Medicinal mushrooms have traditionally been foraged and used for thousands of years. They are anciently revered in countries such as Tibet, China and India because of their powerful healing properties.

In the last several years, we have seen a resurgence of medicinal mushrooms, as society becomes faster paced, hyperconnected and overcome by stress, anxiety and burnout. Now more than ever, we are working to cultivate routines and practices to assist us in mitigating the adverse effects of excessive stress and anxiety.

Introducing the Health First Mushroom Quartet. Through modern innovation, we are better able to harness the powerful health benefits of medicinal mushrooms. We have sourced, harvested, extracted and encapsulated Cordyceps, Lion’s Mane, Reishi and Turkey Tail mushrooms to help alleviate the bodily stress of an overwhelming world with a quick and convenient daily supplement.

Health First mushrooms are all organically and sustainably sourced. They are grown sustainably on wood, a natural substrate for the mushroom. Each mushroom we harvest is certified organic and contains only 100% fruiting body. The medicinal components of the fruiting body are then released via micronization, heat and liquid extraction for optimal bioavailability.

We choose to use the fruiting body only because it is abundant in beta-D-glucans, the most powerful medicinal component of mushrooms. Beta-D-glucans are known for their modulatory impact on our immunity. Our mushrooms are all 3rd-party tested for beta-D-glucans to ensure batch-after-batch consistency and efficacy.

Each mushroom contains unique and potent health enhancing properties. Take whichever resonates most with you to reap the benefits of these ancient medicinal fungi.

Cordyceps are most commonly known for their potent energy-enhancing properties, as well as their ability to support respiratory health. As such, they are a great supplement for athletic performance, as well as helping to support overall immunity and sexual well-being. Each capsule contains 1200 mg of potently extracted Cordyceps and on average, 26.6% beta glucans.

Lion’s Mane is often touted as the “brain” mushroom, not only because it resembles a brain in appearance, but because of its potential brain health benefits. Studies show that it has the ability to increase Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which is essential to both brain health and cognitive performance. On top of supporting our cognitive function, Lion’s Mane may also help to maintain healthy immune function.

Our Lion’s Mane capsules contain 1390 mg of potent Lion’s Mane extract and on average 26.4% beta glucans.

Reishi mushroom is the truest adaptogen of all the medicinal mushrooms, helping to bring the body back into a state of balance, as well as enhancing immune responsiveness. Touted as the “queen” of medicinal mushrooms, it is a powerful supplement for alleviating stress and fatigue.

Each Reishi capsule contains a potent 800 mg and on average, 34.2% beta glucans.

Turkey Tail is not only a powerful medicinal mushroom, but is rich in polysaccharides, making it a fantastic prebiotic for gut health. It is liver supportive and immune-boosting. It is great to have on hand throughout the cold and flu season.

Each capsule of Turkey Tail contains 1200 mg of potent extract and on average 35.9% beta glucans.

Make medicinal mushrooms a part of your health and well-being routine, assisting your body in combating the effects of stress and anxiety, and helping you to cope better in an overwhelmingly connected and fast-paced world.

Revitalizing Mushroom Hot Cacao

This recipe is an elevated version of your favourite coffee shop splurge. (Serves 1)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup non-dairy milk
• 2 Tbsp raw cacao powder
• 2 tsp either honey or maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp coconut oil, MCT powder or ghee
• 1 Tbsp collage powder (optional)
• 1-2 capsules Health First^® Medicinal Mushrooms (your choice), opened

Directions:

1. Heat all ingredients except Health First^® Medicinal Mushrooms in a saucepan.
2. Whisk constantly until warm.
3. Pour the mixture into a blender.
4. Add contents of the Health First^® Medicinal Mushrooms capsules and discard capsules.
5. Blend until smooth.
6. Pour into your favourite mug and enjoy!

Take you hot cacao to the next level by also including Health First^® Ashwagandha Supreme. Simply open the capsule and blend with the medicinal mushrooms for an extra layer of calm.

About the Author: Health First Network

Health First Network is Canada’s leading membership group for independent health & wellness retailers and the exclusive supplier of the premium Health First supplement brand. There are over 140 independently owned and operated retail Members across the country. Click here to learn more about Health First.