Functional Mushroom Guide
Learn about the most popular functional mushrooms, their benefits, active compounds, and the science behind them. Find products containing your favorite mushrooms.
15
Mushroom Species
8
Extensively Researched
62
Documented Benefits
1000s
Years of Use
Most Popular Functional Mushrooms
The most widely used and researched functional mushrooms
Lion's Mane
Hericium erinaceus
Lion's Mane is renowned for its cognitive-enhancing properties. Research suggests it may stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production, supporting brain health, memory, and focus. It's the most popular functional mushroom for mental clarity and cognitive performance.
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Reishi
Ganoderma lucidum
Known as the 'Mushroom of Immortality' in traditional Chinese medicine, Reishi is prized for its calming and immune-supporting properties. It's commonly used for stress relief, better sleep, and overall wellness support.
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Cordyceps
Cordyceps militaris
Cordyceps is celebrated for its energy-boosting and performance-enhancing properties. It supports oxygen utilization, stamina, and athletic performance, making it popular among athletes and active individuals.
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Chaga
Inonotus obliquus
Chaga is one of the most antioxidant-rich substances on earth. It grows on birch trees in cold climates and is valued for immune support, antioxidant protection, and inflammation management.
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Turkey Tail
Trametes versicolor
Turkey Tail is extensively researched for immune support and gut health. It contains prebiotics that support beneficial gut bacteria and is one of the most studied medicinal mushrooms worldwide.
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Shiitake
Lentinula edodes
Beyond its culinary popularity, Shiitake offers immune support and cardiovascular benefits. It's rich in B vitamins and vitamin D, supporting overall metabolic health.
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White Button
Agaricus bisporus
The most commonly consumed mushroom worldwide, White Button mushrooms offer immune support, vitamin D, and antioxidant benefits. They're a staple in functional mushroom blends.
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Psilocybin Mushrooms
Psilocybe cubensis
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as 'magic mushrooms,' contain psychoactive compounds being researched for mental health applications. Clinical trials show promising results for treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. Microdosing has gained popularity for cognitive enhancement and mood support. Legal status varies by jurisdiction.
Key Benefits:
All Functional Mushrooms
Complete directory of functional mushrooms used in supplements
Lion's Mane
Hericium erinaceus
Lion's Mane is renowned for its cognitive-enhancing properties. Research suggests it may stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production, supporting brain health, memory, and focus. It's the most popular functional mushroom for mental clarity and cognitive performance.
Reishi
Ganoderma lucidum
Known as the 'Mushroom of Immortality' in traditional Chinese medicine, Reishi is prized for its calming and immune-supporting properties. It's commonly used for stress relief, better sleep, and overall wellness support.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps militaris
Cordyceps is celebrated for its energy-boosting and performance-enhancing properties. It supports oxygen utilization, stamina, and athletic performance, making it popular among athletes and active individuals.
Chaga
Inonotus obliquus
Chaga is one of the most antioxidant-rich substances on earth. It grows on birch trees in cold climates and is valued for immune support, antioxidant protection, and inflammation management.
Turkey Tail
Trametes versicolor
Turkey Tail is extensively researched for immune support and gut health. It contains prebiotics that support beneficial gut bacteria and is one of the most studied medicinal mushrooms worldwide.
Shiitake
Lentinula edodes
Beyond its culinary popularity, Shiitake offers immune support and cardiovascular benefits. It's rich in B vitamins and vitamin D, supporting overall metabolic health.
White Button
Agaricus bisporus
The most commonly consumed mushroom worldwide, White Button mushrooms offer immune support, vitamin D, and antioxidant benefits. They're a staple in functional mushroom blends.
Psilocybin Mushrooms
Psilocybe cubensis
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as 'magic mushrooms,' contain psychoactive compounds being researched for mental health applications. Clinical trials show promising results for treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. Microdosing has gained popularity for cognitive enhancement and mood support. Legal status varies by jurisdiction.
Maitake
Grifola frondosa
Maitake, meaning 'dancing mushroom' in Japanese, is valued for immune support and metabolic health. Research suggests it may support healthy blood sugar levels and cardiovascular function.
King Trumpet
Pleurotus eryngii
King Trumpet mushroom is rich in amino acids and antioxidants. It's valued for cardiovascular support and contains high levels of ergothioneine, a powerful antioxidant associated with longevity.
Tremella
Tremella fuciformis
Known as the 'beauty mushroom,' Tremella is prized for skin health and hydration. It holds up to 500 times its weight in water and is popular in beauty and wellness formulations.
Black Fungus
Auricularia auricula-judae
Black Fungus, also known as Wood Ear mushroom, is valued in traditional Chinese medicine for cardiovascular support and blood circulation. It's rich in iron and dietary fiber.
Royal Sun
Agaricus blazei
Royal Sun mushroom, also called Himematsutake, is researched for immune support and antioxidant properties. It's popular in Japan and Brazil for wellness support.
Agarikon
Laricifomes officinalis
Agarikon is a rare mushroom that grows on old-growth trees. It's researched for immune support and respiratory health, with traditional use dating back thousands of years.
Amanita Muscaria
Amanita muscaria
Amanita muscaria, the iconic red-capped mushroom, contains muscimol rather than psilocybin. Traditionally used in Siberian shamanic practices, it's experiencing renewed interest for its calming and sedative properties. Unlike psilocybin, its effects are primarily GABAergic. Requires proper preparation. Legal in most jurisdictions but not FDA-approved.
What Are Functional Mushrooms?
Functional mushrooms, also known as medicinal mushrooms, are species that have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and are now backed by modern scientific research. Unlike culinary mushrooms, functional mushrooms are valued primarily for their bioactive compounds and potential health benefits.
These mushrooms contain unique compounds such as beta-glucans, polysaccharides, triterpenes, and other bioactive molecules that may support various aspects of health including immune function, cognitive performance, stress response, and overall wellness.
Common Active Compounds
- • Beta-Glucans: Polysaccharides that may support immune function
- • Triterpenes: Compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties
- • Polysaccharides: Complex carbohydrates with various biological activities
- • Ergothioneine: A powerful antioxidant found in many mushroom species
Modern supplements typically use concentrated extracts of these mushrooms to deliver standardized amounts of active compounds. Look for products that specify extraction ratios (like 8:1 or 10:1) and beta-glucan content for quality assurance.
Find Products with Your Favorite Mushrooms
Browse our complete directory of mushroom supplements and find products containing the functional mushrooms you're looking for.