Mushroom Capsules

The fact that there are some edible mushrooms with impressive medicinal benefits has become common knowledge. As a result, most people are now looking to these mushrooms for good health. To make your journey easier, there are mushroom powders and extracts that you can easily add to your daily routine to enjoy the benefits of these mushrooms.

With mushroom capsules, you have a new and more convenient method of enjoying the benefits of mushrooms without everything you eat or drink tasting like mushrooms. You can use your powders when you want to make a special mushroom recipe and use the capsules every other time. They are perfect when you want a no-fuss, no-prep, instant, and no-mess alternative to your mushroom routine.

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If you’re ready to jump on board and try some mushroom capsules, we have everything you need to know to get you started on the right foot.

What Are Mushroom Capsules?

There are edible mushrooms, and there are poisonous mushrooms. Among the edible mushrooms, you can divide them into two. There are those that make great meals, like white button mushrooms, porcinis, shitake, and Portobello, among others. You can use these to make some hearty meals.

However, other mushrooms don't taste great but are packed with health benefits. These mushrooms have high levels of antioxidants and phytonutrients, but their flavour isn't appealing. Therefore you have to find creative ways to consume them without dealing with the flavour. These include Chaga, lion’s mane, turkey tail, and reishi. They are also called functional or medicinal mushrooms because of their high levels of beta-glucans and other vital nutrients.

Instead of buying these mushrooms in their fresh form, you can buy the extracted versions of the mushroom. These come stuffed in convenient capsules that save you the tedious job of trying to come up with creative ways to cook the mushrooms and also contain a concentrated amount of the mushroom in small capsules, so you don’t have to stuff down a plate full of mushrooms every day to experience these benefits.

With multiple varieties of mushroom capsules in the market, it’s possible for consumers to choose their preferred capsules depending on the effects and benefits they want. Some mushroom capsules contain psilocybin which has some hallucinogenic effects, and others don’t, so you only enjoy the health and immune-supporting benefits.

What are the Capsules Made From?

Mushroom capsules feature various ingredients, each designed to deliver increased benefits and support to mushroom lovers. It’s safe to say not all mushroom capsules are built equally.

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There are cheaper types of mushroom capsules made from mycelium, which is a type of mushroom that grows in rice grain. Therefore, the final product only contains small amounts of beneficial compounds mixed with high starch levels.  

High-quality mushroom powders use raw mushrooms that are carefully dried and extracted with hot water. Then, the extract is desiccated (turned into powder) through spray drying. The final result is a concentrated mushroom powder packed with all the beneficial compounds found in the raw mushroom from which it was extracted.

This powder is packaged into the capsules in calculated amounts to make it easier for consumers to tell how much mushroom powder they take each day.

What about the Capsules?

The capsules that hold the mushroom powder are made from gelatin. The various types include beef, pork or vegetable-based. But the best capsules are made from pullulan. It’s a substance made from fermented tapioca. It’s gluten-free and starch-free and can be found in organic and non-GMO varieties. If you want wholesome capsules, this is the best option. The capsules don't hold back any health benefits and are suitable for consumers with varying health goals.

Capsules made from pullulan are vegan, halal and kosher, allowing anyone interested in adding mushrooms to their daily routine to join in without any hindrances. 

Benefits and Uses of Mushroom Capsules?

There are many reasons why you should incorporate mushroom capsules into your diet. Some of these include:

Immune Support

Most mushroom species, such as Turkey Tail, Reishi and Maitake, contain high levels of beta-glucan. Beta-glucan is a type of polysaccharide popular for its immunomodulatory effects.

Once ingested into the bloodstream, the polysaccharides stimulate the immune system and boost its overall function and response to diseases.

Stress Reduction

Reishi and Cordyceps mushrooms are good for their adaptogen properties. These properties help the body cope with and manage all stress levels it's exposed to. With stress reduced, the body automatically promotes a sense of calm and relaxation.

Most mushrooms are also rich in antioxidising compounds such as glutathione and ergothioneine. These help protect the body from oxidative stress from alcohol consumption or certain medical conditions.

Improved Digestive Health

Although more research is ongoing about this feature, some mushroom types, such as lion’s mane, contain essential dietary fibres and carbohydrates. These compounds act as prebiotics (non-digestible substances) that promote the optimal activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

This creates an essential and healthy balance of the gut, providing a better environment for optimal digestion, therefore, enhancing nutrient absorption.

How to Create DIY Mushroom Capsules

Mushroom capsules are becoming more popular each day, and so are their increasing prices. What about if you can create your mushroom capsules at home?

Firstly, you’ll need a capsule filler machine, but then you must know that the origin and quality of the mushrooms matter. This also comes with hygiene relevancy, so if you are unsure about making these capsules, it is best to buy them from reputable sources.

To make your mushroom capsules:

Ensure you have high-quality organic mushroom powder. You can buy this from any store around you or source for any of the popular dried mushrooms and grind them. You can use a coffee grinder or a blender.

Get empty gelatin or vegetarian capsules from any health store. Note that these capsules often have different sizes. So choose your sizes wisely depending on the amount of powder you’ll want to use.

Fill the capsules with equal amounts of mushroom powder using a measuring spoon or scale. You’ll need to gently separate the top and bottom parts of the capsules, then fill the bottom halves.

Reattach the capsules and gently press them until they are tightly closed together. Repeat the whole process for your desired number of capsules, then store them in an airtight transparent container.

Ensure the container is placed away from direct sunlight and beyond children’s reach. Ensure you label the container to prevent mistaken consumption of the capsules, which is also essential, thinking they are other medicines.

Dosage Guidelines for Mushroom Capsules

Correct dosage instructions for mushroom capsules are an essential factor to consider because they are key in determining the expected results. However, the dosage guidelines may vary based on several factors, such as individual sensitivity, mushroom species and the desired effects.

Here are some key instructions to guide you on the dosage for mushroom capsules:

Check the Manufacturers Instructions

Firstly you must check the manufacturer's guidelines on the product’s label. The manufacturers will always give specific instructions depending on their product’s formulation procedures and potency.

Consider the Mushroom Species

Different mushroom types have varying potencies. This means some may need more doses than others to achieve the expected effects. Their potency is also based on the bioactive compounds present in them.

So you must consider your desired results and the type of mushroom species you consume.

Start Low

In cases where dosage recommendations are unavailable, such as when you created your capsules at home, you need to start with low dosages. This will help you to observe your body for its response and tolerance, especially if you are new to mushroom products.

The best lowest dosage you can start with is about 500 milligrams of mushroom powder per day. You can then adjust and upgrade accordingly based on the observed results.

Individual Sensitivity

Individual responses to mushroom capsules vary. Some people may need more capsules for their bodies to achieve the desired effects, while others may see noticeable effects immediately after using the capsules.

This is why you must observe your body’s reactions and make the necessary adjustments gradually with time. It is important to note that despite increasing the dosages, sometimes your body may respond to one mushroom type instead of another.

The change from one mushroom capsule type to another should only be several weeks after confirmation of no results. In this case, it is best to consult healthcare personnel who will guide you accordingly.

What to Consider When Buying Mushroom Capsules

The different brands and enticing labels can be quite confusing when looking for mushroom capsules. But if you are sure of what to look for, you can have the peace and confidence that your choice is highly potent and effective.

Some of the key things to consider are:

Origin of the Mushroom Extract

Mushroom capsules can be made from whole fruiting bodies or the mushroom mycelium. The mushroom's whole fruiting body consists of the cap stems and gills, all harvested at maturity. When dried for extraction, these parts produce a vast range of complex bioactive compounds full of beneficial substances.

The mycelium is the root-like structure of filaments under the soil. When comparing their nutrient profile, the mycelium is less nutritious than the whole fruiting body. So high-quality mushroom capsules will use extracts from the whole fruiting body.

You must also ensure the mushroom is organic to help boost its potency.

Consider the Extraction Method

There are various extraction methods used to source essential nutrients from mushrooms. However, Hot water is the best extraction method as it extracts vital nutrients, producing potent capsules.

Potency and Dosage

Ensure the relevant capsule’s potency and dosage per serving matches your preferences. Some capsules may contain higher mushroom extract concentrations, while others may have lower concentrations.

If you are a novice in mushroom products, remember you must start with low-concentrated capsules.

Additional Ingredients

Some mushroom capsule manufacturers may add different ingredients to enhance the extract's potency and absorption rate. Check for added natural herbs or adaptogens that may enhance the effects of the product, and pick such capsules.

When to Take Mushroom Capsules

Mushroom capsules are perfect for any time’s consumption, whether evening, morning, or afternoon; you can always enjoy them at your convenience. Any refreshing mushroom such as Turkey Tail, Lione’s Mane, or Cordyceps would be the best option to kickstart your day.

Cordyceps is good for workout sessions, Chaga is best for multiple antioxidant benefits, and Lione’s Mane supercharges cognitive functionality.

For an evening dosage, Tremella and Reishi mushrooms are the best capsules. Tremella helps nourish your body by enhancing its moisture retention abilities, and Reishi capsules give you a good night’s sleep by addressing any physical or mental stress in the body.

So, the best time to take the capsules depends on your immediate wellness goals and the type of mushroom capsules available. Consistency in taking the mushroom capsules is key to enjoying their total benefits.

Mushroom Capsules or Powders?

Mushroom capsules and mushroom powders offer significant wellbeing benefits. However, their choice depends on the intake mode and exact functionality.

While mushroom capsules offer a precise dosage that you can easily incorporate into your routines, mushroom powders can be added to any food or beverage. The powder option allows you to effortlessly integrate the mushroom extract into your recipes.

The capsules, on the other hand, make it easier to take the mushroom extract consistently and with assurance of accurate intake.

Mushroom capsules also bypass the taste and texture of mushrooms, so you don’t have to compromise your taste preferences. The powdered form is soluble and easy to blend in any food, but it is not palatable for people sensitive to the mushroom taste and texture.

Mushroom capsules offer unmatched ease of consumption, making them easy for travellers and anyone maintaining their on-the-go routine. Mushroom powders offer the advantage of extra culinary exploration, where you can experiment with their savoury and earthy taste in different meals. Additionally, while exploring various taste combinations, you also enjoy the goodness and nutritious benefits of mushroom extracts.

Mushroom capsules take much longer to be absorbed because they need proper breaking down before their benefits are enjoyed compared to mushroom powder.

In general, you have the ultimate choice of when to take mushroom capsules or powder based on your lifestyle and preference goals.

How Long Do Mushroom Capsules Experience Last

Everyone has their own way of taking mushroom capsules. While some prefer taking them on an empty stomach, others believe taking the capsules with meals is the best option.

Therefore, how you take the capsules determines the onset of its effects and how long these last.

Remember, what you eat also matters, as it determines the nature of the effects you get and the hours it takes them to kick in. Additionally, your dosage of the capsules also matters. Experts recommend starting with about 0.8 grams as a beginner.

To avoid feeling uncomfortable, especially with the different varieties of mushrooms, it’s good that you take the capsules with precision. Remember that their potency may vary from one variety to another, so start with lower dosages to understand your body’s response to the mushroom extract.

Types of Mushrooms You Will Find in Mushroom Capsules

All edible mushrooms provide specific health benefits and carry various antioxidants. But functional mushrooms have more bio-available polysaccharides and antioxidants that help with immune support and other body functions. Functional mushrooms are the ones you will find in most mushroom capsules. They include;  

1. Turkey tail

Turkey tail is best known for immune support. It’s a popular mushroom thought to have anti-cancer properties, with well-researched beta-glucans and effects.

2. Lion’s mane

Lion’s mane mushroom is commonly used to support mental health, focus, memory and clarity. It’s also used to repair and prevent nerve damage.

Most people who have tried lion's mane mushroom capsules claim it has a calming effect. Another unique characteristic of the lion's mane mushroom is its delicious gourmet variety. If you love eating fresh mushrooms, lion's mane is among the ones you have to try.

3. Chaga

Chaga doesn’t look like a mushroom, but it is. It has a unique appearance and is rich in antioxidants and other immune-boosting properties. It’s not the best tasting of the mushroom varieties. Therefore it makes sense that it is one of the more sought-after mushroom capsules.

4. Cordyceps

 Cordyceps is incredibly popular among athletes. It doesn’t look like a traditional mushroom. But the funny-looking funding is known to help stamina by improving oxygen delivery in the body; hence it’s popularity among athletes.

5. Reishi

Reishi has stunning properties. It’s often used to enhance sleep patterns and helps protect the immune system and prevent heart diseases. But the mushroom is incredibly bitter and has a woody texture. So it has no culinary value and is best enjoyed in a capsule to save yourself the bitter taste.

6. Maitake

Most of the research surrounding maitake points to its ability to lower blood sugar levels and improve the immune system. It's also an amazing gourmet mushroom that you can enjoy with meals if you prefer to cook your functional mushrooms.

You will find most of the mushroom capsules contain one of these six mushrooms. However, you might find some blended options designed to help you enjoy multiple benefits from various mushrooms.

Are Mushroom Capsules Organic, Keto or Vegan-friendly?

Individuals looking into mushroom capsules are health conscious. They take deliberate decisions to look after their bodies and health; therefore, mushroom capsules shouldn't force them to make tough choices.

Whether mushroom capsules are keto, organic or vegan-friendly depends on the manufacturer’s guidelines and the ingredients used to make the capsules.

Vegetarian capsules aren’t necessarily vegan or halal because they might be manufactured in a facility that also processes pork products.

The same also applies to mushroom powders. If you prefer mushroom capsules that are vegan-friendly, organic, keto or for other dietary needs, you should check for the corresponding approval on the mushroom product packaging. 

Look for organic seals, non-GMO, gluten-free and organic approvals. You can also check if the mushroom capsules are ideal for consumers on the paleo and keto diets. However, you don't have to worry about calories in most cases because extracts have concentrated versions of the mushroom. You only take a small amount to hit your daily target, so the calorie consumption is super low.

Ingredients to Avoid When Buying Mushroom Capsules

Mushroom capsules are not equal. Some are made from superior-quality ingredients, and others are just trying to get by. When separating quality, standard and substandard mushroom capsules, you should pay attention to the ingredients.

Just as there are ingredients like organic mushrooms and pullulan capsules that highlight the quality of the capsules, there are also some ingredients that you should avoid.

Fillers

This is a range of ingredients that manufacturers will add to the mushroom capsules. These include brown rice, mushroom mycelium, wheat or grain. You can tell if the capsules have fillers by looking at the ingredients label. While most fillers don’t have negative side effects, they take the place of the mushroom extract, meaning you get less value for your money and reduced benefits.

Flow aid

Flow aid is a chemical added to powders to make them easier to pour or ease the capsuling process. Although there’s nothing wrong with flow aids, it’s an extra ingredient that will reduce the quantity of mushroom extract and the efficacy of the capsules. Therefore, it's best to avoid flow aids if possible.

Other ingredients you should avoid when buying mushroom capsules include silicon dioxide, hypromellose or microcrystalline cellulose.

Mushroom Capsules Dosing Guideline

Now that you know all there is to mushroom capsules, what remains is how to take them and how many capsules you should take in a day.

Let’s start with how to take it because it’s easier. You can take mushroom capsules by washing them down with water or any other drink. There’s no technique or strategy in taking them.

Most people consume about one and a half to two grams of mushroom powder extract daily. That translates to about one to four capsules.

However, that serving doesn’t apply to everyone. The ideal amount depends on your personal health needs and the reason for taking the mushroom capsules. We recommend starting with one capsule at a time and observing the effects for some time before adjusting your intake accordingly.

We also recommend that you contact a healthcare professional for guidance on how much mushroom powder you should take and which species is the best based on your health and reasons for considering mushroom powders.