best nootropic mushrooms

The Benefits of Medicinal Nootropic Mushrooms

David Tomen
Author:
David Tomen
17 minute read

Key Takeaways

  1. Mushrooms have been used for food and medicine for centuries, with some species showing potential therapeutic benefits for human health.
  2. There are six nootropic mushrooms: Chaga, Cordyceps, Lion’s Mane, Maitake, Oyster, and Reishi, each with distinct therapeutic properties.
  3. Genuine mushroom nootropic supplements should be correctly identified to avoid inferior products, and the presence of beta-D-glucans indicates quality.
  4. Choose high-quality, certified organic, hot-water extracted mushroom supplements and check product labels for “fruiting body,” “beta-glucans,” and no “mycelium.”
  5. Products from companies like Real Mushrooms and Mind Lab Pro® meet the criteria for the best nootropic mushroom supplements.

 

Mushrooms have been used by humans for thousands of years as food and medicine.

More than 14,000 species of mushrooms have been identified and about 2,000 of them are edible.

Of 2,000 edible mushrooms, 270 species have potential therapeutic or preventative agents that ensure human health.

But of 270 medicinal mushrooms, only 6 are considered nootropics. And provide some type of benefit for your brain and nervous tissue.

In this post you’ll discover the nootropic value of those 6 mushrooms. Including how they benefit learning and memory, anxiety, fatigue, and the potential for Alzheimer’s Disease.

Then you’ll learn how to identify a genuine mushroom nootropics supplement. We’ll also cover how to avoid misleading marketing tactics that could trick you into buying bogus mushroom supplements.

And the last section of this  article provides suggestions on where to buy the highest quality nootropic mushrooms.

 

Top 6 Nootropic Mushrooms for Supporting Brain Health

270 species of edible mushrooms have been researched and tested as providing therapeutic or preventive benefits.

But so far, only 6 mushroom species have been identified with plenty of evidence to work as a nootropic and benefit your brain.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

Chaga mushrooms are technically NOT a mushroom but a canker that grow naturally on birch trees in northern Canada, Alaska, Siberia, Northern Europe, and Korea.

Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus)
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

Traditional medicine in the Northern Hemisphere used Chaga Mushrooms to inhibit cancer progression, stimulate immunity, reduce inflammation, and liver protection.[i]

In the lab, Chaga has been shown to be antitumor, anti-mutagenic, antiviral, antidiabetic, antioxidant, and analgesic (pain relief).

Animal studies demonstrated Chaga as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor which boosts acetylcholine for better learning and memory.[ii]

Another study showed Chaga is a potent antioxidant and scavenges free radicals.[iii]

Do not use Chaga if you’re on blood thinning medication, diabetes medication or if you have kidney disease.

Chaga is high in oxalates, which may prevent the absorption of some nutrients and can be toxic in high doses.

Chaga is available in capsules, bottled tinctures, as an extract, in tea bags, and fresh raw mushroom. Dosages vary between brands.

Other than as an extract, Chaga is best absorbed in hot water, alcohol, or fermented. If you’re using Chaga powder or tea bag, let it steep in hot water for 5 minutes before using it.

You can buy the highest quality, certified organic, hot-water extracted Siberian Chaga extract from Real Mushrooms located in Roberts Creek, British Columbia.  First time buyers get a 25% discount and return customers can use my special discount code on checkout: Nootropics10

Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris)

In the wild, Cordyceps (sinensis) grows as a parasitic fungus on caterpillars. Cultivated Cordyceps (militaris) which is mass produced for the supplement industry has been found to have similar components as sinensis. And may yield higher quantities of active compounds.[iv]

Cordyceps mushroom (Cordyceps militaris)
Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris)

Cordyceps mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat fatigue, respiratory and kidney disease.

Over 200 clinical studies show Cordyceps mushrooms improves performance by increasing blood flow, boosts ATP synthesis for more natural energy, acts as an antioxidant, enhances lactate clearance, increases the release of catecholamines, and reduces oxidative stress, and fatigue.[v]

Cordyceps first gained attention in 1993, when world record-breaking performances of Chinese female athletes were attributed to a vigorous training and nutrition regimen that involved Cordyceps supplementation.[vi]

A study conducted in Japan showed significant increases in the concentrations of creatine, and all the catecholamines in men over of the course of 2 weeks who were supplementing with Cordyceps sinensis.

The researchers concluded that “during this prolonged exercise, ingesting with Cordyceps mushrooms might elicit the superior efficiency and the economical function on the energy metabolism”.[vii]

You will get the most benefit of supplementing with Cordyceps by using 4 grams per day for at least 3 weeks.

I recommend Real Mushrooms 100% Certified Organic Cordyceps extract. First time customers get a 25% discount and return buyers can use my discount code: Nootropics10.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceu)

Lion’s Mane Mushroom is an ancient Chinese remedy for improving cognitive function, and for overall health.

Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceu)
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceu)

You’ll find my full review for Lion’s Mane Mushroom here.

Known for its powerful effects as a “brain tonic”, Lion’s Mane is said to have been used as a tea for thousands of years by Buddhist monks. To enhance brain power and heighten their ability to focus during meditation.

Lion’s Mane stimulates enzyme production that releases Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). In a study done in Kuala Lumpur in 2013, scientists showed that Lion’s Mane extract induced NGF synthesis and promoted neurite outgrowth.[viii]

Nerve Growth Factor helps repair neurons in your brain and boosts the regrowth of lost nerve cells and the growth of new neurons (neurogenesis). For better learning and memory.

Dosage of Lion’s Mane depends on the strength of the extract. Ranging from 300 mg to 3000 mg dosed 1 – 3 times per day.

My favorite pre-made nootropic stack Mind Lab Pro® contains the genuine fruiting body of Lion’s Mane Mushroom as well. I have been using Mind Lab Pro every day for the last 5 years and it is by far the best pre-made stack on the market today.

If you’re looking for a standalone Lion’s Mane supplement I also use and recommend Real Mushrooms Lion’s Mane extract. It is certified 100% organic with >25% Beta-D-Glucans hot-water extract. First time buyers get a 25% discount and return customers can use my discount code: Nootropics10

Maitake (Grifola frondosa)

Maitake Mushroom (Grifola frondosa)
Maitake (Grifola frondosa)

The Maitake mushroom is native to northeastern Japan. Its rippling appearance with no caps is a bit like that of dancing butterflies. Hence its name is derived from the Japanese words Mai (dance) and take (mushroom).

Maitake mushrooms are used to support some cancer therapies, chronic fatigue, hepatitis, allergies, high blood pressure and cholesterol.

Its nootropic value comes from its ability to relieve depression.

Studies show that the expression of AMPA receptors are reduced in patients with depression.[ix] And antagonists that sensitize AMPA receptors help prevent depression.

Animal models show that supplementing with Maitake provides an antidepressant effect by sensitizing AMPA receptors. And the researchers concluded that “patients may just eat Maitake as a supplement for the treatment of depression.[x]

Recommended dosage of Maitake Mushroom extract is 250 – 500 mg per day.

Oyster (Pleurotus ostreatus)

Oyster mushrooms are of Asian origin, but first cultivated in Germany during the first World War as an alternative food source. It’s

Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)
Oyster (Pleurotus ostreatus)

now the 3rd highest in quantity of the commercially produced mushrooms worldwide.

Oyster mushrooms are high in protein and a good alternative to animal meat because they contain some of the same amino acids as found in animal protein. Making Oyster mushrooms a good protein source for vegetarians.

Oyster mushrooms are also a good source of the B-Vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and several minerals.[xi]

The nootropic benefits of Oyster mushroom extract are attributed to and include anti-bacterial, antiviral, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and works as an antioxidant by suppressing oxidative stress and as a free radical scavenger.

Trials are undergoing and testing Oyster Mushrooms ability to degrade plastic waste, crude oil, and even radioactive waste.[xii]

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

Reishi mushroom has been used for over 2000 years in traditional Chinese Medicine.

Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

In China, G. lucidum is called lingzhi. In Japan, the name for the Ganodermataceae family is reishi or mannentake.[xiii]

Reishi mushroom benefits include blood sugar regulation, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-tumor.[xiv]

As a nootropic, Reishi is used for its anti-anxiety benefits[xv] and for chronic fatigue syndrome.

A study at Mae Fah Luang University in Thailand recruited 50 volunteers suffering Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Each were given Reishi mushroom extract or placebo.

Each person was asked to respond to a questionnaire for quality of life score and level of fatigue before and 4, 8, and 12 weeks after the first dose.

At the end of the study, those who used Reishi mushroom extract reported a significant increase in quality of life compared to placebo with a decrease in fatigue.

The researchers concluded that “G. lucidum extract could be potentially effective in the treatment of fatigue and improve quality of life in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome patients.”[xvi]

Many ‘in-vivo’ studies demonstrate the benefits of Reishi mushroom to include boosting your immune system[xvii], preventing abnormal blood vessel formations, it’s anti-tumor, and helps reverse liver damage.

Another animal study showed that Reishi mushroom could play an important role in Alzheimer’s Disease treatment. And as a nootropic, it supports the growth of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF).[xviii] NGF boosts learning, memory, and longevity.

Reishi mushroom is available in capsules, as a powder, and as an extract. Dosages vary depending on the strength or how concentrated the extract.

The Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China recommends 6 to 12 g reishi extract daily.

I recommend Real Mushrooms 100% Organic Reishi Mushroom extract. First time buyers get a 25% discount and return buyers can use my discount code: Nootropics10

How to Buy Genuine Nootropic Mushrooms

The beauty of mushrooms as a food and the few that are considered for their nootropic cognitive benefit is that they’re natural, and free of pesticides.

And as nootropics and a functional food, are high in vitamin, mineral and protein content. As well as being neuro-active and as antioxidants.

But a word of caution here.

You can usually find any of the 6 mushrooms I detailed above in a vitamin shop or online for use as a nootropic supplement. But the challenge is choosing nootropic mushroom supplements that work as claimed.

How the mushroom is grown and processed as well as the part of the mushroom used will affect its value as a nootropic.

Just one of many examples, the processing method (oven-dried vs freeze-dried) for Lion’s Mane Mushroom has been shown to affect its neurite stimulation activity.[xix]

Here you’ll learn about the different parts of a mushroom. And depending on how its grown and the part used, which supplements will offer the most nootropic value.

Choose the wrong supplement and you won’t get its benefit.

Unfortunately, manufacturers often make it difficult to discern what method was used to make their mushroom supplement.

Once you learn how to read the label, you’ll have more confidence knowing you’re buying the best nootropic mushrooms.

Understanding the Market of Nootropic Mushrooms

What we call a “mushroom” is made up of two parts – the mycelium and the fruiting body. The top of the mushroom is the fruiting body. And its stem is the mycelium.

NOTE: mycelium and mushroom is not synonymous.

mycelium is NOT a mushroom supplement
“mycelium” is NOT a mushroom supplement and “Polysaccharides” are NOT an indication of quality – classic example of trying to trick you into believing this is a quality mushroom supplement

If the supplement label states that the contents are ‘mycelium’, you’ll know you’re NOT getting a mushroom supplement. More on that in the next section.

The active components in a mushroom are what dictate their benefit to your cognition and overall health.

Those active components are beta-D-glucans, triterpenoids and ergosterol.[xx]

Beta-D-glucans are the primary source of nootropic activity. They make up the natural structural component of the cell walls of the fruiting body of the mushroom.

Triterpenoids compliment beta-D-glucans in immune system activity. And along with Ergosterol offer antioxidant activity, reduced inflammation, liver protection and reduced histamine response.

Genuine Mushrooms vs Mycelium

What you refer to as a ‘mushroom’ is actually the ‘fruiting body’ of the mushroom. Which develops from a spore, grows into the mycelium, and then tops it off with a mushroom (fruiting body).

Mycelium is the underground network that acts like a root which feeds off of organic plant matter.

This plant matter is usually referred to as substrate. The mycelium becomes woven into whatever that substrate is and is inseparable from the substrate material.

If all goes well, the mycelium produces a mushroom (fruiting body). The fruiting body is the reproductive mechanism of this organism.

When fully mature, the fruiting body produces spores that enter the substrate matter. To go on to produce more mycelium.

The bottom-line is a mushroom is not mycelium, and mycelium is not a mushroom.

The only exception to this ‘rule’ is Lion’s Mane Mushroom. Because the fruiting body does not contain erinacines which is the compound known to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF).

The nootropic benefits of hericenones are only found in the fruiting body or top of the mushroom and help support your immune cells and get rid of Amyloid β(25-35) peptide implicated in diseases like Alzheimer’s.

The challenge is getting a Lion’s Mane Mushroom extract that contains the full spectrum found in both the mycelium and fruiting body.

But the mushroom must be grown in liquid and not a solid substrate like grain. Otherwise you’ll get ground up grain without the important erinacines needed for increased NGF.

The nootropic value of mushrooms: beta-D-glucans

best lion's mane supplement must be full spectrum including fruiting body
Mind Lab Pro -this is a genuine mushroom example using “full spectrum and fruiting body (or fruit)” – if it doesn’t specify “fruiting body” don’t buy it

Functional nootropic mushroom benefits come from their active compounds which are found primarily in the mushroom (fruiting body). And much less so in the mycelium.

The fruiting body contains Beta-D-glucans which modulate your body’s immune function, reduce inflammation, control blood sugar, help reverse fatigue symptoms, and increase overall performance endurance.[xxi]

As the mycelium grows down into the substrate matter the two become interwoven.  And cannot be separated during processing when manufacturing supplements.

Mushroom supplement manufacturers often claim their product is pure “mushroom” extract. But what you may be getting instead is a mycelium supplement combined with substrate matter.

Check the ‘Supplement Facts’ label on the back of a “mushroom” supplement to ensure you’re getting the “fruiting body” and not “mycelium” instead.

Polysaccharides does NOT Equal Mushroom Quality

Polysaccharides is another term you’ll come across on mushroom supplement labels.

fake nootropic mushrooms
Classic example of a fake. Grown in the USA, But NOT genuine mushroom, this is mycelium/grain powder trying to make you believe it’s real mushroom

Truth is they are a key component in nootropic mushrooms. And companies boast about their high polysaccharide numbers.

But here’s the problem with evaluating a mushroom supplement simply by measuring polysaccharides.

Polysaccharides are long chain carbohydrates made up of components like beta-glucans, chitin, cellulose, glucose, and fructose.

But polysaccharides also include alpha-glucans such as glycogen, dextran, pullulan, and starch.

Many so-called “mushroom” products are made up of alpha-glucans and not beta-glucans.

The thing is a lot of medicinal mushroom supplements on the market are just mycelium which is grown on grain. And the grain cannot be separated from the mycelium that it’s entangled with.

These grains are alpha-glucans, starches, and other fillers which are part of the grain substrate the mushroom is grown on. And are passed off as “mushroom” supplements to those who haven’t done their homework.

Alpha-glucans provide no nootropic benefit.

Unless you inspect the nootropic mushroom label carefully, you may be misled into believing that you are buying a genuine mushroom supplement.

When in fact, you could be buying a bottle filled with mycelium/grain powder.

Six researchers conducted and published a study in partnership with the US Pharmacopoeia to evaluate 19 Reishi mushrooms. The supplements were purchased online from Amazon and eBay.

Only 5 of the 19 supplements tested contained genuine Reishi mushroom. The supplements evaluated in this study included 6 fruiting body powders, 1 fruiting body powder with added polysaccharides, 1 reishi mycelium product and 11 extracts.

The researchers concluded that several so-called ‘Reishi’ mushroom supplements did NOT contain what consumers expected based on product information and labels.[xxii]

The big take-away here is just because you see a picture of a mushroom on the front of a supplement bottle does NOT guarantee any genuine mushroom fruiting body in the supplement.

To get the most potent nootropic mushroom supplement, look for extracts made from the mushroom (fruiting body) and which also specifies beta-glucan content.

Do NOT buy a mushroom supplement if the manufacturer neglects to state the part of the mushroom they use.

The bottle or package should say whether you’re getting the mushroom (fruiting body), the mycelium, or a blend of both. How much of each including the percentage (%) of beta-glucan content. If not, put it back on the shelf.

Nootropics Mushrooms and Brain Health Summary

China is the leading grower worldwide of medicinal mushrooms accounting for 90 – 95% of world production.

China first began growing mushrooms for food and medicine in the 13th century. Many of the research centers dedicated to the study and development of mushrooms are in China.

Mushrooms grown in the United States or Canada are too expensive for nootropic supplement use.

If your supplement label states “Made in the USA” double-check and make sure that you are buying genuine mushroom. Because if it’s an extract and whole “fruiting body”, the mushrooms are grown China. Even if the extract was manufactured in the USA.

If the company insists their product was grown in the USA or Canada, you can be sure that the contents of that supplement are mycelium/grain powder and not genuine mushroom (fruiting body).

When choosing a nootropic mushroom it’s important to keep in mind that for you to get it’s nootropic benefit it needs to be 100% mushroom (fruiting body), with verified levels of beta-glucans, zero fillers, and preferably certified organic.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom is one of the best nootropic mushrooms. Get it as a standalone supplement, or part of a pre-made stack like my favorite, Mind Lab Pro®.

Mind Lab Pro® contains 500 mg of Organic Lion’s Mane Mushroom (full spectrum & fruiting body) per dose.

If you’d like to try a pre-made stack containing most of the nootropic mushrooms detailed in this review, I suggest trying the Onnit Shroom Tech.

Their Onnit Shroom Tech includes 8 different medicinal mushrooms species including our 5 nootropic mushrooms.

And most of the nootropic mushrooms I’ve detailed above can be purchased as standalone supplements. I recommend Real Mushrooms who are the pioneers in this industry and have set the bar for the highest quality nootropic mushrooms. They are located in Roberts Creek, British Columbia. And their mushroom products are Certified 100% Organic, using the fruiting body only with the highest Beta-D-Glucan content.

First time buyers at Real Mushrooms get a 25% discount. And return buyers can use my discount code: Nootropics10

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may also contain other affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

[i] “Chaga Mushroom” Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (source)

[ii] Mishra S.K., Kang J.H., Kim D.K. “Orally administered aqueous extract of Inonotus obliquus ameliorates acute inflammation in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Sep 28 2012;143(2):524-532 (source)

[iii] Hu Y. Sheng Y., Yu M., Li K., Ren G., Xu X., Qu J. “Antioxidant Activity of Inonotus Obliquus Polysaccharide and Its Amelioration for Chronic Pancreatitis in Mice” International Journal of Biology & Macromology 2016 Jun;87:348-56. (source)

[iv] Kim H.O., Yun J.W. “A comparative study on the production of exopolysaccharides between two entomopathogenic fungi Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps sinensis in submerged mycelial cultures.” Journal of Applied Microbiology. 2005; 99(4):728-38. (source)

[v] Hrisch K.R., Smith-Ryan A.E., Roelofs E.J., Trexler E.T., Mock M.G. “Cordyceps militaris improves tolerance to high intensity exercise after acute and chronic supplementation” Journal of Dietary Supplements 2017 Jan 2; 14(1): 42–53. (source)

[vi] Hersh P. “The Rise and Fall of Ma’s Army: World Records, Questions will Last for Decades” Chicago Tribune. 1995 Aug 3; 1995 (source)

[vii] Nagata A., Tajima T., Uchida M. (2006). Supplemental anti-fatigue effects of Cordyceps sinensis (Tochu-Kaso) extract powder during three step wise exercise in human.” Japan Journal of Physical Fitness in Sports 5:s145–52 (source)

[viii] Lai P.L., Naidu M., Sabaratnam V., Wong K.H., David R.P., Kuppusamy U.R., Abdullah N., Malek S.N. “Neurotrophic properties of the Lion’s mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia.” International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms. 2013;15(6):539-54. (source)

[ix] Duric V., Banasr M., Stockmeier C.A., Simen A.A., Newton S.S., Overholser J.C., Jurjus G.J., Dieter L., Duman R.S. “Altered expression of synapse and glutamate related genes in post-mortem hippocampus of depressed subjects.” International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology. 2013 Feb; 16(1):69-82. (source)

[x] Boa H. Ran P., Sun L., Hu W., Li W., Xiao C., Zhu K. Du J., “Griflola frondosa (GF) produces significant antidepressant effects involving AMPA receptor activation in mice” Pharmaceutical Biology 2017; 55(1): 299–305. (source)

[xi] Wani B.A., Bodha R.H., Wani A.H. “Nutritional and medicinal importance of mushrooms” Journal of Medicinal Plants Research Vol. 4(24), pp. 2598-2604 (source)

[xii] Gosh T., Sengupta A., Das A. “Nutrition, Therapeutics and Environment Impact of

Oyster Mushrooms: A Low Cost Proteinaceous Source” Journal of Gynecology and Women’s Health Volume 14 Issue 1 – February 2019 (source)

[xiii] Bishop K.S. et. Al. “From 2000 years of Ganoderma Lucidum to Recent Developments in Nutraceuticals” Phytochemistry. 2015 Jun;114:56-65 (source)

[xiv] Wachtel-Gator S. Yuen J., Buswell J.A., Benzie I.F.F. “Chapter 9 Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi or Reishi)” Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition. CRC Press/Taylor & Francis; 2011. (source)

[xv] Tang W., Gao Y., et. Al. “A Randomized, Double-Blind and Placebo-Controlled Study of a Ganoderma Lucidum Polysaccharide Extract in Neurasthenia” Journal of Medicinal Food Spring 2005;8(1):53-8. (source)

[xvi] Soksawatmakhin S., Boonyahotra W. “Preliminary study of the applications of

Ganoderma lucidum in chronic fatigue syndrome” Journal of Asian Association of Schools of Pharmacy Volume 2, January – December, 2013 Pages: 262-268 (source)

[xvii] Cao L., Lin Z. “Regulation on Maturation and Function of Dendritic Cells by Ganoderma Lucidum Polysaccharides” Immunology Letters. 2002 Oct 1;83(3):163-9. (source)

[xviii] Zhou Y. Qu Z. et. Al. “Neuroprotective effect of preadministration with Ganoderma lucidum spore on rat hippocampus” Experimental and Toxicologic Pathology Volume 64, Issues 7–8, November 2012, Pages 673-680 (source)

[xix] Wong K.H., Sabaratnam V., Abdullah N., Kuppusamy U.R., Naidu M. “Effects of Cultivation Techniques and Processing on Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of Hericium erinaceus (Bull.:Fr.) Pers. Extracts” Food Technology and Biotechnology, Vol. 47 No. 1, 2009. (source)

[xx] Zhang J.J., Li Y., Zhou T., Xu D.P., Zhang P., Li S., Li H.B. “Bioactivities and Health Benefits of Mushrooms Mainly from China” Molecules 2016 Jul 20;21(7):938. (source)

[xxi] Akramiene D., Kondrotas A., Didziapetriene J., Kevelaitis E. “Effects of Beta-Glucans on the Immune System” Medicina 2007;43(8):597-606. (source)

[xxii] Wu D.T., Deng Y., Chen L.X., Zhao J., Bzhelyansky A., Li S.P. “Evaluation on quality consistency of Ganoderma lucidum dietary supplements collected in the United States” Scientific Reports volume 7, Article number: 7792 (2017) (source)

Subscribe to the Nootropics Expert newsletter

Keep up to date with the latest developments in the nootropics space.

Head First 2nd Editon

The Award Winning Guide to Healing & Optimizing Your Brain with Nootropic Supplements.

Head First 2nd Edition

NEW! Eliminate Brain Fog, Low Energy, Moodiness, Difficulty Sleeping, Memory Loss or Anxiety. Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, Walmart and more...



Where to Buy Nootropics

Wondering where to buy nootropics? Well, you’re in the right place. Because here you will find the nootropic supplements that I personally use and recommend. Each supplement has a link to the company store and product that I use. I also include a link to my full review for each supplement here on Nootropics Expert® […]

The Definitive Guide to Nootropics

Nootropics can help increase your memory, boost learning ability, improve your mood and assist overall brain function. If you’re new to nootropics, or wonder about the difference between a nootropic and a smart drug, then this page is for you. Here you’ll find the definition of a nootropic, how to pronounce the word “nootropic”, the […]

The Most Comprehensive Nootropics List

This is our big list of the most popular Nootropics in use today. Here you’ll learn what each nootropic is, what it does and suggested dosages. What is this List of Nootropics About? Nootropic supplements are cognitive enhancers aiming to improve brain function. Whether you are looking to treat mild cognitive impairment, improve mental focus, or biohack […]



Free Secrets of the Brain 3rd Edition

Get “Secrets of the Optimized Brain,” 92 nootropics to help you plan your Nootropic Stack when you sign up for my newsletter:

Join The Discussion - 45 comments

Claudia
May 18, 2021

Hello,

I am not American, so English is not my first language, therefore I don’t know if I understood the whole process of determining a good mushroom product correctly. I bought a powder containing Lion’s Mane& Cordyceps from the brand Four Sigmatic called Focus blend mix through Iherb (since they ship internationally). They say it’s from the fruiting body, but say it’s manufactured in the US, so I’m confused. I also bought a bottle of Reishi pills on Iherb from the brand Paradise, which confused me even more. Are there any brands on Iherb that you can recommend to me please? As this is a site I am comfortable with using since I can use it without a credit card and it ships to my country. Thank you

    David Tomen
    May 18, 2021

    Claudia, I am not familiar with what is available in iHerb in your country. Just keep in mind that a quality and effective mushroom supplement must be made from the fruiting body and NOT the mycelium.

    Many of these supplements are made in the USA but the raw ingredients come from China. Which is good because they have been growing medicinal mushrooms longer than anyone else o the planet.

      Claudia
      May 20, 2021

      Thank you!

      Jose
      August 24, 2022

      Hi Dave,

      Love your work here. Thank you.

      I do have some confusion, however. You indicated that mushroom powder/extract must be from fruiting bodies but I found at least one video (Paul STamets/Joe Rogan video) in which Paul Stamets (world renouned mycologist) states that the most benefit comes from the mycelium not the mushroom bodies.

      I also went to the Amazon website for the “Host Defense” (Paul Stamets’ company) Lion’s Mane Powder and they also indicate that the mycelium is preferable over the mushroom body.

      Is there a study that might back up the information, one way or the other?

      Thank you

Natalia
March 15, 2021

Hello David. I have chronic lyme disease, my symptoms are: tinnitus, internal vibration, muscle teitching, joints cracking/popping, hyper-mobility, muscle wasting. I am looking at mushrooms… which would you you recommend to try?

    David Tomen
    March 15, 2021

    Natalia, look at Chaga and Reishi.

Veronica
February 9, 2021

Very interesting! I would like to ask you David which one would you recommed for post-concussion symptoms, support for regeneration of the nervous system and seizures.
Thank you again!!!

    David Tomen
    February 9, 2021

    Veronica, Lion’s Mane is the best for regeneration of the “nervous system”. But I do not know of a mushroom to stop seizures. I do not think one exists.

Natalia
February 7, 2021

Hey David. Could you recommend reliable brand of Chaga and cordycepcs mushrooms? Thank you

    David Tomen
    February 7, 2021

    Natalia, absolutely the best mushrooms supplements on the market with the best decades-long track record is Real Mushrooms in Vancouver. Here is their chaga: https://amzn.to/3cQPxnM and cordyceps: https://amzn.to/3rvenO6

Raul
September 4, 2020

Hello David,

Do you have anny experience with “nootropicdepot” products? specially their mushrooms?

Regards.

    David Tomen
    September 4, 2020

    Raul, I’ve used some of their product in the past when it was the only place I could get something. I much prefer HR Supplements and use their products daily.

    I’ve nothing bad to say about Nootropics Depot. I just trust HR Supplements more and the quality of their product. This is what I’m using right now of theirs: https://bit.ly/2Dtl9jQ

Some Epic Name
June 30, 2020

Hi, David! I suffer from overall joint and low back hypermobility while my upper spine conversely is stiff and abnormally flat, and have Asperger’s-like symptoms, depression, allergies, minor tics/tremors in the fingers and stomach issues. I have been diagnosed with Asperger’s/ASD, but doubt this diagnosis because so many other things are wrong with me (although I know various health issues go hand in hand). My doctors have not been able to explain my symptoms in any other way than just claiming Asperger’s and Gilbert’s syndrome, dismissing the depression, hypermobility and flattened back as unimportant.

One Deborah Cusack claims supplementing with polysaccharides restores collagen so efficiently it can make EDS sufferers symptom-free. Although I don’t know whether my problem is EDS or not, I will try this. One of her suggestions is Host Defense Maitake capsules. My question here is not whether you believe her theory to be true, this not being your area of expertise, but in my specific situation, would you first try HDM to try the exact product she claims works from her experience, or still go with a fruit body Maitake considering their Maitake is mostly mycelium?

Also, I would appreciate if you could give your opinion on my current stack:

– MLP, 2 caps
– BioPQQ, 10mg
– creatine mono, 5 g
– boswellia serrata, 100 mg
– magnesium, 180 mg
– vitamin D3, 50 µg
– sketchy sulbutiamine, 400 mg
– MCT oil, 1 tbsp

Do you foresee any negative interactions here, with Maitake to also be added soon (I’m on no prescription drugs BTW)? Or anything you would otherwise strongly recommend changing?

Is there any reason to add DHA considering I eat salmon multiple days EVERY week and am now also trying keto, and therefore a fat-based diet?

My apologies for asking such difficult questions, but I would appreciate if you could offer me some advise on this!

    David Tomen
    July 1, 2020

    Epic, thank you for focusing in on mushroom quality. Because after countless hours of research I’m convinced you’ll only get the benefit of something like Maitake by getting a supplement using the fruiting body. And preferably a company who states the percentage of beta glucans.

    A so-called “mushroom” supplement that uses the mycelium is mostly grain substrate that the mushroom is grown on. And simply can’t offer the beta glucans you need to get the mushroom’s benefit. And if the label states “Maitake powder” but nothing else, you can safely assume it’s mycelium and not mushroom.

    I found at least one on Amazon if you go hunting for it. I’m not linking to it because I don’t know the company. One that I can recommend (this is an affiliate link) is by HR Supplements here: https://www.hrsupplements.com/maitake-mushroom-extract-powder-30-beta-glucan-min-whole-fruiting-body-grifola-frondosa/?afmc=NOOTROPICS. It’s a tub of powder so you’ll need to make your own capsules. Or mix it in a smoothie or something. But these guys are trustworthy and test their product before shipping.

    If you try the mushroom option please report back and let the community know whether if worked for you.

    No reason to add DHA if you’re using wild salmon multiple times during the week. But if it’s farmed salmon you can assume it provides mostly Omega-6s and you’ll need an additional 1,000 mg DHA.

    I don’t see any negative interactions in your stack. But you may want to double your dose of PQQ, magnesium, Vitamin D3, and MCT Oil. And do two doses per day instead of one.

      Some Epic Name
      July 1, 2020

      Thank you for your advice. HR Supplements apparently don’t ship to Finland, but I will hunt down a fruiting body Maitake and add it to my stack ASAP. If that doesn’t help me considerably in a month or so, I’ll continue to try other things.

      Because of your shown interest, I’ll comment here if I ever find anything that helps any of my symptoms markedly, whether that will be Maitake or something else.

      (So far, MLP has caused minor improvements in my mood and cognition, whereas I cannot tell whether any other supplement has ever helped me in any way. Besides my current stack, that includes around 20 supplements that I eventually decided to stop replenishing, namely common vitamins, minerals and amino acids as well as ashwagandha, chlorella, spirulina and a couple of joint recovery stacks.)

        David Tomen
        July 2, 2020

        I suggest keeping up with the “common vitamins and minerals” because your body and brain need them. And any nootropic you try will need their support as well.

        You didn’t mention how long you’ve been using Mind Lab Pro. I’ve found it to provide more benefit the longer you use it.

        And it’s good that you’re willing to experiment. That’s the key to success when using nootropics.

M B
June 25, 2020

Keep up the awesome work.

    David Tomen
    June 27, 2020

    Thanks MB.

Elle
June 25, 2020

Thank you so much for your post David. I just ordered 3 bottles of it to me in London Straight after reading this. I also just took my first Mindlab Pro and Performance Lab capsules today. I came across your amazing website a week after I ordered them so it was great to get a positive genuine review. I’ve just started studying a degree at the age of 41 after 20 years and it’s been a nightmare trying to retain information. I have zero recall so hoping these will help. Thanks again and really enjoy learning from you.

    David Tomen
    June 27, 2020

    Elle, they’ll definitely help and you’ll get the most benefit from using them daily long-term. Expect real results in 3 – 4 weeks if you stick with it.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *