Mushroom supplements become $15B market with celebrity endorsements

Functional mushrooms enter the mainstream

Mushroom supplements have transitioned from niche traditional medicine to a cornerstone of the $15 billion global functional fungus market. Brands like Ryze and Four Sigmatic now dominate digital storefronts, selling extracts designed to replace morning coffee and post-workout protein. This shift follows high-profile endorsements from celebrities like Gisele Bündchen and Gwen Stefani. The industry has moved beyond simple culinary use into the realm of biohacking and self-optimization. Consumers now mix non-GMO cordyceps into smoothies and sip lion’s mane lattes to improve cognitive function. Healthcare researchers are currently investigating these fungi for applications in cancer therapy and COVID-19 recovery. Modern supplements offer a way to consume high doses of fungal compounds without cooking. Nutritionist Brigitte Zeitlin notes that Four Sigmatic helped normalize the idea of "drinking" mushrooms. Powders and capsules provide an alternative for people who dislike the taste of whole mushrooms or want to avoid swallowing multiple pills.

Ancient cultures used fungi first

Humans have relied on fungi for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Hippocrates used amadou, a spongy fungus, to reduce inflammation in 450 BCE. Ötzi the Iceman, a mummy dating back 5,300 years, carried birch polypore in his supplies to fight intestinal parasites. East Asian traditions have integrated reishi mushrooms for over two millennia. The Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, the oldest known Chinese pharmacopeia, classified reishi as a tonic for anti-aging. Modern clinics in China still recommend reishi to support the immune systems of patients undergoing chemotherapy. Indigenous communities in Siberia and North America also utilized local fungi. Native Americans used puffball mushrooms to stop bleeding and tiger milk mushrooms to treat asthma. Siberian hunters still consume chaga tea to increase their endurance during long winter treks.

Research links mushrooms to longevity

A review of 17 cancer studies indicates that eating 1/8 cup of mushrooms daily can lower cancer risk by 45 percent. Fungi contain ergothioneine, a unique antioxidant that protects cells from damage. Varieties like shiitake, oyster, and maitake contain the highest concentrations of this amino acid. Cognitive health also appears to benefit from regular fungal intake. A clinical trial in Singapore found that participants who ate more than two cups of mushrooms weekly had a 50 percent lower risk of mild cognitive impairment. The study tracked common varieties like white button and shiitake. Fungi act as prebiotics to improve gut health. Fungal polysaccharides pass through the stomach intact because stomach acid cannot break them down. They reach the colon and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, which supports the overall immune system.

The top functional species explained

Different mushroom species offer specific biochemical benefits for the body and brain. Most supplements focus on a core group of seven fungi known for their high concentrations of beta-glucans.

• Lion’s Mane: Contains hericenones and erinacines that stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) for brain health.
• Cordyceps: Boosts ATP production and oxygen efficiency to improve athletic stamina.
• Chaga: Packed with antioxidants to reduce inflammation in people with autoimmune issues.
• Reishi: Used primarily for stress relief, sleep support, and seasonal allergy management.
• Turkey Tail: Rich in protein-bound polysaccharides that stimulate T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells.
• Maitake: Helps regulate blood sugar and supports the immune system during chronic illness.
• Shiitake: Contains lentinan for heart health and high levels of Vitamin B6.

Timing these supplements can change their effectiveness. Cordyceps works best as a pre-workout boost, while lion’s mane supports morning focus. Reishi is better suited for evening routines because of its relaxing properties.

Regulation remains a major hurdle

The FDA does not strictly regulate the mushroom supplement industry in the United States. Manufacturers are not required to prove that their products are effective or safe before they go on sale. This lack of oversight means labels do not always accurately reflect the ingredients inside the bottle. Dietitian Laura Wargo recommends looking for third-party regulation to ensure quality. Consumers should check for certificates of analysis (COAs) that prove the product is free from heavy metals and contaminants. Taking supplements with a meal can also improve bioavailability and prevent stomach upset. The source of the mushroom material also matters for potency. Products made from the fruiting body (the cap and stem) typically contain more beta-glucans than those made from mycelium (the root system). Many cheaper supplements use mycelium grown on grain, which adds unnecessary starch fillers to the final product.

Testing the best mushroom products

Evaluating mushroom supplements requires a focus on ingredient transparency and physical experience. The extraction method is critical, as dual-extraction (using both water and alcohol) ensures that both water-soluble and fat-soluble compounds are present. The current market leaders include a variety of formats from coffee blends to capsules. Ryze Mushroom Coffee and Onnit Shroom Tech Sport have recently emerged as top-tier options for performance and focus.

• Atlas Coffee Club: Best for those who want high-quality beans mixed with functional extracts.
• Laird Superfood: Offers creamers and powders designed for high-activity lifestyles.
• Lucid: Focuses on nootropic blends for mental clarity and productivity.
• Plant People: Specializes in capsules that combine mushrooms with other herbal adaptogens.
• Om: Provides USDA Organic certified powders in large volumes for daily use.

Testing methodology involves tracking focus levels, physical recovery times, and digestion over several weeks. Reviewers also check for additives, fillers, and artificial sweeteners that can negate the health benefits of the fungi. High-quality supplements should have a clean, earthy taste without a chemical aftertaste.

Final safety and health considerations

Most people can safely consume medicinal mushrooms, but allergies remain a possible side effect. People with a history of breast cancer should consult a doctor before taking lion's mane, as it may contain phytoestrogens. Whole foods remain the most effective way to get fungal nutrients. Cremini and portobello mushrooms provide selenium to prevent cell damage, while maitake is an excellent source of Vitamin D. Supplements should support a diet of whole mushrooms rather than replace it entirely. The industry continues to evolve as more clinical data becomes available. Future testing will focus on Host Defense Stamets 7 capsules to see how multi-species blends compare to single-extract products. As the nootropic trend grows, the distinction between fruiting bodies and mycelium will become the primary way consumers judge product value.