Are you prone to the winter blues? January and February can be tough months for many people. Indeed, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a well-documented phenomenon that particularly affects people in northern regions that experience darker, shorter days and overall glum weather, not to mention the pressures of contemporary living, which have been driving anxiety and depression in a worrying direction.
When it comes to public knowledge of self-care methods and general awareness of physical and mental health issues, things are on the rise - exemplified by annual events like ‘Self Care Month’. A residual effect is encouraging proactive life choices, as many people are turning to natural remedies to support their mental well-being.
One increasingly popular option is mushroom tea. We will look into the story of these natural marvels, the reason for their rise in popularity, and what science says about their potential for supporting your current methods for easing depression and low mood.
Is it true that we can use mushroom tea for depression?
The prevalence of mental health challenges in today's society is staggering. According to the Mental Health Foundation, approximately 1 in 6 people in the UK experience a common mental health problem like anxiety or depression in any given week. The Office for National Statistics reports that rates of depression have doubled since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, with young adults particularly affected.
The latest NHS reported that 1.97 million people were in contact with mental health services, at the end of November 2024.
Modern lifestyles bring unique stressors that our ancestors never faced:
Constant digital connectivity and information overload
Increasingly sedentary work patterns
Disrupted circadian rhythms from artificial lighting
Social media comparison and digital anxiety
Work-life balance challenges in the remote working era
What can people do to feel better? It’s typically recommended to pursue a multi-faceted approach to managing depression and anxiety:
Professional Support: Counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy- talking things through can have meaningful benefits.
Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise, focussing on improved sleep, and stress management techniques.
Social Connection: Building strong support networks and maintaining friendships and relationships.
Nutrition: Including mood-supporting foods and supplements in one's diet, e.g. Foods and supplements with functional or ‘nootropic’ elements.
Easier said than done, if you find yourself in the throes of a depression - but it's within this last category that functional mushrooms have gained significant attention from both researchers and the public. And in terms of barriers to entry, perhaps it is the easiest way to begin.
The use of medicinal mushrooms dates back thousands of years in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. Modern science is now acknowledging many of these ancient practices through rigorous research.
This report found that certain mushroom compounds demonstrate significant neurotrophic properties, including supporting brain health and potentially alleviating symptoms of depression.
Mushrooms work through several mechanisms to support mental health:
Neurotrophic Factors: Compounds like hericenones and erinacines (found in Lion's Mane) stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Reducing neuroinflammation, which is increasingly linked to depression.
Adaptogenic Properties: Helping the body maintain balance under stress.
Gut-Brain Axis Support: Promoting healthy microbiome function, which influences mood regulation.
Known as the "Mushroom of Immortality" in traditional Chinese medicine, Reishi has shown remarkable potential for mood support.
The Science:
This 2024 study demonstrated Reishi's ability to ameliorate early depression-like behaviour. Additionally, research published in the National Library of Medicine found that Reishi's triterpenes may help regulate serotonin receptors.
Key Benefits:
Promotes better sleep quality
Reduces stress hormone production
Supports immune system function
Offers natural calming effects
This unique-looking mushroom has become a focal point of neuroscience research and is a hugely popular functional ingredient that can be found in many different health-forward products.
The Science:
This 2023 study showed Lion's Mane's potential to stimulate neurogenesis - the process by which new neurons are formed in the brain.
This 2024 research demonstrated improved cognitive function and reduced mild symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Key Benefits:
Supports nerve growth factor production
Enhances cognitive function
May reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression
Promotes neuroplasticity
We've carefully formulated our mushroom tea blends to maximise therapeutic potential while ensuring pleasant taste and optimal bioavailability.
You might call them ‘Winter Blues’ blends, as they can help combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and general low mood.
Our ethically sourced teas are available in black and green leaf varieties and as a matcha latte blend - perfect for ongoing mood support and stress management.
Our Mushroom Teas contain:
Premium green and black tea leaves
Lion's Mane fruiting body for cognitive support and mood enhancement
And best of all - they are accessible now! And in convenient individually wrapped pouches. We believe that any forward positive action can ultimately aid us, step-by-step towards a holistic mental well-being. Explore our shop today.
*Note: Always consult with your GP before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you're currently taking medication or have underlying health conditions.
Adaptogenic: Substances that help the body resist stressors of all kinds, whether physical, chemical or biological.
Bioavailability: The extent and rate at which a substance enters the body's circulation when introduced into the body and so can have an active effect.
Neurogenesis: The process by which new neurons are formed in the brain.
Neuroplasticity: The brain's ability to modify, change, and adapt both structure and function throughout life and in response to experience.
Triterpenes: Naturally occurring compounds found in many medicinal mushrooms that have various therapeutic properties.
HPA Axis: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, is a complex set of interactions between three endocrine glands that regulate many body processes, including stress response.
Does mushroom tea help with depression?
While mushroom tea shouldn't replace prescribed depression treatments, research indicates it may offer supportive benefits through multiple mechanisms. A 2023 meta-analysis in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that regular consumption of medicinal mushrooms was associated with reduced symptoms of mild to moderate depression.
What is the best functional mushroom for depression?
Lion's Mane shows the most promising research for depression support, primarily through its neurotrophic properties. However, a combination of mushrooms may offer synergistic benefits, as each species has unique beneficial compounds.
Does mushroom tea help anxiety?
Clinical studies suggest that certain mushroom species, particularly Reishi, may help reduce anxiety symptoms. A 2022 review in Phytotherapy Research found that regular consumption of medicinal mushroom tea was associated with reduced anxiety scores in multiple trials.
Can I drink mushroom tea every day?
Yes, mushroom tea is generally safe for daily consumption. However, start with a lower dose and gradually increase to assess your response. Always consult healthcare providers, especially if taking medications.
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