Functional Mushroom Guide - Find the Right Supplement
Functional mushrooms are becoming increasingly popular. The reason is that they contain active ingredients that can support the body's processes in a natural way. Species such as Lion's Mane, Chaga, Cordyceps and Reishi are known for active ingredients that can support cognitive performance, immune function, energy and sleep.
The ever-increasing range of functional mushroom supplements makes it harder to choose the right one. This guide explains how to choose the right supplement for your needs.
What do you want to achieve?
Different mushrooms have different properties, here is a general overview:
Lion's mane
Known to support focus, cognition and memory.
Chaga
Known for its high content of varied antioxidants and potential support for the immune system.
Cordyceps
Often used to increase energy and endurance because it can increase oxygen uptake and support energy metabolism.
Reishi
Traditionally used to reduce stress and support sleep.
Extraction method
Whether you get access to the active ingredients from a mushroom depends on how it is extracted. Mushrooms have a robust cell structure that means that not all substances are extracted with water. Fat-soluble active ingredients must be extracted with alcohol. It is therefore recommended to choose a double extract to get access to the full range of active ingredients in functional mushrooms.
Powder or liquid extract?
This largely depends on your preferences, at least when it comes to supplements with standardized daily doses like Sopplement. Regardless of whether you choose, for example, Chaga powder or tincture, you will get access to the recommended daily dose if you follow the instructions.
Powder extract
A clean and economical way, but requires a little more work in that you have to mix it yourself in either hot water, tea, coffee or add it to a smoothie.
Liquid extract
The easiest way to get functional mushrooms. The extract is simply added to a little water and is quickly absorbed into the body.
Capsules
Capsules are a convenient way to include functional mushrooms in your daily routine, they are also easy to take with you on trips. The disadvantage of capsules is the time it takes for the active ingredients to be absorbed, which depends on the capsule shell.
Tincture
Tinctures are a classic method of ingesting and preserving supplements. The shelf life is also often longer. Tinctures are dripped under the tongue, wait 1 minute and then swallow with some water. The taste can be a bit stronger, but for supplements such as Reishi this can be a great way to round off the evening.