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What are the best mushroom supplements for brain health?
Written by Sophie Vilensky
Mushroom supplements have taken over the supplement market for their potential to support brain health, stress levels, and hormones, thanks to their unique blend of bioactive compounds. From improving focus and cognitive function to reducing anxiety, these natural powerhouses are being studied for a range of benefits. We’ve curated the top seven mushroom supplements specifically designed to boost brain health, and discussed the benefits with experts.
Best for Hormone Health: The Hot Flash System by Rebalance Health
Rebalance Health is a wellness brand offering natural, clinically studied to support cortisol levels throughout the day. Their ingredient list includes Cordyceps Mushrooms, which may support the immune system and Reishi Mushrooms, which may aid cognitive ability, stress reduction, fatigue, and sleep quality. Unlike other products, the brand has studied cortisol and hormone levels throughout the day – morning, noon, and night – and curated a product to support the ever changing status of our stress levels.
Best Overall: Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplement by Double Wood Supplements
Support brain health and cognitive function with Double Wood Supplements’ Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplement. Associated with improved memory, focus, and clarity, it also may support your immune system with powerful antioxidants. Made with pure Lion’s Mane extract and free from artificial additives, this high-quality supplement ensures you get the best natural benefits.
“Lion’s mane mushrooms are a game-changer for your brain health. They’re known for their ability to boost cognitive function, enhance memory, and support overall mental clarity,” comments Julie Lichtman, RD, LDN.
Best Powder: Pure by Organifi
Experience a brain health boost with Pure by Organifi, which includes lion’s mane mushrooms and is formulated to enhance mental clarity. Plus, it may support gut health with the addition of prebiotics and probiotics. Plus, lion’s mane has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can keep your body feeling healthy,” Lichtman tells us.
Best with Caffeine: Roots Focus by Silver Star Nutrition
My new favorite mushroom supplement for brain health is Roots Focus. It contains a blend of mushrooms like cordyceps, reishi, oyster, and lion’s mane, along with nootropics like Rhodiola and alpha GPC and 56 milligrams of caffeine, says Melissa Boufounos, CHN, sports nutritionist and owner of MB Performance Nutrition near Ottawa, ON.
Roots Focus is a line of nootropic supplements that combine the benefits of caffeine with the advantages of functional mushrooms to promote brain health and increase energy. Each serving features a potent 2g blend of four powerful mushroom powders—Reishi, Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, and Oyster—designed to replace existing mushroom supplements due to its higher potency. With 56 mg of clean caffeine from whole coffee fruit extract, it offers a healthy, sustained energy boost without the jitters or crashes.
Best Multivitamin: Daily Essentials for Women by Mela Vitamins
Mela Vitamins, a Black woman-owned business, is revolutionizing wellness for melanated women with Mela’s Daily Essentials. This multivitamin is formulated with adaptogenic mushrooms, essential nutrients, and probiotics. It includes Lion’s Mane for cognitive support, heart health, and blood sugar management. Plus, we love that this supplement may help combat vitamin D deficiency.
Best for Immune Health: Superfood Mushroom by MegaFood
Experience the immune health-boosting benefits of Superfood Mushroom by MegaFood. Formulated with organic maitake mushrooms, this potent supplement contains a rich source of beta-glucans, a soluble fiber that might reduce one’s risk for heart disease. Plus, holy basil and elderberry ingredients complement the immune boosting ingredients here.
Best Coffee Alternative: Mushroom Matcha by MUDWTR
Jennifer Nicole Bianchini, MS, RDN, IFNCP, RYT, Founder at Body to Soul Health says she recommends MUDWTR’s mushroom matcha. Combining a variety of mushrooms such as lion’s mane, Cordyceps, reishi and chaga, these mushrooms are known adaptogens that help our mind and body increase resilience to stress and in turn helps us have a clearer mind, Bianchini says. From reducing anxiety and jitters associated with coffee to cognitive function and immune health, this mushroom supplement offers a wide range of potential health benefits.
Best Mushroom Supplements for Brain FAQs
How do I choose the right mushroom supplement for brain health?
When selecting a mushroom supplement for brain health, look for products that contain specific mushrooms known for their cognitive benefits, such as Lion’s Mane, Reishi, and Cordyceps. Ensure the supplement is made from high-quality, organic ingredients and has undergone third-party testing for purity and potency.
Are mushroom supplements safe to use?
Mushroom supplements are generally considered safe for most people when taken as directed. However, it’s important to choose high-quality products from reputable brands to avoid contamination and ensure efficacy. If you have any pre-existing health conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
Can mushroom supplements improve memory and focus?
Yes, certain mushroom supplements, particularly those containing Lion’s Mane, have been shown to improve memory, focus, and overall cognitive function. Lion’s Mane is known for its neuroprotective properties and ability to stimulate nerve growth factor, which can enhance brain health and cognitive performance.
What is the recommended dosage for mushroom supplements?
The recommended dosage for mushroom supplements can vary depending on the type of mushroom, the specific product, and the reason you’re seeking it out. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate amount for your individual needs. The supplements recommended in this article contain mushrooms in up to 3,000 mg doses per serving.
Are there any side effects of taking mushroom supplements for brain health?
Most people can take mushroom supplements without experiencing significant side effects. However, some individuals may experience mild digestive upset, such as nausea or diarrhea, especially when starting a new supplement. If you experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.
Can mushroom supplements interact with medications?
Mushroom supplements can potentially interact with certain medications, particularly those that affect the immune system, blood pressure, or blood clotting. If you are taking any prescription medications or have a chronic health condition, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before adding mushroom supplements to your regimen to avoid any adverse interactions.