The Truth About Adaptogenic Mushrooms – What Science Really Says

Written by Niels Luka, Founder of NÓNE

Adaptogenic mushrooms have been part of Eastern medicine for centuries. But in the last few years, they’ve gone from traditional remedies to trendy health supplements on social media. You’ve probably seen claims that they can do everything from boosting your memory to making you run faster.

As someone building a supplement brand based on transparency, I wanted to dig into what’s actually true and what’s just hype.

What Are Adaptogenic Mushrooms?

Adaptogens are natural substances that help the body adapt to physical, chemical, or biological stress. Certain mushrooms — like Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Reishi, and Chaga — fall into this category. They contain unique bioactive compounds that can influence the nervous system, immune system, and even energy metabolism.

But here’s the thing: not all adaptogenic mushrooms are the same, and not all claims are backed by solid research.

The Science Behind the Most Popular Ones

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

Lion’s Mane is famous for its potential brain benefits.

• What research says: A 2009 human study found that elderly participants taking Lion’s Mane showed a 15% improvement in cognitive scores after 16 weeks (Mori et al., 2009).
  
  
• How it works: Compounds in Lion’s Mane stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which supports the health of neurons.
  
  

Cordyceps militaris & sinensis

Cordyceps is known for boosting physical performance.

• What research says: In a 2016 study, trained athletes taking Cordyceps saw an 11% increase in VO₂ max — a key measure of endurance (Chen et al., 2016).
  
  
• How it works: Cordyceps helps the body use oxygen more efficiently and supports ATP production (your body’s energy currency).
  
  

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

Traditionally used to support the immune system and reduce fatigue.

• What research says: Studies show Reishi can modulate immune response and reduce feelings of tiredness in certain populations (Wachtel-Galor et al., 2011).
  
  

What’s Proven vs. What’s Hype

Proven effects:

• Supporting cognitive function (Lion’s Mane)
  
  
• Enhancing aerobic performance (Cordyceps)
  
  
• Modulating immune system activity (Reishi, Chaga)
  
  

Still under research:

• Claims about instant mood boosts
  
  
• Dramatic weight loss
  
  
• “Cure-all” promises
  

What's important?

2. Dual-extraction — to capture both water- and alcohol-soluble compounds
   
   

3. Clearly stated beta-glucan content — these are the active compounds
   
   

4. Transparent sourcing — no hidden fillers, no vague origins
   
   

At NÓNE, every batch is tested before packaging to make sure it matches what’s on the label — nothing less, nothing more.

The Bottom Line: Adaptogenic mushrooms can support your health in meaningful ways, but they’re not magic. The benefits build over time, and they work best when combined with a balanced diet, good sleep, and regular movement.

If you’re going to try them, make sure you’re getting a supplement that’s backed by science, not marketing.

About the author:

Niels Luka is the founder of NÓNE, a supplement brand built on radical transparency and science-backed formulas. Every product is stripped to what works — no hype, no fillers.