for a mental edge.

Cordyceps Mushroom Powder
Cordyceps is cherished for its potential to support energy and endurance. It has long been used by athletes and those seeking natural support for physical performance.

Chaga Mushroom Powder
Called the “King of Medicinal Mushrooms,” Chaga boasts antioxidant properties that may help support overall wellness and healthy ageing.

Turkey Tail Mushroom Powder
Turkey Tail has been widely studied for its immune-supporting properties. It’s a popular choice for anyone looking to fortify their daily wellness routine.

Shiitake Mushroom Powder
While best known as a culinary mushroom, Shiitake also contains valuable nutrients, including compounds that may support heart health and immune function.

Health Benefits

Mushroom

Supports

Reishi

Stress relief, relaxation, immune health

Lion’s Mane

Cognitive function, mental clarity, memory, focus

Cordyceps

Energy, endurance, athletic performance

Chaga

Antioxidant properties, healthy ageing, overall wellness

Turkey Tail

Immune health

Shiitake

Nutrient-dense, heart health

 

Suggested Timetable for Taking Functional Mushrooms

Time of day

Recommended Mushroom

Benefits

Morning (Upon Waking)

- Lion’s Mane
- Cordyceps

• Lion’s Mane may help support focus and mental clarity for the day
• Cordyceps can support energy

Midday (Before/After Lunch)

- Chaga
- Turkey Tail

• Chaga’s antioxidants support overall health and vitality
• Turkey Tail provides strong immune support and can be taken anytime

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

- Shiitake

• Incorporate into meals (soups, stir-fries) for an extra nutrient boost

Evening (Before Bed)

- Reishi

• Reishi’s calming properties may help support wind-down and relaxation

 

How to incorporate functional mushrooms in your diet

  1. Smoothies and shakes
    Blend a spoonful of your functional mushrooms (in powder form) in a morning smoothie or post-workout shake. This is a quick, convenient way to get your daily dose.
  2. Coffee & Tea
    Add a spoonful of mushroom powder to your coffee, tea, or herbal infusion. The earthy taste of many mushrooms pairs well with coffee’s bold flavour or the subtlety of herbal teas.
  3. Capsules
    If available in capsule form, simply take them with water according to the recommended serving size. Always follow the product’s label instructions.
  4. Cooking and baking
    • Reishi: Stir into soups or broths for a hint of earthy flavour.
    • Lion’s Mane: Pair with warm beverages.
    • Shiitake: Use directly in recipes as a powder or incorporate dried slices into meals.
    • Cordyceps, Chaga, Turkey Tail: Generally better mixed into warm drinks.
  5. Mushroom lattes
    Many people enjoy mushroom “lattes” by blending mushroom powders with hot water, non-dairy milk, or a favourite sweetener. Use a frother or blender to create a creamy texture.

 

The information in this post is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet, exercise, or supplement routine.