Written by Steve Theunissen | ISSA: CPT & Fitness Nutrition
Fact checked by Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN
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Since ancient times, people have known that, in addition to being valued for their distinctive flavors and culinary flexibility, mushrooms may provide health benefits. So, it's no surprise that those benefits have been harnessed for modern-day consumers in the form of nutritional supplements.
Mushroom supplements provide a convenient way to strengthen your immunity, boost your brain power, and enhance your overall well-being. In this article, we review the eight best mushroom supplements on the current market, so you can start unlocking all of the juicy benefits ASAP.
8 Best Mushroom Supplements
- Overall Best: Longevity Botanicals Power Blend 15
- For Brain Health: Transparent Lab Shroom Stack
- For Boosting Mood: Longevity Botanicals Emperor Four Blend
- Cordyceps Mushroom Supplement: Real Mushrooms Cordyceps-M
- For Anxiety: Longevity Botanicals Super Six Blend
- Reishi Mushroom Supplement: Life Extension Reishi Mushroom Extract Complex
- Turkey Tail Mushroom Supplement: Longevity Botanicals Turkey Tail
- Lion's Mane Mushroom Supplement: Host Defense Lion's Mane
SFS Pick
Power Blend 15
SFS Brain Health Pick
Shroom Stack
SFS Mood Pick
Emperor Four Blend
1. Overall Best Mushroom Supplement - Longevity Botanicals Power Blend 15
With their Power Blend 15 Mushroom Supplement, Longevity Botanicals offers a complete wellness solution. Each ingredient in this carefully formulated blend of 15 mushroom species is hand-selected for its distinct potential benefits and supported by scientific study.
The Power Blend 15 Mushroom Supplement offers a range of health benefits, from immunological modulation and cognitive support to stress resistance and cardiovascular wellness. Reishi, Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, Chaga, and other varied mushrooms are combined to provide a dynamic synergy of bioactive substances. Each species is extracted using the superior hot water extraction method.
Longevity Botanicals' philosophy is based on quality and purity. As such, you can be assured that this premium supplement meets the highest standards thanks to rigorous testing and open sourcing.
Power Blend 15 is offered as a 100-gram pouch, providing 60 servings. Simply add a scoop to your coffee, tea, or other favorite beverage to supercharge it with the power of the mushroom fungi.
Power Blend 15 is also available as a capsule in a 90-count bottle.
Pros
- A blend of 15 species of mushroom
- Hot water extraction method
- Rigorously tested for potency and purity
Cons
- Does not mix overly well with beverages
The appropriately named Power Blend 15 provides 1600mg of hot-water extracted mushrooms. Made from a blend of the most well-known and effective mushrooms, Power Blend 15 is a great way to...
2. Best Mushroom Supplement For Brain Health - Transparent Lab Shroom Stack
Shroom Stack by Transparent Labs blends the three most well-recognized mushroom species for overall health:
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Reishi- 500 mg
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Lion's Mane - 1 g
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Cordyceps - 500 mg
These species are especially well known for their brain-boosting ability. Lion's Mane is the standout ingredient for improving cognitive performance and supporting nerve health by stimulating brain cell development.
In addition to its cognitive benefits, Shroom Stack's blend of three powerful fungi will improve workout performance, boost immunity, and support cellular health to slow the aging process. The company has built its reputation on providing the transparency and open sourcing-that its name suggests, and this product is yet another example of that high standard.
Transparent Labs Shroom Stack uses only organic mushrooms in capsule form, and the recommended dosage is three capsules per day on an empty stomach.
Pros
- A blend of three power mushroom species
- Boosts brain power
- Organic mushrooms
- Well priced
Cons
- Not many verified customer reviews on the official website
The mushrooms in TL Mushroom Stack are packed with bioactive constituents that promote overall health and longevity through diverse mechanisms across multiple body systems, especially the...
3. Best Mushroom Supplement For Boosting Mood - Longevity Botanicals Emperor Four Blend
The Emperor Four Blend from Longevity Botanicals provides 400 mg each of the following medicinal mushrooms species:
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Lion's Mane
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Red Reishi
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Cordyceps
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Chaga
This is an excellent blend for those looking to boost their mood through mushroom powders. To start, Lion's Mane is abundant in compounds that promote brain health and wellness, which can contribute to elevated mood and well-being. Red Reishi is known for its adaptogenic properties and ability to support sleep. Cordyceps can boost physical performance, encouraging an active lifestyle that can improve a person's mood. Finally, Chaga promotes mood balance with its powerful antioxidant properties.
Organic Emperor Four Blend comes in powder form as a 100-gram pouch. That's enough for sixty servings. As with Power Blend 15, you can add a scoop of the powder to your favorite hot or cold beverage.
Longevity Botanicals makes use of an advanced hot water extraction method to extract the active ingredients from the mushrooms. The label of this and all other Longevity mushroom products also stand out by displaying the percentage of beta-d glucans - the main beneficial compounds - in the product. This mushroom powder contains no fillers or grains and is also free of mycelium, starch, fillers, or gluten.
Pros
- A blend of four mood-enhancing mushroom species
- Advanced hot water extraction method used
- The label displays the beta-d glucan percentage
Cons
- It does not mix very well
Longevity Botanical's Emperor Four Blend is made from hot-water extracted Lion's Mane, Red Reishi, Cordyceps, Chaga mushrooms, providing a potent and effective way to improve your...
4. Best Cordyceps Mushroom Supplement - Real Mushrooms Cordyceps-M
Real Mushrooms Cordyceps-M contains only one type of mushroom, cordyceps. Known as the energy-boosting and fatigue-fighting mushroom, the particular type of cordyceps mushroom used here is cordyceps militarist - that's what the 'm' stands for. The advantage of this type is that, unlike cordyceps sinensis, it can be cultivated organically without insects.
You get 1 gram of cordyceps militarist in every serving of Real Mushrooms Cordyceps-M. It comes in capsule form, with the recommended daily dosage being two capsules. Only organic mushrooms are used to maximize the benefits of the extracted beta-glucans which are the active components of real mushrooms. The label states how much beta-glucans you get - 250 mg.
The only other ingredients are those that make up the capsule containing the cordyceps powder. The capsule is made of hypromellose, which is vegan-friendly. Unlike many competing products, Real Mushrooms Cordyceps-M has no grains or starchy fillers.
Real Mushrooms excel at providing transparency and purity. A 2017 study conducted by Nature magazine found that three-quarters of all mushroom products on the market were inauthentic, with many containing fillers. Nature rated Real mushrooms as the best in terms of purity.
Pros
- Contains cordyceps militarist
- 250 mg of beta-glucans
- Organic
Cons
- It may cause sleep interruptions
Made using hand-picked Cordyceps Militaris mushroom extract, this mushroom supplement provides impressive benefits to support your overall well-being...
5. Best Mushroom Supplement For Anxiety - Longevity Botanicals Super Six Blend
This is the third showing by Longevity Botanicals on our top eight mushroom supplements list. That tells you a lot about the credibility and high standards that this company sets and maintains. This particular product, Super Six Blend, combines the following varieties of fungi:
- Organic Reishi
- Cordyceps (Militaris)
- Lion's Mane
- Chaga
- Shiitake
- Turkey Tail
The anxiety-alleviating benefits of these six species make Longevity Botanicals Super Six the best mushroom supplement for depression and anxiety.
This blend is guaranteed to have a minimum of 31% beta-glucans - the key active ingredient that powers all the benefits of mushrooms. This product is a 100% Certified Organic Fruiting Body, giving you absolute confidence that it contains no fillers or mycelium. Like all other Longevity Botanicals mushrooms, the Super Six blend uses an advanced hot water extraction system to optimize bioavailability.
The Super Six powder packed into capsules is micronized to ensure greater bioavailability and a larger surface area. The capsules are vegan-friendly, organic, gluten-free, and certified kosher. This product is also available as a powder, which comes in a 100-gram sachet that provides 60 servings.
Pros
- Six mushroom species that have proven anxiety-relieving effects
- 31% beta-glucans
- 100% Certified Organic Fruiting Body
Cons
- The powder form does not blend very well
The Longevity Botanicals Super Six Blend consists of a hot-water extracted blend of Lion’s Mane, Red Reishi, Cordyceps, Chaga, Tremella and Turkey Tail. Using 100% fruiting bodies...
6. Best Reishi Mushroom Supplement - Life Extension Reishi Mushroom Extract Complex
Reishi mushrooms have been used for centuries to improve immune function, provide adaptogenic properties, enhance cardiovascular health, and deliver a powerful antioxidant boost. The best reishi mushroom supplement is Life Extension Reishi Mushroom Extract Complex, which provides a blend of the most potent types of Reishi mushrooms.
Life Extension uses an advanced extraction system to ensure that the product you get contains the most pure, bioavailable mushroom ingredients possible.
You get 980 mg of Reishi mushroom extract (standardized to 13.5% polysaccharides and 6% triterpenes, along with 150 mg of shell-broken Reishi mushroom.
These ingredients are put into vegetarian capsule form, with the recommended dosage at two capsules per day. This product is manufactured in the USA, with a certificate of analysis available to attest to its potency and purity.
Pros
- A blend of three different types of reishi mushroom
- Advanced extraction system
- Certificate of Analysis available
Cons
- It does not specify beta-glucans
Reishi mushroom compounds are powerful immune modulators. And this ultra-bioavailable Reishi formula uses an extract standardized for three active compounds...
7. Best Turkey Tail Mushroom Supplement - Longevity Botanicals Turkey Tail
Yet another Longevity Botanical supplement shows up on our best-of list, this time representing the best Turkey Tail mushroom supplement on the market.
Turkey Tail mushroom has been shown to strengthen the immune system. Its ingredients like polysaccharopeptides and beta-glucans can activate the immune cells such as macrophages and natural killer cells. Turkey Tail may also improve gut health by encouraging the development of good gut bacteria. It might also positively affect the respiratory system and help treat disorders, including allergies and asthma.
Each three-capsule serving of Longevity Botanicals Turkey Tail contains 900 mg of 100% fruiting body turkey tail, which is hot water extracted for optimum bioavailability. The product is USDA-certified organic and guaranteed to contain no less than 50% beta-glucans. That means you won't find any starch, fillers, or mycelium in it.
Each Longevity Botanicals Turkey Tail bottle provides 120 capsules, giving you the equivalent of 40 servings.
Pros
- Pure turkey tail mushroom
- At least 50% beta-glucans
- USDA-Certified Organic
Cons
- It may have a prominent odor, according to some reviewers
Longevity Botanicals Turkey Tail is made from 100% hot-water extracted fruiting body. Boasting >50% Beta-glucans, Longevity Botanicals provides one of the highest-quality products...
8. Best Lion's Mane Mushroom Supplement - Host Defense Lion's Mane
Host Defense Lion's Mane is the best Lion's Mane mushroom supplement, providing you with one gram of Lion's Mane mushroom per serving. Lion's Mane has some remarkable potential advantages for cognitive health.
It is rich in substances that stimulate nerve growth factors (NGFs). These may help with brain function, memory, and general cognitive health. Additionally, this fungus' anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities may protect against cognitive deterioration.
Host Defense Lion's Mane comes in capsule form, featuring 30, 60, and 120 capsule bottles. With the recommended serving being two capsules daily, a 30-capsule bottle will last 15 days. For $19.95 on the official website, you'll be spending $40 per month, which is comparatively expensive.
Pros
- 1 gram of Lion's Mane mushroom
- Rich in nerve growth factors (NGFs)
- Improves cognitive functioning
Cons
- Expensive
Harness the cognitive power of Lion’s Mane mushrooms. This formula delivers organic mushroom mycelium to help improve mental clarity, memory and your ability to focus. Grown in the USA, Host Defense...
Benefits Of Mushroom Supplements
Functional mushrooms have become popular as natural sources of several nutrients and fungi compounds that support well-being. Let's examine some of the main benefits of adding mushroom supplements to your wellness routine.
1) Immune Health Support
Reishi, Shiitake, and Turkey Tail mushrooms are rich in bioactive extracts that may improve immune system performance. These mushrooms have polysaccharides and beta-glucans that may boost immune cells and help the body fight off diseases and infections [1].
The polysaccharides and beta-glucans in varieties including Reishi, Shiitake, and Turkey Tail are thought to boost immune cells like macrophages and natural killer cells. These compounds work in concert with the immune system to strengthen its defenses against pathogens, possibly helping keep diseases and infections at bay. For instance, Reishi has been investigated for its potential to promote immune cell function and immunomodulatory effects [2]. Lentinan, a substance found in shiitake mushrooms, may improve immunological response.
Polysaccharide-rich Turkey Tail mushrooms may aid in the control of the immune system. Including these mushroom supplements in your regimen may provide a natural means of boosting your immune health, especially when you are more prone to infections.
2) Cognitive Health
Cognitive health benefits have been connected to lion's mane and cordyceps mushrooms. Lion's Mane contains compounds that stimulate nerve growth factors that may support cognitive processes like memory and learning. The ability of cordyceps to improve oxygen uptake is also known to affect cognitive function.
Hericenones and erinacines, found in Lion's Mane and thought to stimulate the creation of nerve growth factors, are essential for the health of neurons and proper brain function. According to research, taking Lion's Mane supplements may have neuroprotective properties and improve memory and learning [3].
Cordyceps has been linked to improved oxygen utilization, which may assist both energy metabolism and cognitive function.
3) Stress Adaptation
It's thought that several mushroom supplements, including Reishi and Cordyceps, contain adaptogenic characteristics that aid the body in adjusting to distressing stimuli [4]. During stressful times, these mushrooms may aid the body's stress response and assist in maintaining equilibrium.
Reishi and Cordyceps are both regarded as adaptogens. Adaptogens assist the body's stress response and aid in preserving equilibrium in difficult circumstances. In Reishi, that comes from substances such as triterpenes, which are thought to modify the body's stress hormones and may lessen physiological reactions associated with stress. Finally, Cordyceps increases physical stamina and endurance, potentially enhancing stress resistance.
While these pathways are still being investigated, taking supplements made from adaptogenic mushrooms may help promote a more balanced stress response.
4) May Lower Blood Pressure
Research shows that mushrooms like maitake and shiitake could benefit cardiovascular health [5]. These mushrooms can be consumed or used as supplements to help decrease blood pressure and improve heart health in general. Shiitake and maitake mushrooms contain compounds like eritadenine and beta-glucans that may affect blood pressure regulation.
5) Gut Health
Several mushrooms, including chaga, have been connected to advantages for intestinal health. Antioxidants found in Chaga mushrooms may help to maintain a healthy gut microbiome [6]. These antioxidants might encourage healthy digestion and safeguard gastrointestinal cells. Supplements made from the Chaga mushroom may inadvertently improve general health by fostering a healthy gut environment.
Side Effects of Mushroom Supplements
Even though mushroom supplements are considered a safe option that most people will tolerate, there are some potential side effects to be aware of:
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Allergic Reactions: You may have an allergy to a particular type of mushroom that causes various reactions, from a skin rash to difficulty breathing. If you are sensitive to mushrooms, see a doctor before taking any mushroom supplements.
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Digestive Issues: Large doses of some mushroom supplements may result in gastrointestinal problems such as upset stomach, gas, or bloating.
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Medication Interactions: Some mushroom supplements may interact with prescription medications, especially those that affect blood clotting, blood pressure, or immune system function. If you use medication, check with your doctor before taking mushroom supplements.
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Specific Health Conditions: People who already have a medical condition, such as a liver disorder, immune system disorder, or blood disorder, should exercise caution and see a doctor before using mushroom supplements.
What To Look For When Buying Mushroom Supplements:
When buying high-quality mushroom supplements that will provide the health support you want, making an informed decision is essential. Here are some important considerations to bear in mind:
1) Ingredients
Look for a product with an ingredient list that makes it obvious which kind of mushroom was used and whether it was a combination or a single mushroom. Ensure the product contains the particular species of mushroom you're looking for and ideally the main ingredients utilize mushroom fruiting bodies.
Finally, think about varying your consumption by selecting supplements that include a variety of mushroom species. Reishi, Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, Chaga, Shiitake, and other varieties all have different advantages.
2) Part Of The Mushroom Used
Different portions of mushrooms have varying amounts of bioactive substances. Verify whether the supplement uses mycelium, the fruiting body, or both. Fruiting bodies frequently have larger levels of beneficial ingredients and can, therefore, be considered more pure mushroom supplements.
3) Dosage
Pay close attention to the suggested dosage. Effective dosages can change depending on the kind of mushroom and the particular benefits you're looking for, so make sure the supplement contains an adequate dose.
4) Extraction Method
Mushroom supplements may undergo various extraction procedures to concentrate bioactive ingredients. Look for mushroom extracts that use efficient techniques like hot water or dual extraction.
5) Form
Pick a form that matches your preferences. Powders can be mixed into foods or beverages, whereas capsules are more practical for on-the-go use. Tinctures have a rapid absorption time.
6) Testing/transparency
Choose brands that place a high priority on quality and openness. Look for supplements that have undergone independent testing for toxins, efficacy, and purity. Some brands offer Certificates of Analysis (CoA) for quality assurance,
7) Reviews
Check out consumer testimonials and feedback from reliable sources. You can learn about a supplement's tolerability and effectiveness from these sources.
8) Price
Although quality has a price, stay away from excessively cheap solutions that can have poor quality. Compare prices across recognized brands to get a gauge of what a fair price is.
Mushroom Supplements FAQs
Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions we're asked about mushroom supplements:
What mushroom supplement brand is best?
Based on our extensive research, we believe that the best overall mushroom supplement brand on the current market is Longevity Botanicals. Four of their mushroom supplements have made it to our top 8 list, including 'best overall' - that's quite a feat. Longevity Botanicals was founded in 2015 and aims to 'provide high-quality, high-value products created by health experts that consumers can trust.' Based on the mushroom products we've checked out, they're doing a great job fulfilling that mission.
Do mushroom supplements really work?
Whether a mushroom supplement works depends on what you want to get from it, the type of mushroom included, the dosage, and the way your body reacts to the supplement. There is evidence that such varieties as Reishi, Lion's Mane, and Cordyceps mushrooms can strengthen the immune system, boost brain power, and reduce stress levels. Still, it is essential to remember that, despite encouraging research, the effects of most mushroom supplements may not be as strong as the marketing promises.
Which is better, Reishi or Cordyceps?
The choice between Reishi and Cordyceps depends on what you want from your supplement. Reishi mushrooms are stronger in terms of possessing immunity-boosting properties thanks to such bioactive compounds as beta-glucans and triterpenes.
Reishi possesses adaptogenic properties that may help the body adjust to stress. There is also some evidence that Reishi can help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
Cordyceps mushrooms are thought to increase energy production and oxygen use, possibly resulting in increased physical endurance and stamina. They have also been researched for their potential to support respiratory function.
Cordyceps is frequently regarded as an adaptogen, just like Reishi, so it can also help people adjust to stress. Your health objectives will ultimately determine whether you choose Cordyceps or Reishi. Reishi can be a fantastic choice if you're trying to support your immune system and general health. Cordyceps may be more appropriate if you're looking to improve your physical stamina and respiratory health.
Which is the most beneficial mushroom?
Finding the "most beneficial" medicinal mushroom supplements can be complex because different mushroom species provide a range of potential health benefits, and what is most beneficial can change based on personal health objectives and needs. However, three species stand out for their potential health benefits:
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Reishi: Reishi is frequently called the "king of mushrooms." It has been used in conventional medicine for its immune-boosting effects, stress adaptation benefits, and potential cardiovascular advantages.
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Lion's Mane: This species is prized for its potential cognitive benefits. It has elements that could promote nerve growth factors, enhancing memory, learning, and general cognitive function.
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Cordyceps: Cordyceps has long been prized for its potential to improve stamina and athletic prowess. It is said to enhance energy production and oxygen uptake, making it appealing to athletes and anyone looking to gain more endurance.
Summary Of The Best Mushroom Supplements
From immune support to cognitive enhancement and stress adaptation to heart health, mushrooms provide a spectrum of health advantages. By harnessing the power of these fungi in supplement form, you can unlock a path to holistic wellness.
The best mushroom supplement for overall wellness is Longevity Botanicals Power Blend 15, which combines the power of no less than 15 mushroom species, each of which has been extracted using the superior hot water method.
The best mushroom supplement for brain health is Transparent Labs Shroom Stack, combining the brain-boosting power of certified organic mushrooms: Reishi, Lion's Mane, and Cordyceps. If you're looking for a supplement to help combat stress and anxiety, the best mushroom supplement for anxiety is Longevity Botanicals Super Six Blend, which combines the six best stress-fighting mushroom species.
The appropriately named Power Blend 15 provides 1600mg of hot-water extracted mushrooms. Made from a blend of the most well-known and effective mushrooms, Power Blend 15 is a great way to...
For more powerful mushroom products, try our Best Lion's Mane Supplements, Best Chaga Supplements For Immune System Support, and our Best Cordyceps Supplements.
References
- Rop O, Mlcek J, Jurikova T. Beta-glucans in higher fungi and their health effects. Nutr Rev. 2009 Nov;67(11):624-31. doi: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2009.00230.x. PMID: 19906249.
- Xu, J., Xu, D., Hu, Q., Ma, N., Pei, F., Su, A., & Ma, G. (2023). Immune regulatory functions of biologically active proteins from edible fungi. Frontiers in Immunology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2022.1034545
- Lai PL, Naidu M, Sabaratnam V, Wong KH, David RP, Kuppusamy UR, Abdullah N, Malek SN. Neurotrophic properties of the Lion's mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2013;15(6):539-54. doi: 10.1615/intjmedmushr.v15.i6.30. PMID: 24266378.
- Chugh, Rishi Man, et al. “Fungal Mushrooms: A Natural Compound with Therapeutic Applications.” Frontiers in Pharmacology, vol. 13, 2022, p. 925387, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35910346/, https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.925387.
- Kabir Y, Yamaguchi M, Kimura S. Effect of shiitake (Lentinus edodes) and maitake (Grifola frondosa) mushrooms on blood pressure and plasma lipids of spontaneously hypertensive rats. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 1987 Oct;33(5):341-6. doi: 10.3177/jnsv.33.341. PMID: 3443885.
- Jayachandran, Muthukumaran, et al. “A Critical Review on Health Promoting Benefits of Edible Mushrooms through Gut Microbiota.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 18, no. 9, 8 Sept. 2017, p. 1934, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5618583/, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18091934.
Steve Theunissen
Author