Shroom Talk
Why do we include functional mushroom powders in our cold pressed juices, you might ask?
Well - short answer - mushrooms are the sh*t. :)
A lot of people are unaware of the power of mushrooms, or simply haven't learned about them and their benefits. Many people who are unfamiliar with medicinal mushrooms mistakenly believe that they are psychedelic "magic" mushrooms. The mushroom powders we use, obviously do not have hallucinogenic properties and are merely used as a nutritional supplement.
The mushrooms we use in our juices (reishi, lion's mane and chaga) are also known as adaptogens.
But what are adaptogens, exactly?
The term "adaptogen" has become popular in the health sector, but a plant (or fungus) must meet three conditions to be deemed an adaptogen. To begin, it must boost your non-specific stress resistance, which means it must target your entire body rather than just one region. Second, it has to be habit-forming; third, it must be non-toxic.
How do adaptogens work?
When your stress hormones are out of balance, adaptogens help you cope with environmental and emotional stress by regulating and normalizing your reaction to them. If your body is acclimated to a warmer climate and you travel to a colder location, for example, adaptogens can help you respond and recover from the shock of the temperature difference.
Adaptogen benefits
Not only does each adaptogen have its own set of advantages, such as increased strength, immunity, or gut health, but the effect differs from person to person. A relaxing adaptogen like reishi or ashwagandha, for example, will have a greater influence on someone who is already relaxed than it will on someone who is under high stress.
Reishi, Lion's mane & Chaga
Adaptogens come in a variety of forms, but the most well-known are Reishi, Lion's mane and Chaga.
Reishi, often known as the queen of mushrooms or the chill mushroom, is well known for its ability to alleviate stress - and because stress can have a variety of reasons, they often recommend starting with this chill mushroom.
The queen is Reishi, while the king is Chaga. Chaga is your daily bodyguard since it helps build up your immune system and is high in antioxidants.
Finally, Lion's mane (illustrated on the right), often known as the "think" mushroom, promotes productivity and creativity; it's like a hug for your brain.
Adaptogens have an earthy, sometimes bitter flavor to them, which is usually associated with strength. However, if you take it on a regular basis, your palate may change. What's fascinating is that people's tastes alter when their bodies begin to associate it with feeling good.
Adaptogen use is supposed to be a ritual. These plant elements are best consumed in small doses on a regular basis, over an extended period of time. The easiest way to incorporate an adaptogen into your life is to make it a regular part of your routine. (Like having a Juicy Lucy every morning ;)).
From stomach to skin, adaptogens are a great option for people looking to make themselves feel good - naturally. :)