The Science

Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus), commonly referred to as bearded tooth mushroom, monkey head mushroom, bearded hedgehog mushroom, satyr's beard, bearded tooth fungus, or pom-pom mushroom, is both an edible and medicinal fungus.

This mushroom thrives in North America, Europe, and Asia, presenting as a white, globe-shaped entity adorned with long, shaggy spines.

It is renowned for its ability to enhance mental clarity and focus by promoting brain health and cognitive function through the stimulation of nerve growth factor.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a parasitic fungus primarily found on birch trees and other trees in the Northern Hemisphere. It initially manifests as a whitish, irregularly shaped mass that gradually darkens to a brown color.

Historically, Chaga has been revered for its medicinal properties. The term "Chaga" originates from the Russian word "Czaga," which means mushroom and is derived from the general term for fungus.

Rich in antioxidants, Chaga supports immune health and combats oxidative stress through its dense and nutrient-rich profile.

Cordyceps (Ophiocordyceps sinensis) is a medicinal mushroom characterized by its long, finger-shaped body, which ranges in color from brown to orangish-brown.

This mushroom typically thrives in humid climates and tropical forests, with notable prevalence in regions such as China, Japan, Nepal, Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The name "Cordyceps" is derived from the Greek word "kordyle," meaning "club," and the Latin suffix "-ceps," meaning "head."

Cordyceps is celebrated for its ability to boost energy and endurance by enhancing cellular energy production, thereby supporting overall vitality and physical performance.

Turkey Tail Mushroom (Trametes versicolor) is a vibrant, multicolored fungus commonly found growing on the stumps and fallen trunks of trees in wooded areas. Its fan-shaped fruiting body, with colors ranging from red, brown, blue, and green, resembles a turkey's tail.

This mushroom thrives year-round in temperate forests around the world, particularly in North American and Canadian woodlands.

Historically, Turkey Tail mushrooms have been utilized as an herbal health supplement. They are rich in antioxidants and provide robust immune support through a diverse array of polysaccharides and health-promoting compounds.

Reishi (Lingzhi mushroom) is a polypore fungus distinguished by its fan-shaped, kidney-like cap with a distinctive red varnish, and a stem that inserts peripherally.

This fungus typically grows on the base and stumps of hardwoods such as oak and maple, and is found in warmer regions of Asia, the South Pacific, southern Europe, and the southeastern United States. It can also be cultivated on logs, wood chips, or sawdust.

Reishi is renowned for its adaptogenic properties, promoting immune and cardiovascular balance and contributing to overall wellness.

Maitake (Grifola frondosa), also known as hen-of-the-woods, sheep's head, and ram's head, is a polypore mushroom characterized by its spore-releasing pores rather than gills.

Typically tan or brown, Maitake mushrooms grow in clusters at the base of trees such as Elm, Maple, and Oak. They are found in Japan, China, Europe, and North America.

The term "Maitake" translates to "dancing mushroom" in Japanese, reflecting the historical reverence for this mushroom. In Asian countries like Japan, China, and Korea, Maitake has been used for generations as a health enhancer, and at times, it was so valuable that it was said to be worth its weight in silver. Discovering Maitake growing wild in the mountains was considered a fortunate event, hence the name.

Maitake supports immune and metabolic health and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels through its natural beta-glucans.

Royal Sun Mushroom (Agaricus blazei), also known as almond mushroom, mushroom of the sun, God's mushroom, mushroom of life, and Brazilian blazei, is a renowned edible and medicinal fungus.

Primarily thriving in Brazil, the Royal Sun Mushroom is also cultivated in Japan and China. It features a distinctive almond-like flavor, with small to medium-sized brown caps and a subtly sweet taste.

This mushroom is valued for its anti-inflammatory benefits and liver support, contributing to holistic health maintenance through its diverse array of bioactive compounds.

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes), also known as black forest mushroom, golden oak mushroom, oakwood mushroom, and sawtooth oak mushroom, is a widely recognized edible and medicinal fungus.

Native to East Asia, Shiitake mushrooms are now cultivated globally. They are distinguished by their large, umbrella-shaped brown caps and a rich, savory flavor with a hint of woodiness.

Rich in nutrients and supportive of the immune system, Shiitake mushrooms contribute to overall health through their unique blend of vitamins and minerals.

Rich in bioactive compounds, White Mushrooms may offer protective benefits against cancer and heart disease, as well as aid in improving blood sugar control and gut health.

Black Fungus (Auricularia aricula-judae), also known as tree ear or cloud ear fungus, is an edible wild mushroom recognized for its dark, ear-like shape.

Predominantly found in China, Black Fungus also thrives in tropical climates, including the Pacific Islands, Nigeria, Hawaii, and India. It naturally grows on tree trunks and fallen logs but can also be cultivated.

Characterized by its jelly-like consistency and distinctive chewiness, Black Fungus is a popular ingredient in various Asian cuisines and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

Rich in antioxidants and gut-healthy prebiotics, Black Fungus may help lower cholesterol and offer protection for the liver and brain.