Functional mushrooms have been a staple of my self-care for the past decade, after I discovered the power of reishi mushroom for nervous system support during a stressful time. I began adding Superfeast reishi powder to cacao daily and, in combination with other measures to reduce stress, I started feeling calmer and more resilient.
While I still use reishi every day (in our evening carob drink with maca and ashwagandha), I now include a variety of other functional mushrooms and blends. They work across a range of bodily systems to support energy, immune wellness, nervous system and hormonal balance.
I enjoy having several different mushroom powders on hand to create bespoke brews for the people in my life, tailored to the kind of support they might need on the day!
Here are some favourite functional mushroom products and why they have a spot on my shelf:
1. Flow State Lion’s Mane Capsules
I love this nootropic mushroom to support mental clarity, energy and brain health. A good morning mushroom, I take a couple of these capsules with my coffee. Lion’s Mane has a rich history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is considered supportive for stress, mood management, and healthy aging - always a bonus! Flow State is a mindful Kiwi brand whose products are third party tested in NZ for purity and potency.
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2. Misty Day Plant Potions Shroom Squad
I’ve long been a fan of Misty Day’s lovely brews and blends. They are champions of transparent sourcing – which is especially important when it comes to functional mushrooms and wild-crafting – and their powders are potent extracts of the fruiting bodies, so you feel the difference. This powder blend includes reishi, chaga, lions mane, turkey tail and cordyceps. It’s an easy, powerful addition to a hot drink or smoothie, providing support for the gut, stress response, immune function and more.
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3. SuperFeast Tremella
This delicious pale mushroom powder makes a tasty addition to a matcha latte. With an affinity for skin hydration and elasticity, tremella has traditionally been considered a youth tonic. Its high polysaccharide content contributes to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. If you’re interested in nourishing your skin from the inside and receiving a bunch of other health benefits at the same time, this mushroom is great one to include.
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4. SuperFeast Mason's Mushrooms
This powerful blend crafted by the Superfeast founder is a brilliant all-rounder. I regularly add half a teaspoon to coffee or cacao, and it’s especially supportive for immune and gut health. Superfeast is a beloved brand due to their commitment to quality, transparency and traditional Di Dao sourcing; they are also a wonderful resource for inspiration and education on the fascinating world of functional mushrooms! If it feels a bit overwhelming, this blend is great place to start.
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