How do I Know if Functional Mushrooms are Working?

Mushrooms are having their moment.

Or as I like to say, the spores are sporing.

Few organisms have such a wide range of uses, benefits, and even medicinal properties, so the learning curve can be steep.

Figuring out the difference between edible, functional, nootropic, and psychoactive can take a while.

Once we’ve figured out which is which and you are currently supplementing with functional mushrooms, you might be wondering; How do I know that they are working?

Here we unpack how to know if the functional mushrooms you are supplementing with are effective and beneficial.

Firstly, Which is Which?

Functional or adaptogenic mushrooms are a type of mushrooms that are currently studied for their potential health benefits and medicinal properties. Historically, functional mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine practices globally.

What are some defining features of functional mushrooms? They can be edible, or nootropic, but not necessarily.

One thing they all have in common is their high levels of bioactive compounds such as beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and triterpenoids, each of which have been studied for their immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Unpacking The Terms

To fully understand what effects we can expect from functional mushrooms, let’s first unpack the different categories of mushrooms.

Nootropic is:

A nootropic is a substance that is known for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It is often referred to as a “smart drug” or “brain booster.” Nootropics are believed to improve various aspects of cognitive function, such as memory, focus, creativity, and mental clarity. They are commonly used by individuals who are looking to enhance their cognitive performance, productivity, and overall brain health.

Nootropic mushrooms are: Lion’s Mane and Tremella 

Edible is: 

Edible refers to something safe and suitable for consumption as food. In the context of functional mushrooms, edible mushrooms are those that can be safely consumed and incorporated into meals or recipes. Edible mushrooms are a common and nutritious ingredient in various cuisines around the world. They can be cooked, sautéed, added to soups or stews, or used as a topping for dishes.

Edible mushrooms are: Lion’s Mane, Portobello, Shiitake, Maitake 

Functional is: 

Functional refers to the specific properties that certain mushrooms possess. Functional mushrooms contain bioactive compounds that have been studied for their immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and adaptogenic properties.

Functional mushrooms are: Chaga, Reishi, Turkey Tail, Cordyceps 

Psychoactive is: 

Psychoactive substances can alter perception, cognition, consciousness, and emotions. In the context of psychedelics and psilocybin, psychoactive refers to substances that have mind-altering effects and can induce hallucinations, altered states of consciousness, and profound psychological experiences. It’s important to note that while some mushrooms and truffles are psychoactive, not all functional mushrooms or truffles have psychoactive properties.

Psychoactive mushrooms/truffles are: Golden Teachers, Mexicana

Combining Functional Mushrooms with Lifestyle Changes

Integrating functional mushrooms with healthy lifestyle choices such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mindfulness practices can definitely amplify their benefits.

Being able to maintain levels of proteins, vitamins, and dietary fiber will only amplify the impact of functional mushrooms on your lifestyle.

Microdosing is a term exclusively reserved for psychoactive compounds, which functional mushrooms are not, but the points I raised in my article 10x your microdosing practice are still relevant useful, and applicable.

Addressing Skepticism: Science vs. Anecdotal Evidence

To measure the effectiveness of functional mushrooms, they must first be properly extracted for maximum bioavailability.

Their optimal extraction is explained here in my article on Chitin. Thorough extraction is the first port of call when assessing their potential impact on our well-being, assuming that is in place, the scientific baseline is set and studies are being carried out.

Despite the ongoing research into functional mushrooms and in some cases outright skepticism, historical use and continued anecdotal reports remain.

We are still learning so much about the benefits of functional mushrooms. Scientific results look promising but the data is still coming in.

However, there is something to be said about the long and recorded historical use of functional mushrooms over centuries and on every continent.

Not to mention that anecdotal reports from our community members online and globally are consistently positive.

How Do I Know They Are Working?

The metrics of success differ for different types of mushrooms. For some, the signs are immediate and noticeable. For others, the signs to look for are the ones that are missing.

For example, Lion’s Mane is not psychoactive but might really help focus and finish that overdue report. 

Cordyceps are not psychoactive either, but really great as a pre-workout supplement or post-workout recovery drink.

When it comes to other functional mushrooms like Chaga or Reishi, I’ve learned to measure the benefits by noticing what is NOT happening. Measuring the impact of functional mushrooms on my well-being by asking myself when was the last time I felt unwell? 

A moment of inventory to notice when was the last time I felt brain fog. When was the last time that my skin flared up? When was the last time that my eyes were puffy and I slept poorly? Or, when was the last time I felt exhausted for no apparent reason?

Each of these questions might seem counterintuitive but if you can’t remember the last time you felt tired, sick, or brain foggy, then chances are, the functional mushrooms might just be working.

Our bodies know how to work optimally under every circumstance. All our bodies need are the correct ingredients. Once the body has access to certain compounds; our stress response is optimal, our immune system is robust and we begin to feel the evidence of a positive impact in our lives.

Full Spectrum Supplements

Functional and adaptogenic mushrooms target both ends of the health spectrum and are true allies to the human body. 

Some support cognitive and physical functions, and others support the immune system and mitigate illness.

Each mushroom comes with its own superpowers and I’m so glad that we are learning all of this together.

But if you rather not go down the endless rabbit hole of mushroom knowledge and want to make sure you’ve got your bases covered then our Mushroom Essentials Complex is for you. 

To learn more about how best to use these mushrooms, be sure to read some of my previous blog posts.

As always

Shine bright. Do good. Flow strong

Asha ✨