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Functional mushrooms may be our new secret weapon to well-being. Packed with antioxidants, beta-glucans, and other beneficial compounds, these mushrooms boast incredible health properties.
Eastern medicine practitioners have acknowledged the medicinal properties of functional mushrooms for thousands of years. Promising an immune boost, energy boost, improved mood, reduced stress, and more, mushrooms are taking over the wellness space.
Health enthusiasts are adding mushrooms to everything from smoothies to teas and coffees, and it seems the mushroom boom is only just beginning. Mushroom supplements, such as powders and capsules, are becoming increasingly popular, offering an easy and convenient way to reap the rewards of functional mushrooms.
But just how safe are mushroom supplements? There is still some confusion about potential side effects and overall safety as they gain traction.
Functional Mushrooms vs. Psychedelic Mushrooms
Firstly, let’s explore the difference between functional and psychedelic “magic” mushrooms since there’s some worry that they produce similar effects.
Functional mushrooms have traditionally been used to improve health and longevity, protect against illness, and support the body’s stress management. They don’t have any psychedelic effects and instead improve the body’s overall function.
Psychedelic mushrooms, also known as “magic mushrooms,” are hallucinogenic and contain psilocybin, contributing to psychedelic effects and an altered state of perception. Typically, psychedelic mushrooms are used recreationally, though they may have psychological benefits.
Mushroom supplements refer to functional mushrooms, the type boasting therapeutic effects. There are several species, some of the most popular including reishi, cordyceps, and lion’s mane. Each species contains different compounds and has different uses. For instance, a cordyceps mushroom supplement supports energy levels and athletic performance, while lion’s mane improves cognitive function.
Are Functional Mushrooms Safe?
Functional mushrooms are non-toxic and generally safe to consume, making them a powerful addition to any wellness regime.
However, as with everything, consuming too much has its downsides. Potential side effects include a dry mouth and throat, headaches, and an upset stomach.
It’s also important to consider that there are different functional mushroom species, and side effects may vary between each. Furthermore, some are better studied than others, so their safety profile may be better understood.
Research suggests that reishi, cordyceps, and lion’s mane mushrooms generally have good safety and tolerability when used in supplement form. But side effects are possible, as seen in several studies. Plus, certain groups of people face greater risks with functional mushrooms.
For instance, if you have a bleeding disorder, low blood pressure, are taking diabetes medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should avoid reishi mushrooms. High doses of reishi could increase the risk of bleeding in people with a very low platelet count.
Additionally, as reported in one 2007 report, reishi powder has been linked to two cases of liver toxicity. Also, allergic reactions have been linked to lion’s mane mushrooms, as reported in a 2003 study. Those with a known mushroom allergy should avoid all functional mushrooms to be safe.
Dosage is also an important factor to consider. Side effects are more likely when mushrooms are consumed in excessive amounts.
There is also a possibility of mushroom supplements interacting with other herbs, supplements, and medications. Always speak to your doctor before adding mushrooms to the mix.
Finally, it’s important to note that most mushroom supplements contain more than one ingredient. Therefore, mushroom extract is not the only ingredient you need to consider. Also, different companies use different methods and practices to create their mushroom extract, so the quality varies. And the quality of a product affects its safety.
Choosing Safe Mushroom Supplements
Not all mushroom supplements are created equal. Some mushroom brands choose profit over efficacy and safety, so it’s important to know what to look for in a high-quality mushroom supplement.
Here are a few crucial factors to look out for:
- Organic/all-natural: Some companies fill their products with unnecessary artificial ingredients. Stick to those that are 100% natural.
- Fruiting bodies over mycelium: The fruiting body is the stalk and cap of the mushroom and contains a higher concentration of bioactive substances than the mycelium. Choose supplements made using the fruiting body.
- Lab reports: Trustworthy brands send finished products to independent labs to verify purity, potency, and safety. The lab results should be available for customers to view.
Final Thoughts on the Safety of Mushroom Supplements
There are several factors to consider when addressing the safety of mushroom supplements. Research is ongoing, and some species are better studied than others, so we’re still learning about functional mushrooms’ side effects and safety profile.
In general, though, mushroom supplements are safe and pose few risks when taken in moderate doses. However, certain people should be more cautious when using functional mushrooms.
Always consult your doctor before adding mushrooms to your health regime and address possible side effects and concerns.
