Written by the Plenthera team (trained in orthomolecular nutrition). Scientifically reviewed in May 2026. Last updated: 22 September 2026.

Vitality mushrooms have been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. Since 2000, scientific research has been growing: Lion's Mane is being researched in connection with cognitive function and nerve growth factor, Reishi is traditionally used around the stress and sleep theme, Chaga is being researched for its antioxidant properties, Cordyceps for exercise tolerance and Maitake for its beta-glucans. Quality depends on two things: (1) fruiting body vs mycelium extract, and (2) a standardised beta-glucan content.

On this page: Our mushroom categories · Fruiting body or mycelium — which should I choose? · What are beta-glucans? · Frequently asked questions · Combine with · Sources

Our mushroom categories

• Lion's Mane — Hericium erinaceus (bearded tooth mushroom) — researched in connection with cognitive function and nerve growth factor (NGF)
• Reishi — Ganoderma lucidum — a classic adaptogen, traditionally for balance and calm
• Chaga — Inonotus obliquus — rich in polyphenols and melanin, researched for its antioxidant properties
• Cordyceps — Cordyceps militaris — researched in connection with exercise tolerance and VO2max
• Maitake — Grifola frondosa — rich in beta-glucans (D-fraction)
• Oyster Mushroom — Pleurotus ostreatus — nutrient-rich, researched in connection with the cholesterol theme
• AHCC — patented shiitake mycelium extract, used within the immune theme

Fruiting body or mycelium — which should I choose?

The fruiting body (the visible mushroom) generally contains a higher concentration of beta-glucans and triterpenes than mycelium on grain (a cheaper production method in which the end product can contain up to 80% grain substrate). For most classic species (Lion's Mane, Reishi, Chaga), fruiting body extract is preferred.

An exception is Cordyceps militaris — there mycelium is commonly used because the wild fruiting body is very scarce and expensive. AHCC is also by definition a mycelium extract.

What are beta-glucans?

Beta-glucans are polysaccharides in the cell wall of mushrooms (and grains). In mushroom extracts, bioactive quality is often measured as the beta-glucan percentage — typically 20-40% for a good extract. General polysaccharides without specification say little.

Frequently asked questions

Which mushroom should I try first?

That depends on the theme you are exploring. Focus: Lion's Mane (morning, 500-1000 mg extract). Rest and sleep: Reishi (evening, 500-1500 mg). Sport and energy: Cordyceps (morning, 1000-3000 mg). Immune theme: Chaga, Maitake or AHCC.

Can I use several mushrooms at the same time?

Yes. A popular combination: Lion's Mane (morning, focus) + Reishi (evening, relaxation). Or a multi-mushroom blend for a broad profile. Start with one species to learn your response before stacking.

How long before I notice anything?

Some users notice a difference within days with Cordyceps and substantial doses of Lion's Mane. Adaptogenic mushrooms such as Reishi and Chaga generally work subtly and cumulatively: allow 2-6 weeks. Give a mushroom at least 6-8 weeks.

Are mushroom supplements scientifically substantiated?

For Lion's Mane, Reishi and Cordyceps there are dozens of human studies, mostly small-scale but with predominantly positive trends. For other species the evidence is even more limited. We therefore describe for each species the traditional context, the composition and the ongoing lines of research — without promises of effect.

Are mushroom supplements vegan?

Mushroom extract comes from a mushroom and is therefore not of animal origin. Just check the capsule (gelatine vs hypromellose/HPMC).

Combine with other categories

Mushrooms combine well with other themed categories:

• Brain & Focus — Lion's Mane + omega 3 + B-complex (DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function at 250 mg per day)
• Sleep & Relaxation — Reishi + magnesium (magnesium contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system)
• Immunity & Resistance — Chaga + Maitake + vitamin D (vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system)
• Stress & Adrenals — Reishi + ashwagandha + B-complex
• Sport & Nutrition — Cordyceps + creatine + magnesium (creatine increases physical performance in successive bursts of short-term, high-intensity exercise at 3 g per day)

Sources & references

• Spelman K. et al. (2017) — Neurological activity of Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus), J Restor Med
• Wachtel-Galor S. et al. — Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi or Reishi): A Medicinal Mushroom (NCBI Bookshelf, Herbal Medicine, 2nd ed.)
• Hirsch K.R. et al. (2017) — Cordyceps militaris improves tolerance to high-intensity exercise after acute and chronic supplementation, J Diet Suppl 14(1)
• Glamočlija J. et al. (2015) — Chemical characterization and biological activity of Chaga (Inonotus obliquus), J Ethnopharmacol
• Regulation (EU) 432/2012 — list of permitted health claims

Disclaimer: This text is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If in doubt, always consult your doctor or an orthomolecular therapist.