Should You Be Taking Mushroom Supplements?

What to Know Before You Start

From ancient healing remedies to modern functional medicine, mushroom supplements are esteemed for their multitude of health benefits for the body and mind. But are they really worth the hype,  and more importantly, should you be taking them? 

In this article, we will take a closer look at mushrooms, including different varieties, their benefits, risks, and how to choose a mushroom supplement. So, if you’re ready to learn more about what fungi can do for you, read on. 

What are medicinal mushrooms?

Medicinal mushrooms are fungi used for centuries in apothecaries to promote good health. Modern practitioners and wellness gurus tout mushrooms as nature’s miracle, and they’re not wrong. These fungi are full of bioactive constituents that give them unique medicinal properties.

You might be surprised to learn that mushrooms are used to make many different prescription medications used today. Check out our article, Say Yes to Mushrooms for more insight on mushroom uses and their benefits. 

What are the benefits of mushroom supplements?

From immune-boosting to fatigue-fighting, mushrooms have so many health benefits that we can’t even cover them all in this article. Here are some of the main benefits of mushroom supplements:

Immune Support

Some noteworthy bioactive constituents that give mushrooms such powerful immunomodulating properties include β-glucans, lectins, and linolenic acids. These powerful compounds fight inflammation and reduce oxidative stress, which protects immune cells from damage.

Cognitive Function

A 2022 study looked at the association between mushroom intake and cognitive performance in older adults and found those who consumed more mushrooms had stronger performance. The study revealed that mushroom intake may delay cognitive decline associated with neurodegenerative diseases and aging. 

Stress Reduction

Mushrooms are natural adaptogens, meaning they help build the body’s resilience to stressors. In doing so, the body can defend against pathogens because the fight or flight response stays regulated, which also helps keep cortisol and insulin balanced.

That’s not all — discover the metabolic, gastrointestinal, and chemoprotective benefits of mushrooms in this article, 7 Benefits of Mushrooms from UCLA Health. 

How to choose a mushroom supplement?

Choosing the best mushroom supplements for you will depend on your health goals. So depending on what you want to achieve, that will help filter out which type of mushroom you are looking for, then we can focus on quality. 

Mushroom Varieties

While this is not a comprehensive list of all the mushroom varieties and their benefits, it’s a great place to get started. Here are some popular mushroom varieties and their health benefits:

Lion’s Mane 

Lion’s mane is regarded as one of the best types of mushrooms for cognitive support, mental clarity, and focus. It is full of B vitamins and essential minerals that support brain health. A great way to consume it is in lion’s mane mushroom powder, often found in drink mixes and coffee replacements. Learn more about the health benefits of lion’s mane.

Cordyceps

Cordyceps are known for their ability to enhance exercise performance, support endurance, and fight fatigue. This variety also has immunomodulating properties to support the body’s defenses and libido.

Chaga

Chaga is one of the most antioxidant-rich varieties of mushrooms out there. By defending against free radicals that cause long-term damage to cells over time, this variety also bolsters innate immunity by protecting those immune cells so they are ready when you need them most. 

Turkey Tail

Turkey tail is known for its immune-enhancing properties. It contains the highest content of beta glucans, which are bioactive compounds, a type of polysaccharide that protect the immune system. This variety also protects the immune system through the gut by acting as a prebiotic, supporting a healthy microbiome and healing the gut lining. Learn more about how mushrooms support the gut in this PSC article, Medicinal Mushrooms.

Reishi 

Reishi is commonly used for its stress-reducing and relaxation properties, while also supporting whole body health, including heart, brain, energy, and immunity. 

What are the risks of mushroom supplements?

While generally safe for most people, there are some risk factors to consider before adding mushroom supplements to your health routine. Avoid mushroom supplements if you have a known allergy, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. For personalized guidance, consult your practitioner before starting, especially if you take medications.

The Best Mushroom Supplements 

Below are some of the best mushroom supplements around that you can use to support your whole body health and longevity:

Om Mushroom Superfood Chaga 

Om Mushroom Superfood Chaga is great for those looking for quality and convenience. This vegan-friendly option offers 50 servings of USDA Organic and non-GMO chaga mushroom that blends seamlessly into any beverage. It is third-party tested for quality, guaranteed to be free of heavy metals and contaminants, and USA-grown.

True Grace Cordyceps

True Grace Cordyceps is ideal for active individuals seeking an endurance and immune boost. This formula features 100% organic mushroom of cordyceps alongside a potent 250mg of beta glucan per serving. This vegan-friendly formula is free of gluten, GMOs, dairy, and soy.

Host Defense MycoBrew Lion’s Mane Drink Mix

Host Defense MycoBrew Lion’s Mane Drink Mix contains lion’s mane mushroom powder with coffee and cocoa for the perfect replacement to your standard cup of coffee. This drink mix is designed to be mixed with water or your favorite creamy beverage to deliver 760 mg of lion’s mane and 44 mg of caffeine per serving. 

Discover more of the best mushroom supplements available, shop Professional Supplement Center’s vast mushroom formulas.

The Bottom Line

Mushrooms have been used around the world for centuries for their immune, cognitive, and stress-reducing benefits. Lion’s mane, chaga, reishi, and cordyceps are a few of the common varieties found in supplements. 

When it comes to choosing a mushroom supplement, deciding your goal will help pinpoint which variety to look for. Then assess product quality, opting for those bearing the cGMP seal, products that are third-party tested, and are certified organic, like Om Mushroom Superfood. 

By adding mushrooms to your routine, you can feel more energized, resilient, calm, and focused. So, next time that 3 p.m. crash hits, try swapping your normal caffeine for a mushroom drink for a more sustainable boost to keep you going—your body and mind will thank you for it!

FAQs

Are mushroom supplements safe for daily use?

Mushroom supplements are generally safe for daily use and come with a very low risk of side effects. It is best practice to consult your practitioner and/or pharmacist to rule out underlying conditions or medication interactions.

Which mushroom is best for mental focus or stress relief?

Lion’s mane and reishi are the best varieties for achieving mental focus and stress relief. You can find them individually, like a lion’s mane mushroom powder or reishi tincture, or blended formulas with both.  

How long does it take for mushrooms to work?

It can take anywhere from two to 12 weeks to see the full benefits of mushroom supplements. Being consistent and following the label instructions will give the best results.