Michael Davis
Medicinal mushrooms, also known as herbal or functional mushrooms, have been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda. They contain bioactive compounds that provide various health benefits, including enhanced immune support, improved brain function, and increased energy levels. With unique compositions and functions, these mushrooms can be combined to create a well-rounded approach to health. For instance, lion's mane supports cognitive function, while reishi aids in relaxation and stress relief. When mixed, these two mushrooms create a powerful combination for brain function and stress relief. While there is no best way to consume medicinal mushrooms, various methods exist, such as mushroom teas, tinctures, supplements, and cooking with dried mushroom powders.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Medicinal mushroom forms | Powders, extracts, capsules, tablets, teas, tinctures, cooked mushrooms, supplements |
| Medicinal mushroom types | Reishi, lion's mane, chaga, cordyceps, turkey tail, shiitake, maitake, oyster |
| Benefits | Support immune system, brain health, energy levels, overall well-being, cognitive function, nerve health, mental clarity, stress reduction, antioxidant protection |
| Dosage | 1-3 grams total of extracted mushrooms is recommended |
| Stacking | Can combine multiple mushroom types at the same time, but start with one or two types if new to mushroom supplements |
| Tincture preparation | Triple extraction method with alcohol, hot water, and cold water; a ratio of 1:3.5 alcohol to water yields 20.8%-22.2% ABV |
| Tincture consumption | Can be added to water, tea, or other foods and liquids; can also be consumed straight |
| Shelf life | Tinctures have a long shelf life; water extractions should be prepared fresh weekly and stored in the fridge |
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What You'll Learn
Medicinal mushroom powders, capsules and tablets
Medicinal mushrooms are a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can add umami to any dish. They are packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition to your diet. You can buy extracted versions of these mushrooms in capsules or as a powder. However, if you want to make your own mushroom powder or capsules, here is how to do it.
Firstly, you need to dehydrate the mushrooms. You can buy pre-dehydrated mushrooms at popular grocers, or you can dry them yourself. To do this, select organic mushrooms and clean and slice your fungi before drying. Then, use a food processor or blender to blitz the dried mushrooms into a fine powder. You can also use a coffee grinder. If you want to make a powder out of Reishi antlers, it is recommended to make an extract first, as it is difficult to make a fine powder from its leathery texture. To make an extract, chop the mushrooms into small pieces and place them in a large pot with about ten times as much water as mushrooms.
If you want to make capsules, you will need a capsule machine, a digital scale, a spoon, a ceramic container, and a grinder. You can choose between gelatin or vegetarian capsules. You can buy pre-made capsules and fill them with your mushroom powder, or you can make your own capsules using a capsule machine. To make your own capsules, you will need to weigh and encapsulate your mushroom powder, which can be time-consuming.
You can add your mushroom powder to smoothies, teas, soups, broths, or your morning coffee. You can also mix it into your favourite beverage, dissolve it in water, or add it to recipes for an extra nutrition boost. It is recommended to consume between half a gram and two grams of mushroom powder extract per day, but you should contact a healthcare professional to discuss the correct dosage for you.
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Teas and tinctures
Medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. They are now gaining popularity in modern wellness circles. Teas and tinctures are some of the ways to consume medicinal mushrooms.
Teas
Mushroom tea is an infusion made by steeping medicinal mushrooms in hot water. This extraction process allows the beneficial compounds found in mushrooms to be released into the water, creating a drink that's both flavorful and packed with potential health benefits. The first step in brewing mushroom tea is deciding which mushrooms to use. Chaga, Lion's Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, and Maitake are some of the most popular mushrooms used in teas. Chaga mushrooms, known by the botanical name Inonotus obliquus, are particularly popular in Russia and can be commonly found in tea houses across the nation. Chaga tea has a mild taste with a slight hint of vanilla. Lion's Mane, on the other hand, is known for its sweet, savory flavor with a meaty essence. Maitake mushrooms have a fruity, earthy, and spicy flavor profile.
Mushroom tea preparation takes minutes and only a few basic ingredients. You can enhance the flavor with natural sweeteners, spices, herbs, and other tea varieties.
Tinctures
Medicinal mushroom tinctures are made by soaking mushrooms in alcohol, which releases and extracts the bioactive nutrients like polysaccharides and triterpenes. Tinctures can be made with a single extraction or a dual extraction. Single extraction involves using a single solvent, while dual extraction combines both alcohol and water extractions to capture a broader spectrum of beneficial compounds. The mushrooms used for tinctures include Reishi, Chaga, Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, and more.
Tinctures can be added to tea, coffee, or soft foods like soups, sauces, or salad dressings.
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Cooking with medicinal mushrooms
Medicinal mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. They are rich in protein, fiber, vitamin C, B vitamins, and minerals, and they add a savoury umami flavour to your meal.
When cooking with medicinal mushrooms, it is important to first identify the type of mushroom you are using, as each type has unique cooking requirements. Fresh or dried medicinal mushrooms can be purchased from local farmers' markets, grocers, health food stores, or online retailers. However, it is crucial to only buy from trusted sources, as some mushrooms can be inedible or poisonous. Always opt for organically grown mushrooms to avoid exposure to toxic pesticide and herbicide residues. Before cooking, use a damp cloth to gently wipe away any dirt from the mushrooms, avoiding submerging them in water due to their absorbent nature.
- Shiitake mushrooms: These mushrooms are versatile and can be used fresh or dried. Slice fresh shiitake mushrooms and sauté them in olive oil over medium heat. They can then be added to soups, stir-fries, miso soup, or rice dishes. Dried shiitake mushrooms should be soaked in boiling water for about 30 minutes before cooking.
- Lion's mane mushrooms: This variety has a seafood-like flavour and is suitable for vegetarian and vegan dishes. Lion's mane mushrooms are tough and watery, so they require slow cooking over a longer period to remove excess moisture. They can be sliced and sautéed in olive oil, then added to curries, pizzas, or frittatas.
- Reishi and chaga mushrooms: These mushrooms are not ideal for cooking due to their tough texture. Instead, they are traditionally prepared as a tea or added to broths.
Additionally, medicinal mushrooms can be incorporated into your diet in other forms:
- Mushroom tea: Dried medicinal mushrooms, such as chaga, reishi, or shiitake, can be steeped in boiling water to make a flavourful tea.
- Mushroom tinctures: Tinctures are liquid extracts that can be added to water, tea, or other foods and beverages. They offer versatility and can be consumed straight or mixed with other ingredients.
- Mushroom powders: Powdered mushroom extracts can be purchased or made by grinding dried mushrooms. They are potent, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed. Ensure that the powder is made from the fruiting bodies of the mushrooms and does not contain fillers or starches.
- Mushroom supplements: When choosing mushroom supplements, read the labels carefully. Some supplements may only contain mycelium, the network of cells from which the mushrooms grow, rather than the mushrooms themselves. Look for certified organic products made from the fruiting bodies to ensure you're getting the desired benefits.
When cooking mushrooms, it is essential to avoid common mistakes such as washing the mushrooms, salting them too early, or overcrowding the pan. Instead, use a damp paper towel to clean the mushrooms, and avoid adding salt until the end of the cooking process. Cook mushrooms in a single layer in a dry pan over medium-high heat to allow them to brown and develop flavour and texture. You can finish them with butter, aromatics, and seasonings of your choice.
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Stacking mushrooms
There are various ways to combine mushrooms, including powders, extracts, capsules, tablets, teas, tinctures, and cooking. When stacking mushrooms, it is important to understand how they interact and their unique benefits. For example, Lion's Mane is known as the "smart mushroom", supporting cognitive function and nerve health, while Reishi is the "calm and wise one", contributing to mental clarity and stress reduction. Stacking these two mushrooms creates a perfect blend for brain function and stress relief.
Another popular stack is the Stamets Stack, named after mycologist and author Paul Stamets. This stack combines Lion's Mane, believed to promote neurogenesis and protect the brain, with psilocybin mushrooms, which have psychedelic effects. Niacin is sometimes added to this stack, as it is thought to enhance the effects of psilocybin. However, it is important to note that the use of psilocybin mushrooms is illegal in many places and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
When stacking mushrooms, it is generally recommended to start with a lower dose of one or two types of mushrooms before combining multiple varieties. The typical dose for mushroom extracts is 1-3 grams, and it is easy to mix and match different types of mushroom powders to create a blend within this range. However, for specific conditions, it is best to consult a doctor or natural healthcare practitioner for personalised recommendations.
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Dosage and safety
While medicinal mushrooms are generally safe, there are a few factors to consider when mixing them. Firstly, it is recommended to start slowly, especially if you are new to mushroom supplements. Begin with one or two types of mushrooms before combining multiple varieties. This allows you to understand how your body reacts to different mushrooms and ensures a gradual introduction.
Secondly, dosage plays a crucial role in the effectiveness and safety of medicinal mushrooms. A commonly recommended dose is 1-3 grams of extracted mushrooms. When using different mushroom extract powders, you can easily mix and match various mushroom types while staying within this dosage range. However, it is important to consult a doctor or natural healthcare practitioner if you are addressing a specific condition to obtain personalized recommendations.
Additionally, the method of consumption influences the dosage and safety of medicinal mushrooms. Mushroom supplements come in various forms, including powders, extracts, capsules, tablets, teas, and tinctures. Powders and extracts can be mixed into drinks, smoothies, or teas, allowing for easy customization of your mushroom blend. Capsules and tablets offer convenience and often contain multiple mushroom extracts. Teas and tinctures are effective ways to consume multiple mushrooms, with many blends formulated for specific purposes like immunity, energy, or relaxation. When consuming tinctures, you can add them to water, tea, or other liquids, providing versatility in your consumption methods.
It is important to note that combining mushrooms with alcohol is generally not recommended due to unpredictable results. Alcohol and mushrooms interact by affecting the brain in similar ways, intensifying their effects, side effects, and potential risks. This combination may lead to hallucinations, distorted reality, and an increased risk of a "bad trip." Therefore, it is advisable to avoid mixing alcohol with medicinal mushrooms and always seek expert advice when in doubt.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can take multiple types of medicinal mushrooms together, and doing so can enhance their benefits. However, it is important to understand how these mushrooms interact and complement each other.
Reishi and cordyceps are a great combination for balancing energy levels. Lion's mane and reishi are perfect for brain function and stress relief. Chaga and turkey tail are both rich in antioxidants and beneficial for immune support.
Medicinal mushrooms are commonly available as powders, extracts, capsules, tablets, teas, and tinctures. They can also be cooked and added to soups, stews, or coffee.
Each functional mushroom has its own unique benefits, so it's important to understand where you need support the most. For example, cordyceps is known for boosting energy, while lion's mane supports cognitive function and nerve health.
Generally, 1-3 grams total of extracted mushrooms is a commonly recommended dose. If using different mushroom powders, you can mix and match to stay within this range. Always consult a healthcare professional for specific recommendations.
