Functional mushrooms: Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, Reishi, Chaga
Functional mushrooms show up in coffee, pre-workouts and focus powders. They have a long history in traditional use; the modern research is still early.
The four you'll see most
- Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus): the shaggy white mushroom most often marketed for focus.
- Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris or sinensis): usually marketed for energy and endurance.
- Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): a traditional mushroom often marketed for calm and overall wellness.
- Chaga (Inonotus obliquus): a fungus that grows on birch trees, common in mushroom coffees.
What the research says, honestly
Most studies on these mushrooms are in the lab or in animals. Human studies exist but tend to be small and short. They're a reasonable thing to try if you're curious, but they aren't a replacement for sleep, food and training, and you should be wary of anyone promising dramatic results.
Why they're paired with caffeine
Mushroom pre-workouts and coffees usually combine the mushrooms with caffeine. The caffeine is the part you'll feel right away, so check the total caffeine on the label. See caffeine in supplements.
Before you start
If you're pregnant or nursing, take medication (especially blood thinners or diabetes medication), or have a medical condition, ask your doctor first. Stop if you notice stomach upset or other side effects.
In our shop: what's in a serving
- Kinetic Mushroom Pre-Workout: Per scoop: 1,500mg organic blend of Lion's Mane, Reishi and Cordyceps, with 250mg total caffeine.
- MAGIK Mushroom Coffee: Per scoop: 3,397mg blend including Lion's Mane, Cordyceps militaris and Chaga, with 100mg caffeine. Use warm, not boiling, water.
- Mental Jewels Cognitive Powder: Per scoop: 600mg Cordyceps sinensis extract with Alpha-GPC and Bacopa.
Quick answers
Which of your products has Lion's Mane?
Kinetic Mushroom Pre-Workout and MAGIK Mushroom Coffee.
Will mushroom coffee make me feel different from regular coffee?
MAGIK still has 100mg of caffeine per scoop, so you'll feel the caffeine. How the mushrooms feel varies from person to person.
Are these psychedelic mushrooms?
No. Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, Reishi and Chaga are not psychedelic.
Sources
Keep reading
This guide is general information, not medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Talk to your doctor before starting a supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, take medication or have a medical condition.