The 3 Best Mushrooms to Take for Better Sleep
Sleep is one of the cornerstones of good health, yet millions struggle to get the rest they need. Stress, poor diet, and modern lifestyles can all throw off our natural sleep rhythms. While there are countless remedies out there, mushrooms have emerged as a natural, powerful option to promote relaxation and better sleep. Packed with bioactive compounds, certain fungi can calm the mind, balance the body, and help you drift off more easily. Here are the three best mushrooms to consider adding to your nighttime routine.
1. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Known as the "mushroom of immortality" in traditional Chinese medicine, reishi is a superstar when it comes to relaxation and sleep. Its adaptogenic properties help the body manage stress by regulating cortisol levels, the hormone that can keep you wired and awake. Reishi contains triterpenes and polysaccharides, which have calming effects on the nervous system, making it easier to unwind after a long day.
Studies suggest reishi may also improve sleep quality by increasing slow-wave sleep—the deep, restorative phase that leaves you feeling refreshed. You can take reishi as a tea, powder, or capsule about an hour before bed. Its slightly bitter taste pairs well with warm milk or honey if you’re sipping it down. Start with a small dose (1-2 grams of powder or as directed on a supplement) to see how your body responds.
2. Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Lion’s Mane is best known for boosting brain health, but its sleep benefits are often overlooked. This fluffy, white mushroom supports the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which helps regulate the nervous system. By reducing inflammation and promoting neural repair, Lion’s Mane can ease anxiety and overthinking—two common culprits behind restless nights.
While it’s not a sedative like some mushrooms, Lion’s Mane works indirectly by improving mood and mental clarity during the day, setting you up for a more peaceful night. Some users report vivid dreams when taking it, so it’s worth experimenting with timing—try it earlier in the evening rather than right before bed. A typical dose is 500-1000 mg in capsule form or as a powder mixed into a smoothie.
3. Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris)
Cordyceps might surprise you on this list since it’s often associated with energy and stamina. However, this mushroom’s ability to balance the body’s systems makes it a sleeper hit for sleep. Cordyceps improves oxygen utilization and supports adrenal health, which can prevent the energy crashes and burnout that disrupt sleep patterns. By stabilizing energy levels throughout the day, it helps your body wind down naturally at night.
Research also hints at cordyceps’ anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may soothe a racing mind. It’s not a direct sedative, so it pairs well with reishi for a balanced approach. Take 1-3 grams of cordyceps powder or capsules in the late afternoon or early evening to avoid any energizing effects too close to bedtime.
How to Use Mushrooms for Sleep
These mushrooms aren’t magic bullets—you’ll get the best results by combining them with good sleep hygiene. Dim the lights, skip the late-night screen time, and create a calm environment. You can find these fungi in various forms: powders to mix into drinks, capsules for convenience, or tinctures for fast absorption. Always source high-quality products from reputable brands, as potency matters. If you’re new to medicinal mushrooms, start with one at a time and consult a healthcare provider if you’re on medication or have underlying conditions.
Final Thoughts
Reishi, Lion’s Mane, and Cordyceps offer a natural way to support better sleep without the grogginess of over-the-counter sleep aids. Reishi calms the storm, Lion’s Mane clears the mental clutter, and Cordyceps balances your energy for the long haul. Experiment with these fungal allies, and you might just wake up feeling like a new person—or at least a well-rested one.