Emma Wilson
There are many mushroom supplements on the market, and it can be challenging to determine which ones are backed by reliable research. While some mushrooms are eaten whole, one of the most common ways to supplement mushrooms is with a mushroom powder or extract. Mushrooms are known to support immunity, heart health, and stress response. They are also a good source of selenium, B vitamins, vitamin D, and potassium. Popular mushroom supplements include Lion's Mane, Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Turkey Tail. Real Mushrooms and Pilly Labs Mushroom Gummies have been recognized for their high-quality mushroom supplements.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Capsules, gummies, powder, coffee, tinctures, dried powder, tea/coffee blends |
| Ingredients | Lion's Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, Chaga, Turkey Tail, Shiitake, Maitake, Ashwagandha, L-Theanine, Collagen, MCT Oil, etc. |
| Benefits | Brain health, focus, memory, energy, immune system, stress relief, sleep, anti-inflammatory, anti-ageing, gut health, blood sugar control, etc. |
| Certifications | USDA Organic, Non-GMO, Vegan, Gluten-free |
| Price | £20.99 - £38 |
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What You'll Learn
Lion's Mane for brain function
Lion's mane mushrooms are functional mushrooms that have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. They are believed to have many health benefits, especially for the brain and heart.
Lion's mane contains two compounds, hericenones and erinacines, that can stimulate the growth of brain cells and improve the functioning of the hippocampus, a region of the brain responsible for processing memories and emotional responses. Research has shown that lion's mane mushroom extract may help speed up recovery from brain and spinal cord injuries by stimulating the growth and repair of nerve cells.
Animal studies have found that lion's mane may help protect against Alzheimer's disease and dementia by reducing symptoms of memory loss and preventing neuronal damage caused by amyloid-beta plaques. In one study, older adults with mild cognitive impairment who took lion's mane powder for four months showed temporary improvements on cognitive tests. Another small study found that younger adults who took lion's mane capsules displayed improved mental performance speed.
Lion's mane may also have benefits for mental health. Animal studies suggest that it may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and it has been shown to reduce feelings of irritation and anxiety in menopausal women.
Lion's mane supplements come in various forms, including powders, capsules, liquid extracts, and gummies. However, it is important to note that there is limited research on the long-term safety and side effects of lion's mane supplementation. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before taking any new supplement.
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Reishi for calming and immune balance
Reishi mushrooms, also known as Ganoderma lucidum or lingzhi, are large, shiny-looking mushrooms native to Asia. They have been used in traditional Eastern medicine for centuries to promote long-term health and longevity. Today, they are often recommended to support immune health in patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation.
Reishi mushrooms contain beta-glucans, complex sugars that can slow or stop the growth of tumours. They also stimulate the production of "natural killer cells", a type of white blood cell that targets abnormal and cancerous cells. In addition, reishi mushrooms may help manage the function of T lymphocyte cells (T cells), which play a crucial role in fighting infections and cancer.
Beyond their immune-boosting properties, reishi mushrooms may also provide calming effects. Studies have shown that they can reduce fatigue, anxiety, and depression. They may also improve sleep and help regulate the body's testosterone levels, promoting good energy levels.
Reishi mushrooms are available in various forms, including fresh, powdered, as a dietary supplement, and tea. However, it is important to note that optimal doses have not been established, and the quality and active ingredients in supplements may vary. Additionally, reishi mushrooms may cause digestive side effects and can be unsafe for certain individuals, such as those taking specific medications or who have low blood pressure. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before consuming reishi mushroom supplements to ensure their safety and determine the appropriate dosage.
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Cordyceps for energy
Cordyceps is a medicinal fungus that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat fatigue and boost energy levels. It is often marketed as a pre-workout supplement due to its potential to improve exercise performance.
Cordyceps is a genus of parasitic fungi that grows on specific insects and has been studied for its effects on various conditions. It contains various components that may offer several health benefits, including boosting energy and supporting heart health.
Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris are the two species that have become the focus of health research. Both contain the bioactive compounds adenosine and cordycepin, which are believed to provide health benefits. C. militaris, in particular, may provide an increase in ATP production, which supplies energy to the muscles.
A study on individuals who consumed a mushroom blend containing cordyceps during high-intensity exercise showed significant improvement in VO2 max, a measurement of how much oxygen the body absorbs and uses during workouts.
Cordyceps supplements are available in powder, capsule, and liquid forms, making them a convenient way to incorporate this fungus into your daily routine. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any new supplement to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
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Turkey Tail for immune support
Turkey tail mushrooms are multicoloured fungi that grow on trees and fallen logs worldwide, including in the United States. They are named for their colourful, fan-like shape, which resembles a turkey's outspread tail. Turkey tail mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, where they are known as Yun Zhi, and in Japan, where they are called kawaratake.
Turkey tail mushrooms are one of the most well-known medicinal mushrooms and are rich in protein-bound polysaccharides that stimulate immune responses, particularly in the function of T-cells and NK cells. They contain compounds known as polysaccharopeptide (PSP) and polysaccharide-K (PSK), which may stimulate the immune system, especially in combination with other anticancer treatments. PSP increases monocytes, types of white blood cells that fight infection and boost immunity. PSK stimulates dendritic cells, which promote immunity to toxins and regulate immune response, and activates natural killer cells, a type of white blood cell that helps protect against pathogens and cancerous tumours. Turkey tail mushrooms also contain prebiotics, which help nourish beneficial gut bacteria and promote a healthy gut microbiome.
Modern research confirms that compounds found in turkey tail mushrooms act as nonspecific immune modulators, either stimulating or suppressing immune function in a general way. A clinical trial conducted in 2012 found that breast cancer patients who took capsules of powdered turkey tail mushrooms recovered immune function after radiation therapy more quickly than those who didn't take the capsules. Another study found that the mushrooms appeared to boost the efficacy of chemotherapy. Turkey tail mushroom extract may also support cancer treatment and restore the balance of gut bacteria.
Turkey tail mushrooms can be consumed as a complementary treatment for cancer. They are available as capsules or powder and can be incorporated into your morning routine to prepare your body for the day. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking these mushrooms and only purchase a purified version from a reputable source.
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Chaga for anti-inflammatory and wound healing
Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) is a fungus that grows primarily on birch trees in cold climates, such as Northern Europe, Siberia, Russia, Korea, Northern Canada and Alaska. It has an appearance similar to burnt charcoal and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Russia and other Northern European countries.
Chaga mushrooms are known for their high antioxidant content, including the antioxidant triterpene, which has been shown in test-tube studies to help kill cancer cells. Chaga is also rich in beneficial plant compounds, such as specialised proteins called cytokines, which regulate the immune system and stimulate white blood cells, essential for fighting off harmful bacteria and viruses.
Chaga has been used traditionally to treat various ailments, including ulcers, liver ailments, tuberculosis, and certain cancers. It has also been used to slow the growth of visible tumours and boost endurance. Today, it is consumed as a tea, powder, or capsule supplement, often to boost immunity and overall health.
Chaga's potential health benefits include its ability to lower "bad" cholesterol (LDL), reduce blood pressure, and support immune function. Chaga may also help fight infections and prevent cancer by inhibiting inflammatory cytokines, which are associated with disease progression. However, it's important to note that Chaga carries some risks and can trigger side effects or negatively interact with certain medications. For example, Chaga lowers blood sugar, so it may be unsafe for people taking insulin or other blood sugar-lowering medications. As such, it is always recommended to consult a doctor before consuming Chaga supplements.
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Frequently asked questions
Lion's Mane is a popular mushroom supplement for brain health and cognitive support. It is often available in powder, capsule, or tablet form.
Turkey Tail, Reishi, and Chaga are popular mushrooms for immune support. Turkey Tail is rich in protein-bound polysaccharides that stimulate immune responses. Reishi is often recommended to support immune health in patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. Chaga has been used by Indigenous communities to ward off degenerative diseases and boost endurance.
Elm & Rye's Mushroom Creamer is a non-dairy product that mixes well with coffee and provides support for focus, mood, and immunity. Alice's Brainstorm bars are another tasty option that includes Lion's Mane, Reishi, and Cordyceps. For capsules, Together Health, Bodykind, and Superdrug offer a blend of five mushrooms, including Chaga, Lion's Mane, and Reishi, that are certified organic and easy to swallow.
