Modern life’s full-on, so it’s no wonder more people are turning to natural ways to support their health. Medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, and now they’re getting attention here, too—and for good reason. These fungi are known for supporting everything from immunity and energy to focus and stress response.
In this guide, we’ll break down the basics, so you can get a better feel for how they work and which ones might suit you best. Whether you’re after better brain function, more balance, or just a bit more pep in your step, it’s worth understanding what each one brings to the table.
Medicinal mushrooms are a category of fungi known for offering more than just flavour or nutrition. They’ve been used in traditional medicine to support overall wellness, particularly when it comes to energy, immunity, focus, and stress. While we’ve long cooked with mushrooms like Shiitake or Button, certain varieties like Reishi, Lion’s Mane, and Maitake are packed with compounds that do more behind the scenes.
What sets them apart are naturally occurring substances, such as your beta-glucans, antioxidants, and other bioactive bits that interact with the body in helpful ways. These substances support everything from better brain function and sleep to reducing inflammation. So while they’re still considered fungi, they’re not your average stir-fry ingredient. Think of them more like natural supplements that work alongside your body rather than just feeding it.
Medicinal mushrooms have a long track record in traditional medicine, especially throughout Asia. For thousands of years, cultures in China and Japan have turned to fungi for everyday health. Not only that, but also for more targeted uses like boosting energy, supporting the nervous system, and helping the body deal with stress. In these cultures, mushrooms weren’t just considered food, but also as tools for better health and longevity.
Outside of Asia, mushrooms also appeared in ancient Egyptian and Greek traditions, though their use leaned more towards spiritual or ceremonial purposes. Fast forward to now, and what was once passed down through herbal knowledge is being studied in labs. Researchers are starting to understand how these mushrooms interact with the body, validating what traditional systems have known all along. While the language has changed, the idea’s stayed the same: mushrooms have more to offer than what we once thought.
While many mushrooms are great on toast or tossed through a stir-fry, a handful have earned a name for themselves in the natural health world. Here’s a breakdown of some of the heavy hitters and what they’re most known for:
Lion’s Mane is instantly recognisable thanks to its white, shaggy appearance. Often linked to better mental clarity and memory, it’s shown potential in stimulating the production of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which helps protect and maintain brain cells. This makes it a favourite for anyone feeling mentally stretched out or a bit forgetful.
Benefits, effects, and uses:
May help sharpen focus and memory
Linked to improved mood and reduced anxiety
Could support gut health and the nervous system
Shows promise for people managing diabetes or heart health
Nicknamed the “mushroom of immortality”, Reishi has a long history in traditional medicine, and it’s still a go-to for managing stress and winding down. Reishi is used for managing stress, calming the mind, and helping balance hormones, which can also contribute to better sleep.
Benefits, effects, and uses:
May help the body adapt to stress more easily
Often used to support sleep and reduce anxiety
May assist with improving immune health
Traditional uses include support for skin, hair, and energy levels
Cordyceps have somewhat of a wild origin story as they naturally grow on insect larvae, but they’re highly valued in Eastern medicine. Today, they’re popular with athletes or anyone looking to combat low energy, thanks to their potential to increase ATP production, or your body’s energy currency.
Benefits, effects, and uses:
May improve stamina and physical endurance
Can support post-workout recovery
Linked to better oxygen use and blood flow
Traditionally used to help libido and sexual function
May assist with managing type 2 diabetes
You might know Shiitake from some of your favourite dishes but this mushroom offers more than taste. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals, including copper, which helps your body absorb iron and support healthy bones. Shiitake is also associated with improved circulation and skin health.
Benefits, effects, and uses:
Rich in amino acids and minerals
May help lower cholesterol
Could support skin texture and appearance
Traditionally used for liver support and reducing inflammation
Poria is often used in traditional Chinese medicine formulas for its grounding, restorative effects. It’s considered an adaptogen that supports the nervous system and digestive health, while also helping ease fluid retention and bloating.
Benefits, effects, and uses:
May ease symptoms like cramps and water retention
Traditionally used to support calm and better sleep
Could help with memory, anxiety, and restlessness
Often recommended for digestive support
Named for its colourful, fan-like appearance, Turkey Tail is packed with antioxidants and beta-glucans that support the immune system. Nowadays, it’s being researched for how it supports cell repair and resilience.
Benefits, effects, and uses:
Contains immune-boosting compounds like Polysaccharide Krestin (PSK) and Polysaccharopeptide (PSP)
Linked to gut health through its prebiotic effects
May help reduce inflammation
Often used alongside other treatments for immune support
Also known as Silver Ear or White Jelly Mushroom, Snow Fungus looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. It’s long been used in beauty rituals across East Asia as it’s rich in polysaccharides that help lock in moisture. It’s often compared to hyaluronic acid for how it supports skin elasticity.
Benefits, effects, and uses:
Promotes skin hydration and plumpness
May improve skin elasticity and texture
Used traditionally for fatigue and immune support
Can assist in cell repair and wound healing
Maitake is often referred to as the “Hen of the Woods”, and is loaded with beta-glucans, amino acids, and antioxidants. It’s been traditionally used to support the immune system and metabolism, and research suggests it may help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol.
Benefits, effects, and uses:
Supports immune system balance
May assist with blood pressure and cholesterol
Often used to help manage stress and fatigue
May support gut and liver function
Medicinal mushrooms come in a few different forms: capsules, teas, tinctures, and powders. Each one has its own pros and quirks. Some prefer the ease of popping a capsule, others like the ritual of brewing a cup of tea. But when it comes to getting the most out of these mushrooms in a way that fits easily into your day, powders are hard to beat.
That’s where Kissed Earth’smushroom blend supplements come in. Magic 8, Divine Woman, and Brain Elixir are all powdered, making them easy to stir through a coffee or shake into a smoothie. You can even have a warm cup of BLISS Superfood Hot Chocolate when you’re after something warm and comforting after a long day.
Powdered medicinal mushrooms don’t just disappear into the background either; they add a grounding, nourishing feel to whatever you pair them with. And because they’re so easy to use, sticking with them daily becomes more habit than hassle, which matters as consistency is key when it comes to seeing the benefits.
Speaking of efficacy, medicinal mushrooms aren’t a quick fix. They work best when they’re part of your daily routine. While you might notice subtle shifts in your energy, focus, or sleep within the first couple of weeks, the deeper benefits, such as improved immune function, reduced inflammation, or hormonal balance, tend to build over time. Most people start to feel the full effects after around 6 to 8 weeks of consistent use, especially when paired with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Like any nutritional support, they’re most effective when you stick with them.
Thinking of adding a mushroom blend to your routine? Here are a few simple habits that can help make sure you’re getting the most from them:
Start with the suggested dose - Stick with the recommended serving on the label, which is usually around half a teaspoon, especially if you’re just starting out.
Be consistent with your intake - Like most things in wellness, the real benefits build over time, so taking them consistently is key. Take your supplements around the same time each day to help your body adapt and respond, which is where the long-term gains come from.
Pair them with food or drinks you already enjoy - Smoothies, soups, teas, or coffee. Powdered mushrooms are easy to work into your usual habits. Adding Brain Elixir to a breakfast smoothie or Divine Woman to an afternoon tea means you’re not having to reinvent your whole routine just to stay on track.
Take them with a balanced diet - While mushrooms bring a lot to the table already, they’re not meant to do all the heavy lifting. Eating well is always a good idea and will help your body use the compounds they contain, making your daily dose more effective.
Listen to your body - If something feels off, or you’re not just how they’re sitting with you, check in with your GP, especially if you’ve got an existing health condition or are on medication.
Medicinal mushrooms are generally considered safe for more people, thanks to their long history in traditional medicine. That said, some might notice mild side effects like digestive upset or an allergic reaction when they first start taking them. That’s why it’s a good idea to stick to the recommended doses and pay attention to how your body responds.
Certain groups, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with autoimmune conditions, or those on medications, should check with a healthcare professional before adding medicinal mushrooms to their routine. Of course, choosing high-quality products like those from Kissed Earth also ensures you’re getting pure ingredients without unnecessary additives. This gives you confidence as you explore their potential benefits.
For those looking for a vegan and cruelty-free alternative to traditional collagen supplements, medicinal mushrooms offer a plant-based option. They’re a good choice if you’re sensitive to collagen or just prefer to avoid animal products altogether. Keep in mind though, that the benefits may take longer to appear and often require larger doses compared to collagen supplements.
And another thing—medicinal mushrooms deliver a more reliable and potent dose compared to eating whole mushrooms. The latter often doesn’t have enough active compounds to make a real impact. However, the real benefits depend on how the mushrooms are grown and processed, as wild or low-quality sources can be ineffective and potentially risky. That’s why choosing supplements from trusted brands is key to getting the good stuff safely every time.
In Australia, medicinal mushrooms must meet strict safety and quality standards before they reach consumers to ensure they’re free from harmful contaminants and are safe to use. One key factor that sets high-quality supplements apart is the use of fruiting bodies. This is the part of the mushroom that contains the highest concentration of beneficial compounds.
Kissed Earth focuses on sourcing these fruiting bodies carefully, avoiding lower-quality parts, which can dilute the potency. By sticking to these guidelines and prioritising pure, well-tested ingredients, we offer products that you can trust to deliver the full benefits of medicinal mushrooms.
If you’re curious about trying medicinal mushrooms, starting with a good-quality powder can make a huge difference. It’s a simple, natural way to support how you feel day to day, while fitting easily into your routine. Taking that first step with Kissed Earth could be the start of something that helps you find more balance and energy in your life.
$49.00
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