Nootropic mushrooms
Nootropics are substances, organic and inorganic, that are capable of improving brain performance, enhancing cognition and memory, while facilitating the mind’s ability to learn.
I struggled with where to begin this note. It's a topic, or a classification, that we’ve yet to associate mycro formulations with. It also requires lengthy scientific explanations and careful use of adjectives. Nonetheless, it's an important conversation regarding the efficacy and various use cases for our honeys.
Nootropics are substances, organic and inorganic, that are capable of improving brain performance, enhancing cognition and memory, while facilitating the mind’s ability to learn.
Nootropics work by influencing brain waves, cerebral blood flow, cellular energy, and neurotransmitters in the brain.
There are nootropics that we’re all familiar with, particularly the ones we use to manage our ADHD, lack of drive and focus, and to help us sleep. Most of these are of the inorganic category, meaning not of this natural earth.
Then there are the ones less familiar to us as nootropics, because of their ability to function as an adaptogen simultaneously. Of course, these are the medicinal mushrooms of the natural world.
Chaga, cordyceps, lion’s mane and reishi are nootropic mushrooms, all of which are featured in honeys and Adapt Bars. As adaptogens their benefits are well documented in various studies published on our blog. As nootropics they’ve yet to receive a proper explanation. Until now:
Chaga
As an adaptogen: Reduces inflammation, stimulates immune system
As a nootropic: works as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor which boosts acetylcholine for better learning and memory.
Cordyceps
As an adaptogen: Improves energy levels, circulation while reducing stress and fatigue
As a nootropic: improves performance by increasing blood flow, boosts ATP synthesis for more natural energy, acts as an antioxidant, enhances lactate clearance, increases the release of catecholamines, and reduces oxidative stress, and fatigue.[v]
Lion’s mane
As an adaptogen: Improves memory, reduces inflammation and stress
As a nootropic: stimulates enzyme production that releases Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). In a study done in Kuala Lumpur in 2013, scientists showed that Lion’s Mane extract induced NGF synthesis and promoted neurite outgrowth.
Reishi
As an adaptogen: Enables a creative state, reduces fatigue and stress
As a nootropic: used for its anti-anxiety benefits[xv] and for chronic fatigue syndrome.
I’m still deciding how far we’ll push the nootropic narrative. Additional ingredients we utilize, like ashwagandha, are classified as nootropics, so the proof is in the honey.
I’m confident that nootropics, primarily natural occurring ones, are beneficial to the mind and thus the body. And there are dozens of them available in various form factors on the market.
However… Imagine having to consume each one of these nootropic mushrooms individually. Given how efficient and effective the ingredients are, the delivery mechanism in which they’re to be consumed must be equally efficient.
Although honey isn’t classified as a nootropic, we’re pleased to offer it honorary recognition for its ability to stack these 4 nootropic mushrooms, and additional nootropic adaptogens, in a deliciously flavorful way to improve cognition and sense of self.
Let's do mushrooms together
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