1990s: A Mushroom Awakening in Science and Health

The 1990s marked a turning point for functional mushrooms as research began to substantiate what traditional medicine had known for centuries. The decade saw significant studies on the health benefits of Reishi, Cordyceps, and Lion’s Mane, leading to growing interest in the West. As the internet emerged and global knowledge-sharing increased, interest in these fungi expanded beyond niche communities. Health-conscious consumers began incorporating mushrooms into their daily routines, aided by the rise of dietary supplements and wellness products. This decade saw the first wave of mushroom-based health products becoming commercially available, reflecting a growing global shift toward natural health solutions.