what is a functional mushroom

Functional mushrooms are types of fungi that are known for their health benefits beyond their nutritional compositions. They are often categorized into two main groups: medicinal mushrooms and adaptogenic mushrooms. Medicinal mushrooms are known for their therapeutic properties and have been used in traditional medical systems such as Chinese medicine. Adaptogenic mushrooms help the body adapt to stress and have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Some common types of functional mushrooms include chaga, reishi, shiitake, lions mane, cordyceps, and turkey tail. These mushrooms can be consumed in various forms such as powders, capsules, or added to food and drinks. While there is a lot of speculation and assertion about the health benefits of functional mushrooms, there is not a lot of scientific evidence to support these claims. However, functional mushrooms have gained more attention for their antioxidant and immune-modulating properties.