This post is sponsored by REBBL, a brand known for nourishing super-herb elixirs. We partnered for this post and the video below to celebrate National Mushroom Day on October 15, 2017.
In my free time I watch YouTube and read about mushrooms—edible varieties, forest fungi, psychedelic species, and medicinal types. They’re endlessly fascinating. Since October 15th is National Mushroom Day, I’m celebrating where else but in my kitchen.
To mark the day and share mushroom knowledge, I teamed up with REBBL. Rather than cover every mushroom, I’ll focus on one of my favorites and the star ingredient in all five of REBBL’s mushroom elixirs: reishi, often called the “King of Mushrooms.” Used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine, reishi has a long tradition for supporting the immune system and overall health. Only recently has it become more widely available in the U.S.
You won’t typically find fresh reishi in the produce aisle. While technically edible, reishi is most commonly taken as a tincture, powder, capsule, or in a prepared elixir like REBBL’s. Reishi is prized for potential benefits such as reducing inflammation, supporting liver health, helping balance hormones, and contributing to immune support. Scientific interest in these properties has grown alongside traditional use.
I love how reishi pairs with coffee and chocolate. REBBL makes a delightful elixir that blends coconut milk, cacao, and reishi, and their cold brew with reishi is another favorite. Their cold brew protein beverage with reishi works well as a pre- or post-workout drink—taken before exercise it may help endurance; taken after, it may aid recovery by reducing inflammation.Reishi is also an adaptogen—a term for foods and herbs that help the body manage stress and restore balance. Adaptogens support resilience and homeostasis, which is especially helpful in today’s fast-paced lives.
Reishi isn’t the only mushroom worth exploring. At the farmers’ market, branch out beyond portobello and porcini and try varieties like oyster, maitake, and shiitake. Many culinary mushrooms offer both great flavor and health-supporting properties.
For National Mushroom Day, consider picking up a bottle of a REBBL elixir made with reishi and prepare a mushroom-focused meal. Your body and your taste buds will appreciate it. Celebrate on October 15 and share your mushroom photos with the hashtag #magicofmushrooms if you post to Instagram.
To find REBBL products near you, visit their website. Follow REBBL and Sweet Potato Soul on Instagram for more mushroom inspiration.