Prioritizing cognitive function and brain health is essential for everyone.
While a balanced diet plays a significant role in enhancing brain health, certain mushroom supplements have emerged as vital for nurturing healthy brain cells. These nootropic mushrooms, some of which have been integral to traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, offer promising benefits.
To provide you with the most accurate insights, we collaborated with a seasoned nutritionist and nootropics specialist, and engaged 27 participants in our study. After rigorous testing and meticulous analysis, we're excited to present our findings in the form of a curated list of the best nootropic mushrooms.
The Best Nootropic Mushrooms for Brain
- Best Overall Nootropic Mushrooms for Brain: Nootropics Depot Lion’s Mane Mushroom
- Cheapest Nootropic Mushrooms for Brain: Om Brain Fuel
- Best Mushroom Nootropic for Memory: Naturealm Sacred 7
- Best Mushroom Nootropic Powder for Brain: Om Mushroom Superfood Lion's Mane
- Best Nootropic Mushrooms for Brain and Immune System: Mushroom Design
- Best Vegan Nootropic Mushrooms for Brain: Stonehenge Health Dynamic Mushrooms
Our Top Medicinal Mushrooms (April 2024)
1 - Nootropics Depot Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Best Overall)
- Lion’s Mane Extract : 500 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Great results for mental clarity and cognitive health
- Positive scientific data on boosted nerve growth factor
- Suitable for vegans as it comes in veggie capsules
- Comes in large bottles of 180 capsules
Cons
- Some people find the capsules a bit large
I remember the first time I tried Nootropics Depot Lion’s Mane; the clarity and focus were undeniable. Each capsule felt like a step towards a more alert and vibrant me. It wasn’t just about the cognitive boost, but also the subtle enhancement in my mood that made my days more productive and enjoyable.
Scientists have shown that it can stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), which could counteract the impact of lost nerve cells [1].
I also like that the company made the extra effort to avoid animal gelatin in the capsules, making this a vegan-friendly option.
Quick Facts:
2 - Om Mushroom Superfood Lion's Mane (Best Powder Option)
- Lion’s Mane Extract : n/a
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Positive test results for improved memory, mood, and overall brain function
- Aims to support brain health with organic mushroom ingredients
- Comes in powder form to mix with drinks or morning smoothies
Cons
- The company doesn’t list the exact amount of Lion’s Mane
Here is another one of the mushroom supplements that focuses on delivering Lion’s Mane extract for boosted brain function [2]. What sets it apart from the above one is that it’s a certified organic product.
I’ve integrated Om Mushroom Superfood Lion’s Mane into my routine. The organic touch is palpable, and each serving feels like a gentle nudge toward enhanced cognitive function.
But the reason I bumped it to second place is because of a proprietary label that doesn’t specify the exact amount of the active ingredient.
If you prefer mixing these nootropics with a drink or smoothie, then this powder supplement could be a great choice.
Quick Facts:
3 - Naturealm Sacred 7 (Best for Memory)
- Chaga Extract : 143 mg
- Cordyceps Extract : 143 mg
- Lion’s Mane Extract : 143 mg
- Maitake Extract : 143 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Combines proven mushroom extracts to impact the health of nerve cells
- Also seems to work great to boost your immunity
- The powder mixes easily with water or can be added to a smoothie
Cons
- Measuring 1 gram of powder can be a bit difficult
I can personally vouch for Naturealm Sacred 7. I felt a noticeable difference in my focus and the added bonus of feeling more resilient health-wise.
What I found interesting is that along with supporting brain health, it can also help your immune system due to the dose of Cordyceps mushrooms, which has been linked to multiple immune functions [3].
The only thing that’s annoying is that you have to measure out 1 gram of powder. It’s about half a teaspoon, but it’s difficult to get a consistent measure.
Quick Facts:
4 - Pure Encapsulations (Best for Immune System)
- Maitake Mushroom : 200 mg
- Reishi Mushroom : 200 mg
- Shiitake Mushroom : 200 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High-quality mushroom supplement with multiple health benefits
- Positive results for brain health and boosted immune system
- Comes in a single capsule that is easy to swallow
Cons
- It’s often out of stock making it difficult to keep up a steady supply
Here is another one of the cognitive enhancers that focuses on a blend of medicinal mushrooms that all have a positive effect on nerve cells.
Each capsule offers not just cognitive enhancement but a noticeable boost in my immune system. It felt like a holistic approach to wellness, where my mind and body were both reaping the benefits.
One of the mushroom species that stood out for me is Reishi. Scientists have identified it as having a positive effect on stimulating immune cells [4].
Quick Facts:
5 - Stonehenge Health Dynamic Mushrooms (Best for Vegans)
- Lion’s Mane Mushrooms : 1,000 mg
- Chaga Mushrooms : 100 mg
- Maitake Mushrooms : 100 mg
- Shiitake Mushrooms : 100 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Combines several proven mushroom species
- Seems to work great for improved focus and motivation
- Comes in vegetable capsules suitable for vegans
Cons
- The capsules are a bit larger than others we tested
I recall the days when the focus was a struggle, but Stonehenge Health Dynamic Mushrooms changed the game for me. Every capsule was a journey to enhanced concentration and motivation. Tasks that seemed daunting became manageable, and my productivity soared.
One of the nootropic mushrooms in this product is called Chaga, and it typically grows on birch trees.
It has not just been linked to boosting your immune system to fight cancer, but research suggests that it has a significant impact on cognitive functions [5].
Quick Facts:
6 - Poria Mushroom
- Poria Extract : 500 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Certified organic ingredients for high purity and quality
- Comes in small capsules that are very easy to swallow
- Great for stacking with Lion’s Mane to further promote brain health
Cons
- It’s quite expensive compared to the other mushroom species above
Next on our list of recommended mushroom supplements is this Poria mushroom extract.
In the hustle and bustle of life, Poria Mushroom was my go-to for stress relief. Each dose was a step away from fatigue and a step closer to a focused and energized self. The calmness it instilled made every workday a breeze.
One meta-study identified that there is significant scientific evidence to suggest that Poria extract can help your immune system by boosting immune stimulators while at the same time limiting immune suppressors [6].
Quick Facts:
7 - Mushroom Design
- Cordyceps : n/a
- Lion’s Mane : n/a
- Turkey Tail : n/a
- Agarikon : n/a
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Positive effects on focus and motivation to stay on target
- It may also help with autoimmune-related inflammatory reactions
- Comes with a wide range of vitamins for boosted immune function
Cons
- You’ll need to take two larger-than-average capsules
Here is another one of the mushroom supplements with a great blend of different species. And the company has also added a wide range of vitamins, including B complex, C, D, and E.
These, combined with Lion’s Mane, seem to have a good effect on your immunity. But there is also evidence that it can help to reduce inflammation in the bowels as well [7].
I still remember the uplift in mood I experienced with this special blend from Mushroom Design. It wasn’t just about focus, but the overall sense of well-being that enveloped me, and it helped me stay a lot more focused on work.
Quick Facts:
8 - Live Ultimate Shrooms
- Reishi Mushroom : 450 mg
- Cordyceps Mushroom : 450 mg
- Chaga Mushroom : 450 mg
- Maitake Mushroom : 300 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Organic certified ingredients make this a high-quality product
- A great blend of proven ingredients for brain health benefits
- No flavor from the powder when mixed with smoothies or other drinks
Cons
- The powder doesn’t seem to be the easiest to mix with water
Live Ultimate has put together a formula of organic medicinal mushrooms that seems to deliver brain power along with improved stress levels and mood.
Live Ultimate Shrooms was a revelation for me. Stress melted away, and in its place, a vibrant, energetic, and focused me emerged. It wasn’t just a supplement; it was a transformation into a more dynamic version of myself.
The included Reishi mushroom has been shown to have an effect on nerve growth factor (NGF), which can significantly improve the health and functioning of your nervous system [8].
Quick Facts:
9 - FreshCap, Ultimate Mushroom Complex
- Maitake Extract : 167 mg
- Chaga Extract : 167 mg
- Turkey Tail Extract : 167 mg
- Reishi Extract : 167 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Positive test results for reduced stress and anxiety levels
- Organically sourced ingredients seem to provide higher purity
- Available in large bottles to last you for months
Cons
- You might need to take more than two capsules to get the best benefits
I can personally attest to the calm that FreshCap brings. In the midst of the busiest days, it was my anchor. Anxiety and stress seemed to dissipate with each dose, leaving behind a clear, focused, and calm demeanor that turned every challenge into an achievable task.
One ingredient that my nutritionist highlighted is Turkey Tail extract, which doesn’t just improve the health of the brain and nervous tissue, but may also help to prevent cancer [9].
The only downside she highlighted was that you might need more than two capsules to get a significant boost due to a lower dosage.
Quick Facts:
10 - Om Brain Fuel (Cheapest Option)
- Lion’s Mane : n/a
- Reishi : n/a
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Organically certified ingredients provide a higher purity level
- You can easily spread out the three capsules a day for longer-lasting effects
- Comes with added folate that can boost red blood cell production
Cons
- The label lists a proprietary blend that makes stacking very difficult
Om Brain Fuel focuses on just two types of mushrooms with proven benefits for the brain.
While it’s unclear how much Reishi is in the formula due to a proprietary label, this is one ingredient with a wide range of benefits, including potential impacts on cancer [10].
Even though Om Brain Fuel has just two types of mushrooms, I experienced an unmistakable cognitive boost. It was a testament to the power of purity and quality over quantity.
“Reishi mushroom has been used to help enhance the immune system, reduce stress, improve sleep, and lessen fatigue.” - Christine Mikstas, RD, LD at WebMD.com
I just wish the company published the exact amounts, as it would be a good product to stack with other nootropics.
Quick Facts:
How We Selected the Best Nootropic Mushrooms
Here's how we chose the best nootropic mushrooms.
1. Ingredients
When evaluating the best nootropic mushrooms, the first and foremost criterion was the ingredients. We meticulously analyzed the composition of each mushroom to ensure that they contained potent and beneficial compounds.
It was essential for us to ensure that these mushrooms were free from harmful additives, contaminants, or any synthetic ingredients. Only those mushrooms that boasted a rich profile of natural compounds, such as beta-glucans, triterpenoids, and ergosterol, made it to our list.
2. Effectiveness
The primary purpose of consuming nootropic mushrooms is to enhance cognitive functions. Therefore, the effectiveness of these mushrooms was a crucial factor in our testing process.
We conducted a series of cognitive tests on individuals before and after consuming these mushrooms over a specified period. The results were then compared to gauge the improvement in memory, focus, and overall brain function. Mushrooms that showed a significant positive impact on cognitive abilities were ranked higher.
3. Price
We compared the prices of various mushrooms in the market, taking into account the quantity, quality, and brand reputation. Our aim was to identify mushrooms that offered the best value for money.
Those that provided superior benefits at a reasonable price point were given preference. It was essential for us to ensure that the best nootropic mushrooms were accessible to a wider audience without compromising on quality.
Buyer’s Guide
Who Should Take Mushroom Nootropics?
Anyone who wants to achieve a boost in brain health and function should consider taking mushroom nootropics.
These nootropics are generally safe to take, and allergic reactions and side effects are rare. They are imbued with bioactive compounds that have been linked to stress reduction, anxiety relief, and mood enhancement.
These mushroom supplements can also help to boost your mood and focus levels making it easier to get through a busy day at work or with children.
If you struggle with stress and mood issues, then nootropics could be the simplest solution for you.
Related Articles:
Who Shouldn't Take Mushroom Nootropics?
Anyone who is on prescription medication for mental health issues shouldn't take mushroom nootropics without first speaking to a doctor.
While mushroom supplements don’t have major side effects, they could interact with certain drugs.
And your doctor should also know that you might be getting improvements from natural ingredients that might require an adjustment to your medication dosage.
“If you're considering trying nootropic supplements, you should talk it over with your doctor first. As with all supplements, you’ll want your doctor to let you know about any health risks, like effects on any conditions you have or medications you take.”
- Dan Brennan, MD at WebMD.com
It’s always better to be on the safe side with such medication.
Also, there are various legalities regarding the sale and consumption of these cognitive enhancers. Regulations vary across different jurisdictions, so you should check if the consumption of nootropic mushrooms is allowed in your area.
Ingredients & Dosage
Here are a few ingredients you want to look out for in mushroom supplements:
- Chaga Extract
- Cordyceps Extract
- Lion’s Mane Extract
- Maitake Extract
- Reishi Extract
- Turkey Tail Extract
However, the one mushroom that has the most scientific evidence for improved brain function and health is Lion’s Mane.
And you want to look for a dose of 500 mg or higher to get the best effects.
Combining Nootropic Mushrooms with Other Supplements
Mixing nootropic mushrooms with other supplements can boost brain power, making thinking, focus, and memory even better. Each type of supplement has its own special benefits, and when combined with nootropic mushrooms, they work together to give stronger results.
But it's important to be careful. Not all combinations are safe or helpful. It's key to know the good and bad sides of mixing different supplements. This means looking at scientific research and considering individual health needs.
FAQs
Which Mushroom Is Best For The Brain?
Lion’s Mane mushroom is best for the brain and has been extensively studied. It’s common in traditional medicine, and modern scientists have shown a link to multiple brain function improvements.
Are Shiitake Mushrooms Nootropic?
Yes, Shiitake mushrooms are nootropic and good for the brain. Some scientists have gone so far as to say that it can even counteract cognitive impairments from diseases, and if you feel like you're forgetting a lot of things lately, consider getting supplements that use Shiitake mushrooms or prepare meals that contain this as an ingredient to improve your memory and judgment.
Our Verdict on the Best Nootropic Mushrooms for Brain
Out of all the best mushroom supplements, the one that performs the best both in our experience and our testing is the Lion's Mane Mushroom from Nootropics Depot.
It seems like the quality and dosage are ideal, and during the months I used it, I had significant improvements in concentration, focus, and motivation.
It’s also the easiest one of the lot to stack with other nootropics, giving you a lot more flexibility when it comes to dietary supplements for your overall health and well-being.
Our #1 Recommendation
Nootropics Depot Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Best Overall)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Great results for mental clarity and cognitive health
- Positive scientific data on boosted nerve growth factor
- Suitable for vegans as it comes in veggie capsules
- Comes in large bottles of 180 capsules
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of April
- Some people find the capsules a bit large
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