The painful truth is that chronic inflammation is increasingly recognised as a key contributor to many health issues - from arthritis and cardiovascular diseases to neurodegenerative disorders. It’s something that affects many in Western societies.
But it's not all bad because humans are good at finding solutions to the problems they create, and as interest in natural health solutions continues to grow, medicinal mushrooms have emerged as potent allies in the fight against inflammation.
In this article, we explore the benefits of mushroom teas for inflammation, detail which mushrooms offer the most promise, explain how to best harness their benefits, and reveal why our tea blends can help.
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Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury, infection, or harmful stimuli, a complex biological process aimed at eliminating injurious agents and initiating healing. Recent research from 2024 highlights the role of inflammation in systemic chronic conditions, emphasising the need for natural interventions.
Inflammation manifests in two primary forms:
Acute Inflammation: A short-term response characterised by redness, swelling, heat, and pain, essential for healing and fighting infections. Imagine it as the body’s emergency response system, kicking into high gear to protect and repair, much like a rapid response team at a fire scene.
Chronic Inflammation: A prolonged, low-grade response resulting from persistent irritants, autoimmune reactions, or other factors. Over time, this can lead to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, acting like a persistent alarm that damages the body’s systems.
Understanding the body’s inflammatory response is critical, as managing it can help prevent the progression of many chronic diseases.
Medicinal mushrooms contain bioactive compounds that have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. Below, we examine several mushrooms noted for their potential in reducing inflammation:
Often referred to as the “Mushroom of Immortality,” Reishi has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Rich in triterpenoids and polysaccharides, Reishi helps modulate immune function and reduce inflammatory responses. Studies have shown that Reishi extracts can inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, making it beneficial for conditions such as asthma and allergies.
Chaga, traditionally used in Russia and Poland, is renowned for its high antioxidant content, particularly in the form of polyphenols. These antioxidants help to combat oxidative stress - a major driver of chronic inflammation. Research from 2024 suggests that Chaga can suppress inflammatory cytokine production, thereby mitigating chronic inflammation.
Lion’s Mane has anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit the brain, gut, and nervous system. Its compounds, hericenones and erinacines, help reduce neuroinflammation and support cognitive function. As well as supporting a good mood, it also promotes beneficial gut bacteria, which can lower overall inflammation.
Some studies suggest it may aid chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and autoimmune disorders by reducing inflammatory markers. Additionally, its antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress, further protecting against inflammation. Combined, these benefits help make Lion’s Mane a very strong ally in the battle against inflammation.
Maitake, also known as “Hen of the Woods,” is less known, but it is celebrated for its immune-enhancing beta-glucans. It has a distinctive wavy form and an earthy and satisfying taste, which makes it good for cooking. Research indicates that Maitake can help suppress inflammatory responses, making it a valuable addition for those seeking to manage chronic inflammation.
Incorporating medicinal mushrooms into your diet offers a treasure trove of health benefits, and thankfully, there are several delightful ways to do so, each with its unique advantages tailored to different lifestyles. Here’s how you can harness their power:
Teas: Steeped in tradition, mushroom teas are one of the most effective ways to extract and enjoy the beneficial compounds locked within these fungi. The process draws out water-soluble goodies like beta-glucans and polysaccharides, delivering them swiftly into your system for a soothing, restorative experience.
Coffee Blends: For those who crave a morning buzz, combining medicinal mushrooms with coffee is an innovative game-changer. This clever fusion marries caffeine’s invigorating kick with the anti-inflammatory might of mushrooms, enhancing focus and energy while taming the jitters often linked to regular coffee. This study from 2023 found that mushroom-infused coffee reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, making it a smart choice for busy health enthusiasts.
Supplements: If convenience is your priority, mushroom extracts in capsule or powder form deliver a concentrated dose of active compounds with minimal fuss. Pop a capsule or sprinkle some powder into your smoothie or porridge, and you’re set with a potent anti-inflammatory hit. There are also supplements in liquid form, which may have slightly better bioavailability.
Culinary Dishes: Why not turn your meals into a health-boosting feast? Incorporating mushrooms like Shiitake or Lion’s Mane into everyday recipes doesn’t just elevate flavour—it also dishes out natural anti-inflammatory benefits. Whether sautéed into a stir-fry or simmered in a hearty stew, these fungi bring both taste and wellness to the table. This study notes that cooking methods can influence compound bioavailability, so experiment to find your sweet spot.
Choosing the right method hinges on your lifestyle and preferences, but for many, the comforting ritual and convenience of a hot cup of mushroom tea is the best way to go.
We have a first-of-its-kind, specialised mushroom tea blend aimed at reducing inflammation and promoting overall health while providing a refreshing kick from black or green tea leaves.
Black tea is packed with antioxidants and offers a smoother, more consistent energy boost compared to coffee, while Lion's Mane mushrooms help promote calmness and are rich in vitamins and minerals that support memory, focus, and concentration.
Our blend is carefully formulated with a potent Lion’s Mane fruiting body, which is known among the other things we mentioned for its anti-inflammatory properties and is sourced from sustainably managed farms to ensure maximum potency and ethical production.
By blending high-quality ingredients with precise recipes refined over years of expertise, we provide a product that fits seamlessly and conveniently into your daily wellness routine.
So, if you’re looking to alleviate chronic inflammation or simply support your immune system, our tea is designed to help you achieve that balance. Our commitment to sustainable practices and ethical sourcing underpins every product we create, ensuring that you receive tea that is as kind to the planet as it is beneficial for your health.
While tea remains a popular method for consuming medicinal mushrooms, another emerging trend is the incorporation of these ingredients into other beverages, such as sparkling drinks & smoothies. Meaning there is even more accessibility to utilise these super ingredients throughout the day and no matter the weather. This report predicts the functional mushroom market will grow from $38.88 billion to $76.35 billion by 2033.
Fermenting medicinal mushrooms is another way to help us absorb their nutrients. Fermentation has been shown to break down complex compounds into more bioavailable forms, potentially increasing the efficacy of the mushrooms’ active ingredients. Fermented mushroom beverages, such as kombucha infused with Reishi or Chaga, not only provide the probiotic benefits of fermentation but also enhance the anti-inflammatory properties of the mushrooms.
Medicinal mushrooms offer a natural and effective means of managing inflammation and many other ailments. Our Lion’s Mane tea is a great introduction to the world of functional mushrooms - but if you decide to consume these little wonders, they will give you a wealth of health benefits.
Which mushroom is best for inflammation?
Reishi, Chaga, and Cordyceps are often cited as some of the most effective mushrooms for reducing inflammation due to their unique bioactive compounds.
What is the most beneficial mushroom tea?
The most beneficial tea depends on individual health needs. For inflammation, a blend containing Reishi, Chaga, and Cordyceps is highly recommended, as these mushrooms have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties.
Who should not drink Reishi mushroom tea?
Individuals taking blood-thinning medications, those with low blood pressure, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and anyone with specific health conditions should consult a healthcare professional before consuming Reishi tea.
Which mushroom is best for arthritis?
Due to its anti-inflammatory and immune-regulating effects, Reishi is often recommended for arthritis. However, Chaga’s antioxidant properties also make it a valuable option for managing arthritis-related inflammation.
Anti-Inflammatory: Refers to substances that reduce inflammation or swelling.
Adaptogens: Natural substances that help the body adapt to stress and maintain balance.
Beta-Glucans: Polysaccharides found in the cell walls of mushrooms, known for their immune-enhancing properties.
Cytokines: Proteins that play an essential role in cell signalling and can promote inflammation.
Immunomodulatory: Capable of modifying or regulating one or more immune functions.
Neuroprotective: Substances that help protect nerve cells against damage, degeneration, or impairment of function.
Triterpenoids: A class of chemical compounds found in plants and fungi, known for their anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
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