Functional mushroom supplements are powders, capsules, tinctures, and functional foods that are made using mushrooms.
Functional mushrooms do not produce a ‘high, Miller adds.
Paul has been a proponent for the use of functional mushrooms to support human health and longevity.
rebeccafondren / Getty Images
Stamets work helped bring the healing properties of mushrooms to the forefront.
Stress can reduce blood flow to the frontal cortex, which can result in cognitive issues.
In other words, adaptogens make it easier for our bodies to manage and adapt to stressful situations.
Wealthylady / Getty Images
Those who take them often rely on the strength of individual experiences.
The different types of mushrooms have focused benefits.
It can increase NGF (nerve growth factor), which helps stimulate neuronal growth, says Miller.
sasirin pamai / Getty Images
It may also help promote neural function.Reishi contains polysaccharides that are responsible for some of the immune-boosting effects.
Other beneficial compounds include sterols, and alkaloids.
Its compounds consist of beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and antioxidants along with terpenoids.
SimoneN / Getty Images
The mushroom can be used to make tea but also taken as a powder or capsule.
Cordyceps is most often consumed for its adaptogenic benefits and possible effects on learning and memory.
Its antioxidants help support a healthy immune system, and it also contains beta glucans and polysaccharides.
HUIZENG HU / Getty Images
Its an edible functional food, but can also be taken in capsules, powders, and tinctures.
The mushrooms can be eaten or taken as a powder or capsule supplement.
Thanks to their antioxidant properties, they also may help strengthen the immune system.
empire331 / Getty Images
Alkaloids and polysaccharides are other compounds found in shiitake mushrooms.
So many of the medicinal mushrooms have common health-promoting properties thanks to their similar natural compounds.
Clearly, more research is needed to establish their therapeutic benefits in people.
yodaswaj / Getty Images
Potential negative side effects, especially on a long-term scale, havent been studied extensively.
But dizziness, dry mouth, upset stomach, andrashare possible issues to watch out for.
Interactions with other medications or even other supplements arent widely known.
Stuart Walmsley / Getty Images
If you do notice anything adverse or out of the ordinary, seek medical attention.
Read the label to see exactly how much of the mushroom is in your product, Miller advises.
Medicinal mushrooms may have a variety of potential cognitive and physical benefits.
Do your research and consider the source of the supplement to determine if its right for you.
2021;22(2):634.
2023;15(22):4842.
CRC Press/Taylor & Francis; 2011.
2023;12(7):1512.
2018;26(7):1352.
2023;16(1):102.
2024;10(9):e30254.