The Shroom Boom

I’m talking the adaptogenic kind.

What are adaptogens you ask? Adaptogens are often found in herbs and mushrooms and they’re known for their ability help your body combat stress. They are a great way to bring your stress levels to homeostasis. This concept has been around for centuries in eastern and Ayurveda medicine, but the trend is just now finding it’s way over to western shores.

Reishi, cordyceps, and turkey tail. Probably words you’re not familiar with. Honestly, the first time I heard them I was convinced I was hearing a foreign language. These three mushrooms are the most common type of mushrooms consumed (that is, if you consider consuming mushrooms common).

 Reishi

My first encounter with mushrooms was with reishi. I heard the benefits from a friend and immediately went to the nearest supermarket to buy it. I wanted it for it’s anti-inflammatory effects, but when I heard what else it does, I had to keep taking it. It slows down aging, prevents cancer, detoxes the liver, and honestly so much more. I take my reishi in the form of hot tea. It does have an earthy taste so putting it with your morning matcha or morning smoothie is also a great option.

Cordyceps

Cordyceps is my go-to, cure-all mushroom when I feel any type of cold, fever, or upset stomach coming on. It’s known as the “all-illnesses” mushroom. I take cordyceps the same way I take my reishi or ashwagandha.

Turkey Tail

The claims on this one are bold, but with what I know of mushrooms, I believe the claims to be truth. Turkey tail has been recognized to help cancer patients, specifically the ones undergoing chemotherapy. The consumption of it helps patients recover quicker by strengthening the weakened immune system and helps protect from the formation of new cancer cells. It also helps reduce herpes and HPV infections. It is prebiotic and helps regulate your microbiome. Turkey tail comes in powder, pill, or tincture form.

I’ve come to realize that trends happen for a reason. Mushrooms have been around for years and who knows what good they could do for your health. Try incorporating them into your morning routine and see how your health takes a turn for the better.

Hailey Gowan is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. She has a passion for seeing people find optimal health through whole foods, plant-based nutrition and a balanced lifestyle. Hailey is also a plant based chef in training and hopes to make eating a plant based diet more attainable. To follow Hailey's journey or to set up a free consultation, visit www.theheirloomcarrot.com.