2000s: Mainstreaming Mushrooms in the Wellness Boom

The wellness movement exploded in the 2000s, fueled by the internet’s ability to democratize information. Yoga, organic foods, and plant-based diets became widely adopted, and functional mushrooms rode this wave. Reishi, Chaga, and Cordyceps gained prominence as part of the emerging trend of adaptogens—natural substances that help the body resist stress. The rise of scientific studies further legitimized mushrooms, linking them to benefits like enhanced immunity, better sleep, and improved cognitive function. As people gravitated toward holistic approaches to health, functional mushrooms began to be featured in supplements, teas, and even beauty products, steadily gaining a foothold in the mainstream wellness industry.