Ancient, but not archaic, mushrooms have made their way back into the spotlight for health, healing and wellness. Mushrooms are trending for good reason. From boosting immunity to improving skin health, mushrooms provide a powerhouse of nutrients that can do wonders for your health, healing and overall well-being.
Health Benefits Of Mushrooms
Used in traditional medicine throughout centuries, mushrooms have recently regained popularity in the form of tea and beauty products. With a wide variety of mushrooms available, each with unique health benefits, mushrooms are an ideal immune and health-boosting addition to daily living. In addition to boosting immunity, mushrooms are known to improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety and boost energy levels.
Popular Types Of Mushrooms
It is estimated there are more than 14,000 kinds of mushrooms, but the most popular include reishi, chaga, lion’s mane and cordyceps. Each mushroom has its own unique health benefits, so choose the type of mushroom that best suits your needs, including:
Reishi Mushroom: Known as the “King of Mushrooms,” reishi has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its immune-boosting properties. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help fight off infections and diseases.
Chaga Mushroom: This mushroom is a rich source of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. It is known for its anti-aging properties and can help improve skin health, reduce inflammation and boost energy levels.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom: This unique-looking mushroom is not only delicious but has numerous health benefits, as well. It contains compounds that can improve cognitive function, promote nerve regeneration and even reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Cordyceps Mushroom: Used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, cordyceps is known for its ability to increase energy levels and improve athletic performance. It can also help manage blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation.
Mushroom Tea For Tea-rrific & Bountiful Benefits
Making mushroom tea is easy, straightforward and simple. You will need fresh, dried or powdered mushrooms, hot water and a tea strainer. The steps are straightforward and simple. Place tea ingredients plus sliced, dried or powdered mushrooms in a teapot or mug, add hot water, let steep for five to 10 minutes, strain and enjoy. To incorporate mushrooms into your daily routine, try these easy DIY mushroom tea recipes at home:
Reishi and Ginger Tea: Brew a cup of ginger tea and add a slice of reishi mushroom to it. Let it steep for a few minutes and enjoy the immune-boosting benefits of this tea.
Chaga and Cinnamon Tea: Add a teaspoon of chaga mushroom powder and a cinnamon stick to a cup of hot water. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes and sip on this delicious and antioxidant-rich tea.
Lion’s Mane and Mint Tea: Add a teaspoon of lion’s mane mushroom powder to a cup of hot water and mix in some fresh mint leaves or dried peppermint or spearmint leaves. Let steep for three to five minutes to enjoy this refreshing mushroom-enhanced herbal tea with added brain-boosting benefits.
Cordyceps and Lemon Tea: Brew a cup of your favorite lemon or lemon-inspired tea (such as lemon balm, lemon peel and/or lemongrass), and add a teaspoon of cordyceps mushroom powder. This energizing tea is perfect for a citrusy midday pick-me-up.
DIY Mushroom Beauty Product Recipes
DIY Mushroom Tea Facial Mask:
This mask is great for hydrating and brightening skin. Mix together one tablespoon of mushroom tea powder with one tablespoon honey and one tablespoon yogurt. Apply to your face and let sit for about 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water and apply toner.
Mushroom Coffee Body Scrub:
Ingredients:
1 cup dried or powdered mushrooms (such as shiitake, maitake or reishi)
½ cup sugar, brown sugar or salt
½ cup coffee grounds
¼ cup olive oil or other plant-based oil
Optional essential oils to add additional benefits and pleasing aroma
Instructions:
- If dried, grind mushrooms into a fine powder in a food processor.
- Add brown sugar and olive oil to the mushroom powder and mix well.
- Store in an airtight container.
Apply the scrub to your face and body in the shower or bath. Massage gently in circular motions, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with toner and moisturizer.
Enjoy multiple benefits of mushrooms and be creative in working them into beauty DIY recipes as natural, effective and affordable ways to beautify your skin and hair. Not just beautifying, mushroom tea is a delicious and nutritious way to boost your health, healing and well-being.
Add mushrooms to your grocery list, health goals and teas, and be healthier and happier for it!
