Exploring the History of Adaptogenic Mushrooms 

January 1, 2025 | Posted at 2:46 am | by Rebecca Siggers (Follow User)

 

 

Image source 

Adaptogenic mushrooms are quite common. These mushrooms are known for their magic in reducing stress and minimizing the chances of getting stress-related diseases 

While you may have heard of these mushrooms recently, the truth is that they have existed for a long time. They have a deep history from ancient times to the present.  

So, if you like mushrooms, you may want to know more about their history and significance.  

Keep reading for helpful insights on how they have grown from their country of origin to the present. 

What are Adaptogenic Mushrooms? 

Before we discuss their history, let’s first get to know adaptogenic mushrooms well.  

Adaptogenic mushrooms are a group of mushrooms that can help manage stress in your body and promote a healthy overall balance. The word ‘adaptogen’ means substances that can help alleviate stress.  

So, these mushrooms have that substance that can perfectly minimize stress and its effects on your body. 

They trigger the body’s response system to stress, mainly APA, which manages the stress-causing hormone known as cortisol. Besides, they can also help reduce inflammation, balance mood, and improve the immune system. 

Adaptogenic mushrooms come in many types, like gummies, and are readily available. Thus, if you need to use them, get a high-quality one from a reputable seller for the best results. 

History of Adaptogenic Mushrooms 

 

Image source 

Here is a brief overview of adaptogenic mushrooms over the years. 

Ancient times 

Mushrooms have existed for more than 2000 years. Initially, they were common in China, Russia, and Japan.   

China 

In China, most adaptogenic mushrooms are integral to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Traditional herbalists and other natural wellness enthusiasts use mushrooms and other herbal medications to improve their health naturally.  

One of the most common adaptogenic mushrooms used in China was Reishi, which was considered to have spiritual power. These users believed it could calm spirits, boost energy, and prolong life. 

Another common adaptogenic mushroom in China is Cordyceps, which is known for improving body stamina and energy. It also has the medicinal implications of reducing body fatigue and improving overall body performance. 

Russia 

Russia is another country with a deep history of using adaptogenic mushrooms. Here, the natives would use these mushrooms alongside other natural substances like Ginseng to create folk medicine. Most users would consume the mushroom directly, while others would mix it in tea and other drinks. 

One of Russia’s most common adaptogenic mushrooms is Chaga, which mostly grows in northern cold areas. The natives used it to treat various digestion issues and boost their immunity. It was so effective that it was often called the king of herbs. 

Japan 

Japan has a long history of using herbal substances and medications, including adaptogenic mushrooms. The main mushrooms available in this country are Reishi and Shiitake. These two mushroom types alleviate fatigue symptoms and support healthy digestion. 

Early 20th century 

 

Image source 

Many people, especially researchers, were interested in adaptogenic mushrooms in the early 1900s. The interest in scientific research was sparked by the need to improve general body strength and resilience during the World  

War. During that time, scientist Nikolai Lazarev invented the phrase adaptogen, which means stress resistance. He was doing intensive research on what would increase the body’s resistance to stress during those trying times, and hence, he did his research on mushrooms.  

During the study, he found out that specific mushrooms, including Cordyceps, Reishi, and Turkey Tail, would greatly reduce body inflammation and increase resilience to stress. 

With time, many other researchers developed an interest in adaptogenic mushrooms to know how they would work to reduce body stress. Since then, people have been studying these mushrooms, and some studies are still underway. 

Today’s use of Adaptogenic Mushrooms 

 

Image source 

In modern China, Russia, and Japan, adaptogenic mushrooms continue to be popular. In fact, their popularity has grown such that they are not only available in traditional health setups but also in modern ones. 

All the adaptogenic mushrooms, including Cordyceps, Reishi and Shiitake, are still used to date. The only difference between the then use and today’s usage is in their mode of use.  

Unlike before, today’s adaptogenic mushrooms are available in powder or capsules. You can use them as supplements by adding them to your tea or food. However, you can still find them in their natural form, mainly if you ship from the countries of origin. 

More research has now been done regarding the usage of these mushrooms and how they work. Users are more informed and fully understand the dosage and potential side effects (if any). The availability of such information has made many people embrace the use of adaptogenic mushrooms in the modern world. 

Conclusion 

Adaptogenic mushrooms have had a long history, and the above is a brief overview of the same. The main adaptogenic mushrooms are Reishi, cordyceps, Shiitake, Lion’s Mane and Chaga, and most are believed to have spiritual and medicinal significance.  

The natives of Japan, Russia, and Japan have still valued the importance of adaptogenic mushrooms for all those years.  

If you need high-quality adaptogenic mushrooms, you can still find one online, as they are now readily available.