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When it comes to finding the best mushroom supplement brands on the market right now there's a lot to choose from and not that many that actually make the cut. There's a few good quality ones that are almost farcically expensive and a lot of medium priced ones that use sub par extracts. The thing with mushroom supplements is that not just any mushroom extract will do.Â
Mushroom extracts mostly need to come from fruiting bodies (with an exception for cordyceps) and you're looking for extracts that are standardized for their polysaccharide content. Now, what does that mean in real terms? It means that it may be important to make sure that the mushrooms use the top part of the mushroom, not the fins underneath as this underneath part may not contain much of the useful compounds that make medicinal mushroom supplements potentially worth buying.Â
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Then there's the extraction process itself, certain extraction processes can damage the compounds you want from your mushroom supplements. You might also want to stay away from mushroom tinctures or mushroom gummies as they may not have enough medicinal mushrooms to actually have any effect. There may be some exceptions with the gummies, but these are very few and far between.
So, with all that in mind? Can you get good mushroom supplements for a reasonable price? Yes, but you're not likely to find anything great for less than $50 for a month’s supply.Â
About Mushroom Extracts
Most mushroom supplements may require doses of at least a gram and in most cases 2 grams a day. Now, it's also worth noting that a large capsule size is 1 gram. Meaning that if you're getting a standard mushroom powder, you're going to need 1 capsule a day per mushroom that you want to get the benefits from.Â
You can get higher yield extracts, but it's important to understand the difference between a standardized extract and an extract ratio, this is where the cheaper lower quality companies may not be trustworthy.Â
You can get a 10:1 or even 20:1 ratio, meaning that you'd only need 200mg to get a 4 gram dose. In theory. But, this technically might just mean that 10 or 20 grams of mushrooms were used to create the refined product. If it hasn't been standardized this could be functionally meaningless.Â
If however, you're looking at a high ration mushroom extract that has been standardized to 50% polysaccharides or higher, then you may have something good.Â
That means that at least 50% of the powder is one of the active compounds. Although even there you have to be a bit careful as some polysaccharides may be useless.
One of the main things you'll be looking for is beta glucans, but they aren't the only polysaccharide that has benefits. For example PSK, a different polysaccharide found in Turkey tail is what has been specifically studied for its ability to improve immune function.Â
And then there's also polyphenols, lanostane-type triterpenoids, and inotodiols. For example cordycepin from cordyceps is not a polysaccharide. And if all this is a bit confusing don't worry, that's why the reviewers for this article got the chemists in.Â
The Reviewers’ Top Picks For Best Mushroom Supplements
Ultimately there was a lot of chaff to pick through and they narrowed it down to just 3 brands that they recommend.
Best Mushroom Powder — Elm & Rye
Best Mushroom Capsules — Nootrum Mushrooms
Best Mushroom Drink — MUD/WTR
Elm & Rye – Best Mushroom Powder Supplement of 2025
Taking the top spot for 2025 in the powder category and overall, Elm & Rye’s Mushroom Creamer is the best mushroom supplement in drinkable format according to the reviewers for this article. What sets it apart isn’t just the high-quality extraction (which uses fruiting bodies and is fully standardized), but the fact that it delivers that in a bioavailable, well-flavored creamer format that actually fits into your daily routine.
Unlike powdered blends that are either underdosed, gritty, or impossible to tolerate without masking agents, Elm & Rye’s mushroom creamer integrates seamlessly into coffee or smoothies. Better still, it contains relevant doses of the most effective mushrooms — including Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, and Chaga — each included in amounts high enough to potentially matter.
Then Elm & Rye’s Mushroom Creamer is your best bet for 2025 if you’re looking for a powder. It’s not cheap, but the quality and daily usability more than justify the price point.
Nootrum Mushrooms — The Best Mushroom Capsules
The reviewers like Nootrum, largely because they're one of only a few mushroom supplements companies that offer money back guarantees. But, also due to the fact they use higher yield mushroom extracts than most mushroom supplements and yes they're standardized.Â
They have a good quality powder and a capsule, although the powder is more optimized for immune and gut health benefits than brain. Generally they recommend the capsules in Nootrum's case and as far as they can tell nothing at their price point comes within a country mile of Nootrum.Â
The addition of vitamin D was also a nice touch, considering many Americans may be deficient and that can cause brain fog, a dip in immune health and mood which is of course a lot of the reason people buy mushroom supplements.Â
The main capsule supplement mostly focuses on 5 mushrooms, although they do have a blend containing some others like turkey tail and black fungus the main ingredients are:Â
Chaga: potential immune boosting and antioxidant properties.Â
Cordyceps: for supporting energy and athletic performance.Â
Reishi Mushroom: is used for purported immune-boosting and anti-stress effects.Â
Lion’s Mane: may support cognitive function and promote nerve growth in the brain.Â
Shiitake: may have cardiovascular health benefits.
Due to them using 20:1 standardized extracts there should be enough of each of these mushroom supplements to get the health benefits. Now, Nootrum don't make the cheapest mushroom supplements, but there bulk buys are very friendly bringing the cost between $30-50 a bottle.Â
MUD/WTR — A Tasty Bud Expensive Option
MUD\WTR is a good option if you're looking for a coffee replacement, and a lot of people who get into the mushroom supplements space are, this is a good way to go, especially if you don't like the taste of mushrooms. Its flagship product is a chocolate flavored drink mix made from a blend of several natural ingredients known for their health benefits. The primary components include:
Masala Chai: Contains black tea and spices such as cardamom, black pepper, and ginger, known for their potential antioxidant properties.
Cacao: Offers a rich flavor and mood-enhancing compounds.
Lion's Mane Mushroom: Added for its potential cognitive and brain health benefits.
Chaga Mushroom: Known for its potential immune-boosting effects.
Reishi Mushrooms: Used for its stress-relieving and immune-modulating potential.
Cordyceps Mushroom: Valued for increasing stamina and energy levels.
Turmeric: Known for its purported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Cinnamon: Adds flavor and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
The Lion's mane mushroom, Chaga, cordyceps and Chaga do make up a solid mushroom complex.
Mushgooms — If You Really Want A Gummy
Mushgooms are relatively inexpensive for what they are, they use a 10:1 extract, and definitely a higher quality one than you'll find in anything else of this price point and the reviewers for this article said they were nice enough to share their procurement source with them so they could verify that. You may get the immune and some brain health benefits.Â
The reviewers say they did give them a go around the office and not telling the testers what to expect some did report a boost in energy, but that's hardly scientific research. They taste nice, and they've got enough of the good stuff in here to potentially do something.Â
They're also pretty cheap, and a lot better than most mushroom supplements you can get at the $20 price range, gummy or otherwise.
Studies About The Most Popular Mushroom Supplements
Reishi Mushroom Supplement
Overview
Reishi mushrooms are valued for their purported ability to enhance immune response and mitigate stress through adaptogenic effects. They contain triterpenes and polysaccharides, which are crucial for their possible health benefits.
Key Studies:
Study on Immunomodulatory Effects:
Title: "Ganoderma lucidum stimulates NK cell cytotoxicity"
Journal: Innate Immunity, 2014
Findings: This study demonstrated that extracts from Reishi mushrooms could significantly enhance the cytotoxicity of natural killer cells, thereby boosting immune defense.
Study on Stress Reduction:
Title: "Randomized clinical trial of Ganoderma lucidum for the management of stress"
Journal: Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2012
Findings: Participants who consumed Reishi mushroom extract over a 4-week period reported significantly reduced fatigue and improved wellbeing, suggesting adaptogenic properties that help cope with stress.
Cordyceps Sinensis Supplement
Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, Cordyceps sinensis may enhance energy and stamina, particularly in athletic performance. Its natural occurrence in the Himalayan region is often considered superior due to unique environmental factors.
Lion's Mane Mushroom Supplement
Lion's Mane mushrooms are known for their potential cognitive benefits, particularly in stimulating nerve growth factors. Their bioactive compounds, hericenones and erinacines, may be linked to improved mental functions.
Chaga Mushroom Supplement
Chaga mushrooms appear to be extremely rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and support cellular health. Their extraction process may preserve key components like melanin, enhancing their antioxidant potential.
Turkey Tail Mushroom Supplement
Turkey Tail mushrooms (Trametes versicolor) are well-known for their potential immune-enhancing properties, attributed primarily to their high content of beta-glucans and other polysaccharides. These compounds may play a significant role in modulating the immune system.
FAQ Mushroom Supplements
1. What are mushroom supplements?
Mushroom supplements are products derived from mushrooms that are used for their health-promoting properties. These supplements are available in various forms, including powders, capsules, and tinctures, and are extracted from mushrooms known for their beneficial compounds.
2. What types of mushrooms are commonly used in supplements?
Common types of mushrooms used in supplements include Reishi, Cordyceps, Lion's Mane, Chaga, and Turkey Tail. Each mushroom has unique possible health benefits, ranging from immune support and stress relief to cognitive enhancement and energy boosting.
3. Are mushroom supplements safe?
As with any supplement, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting, especially for those with existing health conditions or those taking other medications.
4. How do I choose a high-quality mushroom supplement?
Look for supplements that specify they use the fruiting body of the mushroom, as it contains the majority of bioactive compounds. Ensure the product is tested for purity and potency, and ideally, choose products that are organically certified to avoid contaminants.
5. Can mushroom supplements interact with medications?
Some mushroom supplements can interact with medications, particularly those that affect the immune system or have anticoagulant properties. Always consult a healthcare provider to ensure safe use alongside other treatments.
6. How long does it take to see benefits from mushroom supplements?
The time to notice benefits from mushroom supplements can vary depending on the individual and the specific mushroom. Some effects, like increased energy from Cordyceps, may be felt within days, while other benefits, such as improved immune function from Turkey Tail, might take several weeks to become evident.
7 Are there any side effects of taking mushroom supplements?
Side effects can include digestive upset, allergic reactions, or skin rashes in sensitive individuals. If you experience any adverse effects, it's advisable to stop taking the supplement and consult a healthcare provider.
8. Can I take multiple types of mushroom supplements together?
Different types of mushroom supplements can be taken together and may even have synergistic effects. However, it's wise to start with a lower dose when combining supplements to monitor how your body responds.
