Most mushroom supplements fall into two main categories: dried and milled whole food mushroom powder and mushroom extracts. Whole food mushroom powder contains all the nutrients and bioactive compounds of the mushroom’s full cycle, including the mycelium and fruiting bodies.
Extracts typically contain a standardized dosage of one of the mushroom’s bioactive compounds such as beta-glucan polysaccharides. After the desired component is extracted from the mushroom in hot water or alcohol, it may be packaged in liquid form or dried and sold as an extract powder.
Types of Mushroom Supplement Formats
Mushroom supplements are available in several forms for easy inclusion into your daily wellness routine:
- Mushroom powder: Usually packaged in resealable pouches or canisters and mixed into beverages or recipes.
- Mushroom capsules: Powder blends in capsule form for convenience and precise dosing.
- Mushroom tinctures: Liquid extracts in dropper bottles for adding to beverages, broths, or soups.
- Ready-to-use products: Powder or extract blends combined into beverage and broth mixes.
Regardless of format, it is important to ensure that your mushroom supplement is made with high-quality mushrooms grown under strict standards for safety and purity. Look for third-party testing and a brand that controls cultivation and manufacturing from start to finish.
What Are the Benefits of Taking Functional Mushroom Supplements?
Functional mushrooms contain many nutrients and bioactive compounds that have earned them superfood status. Their use has been documented around the world for centuries. As a whole, they may support immune system functioning and gut health.
Each species also has unique supportive properties:
Lion’s Mane
Contains beneficial hericenones and erinacines. Lion’s mane supplements are used to support a healthy brain and nervous system.
Reishi
A well-known adaptogen that supports restful sleep and the body’s response to stress while helping maintain internal balance.
Maitake
Supports metabolic health and weight maintenance when combined with exercise and a balanced diet.
Cordyceps
Supports energy, endurance, and respiratory performance for both athletes and non-athletes.
Do Mushroom Supplements Really Work?
Mushroom supplements offer the same naturally low-calorie nutrition found in whole mushrooms. Their antioxidants help balance free radicals, while beta-glucan polysaccharides support immune function and the body’s response to inflammation.
Prebiotic fiber supports beneficial gut bacteria. Because functional mushrooms work best daily, supplements offer a convenient way to maintain consistent intake.
How Long Does It Take for Mushroom Supplements to Work?
Mushrooms perform best when taken daily. Over time — typically after two to three weeks — the benefits may begin to support optimal body functioning.
A daily dose of about 2g of quality mushroom powder (around one teaspoon) or three capsules is common, with some users taking two daily servings initially.
Can Mushroom Supplements Work for Me?
With both shared benefits and unique traits across species, mushroom supplements offer many options to support individual wellness goals. You can start with a single species targeted to your priority, or choose a multi-blend formula that supports multiple systems.
With numerous options and formats available, there’s something for nearly every wellness routine.