Which Mushrooms Are Healthiest? Tap Into the Power of Fungi |

March 4, 2025

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Mushrooms aren’t just a flavorful addition to your favorite dishes. They’re also packed with powerful compounds that support energy levels, brain function, and overall well-being.

But with so many options out there, you might wonder which mushrooms are healthiest.

What are the healthiest mushrooms?

It depends on your goals. For example, if you’re looking for greater endurance and energy, Cordyceps may be the most beneficial choice.

On the other hand, lion’s mane can boost your cognitive health, and reishi and chaga promote immunity to infection as well as longevity.

In this article, we’ll mainly focus on two of the most researched varieties: Cordyceps and lion’s mane.

Cordyceps

Traditionally used in Chinese and Tibetan medicine, Cordyceps–particularly Cordyceps sinensis–is a family of mushrooms known for its vitality and performance-enhancing properties, both for athletes and non-athletes. But it offers some other impressive benefits, as well.

Cordyceps for energy and endurance

Some research suggests Cordyceps extracts can significantly dilate the aorta, the body’s main artery. This increases circulation, potentially leading to improved stamina and sustained energy levels throughout the day.

One study found that consuming 4 grams of Cordyceps daily over one week showed little effect, but three weeks of supplementation led to better oxygen uptake and utilization. This meant participants could stay physically active for longer before tiring out.

Scientists believe this is due to Cordyceps’ ability to increase ATP production, the body’s primary energy source. ATP fuels muscle contractions and metabolism, helping the body perform at its peak during physical activity.

Cordyceps for metabolic health

Research suggests Cordyceps can also be beneficial for your metabolic health, as these mushrooms:

Regulate blood sugar levels, potentially combating insulin resistance
Lower triglycerides and cholesterol, promoting cardiovascular health
Protect renal function by reducing stress markers in the kidneys, even in diabetics at risk of renal failure

These effects may be due to Cordyceps’ polysaccharides, a type of carbohydrate. These compounds not only help protect the kidneys, but may:

Reduce systemic inflammation
Improve gut health
Combat the signs and effects of aging

Lion’s mane

If you’re more concerned with your cognitive health, lion’s mane may be the best fungal addition to your diet. It’s a unique, shaggy-looking mushroom that’s been prized by Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners for centuries.

Lion’s mane for brain health

Lion’s mane is loaded with natural compounds that stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that helps brain cells grow, repair, and stay healthy. By increasing NGF levels, lion’s mane can:

Promote neuron regeneration, helping grow and repair brain cells
Support re-myelination, a process that protects nerve fibers and facilitates smooth communication between brain cells
Preserve memory and help ward off cognitive decline

Research also links lion’s mane to better short-term and visual recognition memory, both of which tend to decline with age. However, studies found that these brain-boosting benefits disappeared after discontinuation, so consistency is key.

Which mushrooms are a superfood?

Many experts consider all types of mushrooms superfoods, as they’re low in calories and high in nourishing plant compounds, such as B vitamins.

Cordyceps and lion’s mane are particularly well-known for their energy- and brain-boosting abilities. But other varieties offer significant health benefits, as well:

Reishi: The Chinese have historically called reishi the “mushroom of immortality.” They’ve used it for centuries to support immune function, reduce stress, and promote longevity.
Chaga: This is one of the most antioxidant-rich mushrooms, known for its ability to combat oxidative stress and inflammation while protecting cellular health.
Maitake: Nicknamed the “hen of the woods,” research shows that maitake can be a powerful support for healthy blood sugar levels and immune function.

Choosing the healthiest mushroom for you comes down to your specific goals. However, if you’re looking for more well-rounded wellness benefits, you don’t have to pick just one.

Incorporating a variety of mushrooms–whether that’s through food, tea, or supplements–can be an excellent way to support your health, naturally. Try some of these medicinal mushrooms today, and nourish your body and mind for the long run.