Medicinal Mushrooms for Menopause: Powerful Natural Support for Brain, Skin, and Hormonal Health

The menopause journey is a time of transformation, not just hormonally, but also mentally, emotionally, and physically. While HRT can be life-changing for many, there's growing interest in natural ways to support wellbeing during this transition.

This article does not advocate stopping HRT which is MHRA regulated and evidence backed to improve cardiovascular and bone health during menopause. We are exploring the possibility of additional support and holistic remedies for those choosing not to take HRT or who may be unable to do so.

Medicinal mushrooms: Used for centuries in Eastern medicine, functional mushrooms are now gaining global recognition for their ability to boost immunity, support the brain, enhance energy, and even nourish the skin,  all of which are particularly relevant for menopausal women.

What Are Medicinal Mushrooms?

Medicinal mushrooms are a class of fungi that contain bioactive compounds like polysaccharides (especially beta-glucans), triterpenes, and antioxidants. These compounds have been shown to:

• Support immune function

• Reduce inflammation

• Improve cognition and mood

• Support hormonal balance indirectly

• Protect against oxidative stress and ageing

Rather than acting as stimulants or hormone mimics, medicinal mushrooms help the body maintain balance, making them ideal allies for women seeking holistic support during menopause.

Top Medicinal Mushrooms for Menopausal Women

Here’s a closer look at some of the most well-researched and popular mushrooms for health and longevity, especially for women over 40:

Mushroom	Benefits	Menopause-Specific Support	Research Highlights
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)	Neuroprotective, improves focus and memory, supports nerve regeneration	Helpful for brain fog, mood swings, and memory	A 2009 study showed improved cognitive function in older adults; may support mood regulation through NGF stimulation
Tremella (Tremella fuciformis)	Skin hydration, collagen support, anti-ageing	Promotes skin elasticity and reduces dryness (common in menopause)	Contains polysaccharides that rival hyaluronic acid in moisture retention
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)	Calms the nervous system, supports sleep, boosts immunity	Helps with anxiety, insomnia, and stress resilience	Traditionally called the “mushroom of immortality”; supports parasympathetic nervous system
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)	Antioxidant powerhouse, supports immunity and reduces inflammation	May protect against cellular ageing and oxidative stress	Rich in melanin and superoxide dismutase, supports skin and gut health
Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris/sinensis)	Increases energy and oxygen uptake, supports libido and stamina	Ideal for fatigue, low motivation, or reduced sexual drive	May enhance physical performance and mitochondrial function in older adults
Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)	Immune modulator, supports heart and metabolic health	Helps counter weight gain and inflammation linked to menopause	Contains lentinan, a beta-glucan that enhances immune function and cholesterol balance

Why Mushrooms Work So Well for Midlife Health

As women move through menopause, they face a range of interconnected symptoms — from disrupted sleep and mood to ageing skin and hormonal weight gain. Medicinal mushrooms offer a multi-system benefit:

• Nervous system: Lion’s Mane and Reishi calm the mind and support cognition

• Immune system: Shiitake, Chaga, and Cordyceps strengthen immunity and reduce inflammation

• Skin and ageing: Tremella and Chaga may enhance collagen, hydration, and antioxidant defence

• Hormonal stress: Reishi and Cordyceps help manage cortisol and energy levels naturally

Unlike synthetic supplements, mushrooms support the body’s own intelligence, helping restore resilience and balance.

Are Medicinal Mushrooms Safe?

Generally, yes, especially when taken from reputable, organic sources. However, a few important notes:

• Consult a clinician if you’re on medications (especially immunosuppressants or anticoagulants)

• Avoid combining with high-dose hormone supplements unless advised

• Introduce one at a time to observe effects taking regularly rather than occasionally

• Look for dual-extract formulas for maximum bioavailability

  
  

The Bottom Line

Medicinal mushrooms offer menopausal women a safe, nourishing way to support brain health, skin vitality, immune strength, and long-term wellness. Whether you’re struggling with low mood, poor sleep, or ageing skin, there’s likely a mushroom that can help.

Get in touch to discuss your Symptoms of menopause, including your health, longevity and well being

Regards

Amanda