Choosing mushroom supplement: Here are 4 things to know.

The world of alternative wellness solutions is rapidly evolving. Especially if the solution comes from nature like medicinal mushrooms. The world of Mushroom wellness products has taken the digital world by storm with its popularity continuously growing, as people have started looking out for natural ways to supplement their health. 

Mushrooms have always been known to have potential beneficial properties that date back centuries and across civilizations. You could say mushrooms have since made a comeback and are not just limited to the culinary world. The age of the internet has made it easier to access information for all which paved the way for the rapid growth of mushroom supplements.

These supplements are concentrated forms of various medicinal mushroom species which offer an easy way of ingesting to reap the benefits. These concentrated forms are of many types, brands that are hitting the market as well as your devices, navigating these options can be exciting but also confusing, so we are here to empower you with the information you need to make the right decision.

We'll delve into the four key considerations when it comes to what to look for in mushroom supplements, types of mushrooms, supplement forms, organic and sourcing standards, and concentration and potency.  

By understanding these factors, you can confidently select a high-quality mushroom supplement that aligns with your specific wellness goals.

The Allure of Mushroom Supplements and Why You Should Be Informed

The increased popularity of mushroom supplements directly correlates to the idea that people are gravitating towards a natural way of supplementing their overall well-being.

These supplements offer potential benefits ranging from bolstering the immune system to promoting cognitive function and overall well-being. 

The increase in popularity also means lots of players in the market making it saturated with products, so the onus falls on the customer to make an informed decision by choosing what is best for them. 

Understanding what to look for in mushroom supplements is crucial for maximizing potential benefits and avoiding products that might not deliver on their promises.

Types of Mushrooms Used in Supplements and Their Potential Benefits:

There are many medicinal mushrooms out there, and each one has its own unique properties. Here is a glimpse into some of the commonly used medicinal mushrooms in the supplements you may come across and their associated benefits.

Lion's Mane 

Also known as Hericium erinaceus, this fascinating mushroom has garnered significant attention for its potential to support cognitive function, memory, and focus. Studies suggest it may promote the growth of nerve cells and improve cognitive performance. 

Cordyceps

If you have seen the hit TV show The Last of Us you may have come across the word Cordyceps, but don’t worry these mushrooms aren’t anything like what they seem like from the show rather they are renowned for their potential to enhance energy levels and athletic performance, Cordyceps is a popular choice among athletes and individuals seeking to combat fatigue.

Reishi

This mushroom is known as the "Mushroom of Immortality" in traditional Chinese medicine. The Reishi mushroom is well known for its potential adaptogenic properties, these properties are known to help the body deal with stress and promote calmness. 

The most common way of ingesting Reishi is by brewing the supplement into your tea which is often consumed at the end of your day to calm down and unwind. 

Chaga

Rich in antioxidants, Chaga is believed to support the immune system and may offer additional health benefits.

Note: While these are just a few examples, numerous other mushroom species are used in supplements, each with its own potential benefits.  Do your research to find a mushroom that aligns with your specific health goals.

Form of Mushroom Supplements: Liquid Extracts vs. Powders

While Mushroom supplements can take many different forms like teas, coffees, pre-workouts, and capsules, this is often just the supplement packaged in an outer casing.
The supplements mainly come in two forms. A liquid extract or in powder form. Choosing between these options depends on your individual preferences and desired results.

Liquid Extracts:  

These concentrated extracts offer a convenient way to ingest a potent dose of mushroom compounds directly into your system.  

Liquid extracts boast a high bioavailability, meaning the body can readily absorb them.  They are typically available in dropper bottles, allowing for easy and precise dosing.

Pros: 

• Highly bioavailable which means faster absorption, 
• convenient dosing, 
• easy to integrate into liquids or directly consumable. 

Cons: 

• May have a shorter shelf life
• Slightly higher price point

Powders:  

The preferred way to consume mushroom supplements is through powders. Ground from dried mushrooms, these offer a versatile way to consume mushroom supplements.  Powders can be mixed into smoothies, yogurt, teas, coffees or even incorporated into recipes for food. 

This provides a great way for people who don’t generally like mushrooms or the taste of the liquid extracts to incorporate the powders into their diet. 

Pros:

• Often more affordable than liquid extracts.
• Has a longer shelf life.
• Versatile usage as it can be added to a lot of things in your diet and comes in various flavors and also unflavored forms. 

Cons: 

• May require more planning to integrate into your routine as it can't be directly ingested.
• Potentially less bioavailable than liquid extracts.

Liquid extracts generally offer a faster absorption rate due to their concentrated form.  However, powders can be a good option for individuals who prefer a more flexible way to incorporate mushrooms into their diet in different ways. 

Organic and Sourcing Standards: Importance of Quality Control

The source and quality of the mushrooms used in supplements significantly impact their effectiveness.  Here's why choosing organically certified and ethically sourced mushroom supplements is crucial:

USDA Organic Certification: 

This certification ensures the mushrooms were grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. This minimizes the risk of consuming harmful contaminants in your supplement.

Sustainable Sourcing Practices: 

Choosing a brand committed to sustainable sourcing practices helps protect the environment and ensures the long-term viability of these valuable fungi.

By prioritizing organic and ethical sourcing, you're not only investing in your own well-being but also contributing to a more responsible and sustainable future.

Concentration and Potency: Understanding What's on the Label

Mushroom supplements vary in their concentration and potency.  These terms indicate the amount of active mushroom compounds present in a single dose.  Understanding how to read labels and interpret these values is essential for choosing an effective supplement.

This ratio indicates how much raw mushroom material was used to create a specific amount of extract. 

For example, a 10:1 concentration ratio means 10 pounds of raw mushrooms were used to produce 1 pound of extract. A higher ratio generally signifies a more potent extract. However, this isn't always the sole indicator of efficacy, as some extraction methods are more efficient at capturing valuable compounds.

Look for: Supplements that disclose the concentration ratio and the extraction method used.

Dual Extraction; some manufacturers utilize a dual extraction process, combining water and alcohol extraction methods. This can potentially capture a broader range of beneficial compounds within the mushroom.

Before adding a mushroom supplement to your routine, consider these final points:

Assess Your Needs:   

Identify your specific health goals.  Research which mushroom species are best suited for those goals.  For instance, if you're looking to enhance cognitive function, Lion's Mane might be a good choice.

Consumer Reviews and Research: 

Read reviews from reputable sources and conduct your own research on the brand and the specific mushroom supplement you're considering.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right mushroom supplement requires knowledge and informed decision-making. By understanding the types of mushrooms, their potential benefits, supplement forms, sourcing standards, concentration levels, and how these factors align with your needs, you're well-equipped to navigate the world of mushroom supplements with confidence and know exactly what to look for in mushroom supplements.

Explore the Power of Mushrooms!