Lion’s Mane vs Cordyceps: Learn The Benefits

Maurice Roberson

Do you know the difference between lion’s mane and cordyceps? If not, that’s okay – most people don’t. But it’s important to learn about the benefits of each of these medicinal mushrooms, since they offer different benefits. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of lion’s mane vs cordyceps, so you can decide which one is right for you.

Medicinal mushroom basics

Mushroom supplements have become popular…but they are far from new. For centuries, various cultures have also used adaptogen mushrooms for their stress-relieving and fatigue-reducing properties.

Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps are two of the most popular mushrooms with a long history of medicinal use. Lion’s Mane has been used to boost cognitive function and vitality.

Cordyceps, on the other hand, is a more recent addition to the world of medicinal mushrooms. It was used to treat a variety of respiratory ailments.

In recent years, science has begun to back up what people have known for hundreds of years. Let’s discuss these medicinal mushrooms in more detail.

Cordyceps Mushroom Supplement: Best Medical Mushrooms

History

The first recorded mention of cordyceps mushrooms (originally called Cordyceps Sinensis) was in the Ben Cao Bei Yao, a Chinese medical text written by Wang Ang in 1694. In the text, Wang Ang describes a caterpillar that becomes infected with a strange fungus.

This mushroom was used to treat a number of ailments, including malaria and liver disease. While the theory behind this treatment is now known to be flawed, cordyceps mushrooms are still known to be one of the more beneficial mushrooms.

Cordyceps mushrooms are most commonly found in Asia, though they can be found in other parts of the world as well. They are most often found in tropical rain forests, and they are known for their relationship with insects.

Benefits

Here are just a few of the potential health benefits of cordyceps mushrooms:

1. Boosting energy levels: The cordyceps mushroom is known as an “adaptogen,” meaning that it helps the body to adapt to stress. One of the ways it does this is by increasing energy levels, making it perfect for those who are struggling with fatigue.
2. Improving respiratory function: The active compounds in cordyceps mushrooms have been shown to improve respiratory function and help to reduce inflammation in the lungs. This makes them an ideal natural remedy for conditions like bronchitis and asthma.
3. Lowering blood sugar levels: Cordyceps mushrooms contain compounds that can help to regulate blood sugar levels, making them a valuable tool for managing diabetes.
4. Anti-aging properties: As we age, our bodies become less efficient at producing these vital substances. Supplementing with cordyceps mushrooms can help to keep us feeling young and energized.

Looks

Cordyceps mushrooms are brown or bright orange in color and look quite strange, with a long stalk and a small brown head. The head of the mushroom is actually the fruiting body, while the stalk is made up of threads called mycelium.

Flavor Profile

Some say that cordyceps mushrooms have a savory umami-quality and a deep earthy-nutty flavor. I find that cordyceps powder supplements have a chocolate-like taste. That makes it perfect for adding to your coffee, smoothie, or tea mix.

Lions Mane Mushroom Supplements: Best Medical Mushrooms

History

Lion’s mane mushrooms have a long and storied history. They’ve been used in traditional Chinese practice for centuries and were often added to teas.

Lion’s mane mushroom is most commonly found on dead and decaying logs in the forests of North America and Canada.

It was thought that this mushroom could improve cognitive performance. Modern science shows that ancient Chinese culture was not far off.

Benefits

1. Brain Health: Lion’s mane helps to promote nerve growth factor, which is essential for brain function and memory. The active compounds in lion’s mane also help to protect brain cells from damage, making it a valuable tool for preventing age-related cognitive decline.
2. Immune system support: Lion’s mane mushroom is gaining popularity as a natural way to boost the Immune system. Some research suggests that compounds in lion’s mane mushrooms can help to stimulate the Immune system and protect against infections
3. Reduce anxiety: Lion’s mane mushroom can promote mental health and help reduce anxiety. Lion’s mane contains compounds that mimic the effects of antidepressants, making it an effective natural treatment for mild to moderate anxiety.
4. Reduces inflammation: Lion’s mane mushroom extract can help to reduce inflammation, making it an effective treatment for conditions like arthritis and Crohn’s disease.

Looks

Lion’s mane mushrooms are named for their striking resemblance to a lion’s mane. These unusual fungi have icicle-like teeth hanging from a central stalk, and their coloring ranges from white to pale yellow. As the mushrooms age, their color fades to a dull orange.

Flavor Profile

Lion’s mane mushrooms have a seafood-like taste that has been described as similar to crab or lobster. They are often used as a seafood substitute in dishes like pasta, rice, and soup.

Fried lion’s mane & lion’s mane crab cakes have become very popular vegan options!

Where To Buy

Your best bet is online. You may get lucky and find lion’s mane, such as Genius Mushrooms, at your local health store. However, shopping online is going to give you more options and make shopping easy.

Best Lion’s Mane Supplements

Read our expert review of the top 6 best lion’s mane supplements. All are available online. Special deals are available for My Fitness System readers!

Read More

Other Functional Medicinal Mushrooms

The below species of medicinal mushrooms are a few of the many popular mushroom supplements on the market. Review the physical & mental health benefits of each to see which medicinal mushroom is best for you.

Reishi

Reishi mushrooms have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries, and are sometimes called the “elixir of immortality.” Modern science has begun to uncover some of the reasons why these mushrooms may have such a long history of use.

The Reishi mushroom contain compounds that can boost the immune system, reduce stress, improve sleep, and reduce fatigue. They are also anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer [1].

Turkey tail

Turkey mushrooms have been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and have only recently become popular in the West. These mushrooms symbolized longevity and health, and are said to promote spiritual attunement and infinity.

They are also a good source of antioxidants and have been shown to improve gut health [2]. Additionally, some studies suggest that they can boost energy levels.

Chaga

Like the other mushrooms, Chaga mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. The mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and have been shown to help Ease inflammation, lower blood pressure, and boost immunity [3].

Chaga mushrooms are typically found on birch trees in cold climates and can be harvested for use in soups, teas, and other dishes. The mushrooms have a bitter taste but are packed with nutrients and offer numerous health benefits.

The Bottom Line

So, which is better? Lion’s mane or cordyceps mushrooms? The answer is…it depends. Both have unique benefits that make them stand out from the rest of the mushroom crowd. If you want to boost your cognitive function, lion’s mane is a great choice. But if you need help recovering from an injury or increasing your energy levels, cordyceps are the way to go. Whichever one you choose, both are sure to give your health a boost.

FAQs – Medicinal mushrooms

About Post Author

Maurice Roberson

Maurice is a former college athlete who rowed comparatively for years. After college, Maurice became a strength-building & conditioning expert with a passion for bodybuilding. Maurice has competed in amateur bodybuilding shows and has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer.

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