Mushroom supplements are dried and milled mushrooms usually sold in capsule or powder form. These supplements offer nutritional and health benefits without cooking or eating them. About 200 mushroom supplements are available in the market and have medicinal effects on the human body. Mushroom supplements are commonly available in Capsules, Tablets, Liquid tinctures, Dried powder, Tea, and even coffee. While scientific evidence on their effectiveness is limited, some people incorporate mushroom supplements into their daily routines.
How to choose mushroom supplement
Choosing the best mushroom supplements depends on your specific health goals and preferences. Experts advise you to research the benefits depending on your health needs. Check if supplements are certified, organic, and free from contaminants like metals and sediments in farm soils.
Look for labels listing the exact amount of mushroom extract. The higher extraction ratios are indications much of the mushroom was used in making the supplement and guaranteed concentrations of 30% or more beta-glucan content. Research and read reviews on quality and sources.
The time it takes for mushroom supplements to show effects depends on several factors, including the type of mushroom, the health status, dosage, and consistency of use.
You may need to consult a healthcare professional before starting a new supplement regimen, especially if you have health conditions or are taking other medications.
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum):
- Benefits: Immune support, stress reduction, improved sleep, anti-inflammatory properties.
- Research: Studies suggest potential benefits for immune support, stress reduction, and improved sleep. Some evidence supports its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Effectiveness: Many users report positive effects, especially for stress and sleep improvement.
- Best Time: Evening or before bed.
- Reason: Reishi is known for its calming effects and potential to improve sleep quality. Taking it in the evening can help you relax and sleep well.
- Popular Brands: Host Defense, Real Mushrooms, Om Mushroom Superfood.
- Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated but can cause skin rashes or itching in some individuals.
- Interactions: Limited information, but exercise caution if taking medications that affect the nervous system.
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus):
- Benefits: Cognitive enhancement, nerve regeneration, improved focus and memory.
- Research: Preliminary studies indicate it may support cognitive function and nerve health. Animal studies and small human trials suggest it might improve memory and mental clarity.
- Effectiveness: Users often report enhanced cognitive function and focus.
- Best Time: Morning or early afternoon.
- Reason: Lion’s Mane is often used for cognitive enhancement, focus, and mental clarity. Taking it earlier can help support cognitive function and productivity throughout the day.
- Popular Brands: Host Defense, Real Mushrooms, Four Sigmatic.
- Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated but can cause skin rashes or itching in some individuals.
- Interactions: Limited information, but exercise caution if taking medications that affect the nervous system.
Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris):
- Benefits: Enhanced athletic performance, increased energy, and anti-aging properties.
- Research: Evidence suggests it may improve exercise performance, increase energy levels, and have anti-aging properties. Some studies have shown enhanced oxygen uptake and endurance.
- Effectiveness: Athletes and those seeking energy boosts often find it beneficial.
- Best Time: Morning or before a workout.
- Reason: Cordyceps is known for its energy-boosting properties and can enhance athletic performance. Taking it in the morning or before physical activity can help increase energy levels and endurance.
- Popular Brands: Host Defense, Real Mushrooms, Aloha Medicinals.
- Side Effects: Diarrhea, dry mouth, and nausea.
- Interactions: May affect blood sugar levels, so caution is advised for individuals taking diabetes medications.
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus):
- Benefits: Antioxidant properties, immune support, anti-inflammatory effects.
- Research: Known for its high antioxidant content, it may help with immune support and reduce inflammation. Studies are still ongoing to confirm its full range of benefits.
- Effectiveness: Users often note improved immune function and overall wellness.
- Best Time: Morning or early afternoon.
- Reason: Chaga is high in antioxidants and can support overall wellness. Taking it earlier in the day can help provide a steady supply of antioxidants and support immune function throughout the day.
- Popular Brands: Four Sigmatic, Host Defense, Sayan Health.
- Side Effects: It may cause digestive issues and increase the risk of bleeding because of its blood-thinning properties.
- Interactions: Avoid the use of anticoagulants and antiplatelet medications.
Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor):
- Benefits: Immune support, potential anti-cancer properties.
- Research: Well-documented for its immune-boosting properties. Some studies suggest potential anti-cancer effects, particularly in conjunction with conventional treatments.
- Effectiveness: Widely used for immune support, especially among cancer patients
- Popular Brands: Host Defense, Real Mushrooms, Mushroom Science.
- Best Time: Morning or with meals.
- Reason: Turkey Tail is often used for immune support. Taking it in the morning or with meals can help ensure consistent immune support throughout the day.
- Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated, but digestive upset can occur.
- Interactions: Potential interactions with immune-modulating drugs.
Maitake (Grifola frondosa):
- Benefits: Immune support, blood sugar regulation, cardiovascular health.
- Research: Some evidence supports its role in boosting immune function and regulating blood sugar levels. It’s also studied for potential cardiovascular benefits.
- Effectiveness: Users often report benefits for immune health and blood sugar control.
- Best Time: Morning or with meals.
- Reason: Maitake can help regulate blood sugar levels and support immune function. Taking it with meals can help enhance its effects on blood sugar regulation.
- Popular Brands: Mushroom Wisdom, Nature’s Way, Host Defense.
- Side Effects: Blood sugar drops, digestive issues, and potential allergic reactions.
- Interactions: This may lower blood sugar levels, so caution is advised for individuals on diabetes medications.
Shiitake (Lentinula edodes):
- Benefits: Immune support, cardiovascular health, anti-inflammatory properties.
- Research: Known for immune-boosting and cardiovascular benefits. It contains compounds like lentinan, which have shown promise in preliminary studies.
- Effectiveness: Users report improvements in immune function and heart health.
- Popular Brands: Host Defense, Nature’s Way, Mushroom Science.
- Best Time: Morning or with meals.
- Reason: Shiitake is known for its immune-boosting and cardiovascular benefits. Taking it with meals can help absorption and provide consistent support throughout the day.
- Side Effects: Shiitake dermatitis (a skin reaction from raw or undercooked mushrooms), digestive upset, and allergic reactions.
- Interactions: May interact with immunosuppressants and anticoagulants.
Agaricus blazei Murrill
- Benefits: Immune support, cells protection
- Research: Stimulate the immune system, potentially enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases. It contains antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Side Effects: Some individuals may experience mild side effects such as digestive issues (e.g., bloating, gas) or allergic reactions.
- Best Time: Morning, evening, or with meals.
- Reason: The supplement can help boost energy and support overall vitality for the day. Taking it in the evening can promote a sense of calm before bedtime, helping you relax or reduce stress. It also enhances nutrient absorption when taken with food and reduces the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort in case of any sensitive stomach.
- Interactions: May interact with Anticoagulants, Antiplatelet, Immunosuppressants, Antidiabetic and Antihypertensive Medications.
16 best mushroom supplements Brands.
High-quality mushroom supplement-producing brands include:
1. Host Defense
Overview:
Founded by mycologist Paul Stamets, Host Defense is known for its high-quality mushroom supplements.
Popular Products:
MyCommunity, Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps.
Features:
Organic, sustainably grown mushrooms, third-party tested.
2. Real Mushrooms
Overview:
It focuses on providing pure mushroom extracts without any fillers or additives.
Popular Products:
Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Chaga.
Features:
Hot water extraction, organic, high beta-glucan content
3. Four Sigmatic
Overview:
It is known for its mushroom coffee, elixirs, and blends.
Popular Products:
Mushroom Coffee Mix, Lion’s Mane Elixir, Reishi Elixir.
Features:
Convenient blends, organic, tested for purity.
4. Om Mushroom Superfood
Overview:
It offers a wide range of mushroom supplements in powders and capsules.
Popular Products:
Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps.
Features:
Organic, non-GMO, grown in the USA.
5. Mushroom Revival
Overview:
It specializes in tinctures and gummies made from medicinal mushrooms.
Popular Products:
Lion’s Mane Tincture, Cordyceps Gummies, Reishi Tincture.
Features:
Organic, double-extracted, tested for quality.
6. FreshCap Mushrooms
Overview:
It provides high-quality mushroom supplements with a focus on education and transparency.
Popular Products:
Thrive 6, Lion’s Mane, Reishi.
Features:
Organic, dual-extracted, tested for active compounds.
7. VidaCap
Overview:
It offers a variety of mushroom capsules for different health needs.
Popular Products:
Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Turkey Tail.
Features:
Organic, non-GMO, third-party tested.
8. Nootropics Depot
Overview:
It is known for a wide range of cognitive-enhancing supplements, including mushrooms.
Popular Products:
Lion’s Mane Capsules, Reishi Extract, Cordyceps Capsules.
Features:
High-potency extracts, lab-tested for purity.
9. Mushroom Science
Overview:
It specializes in scientifically backed mushroom extracts.
Popular Products:
Reishi, Cordyceps, Maitake.
Features:
Organic, full-spectrum extracts, third-party tested.
10. Terrasoul Superfoods
Overview:
It provides a variety of superfoods, including mushroom powders.
Popular Products:
Reishi Powder, Lion’s Mane Powder, Chaga Powder.
Features:
Organic, non-GMO, affordable bulk options.
11. FreshCap Ultimate Mushroom Complex
Overview:
A blend of six powerful medicinal mushrooms.
Ingredients:
Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, Turkey Tail, Chaga, Maitake.
Benefits:
It supports immune function, cognitive health, energy, and overall well-being.
Features:
Organic, dual-extracted for maximum potency, no fillers, and non-GMO.
User Reviews:
Many users have reported improvements in energy and mental clarity.
12. Genius Mushrooms
Overview:
It is a popular supplement that combines three well-known mushrooms for cognitive and immune support.
Ingredients:
Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Reishi.
Benefits:
It enhances mental clarity, boosts energy, supports immune health, and reduces stress.
Features:
Non-GMO, gluten-free, no artificial additives.
User Reviews:
It is highly rated for its effectiveness in improving focus and reducing fatigue.
13. Clean Nutraceuticals Mushroom Supplement
Overview:
It is a comprehensive mushroom blend designed to support overall health.
Ingredients:
Typically includes a mix of Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, Turkey Tail, Chaga, Shiitake, Maitake, and others.
Benefits:
Immune support, cognitive enhancement, energy boost, and overall well-being.
Features:
Organic, non-GMO, third-party tested for purity and potency.
User Reviews:
Positive feedback for its broad-spectrum benefits and high-quality formulation.
14. Transparent Labs Shroom Stack
Overview:
It is a targeted mushroom supplement for cognitive and immune support.
Ingredients:
Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Reishi, and Turkey Tail.
Benefits:
It enhances mental performance, boosts energy and stamina, and supports immune health.
Features:
Transparent labeling, no artificial additives, gluten-free, non-GMO.
User Reviews:
Well-reviewed for its transparency in ingredients and effectiveness in boosting mental clarity and energy levels.
Hunter Focus
Overview:
It is a nootropic supplement that includes medicinal mushrooms, among other cognitive enhancers.
Ingredients:
It includes Lion’s Mane and other nootropic ingredients like Citicoline, Bacopa Monnieri, and Ashwagandha.
Benefits:
It enhances focus, memory, mental clarity, and overall cognitive performance.
Features:
Premium ingredients, free from artificial additives, non-GMO.
User Reviews:
It is praised for its comprehensive formula and effectiveness in improving cognitive functions.
15. Stonehenge Health Dynamic Mushrooms
Overview:
It is a blend designed to support overall health, focusing on cognitive and immune benefits.
Ingredients:
Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, Maitake, Shiitake.
Benefits:
It supports mental clarity and boosts immune function, energy, and overall wellness.
Features:
Organic, non-GMO, no fillers or additives, third-party tested.
User Reviews:
Users report improved mental clarity, energy levels, and overall wellness.
What are the side effects of taking these supplements?
Mushroom supplements are regarded as safe for most people when used as prescribed. However, as with any supplement, there can be side effects and potential interactions, especially if taken in large amounts or if you have certain health conditions.
General Side Effects:
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Some people may experience digestive discomfort, including nausea, diarrhea, or stomach cramps.
- Allergic Reactions: Though rare, allergic reactions can occur, especially in individuals with known mushroom allergies.
- Skin Reactions: Skin rashes or itching may occur in sensitive individuals.
Precautions:
Pre-existing Conditions:
Individuals with autoimmune diseases, bleeding disorders, or those undergoing surgery should consult a healthcare professional before taking mushroom supplements.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
There is less evidence on the safety of mushroom supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult with a healthcare professional.
Medication Interactions:
Always check for potential interactions with the medications you are taking. Mushrooms can affect blood sugar, blood pressure, and blood clotting.
Is it OK to take multiple mushroom supplements?
Yes, it is OK to take multiple mushroom supplements, as many medicinal mushrooms have complementary benefits and can work synergistically. However, there are a few crucial considerations to keep in mind:
Considerations and Precautions:
Ensure all the supplements are high-quality, organic, and free from fillers and contaminants. Be mindful of the total dosage when combining supplements. Follow the recommended dosages on each product and avoid exceeding them.
While most medicinal mushrooms are safe, combining them can sometimes increase the risk of side effects or interactions with medications. Consult a healthcare professional if you are on any medications or have underlying health conditions.
Start with lower doses when combining supplements to assess your response and tolerance. Gradually increase the dosage as needed.
What not to take with mushroom supplements?
You should be aware of potential interactions with other drugs, supplements, or foods while taking mushroom supplements. Here are some important considerations:
Medications:
Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners):
Example: Warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix).
Some mushrooms, like Reishi and Chaga, have blood-thinning properties that may enhance the effects of these medications, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Antidiabetic Medications:
Examples: Insulin, metformin, and sulfonylureas.
Mushrooms like Maitake and Cordyceps can lower blood sugar levels. Taking them with antidiabetic medications may cause blood sugar to drop too low (hypoglycemia).
Immunosuppressants:
Example: Cyclosporine, tacrolimus.
Medicinal mushrooms, particularly those with immune-boosting properties like Turkey Tail, may interfere with the effectiveness of immunosuppressants.
Antihypertensive Medication:
Examples: ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and diuretics.
Mushrooms such as Reishi may drop blood pressure, potentially amplifying the effects of these drugs and resulting in hypotension.
Supplements:
Other Immune-Boosting Supplements:
Example: Echinacea, elderberry.
Combining multiple immune-boosting supplements might overstimulate the immune system, potentially leading to an imbalance or autoimmune response.
Stimulants:
Example: Caffeine, guarana.
Cordyceps may increase energy levels. Combining it with other stimulants could lead to excessive stimulation, causing jitteriness, anxiety, or increased heart rate.
Foods:
Alcohol can affect liver function, and since some mushrooms (like Reishi) may also impact the liver, combining them might increase the risk of liver damage.
Summary
Take your mushroom supplements routinely to help build a routine and ensure consistent benefits. Most mushroom supplements can be taken with or without food, but taking them with a meal might help reduce the risk of digestive discomfort for some individuals.
The quality of the product influences the effectiveness of mushroom supplements. Adhere to recommended dosages on the product label or doctor’s advice. As with many supplements, consistent use over time is often necessary to see significant benefits.
Read more about other mushroom products
1. Lion Mane Mushroom Powder here.
2. Mushroom leather here