In recent years, there has been a fascinating emergence of innovative non-alcoholic beverages that combine unique ingredients from nature to offer both flavor and potential health benefits. The newest sensation is the mushroom elixir drink, a non-alcoholic drink made of “adaptotogenic” mushrooms and herbs. In this article, we’ll explore what mushroom elixir drinks are, their potential benefits, and some exciting product examples that have taken the beverage world by storm.

What are adaptogenics?

Adaptogenic drinks are beverages that contain adaptogens, natural substances derived from herbs, plants, or mushrooms that are believed to help the body adapt to various stressors, improve overall well-being, and promote balance. These mushroom elixir drinks have gained popularity in recent years due to their potential health benefits, particularly in the context of stress management and overall resilience. This is also partly an opening caused by the decline of alcohol consumption among young adults in North America in Europe. With the sales of no- and low-alcohol product sales surpassing $11 billion in 2022, the market for adaptogenic drinks is widen open. This is expected to double by 2023.

If the idea of ancient mushroom elixir is so popular, it may also be because of renewed interest in ancient medecine and mushrooms. The work of pioneer mycologist Paul Stamets have greatly contributed in normalizing the use of mushroom as key solution to modern diseases, as exemplified by the Netflix Documentary Fantastic Fungi. Mushrooms have more in common with men than with plants, which may explain why they can have so much positive effect on the human body.

A 2010 study showed revealed that adaptogens exhibit neuroprotective, anti-fatigue, antidepressive, anxiolytic, nootropic and CNS stimulating activity. More recent clinical trials noted particular benefits in boosting tolerance to mental exhaustion and enhanced attention.

“Think of adaptogens as a thermostat,” explain Tammy Lakatos Shames, RDN, CDN, CFT, and Lyssie Lakatos, RDN, CDN, CFT, the dynamic duo known as the Nutrition Twins. “When the body finds itself in a heightened state of stress, adaptogens step in to restore balance and induce relaxation. Conversely, if the body is feeling sluggish, adaptogens kickstart an energy boost.”

Humans have been consumed adaptogenics ever since they have been around. In a way, this new trend is a return to the roots. But these new cocktails can also pack a punch!

Mushroom Elixir Drinks : What Impact on your health?

While the potential benefits of adaptogenic mushrooms elixir drinks are intriguing, it’s essential to consider expert opinions. According to Dr. Adam Perlman, a physician and specialist in integrative and functional medicine, there is some science backing these claims, but it may not be as definitive as one would hope. According to Judith Pentz, these herbs act upon the the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis), affecting the amount of cortisol we secrete, and subsequently, other factors like blood pressure.

Most adaptogens are not FDA regulated or approved. There are hundreds of plants and mushrooms that may qualify for the “adaptogenic” title, but most have never undergone serious clinical trials. This isn’t an indication of their safety or lack thereof, simply an indication that research is not robust enough to point one way or another. While the science behind adaptogenics is sitll in its early infancy, some noted benefits exists. Aside from the obvious advantage of subsituting alcohol and providing a variety of nutriments, adaptogenic proponents boast a vast array of immune benefits, partly attributable to specific herbs and mushrooms.

What are Mushroom Elixir Beers?

One of the key ingredients in mushroom elixir drinks are a blend of adaptogenic mushrooms. These mushrooms have been used for centuries in various traditional medicine systems and are believed to offer a range of health benefits. Three mushrooms are usually singled out : turkey trails, reichi and chaga.

Turkey Tails possess organic compounds beneficial for fortifying digestive systems & elevating spirits. By providing strong antioxidants—like impressive flavonoids and above 35 phenols—these items significantly fortify their contribution towards developing a robust immunological defense mechanism. Harnessing the therapeutic ability of their antioxidant components leads to enhanced aging, neuronal protection, and hepatocellular resiliency from Chaga mushrooms’ complex ecosystem. 

The last of the triad is no less famous. Reichi, known in the community as the is known as the “mushroom of immortality” is used to “enhance the immune system, reduce stress, improve sleep, and lessen fatigue. ”From enhancing the immune system to alleviating stress and promoting restful nights, reishi mushrooms stand out as multitaskers among superfoods. Possessing cognition boosters, they naturally invigorate mental clarity.

Conclusion

Mushroom beer drinks are a fascinating fusion of flavor and potential health benefits, with adaptogenic mushrooms at the forefront. While their efficacy is still a subject of study and debate, these elixirs provide an exciting alternative for those looking to explore the world of functional, non-alcoholic beverages.

So, whether you’re intrigued by the idea of sipping on a mushroom-infused drinks or are simply curious about the ever-evolving world of beverages, mushroom beers are undoubtedly worth a try.