Top Mushrooms for Hormone Balance

Functional mushrooms are traditional herbalism mainstays for their ability to support the body’s natural balance, fight stress, promote immune function and otherwise give a natural boost to overall vitality.

But in recent years, scientific research has begun to uncover a new dimension of mushrooms' therapeutic potential: hormone health. This article explores the best mushrooms that support hormonal balance, and some of the theories on how they might help. Let's get to it!

Hormone Imbalances and Why People Are Turning to Mushrooms

Hormones play a key role in regulating nearly every function in the body. They are governed by the endocrine system: a group of organs and glands (such as the thyroid, adrenal glands and pancreas) that work to produce and release hormones.

There are about 50 hormones in the human body. Following are some of the most well-known hormones, along with their key functions:

• Insulin – Regulates blood sugar levels.
• Cortisol – Manages stress responses and metabolism.
• Thyroid hormones (T3, T4) – Control metabolism, energy, and temperature.
• Estrogen – Regulates female reproductive health.
• Testosterone – Regulates male reproductive system and muscle mass.
• Melatonin – Controls circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycles.
• Serotonin – Mood, digestion, and sleep. 90% of it is produced in the gut.
• Dopamine – Influences motivation, reward, and movement.
• Adrenaline (epinephrine) – Triggers fight-or-flight response.
• Growth hormone (GH) – Stimulates growth, cell repair, and metabolism.
• Leptin – Regulates hunger and energy balance.
• Ghrelin – Stimulates appetite.

When hormones are balanced, the body can function smoothly -- supporting energy, mood, metabolism, sleep, immunity, sexual health and overall wellness.

But hormone levels get imbalanced due to chronic stress, aging, poor diet, unhealthy diet or general health issues. Hormonal imbalance is associated with a wide range of frustrating symptoms:

• Excess cortisol (the "stress hormone") can lead to fatigue, anxiety, weight gain, and sleep disruption; it may be targeted in natural stress management regimens.
• Low estrogen levels during menopause may cause hot flashes, mood swings, sleep problems, irregular menstrual cycles and changes in skin elasticity.
• Low testosterone in men and women may result in low libido, decreased muscle mass, fatigue, and mood changes.
• Insulin resistance, often tied to blood glucose imbalances, can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and weight management problems.
• Thyroid gland dysfunction can be underactive (sluggishness, cold sensitivity, depression) or overactive (anxiety, sleep problems, skin & hair issues).
• High prolactin levels can interfere with reproductive hormones, causing irregular periods, infertility, or low sex drive.
• Low melatonin can disrupt the body's internal clock, leading to insomnia, poor sleep quality, and daytime fatigue. Learn about natural melatonin found in cherries
• Leptin resistance may interfere with the body’s ability to feel appetite satisfaction, contributing to overeating and weight gain.
• High androgen levels (such as in polycystic hormone imbalance, or PCOS) can lead to acne, hair thinning, irregular periods, and unwanted hair growth.

With rising awareness of the importance of healthy hormonal balance, many individuals are seeking natural and holistic therapies, including dietary supplements, to help. This is just one area of wellness where functional mushrooms are now gaining popularity.

Some functional mushrooms may offer a gentle, adaptogenic approach to supporting the body’s hormonal systems. 

How Mushrooms Might Help Balance Hormones

Mushrooms have a far-ranging impact on human health, so may be well-suited to supporting the interconnected systems that influence hormonal health. Here's how mushrooms may help: 

Regulating stress hormone: High quality adaptogenic mushrooms help the body cope with stress by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis), reducing excess cortisol and promoting hormonal balance. Learn more about adaptogenic mushrooms

Insulin signaling and blood sugar support: Mushrooms like Maitake and Agaricus blazei may enhance insulin sensitivity and support blood sugar balance, influencing hormones like insulin and leptin.

Immune-endocrine cross-talk: Beta-glucans in mushrooms modulate immune signaling compounds called cytokines, which may influence hormone production indirectly.

Gut microbiome support (gut-brain-hormone axis): Prebiotics from mushrooms like Turkey Tail and Lion’s Mane nourish "good bacteria" in the gut, which can help with gut health and synthesis of neurotransmitters and hormones like serotonin and ghrelin.

Neurotrophic factor stimulation: Lion’s Mane promotes nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which play roles in mood regulation and stress hormone feedback.

Antioxidant and inflammation-regulating activity: Mushrooms that fight oxidative stress and help keep inflammation in check may normalize hormone function, especially for the thyroid, adrenals, and reproductive hormones.

Possible testosterone support: Cordyceps has been shown to stimulate testosterone production in Leydig cells (cells in the testes that produce T), suggesting a direct influence on reproductive hormone levels.

Phytoestrogenic or estrogen-like effects: Certain mushrooms like Tremella may exert mild estrogenic effects on skin and hydration, potentially supporting female hormonal health and skin health in postmenopausal women.

Learn about Adaptogen Herbs for Perimenopause and Menopause

Best Mushrooms for Hormone Balance

Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis/militaris)

Cordyceps, a fungus traditionally used in Tibetan and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has long been prized as a vitality enhancer -- especially when it comes to improving energy, stamina, libido, physical performance and overall health. Cordyceps is also considered an adaptogen; it helps the body adapt to various stressors.

In the past, folk healers collected cordyceps growing out of caterpillar carcasses. Today, it is cultivated without any caterpillar involvement and studied for energy, endurance, and mitochondrial function (mitochondria spark cell energy production).

Cordyceps for Hormonal Balance

Several studies have highlighted Cordyceps' potential for sexual health and hormone production. It may be most famously associated with one hormone in particular: testosterone.

Animal and cellular research suggests Cordyceps may support testosterone production in Leydig cells, which are the main T-producing cells in testes.

Research: One study investigated Cordyceps militaris' impact in rat models on cultured cells from the testes and prostate. Researchers reported Cordyceps appeared to help raise testosterone and DHT production in testicular cells and slowed the growth of prostate cells. This may suggest Cordyceps has potential for low T and prostate issues.(1)

Maitake (Grifola frondosa)

Maitake, also known as Hen-of-the-Woods, has been consumed for centuries in Japan for its flavor and health promoting properties. In fact, it is known as the "dancing mushroom" because people who found it in the wild -- typically growing in thick clusters on the base of hardwood trees-- would dance for joy due to its value.

This functional mushroom was used by Asian folk herbalists as a tonic for qi (life energy), as well as to nourish immune function and promote anti-aging benefits. It is rich in beta-glucans, known for supporting immunity and metabolic health. Maitake is also delicious, with a rich and savory umami flavor that's made it popular in cuisine.

Maitake for Hormonal Balance

Some research shows Maitake’s D-fraction -- the prized polysaccharide associated with benefits -- appears to help with insulin sensitivity and support blood sugar balance. One study reported enhanced insulin receptor activity and improved glucose uptake, suggesting positive effects on insulin and metabolic hormones.(2)

Agaricus blazei

Native to Brazil and later cultivated in Japan, Agaricus blazei Murill is mostly known for its immune-boosting beta-glucans. It's been traditionally used in Brazil and Japan to support immunity and overall vitality. Today, modern clinical studies seem to back these uses, reporting that Agaricus may enhance natural killer (NK) cells and other immune defenses, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

Agaricus for Hormone Balance

But what about hormones? Agaricus has also been investigated for its potential benefits in people with diabetes. This may be related to overall hormonal health because diabetes is linked to imbalance across several types of hormones, including:

• Leptin, which controls appetite
• Cortisol, the stress hormone
• Thyroid hormones
• Sex hormones, like estrogen and testosterone.

Research: In one clinical trial, people with type 2 diabetes who took 1,500 mg of Agaricus mushroom extract each day had better insulin sensitivity and higher levels of adiponectin, a hormone that helps regulate metabolism. This may suggest the mushroom may play a role in supporting healthy blood sugar and related hormone balance.(3)

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

Reishi, also called "lingzhi," has been used in Traditional Chinese and Japanese herbalism for centuries. It is recognized by its glossy appearance and prized for its purported benefits for qi and longevity, leading it to be known as "the elixir of immportality." Modern research supports its immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic benefits.

Reishi for Hormonal Balance

Reishi is among the most promising mushrooms for hormonal support. Research shows It helps balance stress hormones, especially cortisol, by supporting adrenal function and reducing cortisol production during stress. One clinical review found Reishi compounds may also influence testosterone and estrogen metabolism, potentially helping to restore hormonal balance under chronic stress.(4)

Mushrooms for Indirect Hormone Support

Cordyceps, Maitake, Agaricus and Reishi are the most evidence-backed mushrooms for directly regulating hormones; at least so far. But other mushrooms are in the conversation too, as they may influence hormonal health via indirect pathways. Let's take a look. 

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

Supports neurotransmitter balance and stress resilience via NGF stimulation and gut–brain axis; may indirectly influence mood-related hormones.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is a visually striking white mushroom native to Asia, Europe, and North America, where it grows on dead hardwood trees like beech and oak. It is recognized by its pale color and shaggy mane-like appearance. In Asian cuisine, the mushroom is recognized for its subtly sweet seafood-like flavor. 

Lion’s Mane has been used in East Asian herbalism for cognitive function and digestive health. It contains unique compounds (hericenones and erinacines) that enhance production of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which in turn helps to promote neuroplasticity and memory.

Though not directly studied for hormone regulation, Lion’s Mane may influence hormones via its gut-brain axis modulation.

We're highlighting Lion's Mane in this article because one research study showed it may offer intriguing benefits for a group that may struggle with symptoms of hormone imbalance: menopausal women. 

Lion’s Mane for Mood Support in Menopausal Women

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, researchers explored the effects of Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane) on mood in a group of 30 menopausal women -- a population often affected by hormonal fluctuations that can trigger anxiety, irritability, and depression. Study subjects consumed 2 grams of Lion's Mane extract as a daily routine for four weeks. After testing, compared to the placebo group, women who took Lion’s Mane showed significantly reduced levels of anxiety and depression.(5)

While it did not test hormone levels directly, the study seems to suggest Lion’s Mane may provide indirect hormonal support by helping to enhance mood during menopause, possibly via enhanced nerve growth factor (NGF) production and microbiome support. 

Learn more about the best mushroom for depression and anxiety

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

Functions as an adaptogen, helping regulate cortisol and support adrenal health through stress reduction and antioxidant activity.

Chaga is a birch-dwelling fungus traditionally used in Siberian and Eastern European folk practices to boost immune system resilience, soothe inflammation, and improve overall vitality. Today, scientists have linked its high antioxidant content, especially melanin and polyphenols, to a range of different benefits.

Although direct hormone studies are limited, Chaga’s adaptogenic properties have been suggested to help keep cortisol in check during times of stress. Plus, its antioxidant and inflammation-modulating actions may support adrenal recovery and help to balance endocrine system function.(6)

Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor)

Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor): Immune modulator and gut microbiome booster, both of which influence hormone signaling.

Turkey Tail is a colorful mushroom with a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine, especially for immune support. This mushroom is also known for its banded caps which resemble patterns of a turkey's tailfeathers. Clinically, it is known for polysaccharide compounds like PSK and PSP, which are used to support immune function.

Learn about today's top natural immune supplements

Though not traditionally classified as a hormone-balancing mushroom, Turkey Tail's immune-modulating effects may influence communication between the endocrine and immune systems. Some evidence suggests it may help normalize stress responses that would otherwise negatively impact affect hormone health. Plus, its prebiotic fiber nourishes beneficial bacteria in the gut, which in turn produce hormones.(7)

Tremella (Tremella fuciformis)

Provides antioxidant and skin-hydrating benefits that may mimic mild estrogenic effects in skin tissues, though direct hormonal action is unconfirmed in humans.

Tremella, often called the "beauty mushroom," has long been used in Chinese herbal traditions to promote skin hydration, a youthful appearance and overall vitality. It’s especially rich in hydrating polysaccharides.

While not directly linked to hormone modulation in clinical trials, Tremella’s antioxidant actions and skin hydration effects suggest potential influence on estrogen-related pathways. Some test-tube grade studies show it may have protective effects on fibroblasts, which are cells found in connective tissue that produce collagen to support and repair the skin, muscles, and other tissues.(8)

In theory, Tremella may help perimenopausal and menopausal women to promote soft and supple skin through times of hormonal changes. Tremella's polysaccharides also double as prebiotic fiber, feeding the microbiome's good bacteria for robust and healthy hormone production. 

Top Nootropic Stack with Mushroom Hormonal Support

Mind Lab Pro® is today's top-ranked nootropic supplement. While it is not a hormonal supplement, it does supply adaptogen herbs that regulate stress hormones along with  500 mg of organic Lion’s Mane Mushroom, which is one of the most intriguing mushrooms for hormones due to its research-backed cognitive benefits for menopausal women. Here's the full formula:

Mind Lab Pro® (MLP) Ingredients: Citicoline (CDP Choline) dosage 250mg per serving, Phosphatidylserine (PS) 100mg (from sunflower lecithin), Bacopa monnieri 150mg (standardized extract, 24% bacosides), Organic Lion's Mane Mushroom 500mg (fruit and mycelium), Maritime Pine Bark Extract 75mg (95% proanthocyanidins), N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine 175mg, L-Theanine 100mg per serving, Rhodiola rosea 50mg (3% rosavins and 1% salidrosides), NutriGenesis® Vitamin B6 (2.5 mg), Vitamin B9 (100 mcg), Vitamin B12 (7.5 mcg)

Mind Lab Pro is backed by three published human research studies, with more research currently underway. In studies, Mind Lab Pro was linked to:

• Significantly better performance in information processing speed.(9)
• Better performance across multiple types of memory, especially immediate memory and delayed recall.(10)
• Enhanced coordination across different regions of the brain.(11)

Learn more about the Mind Lab Pro® research studies

If you’re looking for a full-spectrum cognitive enhancer supplement that includes some bonus support for stress hormones, Mind Lab Pro® is a quality stack to consider.

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Summary

Functional mushrooms (sometimes called medicinal mushrooms, though they are not classified as drugs or medicine) are gaining recognition for supporting many aspects of human health, including hormonal balance. Through a combination of adaptogenic effects, immune health support, possible anti-inflammatory properties, gut microbiome support, and antioxidant activity, these mushrooms may help the body regulate hormones naturally and holistically.

As scientific interest continues to grow, functional mushrooms are becoming an increasingly researched and respected tool for supporting the endocrine system and overall well-being -- though always best used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.