Mushroom Tinctures For Sleep Support
Mushrooms like reishi and lion’s mane have been studied for their potential to support sleep quality, helping to promote relaxation and reduce stress without the side effects commonly associated with synthetic sleep aids. Each of these mushrooms offers unique compounds that may encourage calmness, reduce stress, and support overall sleep health.
Reishi is particularly valued for its calming properties, thanks to its high concentration of triterpenes, which have adaptogenic and sedative-like qualities 1. Triterpenes are believed to help reduce stress and anxiety by modulating the body’s stress response through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is central to stress regulation 2. By lowering cortisol levels and calming the nervous system, reishi may help create a sense of calm, supporting a more restful sleep 3. Additionally, reishi is thought to encourage the production of serotonin 4, a precursor to melatonin, the hormone essential for sleep regulation.
Lion’s mane, though typically associated with cognitive function, also supports sleep by promoting brain health. It contains compounds such as hericenones and erinacines, which stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) and contribute to a well-functioning nervous system 5. By enhancing neural health, lion’s mane may alleviate mental fatigue, which is often a barrier to restful sleep, and support a clear mind that can unwind more easily at bedtime.
Both mushrooms also act as prebiotics, promoting gut health 6 7. A balanced gut microbiome can influence the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which plays a role in sleep quality. Over time, these mushrooms may contribute to better sleep by supporting both mental calm and a healthy digestive system.
While promising, these mushrooms are not FDA-approved for treating insomnia or other sleep disorders. As always, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended before using mushroom supplements for sleep support, especially for those with specific health conditions or on medication.
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17383716/
2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3181830/
3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9141008/
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15630179/
5. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10675414/