Welcome to our comprehensive guide to medicinal mushrooms. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned mycophile, this collection of insights from our weekly newsletter dives deep into the world of fungal supplements.
From understanding different extraction methods to debunking common myths, we’ll explore everything you need to know about choosing and using mushroom supplements effectively. Our community-driven approach combines traditional wisdom with modern science, helping you navigate the sometimes confusing landscape of medicinal mushrooms with confidence.
Mushroom extraction
Medicinal mushroom extracts can vary a lot depending on the method used to process them. Different extraction processes yield distinct bioactive compounds and impact the potency and health benefits of the final product.
The concentration of medicinal mushroom extracts is often represented by ratios like 10:1 or 8:1. This means that 10 kilograms of raw mushroom are used to produce 1 kilogram of extract, indicating a concentrated form of bioactive compounds. I broke it down below.
💧 Hot water extraction:
- Process: Uses hot water to extract bioactive compounds.
- Main compounds extracted: Beta-glucans, polysaccharides.
- Ratio: A 10:1 ratio is common.
- Target benefits: supports immune function and digestive health.
- Suitability: Ideal for general immune support and overall health.
🍸️ Alcohol extraction:
- Process: Mushrooms are soaked in alcohol to extract specific compounds.
- Main compounds extracted: Triterpenes, sterols.
- Ratio: Often range between 5:1 and 8:1.
- Target benefits: Anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic effects.
- Suitability: Best for people looking for anti-inflammatory benefits.
☕️ Dual extraction (hot water + alcohol)
- Process: Combines both hot water and alcohol extraction methods. The mushroom is first extracted in hot water to release beta-glucans and polysaccharides, followed by alcohol extraction to capture triterpenes and other alcohol-soluble compounds.
- Main compounds extracted: Beta-glucans, polysaccharides (from hot water), and triterpenes, sterols (from alcohol).
- Ratio: 15:1 or higher are common.
- Target benefits: Full-spectrum benefits, including enhanced immune support, anti-inflammatory effects, and adaptogenic properties.
- Suitability: Ideal for those seeking a comprehensive medicinal mushroom extract that targets multiple areas of health, from immune modulation to stress response.
🍷 Fermentation extraction:
- Process: Mushrooms undergo fermentation to enhance absorption.
- Main compounds extracted: Alpha-glucans, unique polysaccharides.
- Ratio: This process focuses on enhancing the bioavailability of certain compounds rather than achieving a specific concentration ratio.
- Target benefits: Immune modulation and increased bioavailability.
- Suitability: Great for maximizing absorption and targeted immune support.
Mushroom supplement types
Choosing the best mushroom supplement can feel overwhelming, but it all comes down to what works best for your lifestyle and needs.
Tinctures (Liquid extracts)
Tinctures are quick and easy to use. They’re absorbed under the tongue, so the active compounds reach your bloodstream faster—up to 2-4 times quicker than other forms.
- Why choose them? Tinctures are precise (thanks to droppers), portable (small bottles fit anywhere), and ideal if you have digestive issues.
- Consider this: They can be pricey (2-3x more per dose than powders), and the alcohol used in extraction doesn’t capture all the good stuff (60-75% efficiency for some compounds). Plus, the quality can vary depending on the brand.
Powders (Whole Form)
If you’re looking for maximum value and flexibility, powders are the way to go. They’re made with minimal processing, so they keep all the beneficial compounds like beta-glucans and triterpenes.
- Why choose them? Powders are the most cost-effective option and allow you to adjust your dose to fit your needs.
- Consider this: You’ll need to measure doses accurately, and their earthy taste can be strong. Proper storage is also important—airtight and dry to keep them fresh.
Capsules (Standardized Dose)
Capsules are the ultimate convenience. They offer a fixed dose, usually 500-1000mg, making them the easiest option for busy days or travel.
- Why choose them? Capsules are mess-free, have a long shelf life (up to 3 years), and are travel-friendly.
- Consider this: They take longer to absorb (15-45 minutes), and if you need to adjust your dose, you’ll have to take multiple capsules. They’re also more expensive than powders.
How to Decide
- Looking for quick results? Go with tinctures.
- Want the best bang for your buck? Powders are your friend.
- Need something simple and portable? Capsules are a great choice.
Mushroom myths: Grown in the USA
I’m often asked about choosing the right mushroom products. Over the next few weeks, I’ll share tips to help. Today, let’s unpack the “USA grown” narrative.
Mushrooms have a rich heritage of use that spans continents and centuries. From China’s 800-year-old cultivation techniques to the sacred practices of Mesoamerica’s Mazatec people and the profound medicinal applications in West Africa, mushrooms are a global legacy. Even Scandinavian countries, now known for foraging, only embraced mushrooms in the 1700s.
Supporting local growers strengthens communities and much-needed cottage economies, but “Grown in the USA” doesn’t always guarantee quality. Most U.S. farms focus on culinary mushrooms like buttons, not medicinal varieties like reishi, and can’t meet the scale needed for functional powders. Western medicine is only beginning to value fungi’s healing potential, long celebrated in Eastern and Indigenous traditions that modern research now confirms.
Some brands cut costs by using grain-laden mycelium fillers, diluting the beta-glucans and triterpenoids that define mushrooms’ benefits. These shortcuts mislead consumers and undermine centuries of wisdom.
Your health matters. Make informed choices. Don’t let marketing that preys on fears and biases keep you from exploring the vast, borderless world of mushroom cultivation.
Mushroom supplements Shroomers trust
Here are some brands I trust that embody the true spirit of quality mushroom supplementation, without the misleading claims.
- Birch Boys: With knowledge rooted in family tradition, I love their loose-leaf chaga tea.
- Fruiting Bodies: Their mushroom essences, in particular, are brand new to the space and the team is deeply committed to quality.
- Mālama Mushrooms: This family-owned and operated business in Hawai’i has my favorite mushroom coffee, 100% Kona with Lion’s Mane.
- Naturealm: The mushroom powder blend, Sacred 7, is being researched for its effectiveness in managing epilepsy through Lily’s Lighthouse. Shroomer readers get 25% off the first purchase with the code SHROOMY at checkout.
- Real Mushrooms: Around for over 40 years, they have an extensive catalog of single-species fungi supplements like tremella.
Microdosing 101
The Tech 🔬
- Precision matters: Your sweet spot is 0.1-0.3g dried mushrooms, powdered with a coffee grinder for consistency. Don’t eyeball your dosage – grab a 0.01g scale and dial it in properly.
- Protocol: Most start with Fadiman’s three-day cycle (dose, observe, integrate) or the Stamets stack (4 days on, 3 days off). Both prevent tolerance and let you track what’s actually working.
- Storage smarts: Keep your caps in airtight containers with silica packets. Oxidation kills potency faster than you’d think. Label everything – future you will thank you.
Lab Notes 📋
- Effect tracking: Keep it sub-perceptual. The goal is absolutely zero noticeable acute effects – not even a whisper of “feeling something.” Real benefits show up in your daily patterns over time – enhanced focus, better mood regulation, increased flow states.
- Stacking potential: Some combine with lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) and niacin (Stamets style) for added cognitive boost. Others play with different strains of psilocybin to find their ideal match.
- Integration: Sync doses with key work days or creative sessions. The magic happens when you align intention with action.
Field Observations 🔍
- Reality check: Your brain chemistry is unique. What works for Reddit isn’t gospel. Build your protocol methodically and respect the process.
- Pro tip: Consider capsule-making sessions with precise measurements for grab-and-go convenience. Just label dosages clearly.
- Risk radar: Know your local laws, avoid if you’re on SSRIs or have family history of psychosis. This is experimental territory – treat it with respect.
Medicines ❣️
- PsillyGirls’ Soma Phoenix offers Micro Consciousness Caps or Micro Magic Tinctures. Phoenix is known for her thoughtful approach to facilitation and growing mushrooms with integrity. PsillyGirls is offering 40% off right now.
- For those researching spores, Inoculate the World provides a wide variety of strains, like Golden Teacher. Their spore syringes are popular among microscopy enthusiasts.
- Muse offers Flow and Micro capsules. Flow has lion’s mane and niacin similar to the Stamets protocol, while Micro is purely medicinal. If you’re curious, reach out directly to learn more.
This content is for informational and educational reference only.
Medicinal extracts: AHCC vs. Shiitake
AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound) and shiitake mushroom extract powder are related but different. AHCC is a concentrated supplement designed for targeted immune support, while shiitake extract is a general health supplement and food ingredient. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| AHCC | Shiitake | |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Derived specifically from the mycelia (root-like structures) of shiitake mushrooms. | Typically made from the fruiting body, which is the part commonly consumed as food. |
| Production | Undergoes a specialized cultivation and extraction process, including liquid media growth and a proprietary fermentation process. | Obtained through simpler methods such as drying, pulverizing, and extracting with hot water or alcohol. |
| Composition | Contains a unique blend of polysaccharides, particularly alpha-1,4-glucans, not commonly found in regular mushrooms or extracts. | Composed of a wider range of bioactive compounds, including beta-glucans, antioxidants, and sterols. |
| Potency | A standardized product manufactured under strict quality control in Japan. | Composition and potency can vary based on the manufacturer and extraction method. |
| Research Focus | Extensively studied for immune support and cancer-related defense, as well as infection resistance. | Research spans a broader range of benefits, including cardiovascular health and antioxidant properties. |
As we’ve explored throughout these newsletter excerpts, the world of medicinal mushrooms is rich with complexity and possibility. From extraction methods and supplement forms to microdosing protocols and trusted brands, making informed choices about mushroom supplements requires careful consideration of your individual needs and circumstances.
While the industry continues to evolve, staying educated about quality indicators, processing methods, and responsible usage remains crucial. Remember that whether you’re seeking immune support, cognitive enhancement, or general wellness, the key is to approach mushroom supplementation with knowledge, intention, and respect for both traditional wisdom and modern research.
As always, we encourage our Shroomer community to continue learning, sharing experiences, and supporting ethical producers who prioritize quality and transparency in their practices.
