Lion's Mane is a mushroom with an appearance resembling a lion's mane. It grows on trees, has a mild taste, and supports cognitive function.
What are Functional Mushrooms?
Types of Functional Mushroom
There are six types of functional mushrooms sold worldwide. Let's go through each one.
Reishi
Reishi, known as lingzhi in Chinese and mannentake in Japanese, has a rich medicinal history in Asia. Studies suggest it boosts immunity, lowers blood sugar, and prevents infection.
Lion's Mane
Lion's Mane, found in supermarkets, is renowned in Chinese (houtou) and Japanese (yamabushitake) cultures. Studies suggest benefits for brain, nerve, and GI health.
Turkey Tail
Turkey tail, known as yun zhi in Chinese and kawaratake in Japanese medicine, contains Polysaccharide-K (PSK), approved for cancer treatment in Japan. It may boost immune function and aid cancer treatment.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps is rare in nature but grown artificially for commercial products, known as dong chong xia cao in China. It's believed to enhance energy, libido, kidney function, and studied for cancer treatment.
Chaga
Edible but bitter, Chaga mushrooms are boiled into tea. Called bai hua rong in China and kabanoanatake in Japan. Studied for anti-cancer and GI benefits.
Shitake
Shiitake, the second-most popular cooking mushroom globally, is rich in vitamins and minerals, known as xiāng gū in Chinese. It may enhance immunity and health.