You already know that mushrooms have some incredible health benefits. And you also know that each one has its own strengths. But many of them overlap in some of those areas. Chaga and Reishi are both popular options. With various supplement and delivery options available, it’s important to find the one that works best for you and your lifestyle.
One of the main differences is that each of these mushrooms’ offers a unique taste and textures. However, there are quite a few more differences. We want to guide you through the uses of each one and help you identify the strengths and weaknesses of these two powerhouse fungi.
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What is A Chaga Mushroom?
Chaga Mushroom Tincture by Edible Alchemy
Chaga mushrooms tend to grow throughout northern areas. You can find them growing on the side of elm, birch, or alder trees across North America and Canada, Russia, and into Siberia and Poland. These large, dark, almost burnt mushrooms can grow as large as your head.
Benefits of Chaga Mushrooms
Adding these fantastic fungi to your regular supplement regiment can have some awesome benefits.
Nutrient-dense superfood
These mushrooms are packed with a wide variety of essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, such as Vitamin D, Fiber, Amino Acids, Zinc, Calcium, Manganese, Copper, and much more.
Slows the aging process
Some studies show that antioxidants can help support healthy skin and hair. Chaga mushrooms are packed full of them.
Lowering blood pressure
Oxidative stress is one factor of those who suffer from high blood pressure. Having high blood pressure can increase your risk of heart attacks and strokes. Chaga mushrooms have higher levels of antioxidants that may help to reduce oxidative stress.
Lowering cholesterol
This antioxidant powerhouse is at it again. Some studies lead to believe that some antioxidants can help reduce some levels of “bad” cholesterol.
Fighting inflammation
Inflammation is the body’s natural warning sign that something is wrong. And many different medical conditions are linked with the symptoms of inflammation. Chaga can help to regulate cytokine production. This leads some scientists to believe that it could help to reduce the symptoms of inflammation.
Supporting the immune system
Cytokines help your immune system to relay messages throughout the body, and these proteins are essential for white blood cell stimulation. White blood cells are your body’s first natural line of defense. Chaga can help to support the regulation of cytokines and help the communication process when illness strikes.
Lowering blood sugar
Animal trials have shown that Chaga mushrooms have helped rats lower their blood sugar levels. While human trials have not begun, this initial response leads us to believe that Chaga can help support more stable levels with other treatments.
Reduce side effects
Studies about this are still being conducted. However, with its boosted levels of antioxidants and support of the Cytokines system, Chaga mushrooms may prove helpful in reducing some side effects of medical treatments such as radiation.
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What are Reishi Mushrooms?
These polished-looking mushrooms come in a variety of colors and, unlike Chaga, live primarily in China and can be found growing on hardwoods. You can find other species of Reishi mushrooms across some parts of North America and Europe.
Benefits of Reishi Mushrooms
Using the natural healing power of mushrooms can be beneficial in a lot of different ways. However, do keep in mind that many of these new treatment methods are still being studied, and some haven’t been proven by human clinical trials.
Immune System Boost
Just like the Chaga mushroom, this supplement is packed with antioxidants. Some initial studies have found that some strains of Reishi can help to support healthy inflammation pathways. It also shows potential for further support of a unique white blood cell to help keep your body healthy.
Supports Healthy Mental State
One study looked at the effects of people with neurasthenia. After taking Reishi for eight weeks, some subjects noticed reduced fatigue and overall had a better feeling of overall wellbeing. Others showed reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Boost Heart Health
One study showed that adding Reishi to your regular supplements helped increase the levels of “good” cholesterol for those who were struggling with their heart health.
Blood Sugar Control
Similar to Chaga, animal trials have shown that Reishi mushrooms have helped to stabilize blood sugar levels. This initial research shows there is a high potential for human trials even though more research is needed.
Antioxidant Booster
Most mushrooms are packed with antioxidants, and many health benefits come with a boost of antioxidants.
What Mushroom is Best for You?
While these two mushrooms have many of the same benefits, there are some key differences that you should consider for your own personal goals.
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What is the best mushroom for Immunity benefits?
Both! Chaga and Reishi both have immunity-boosting benefits that can help support a healthy immune system.
What is the Best Mushroom for sleep?
Out of these two varieties, the Reishi takes the win. While Chaga in the evening won’t keep you awake all night, Reishi offers adaptogenic properties to help you get restful sleep.
What’s the Best Mushroom for Inflammation?
Chaga is an excellent option for helping to alleviate the symptoms of inflammation.
What’s the best mushroom for allergy relief?
Reishi’s powerful triterpenoids can help to alleviate some of your body’s natural reactions to allergens.
What is the best mushroom for skincare?
Chaga has high levels of antioxidants that help reduce damage to your skin that is caused by oxidative stress.
What is the best mushroom for stress relief?
Reishi has been proven to help lower fatigue and overall support a healthy mindset.
Conclusion
While both mushrooms offer a variety of benefits, both of these can be excellent supplements. Each has its own strengths, but taking them together may provide optimal health.
As with all supplements, be sure to take these for at least a month before evaluating how you feel. Some mushroom supplements can take up to two weeks to begin to show relief of symptoms.
Are you ready to optimize your health? Edible Alchemy has everything you need to get started. Shop now.
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