EmeraldR
The Living Force
I ve used good quality mushroom supplemnts for quite a few years.
These days there an literally 1000s of mushroom supplements available to buy - however many of them are low quality and some useless!
Be warned !
Ive listed below a guide on what to look for if youre thinking of obtaining a good /effective mushroom supplement.
Each mushroom offers a distinct set of benefits, and choosing the right one begins with knowing your goal. What Makes a Functional Mushroom Supplement Effective? Look for these non-negotiable quality markers: 1.100% Fruiting Body Extracts—With a Few Key Exceptions. Always avoid mycelium grown on grain (MOG), as it contains high levels of starch and negligible active compounds. The most potent supplements come from 100% fruiting body extracts. However, there are two scientifically supported exceptions:
Lion’s Mane Mycelium (Deep Liquid Cultivation): When cultivated in a liquid
medium (not on grain), Lion’s Mane mycelium can yield high concentrations of
erinacines.
Cordyceps CS-4 Strain: A unique mycelial strain developed through deep liquid
fermentation. This is not grain-based mycelium—it’s standardised and clinically
validated, with high levels of cordycepin and adenosine.
Look for brands that clearly distinguish between grain-grown mycelium and liquid-
fermented mycelium, and always demand verified lab data for active compounds.
●Bioactive compounds like cordycepin, ganoderic acids and betulinic acid.
●Polyphenol profile (critical for antioxidant activity)
●Absence of contaminants (heavy metals, microbes, pesticides)
retains all water-soluble compounds in a balanced ratio.
Dual Extract: Combines water and alcohol extraction to unlock both water- and
fat-soluble compounds (ideal for Reishi and Chaga)
What to Avoid: Common Industry Red Flags
Polysaccharide% % instead of Beta-Glucans: Polysaccharides can include starch.
Always insist on verified beta-glucan content, not vague numbers. Beta-glucans are a subclass of polysaccharides, but not all polysaccharides are beneficial. Many
brands inflate their numbers by including non-active starches.”
Mycelium on Grain: These are grown cheaply and often contain more grain than
mushrooms. Check the label for "mycelium" or “myceliated rice/oats.”
Tinctures: Often alcohol-based with low or unmeasurable active compounds. Difficult to dose
effectively. Low value for money. Tinctures also often lack standardised dosing
and may contain negligible levels of beta-glucans or key actives.
Gummies and Drinks: Popular, yes—but often underdosed, unstable, or packed
with sugars and flavourings. Rarely offer therapeutic potency.
Product Breakdown: What to Look For
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) Use For: Mental clarity, focus, memory, neurogenesis.
Quality Markers:
●Beta-glucans: >35% – Supports cognitive function, immune resilience.
●Polyphenols: ~5 mg per dose – Antioxidant support for brain health and
inflammation control.
●Extraction: Full-spectrum hot water (1:1) – Preserves all water-soluble neuroactive
compounds, including NGF-stimulating hericenones and erinacines.
●Verification: Third-party tested in ISO 17025-accredited labs – Confirms potency,
purity, and active compound content
Lion’s Mane Quality Test: The Cloud Test, A quick way to check if your Lion’s Mane extract is truly potent is to mix it into hot water.
High-quality, full-spectrum Lion’s Mane extracts—especially hot water extracted powders— should dissolve easily and turn the water cloudy or milky-white.
This turbidity indicates the presence of water-soluble polysaccharides like beta-glucans and other beneficial compounds. If the powder floats, clumps, or leaves a grainy residue without dissolving fully, it’s often a sign of poor extraction, low beta-glucan content or use of filler-rich mycelium on grain (MOG). High-quality Lion’s Mane blends smoothly and disappears into your water. Poor quality powder simply floats, clumps, or sinks.
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Use For: Stress reduction, sleep quality, nervous system regulation
Quality Markers:
●Beta-glucans: >18% – Supports immune balance and cellular resilience.
●Ganoderic acids: ~6 mg per dose – Adaptogenic triterpenes that help regulate
stress response and promote parasympathetic activation.
●Polyphenols: ~12 mg per dose – Contribute to antioxidant protection and
inflammatory regulation.
●Extraction: Dual (water + alcohol) – Captures both triterpenes and polysaccharides
for full-spectrum efficacy.
●Verification: Third-party tested in ISO 17025-accredited labs – Ensures potency,
purity, and active compound accuracy.
A simple at-home test for Reishi quality is the bitterness test.
High-quality Reishi is naturally very bitter due to its concentration of ganoderic acids, one of its most important bioactive compounds. If your Reishi extract tastes mild or bland, it likely contains low levels of triterpenes and may be diluted, under-extracted, or made from low-grade material.
Bitterness isn't a flaw—it’s a sign of potency.
Cordyceps (Cordyceps CS-4 strain)
Use For: Energy, stamina, oxygen efficiency, and libido support. Cordyceps CS-4 is a standardised, fermented mycelium extract—not to be confused with grain-grown mycelium. It has been studied extensively in clinical trials, particularly for ATP production and oxygen utilisation.
Quality Markers:
●Beta-glucans: >34% – Immune and performance support
●Cordycepin: ~11 mg per dose – Cellular energy, endurance, anti-fatigue
●Adenosine: ~4.5 mg per dose – Supports ATP production and oxygen delivery
●Polyphenols: ~14 mg per dose – Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support
●Extraction: Hot water + alcohol purified for full-spectrum actives
●Verification: Third-party tested, ISO 17025-accredited labsCordyceps Quality Test – The Iodine Starch Test: A reliable home method for checking
Cordyceps extract purity is the iodine test, which helps detect the presence of starch-based fillers, common in mycelium-on-grain (MOG) products.
How to test it:
●Mix a small amount of the powder (about ¼ teaspoon) in a small cup of water.
●Add a few drops of iodine tincture (available at most pharmacies).
●Watch for colour change.
What to look for:
If the mixture turns dark blue or black, it contains starch fillers—a clear sign of grain-based mycelium or adulteration.
If there’s little to no colour change, the powder is likely free of starchy contamination and higher in genuine mushroom extract.
Why it matters:
True Cordyceps CS-4 extract contains no starch, so it should not react strongly with iodine. This simple test offers a clear, at-home indicator of product integrity—no lab needed.
Personal Response: Unlike caffeine, Cordyceps doesn’t stimulate—it enhances. You might notice improved stamina, reduced fatigue during physical exertion, or sustained mental energy across demanding work sessions. This subtle uplift, without the crash, is a sign of genuine potency.
For best results:
• Take on an empty stomach with water, at least 30 minutes before meals.
• Pair with a vitamin C source (like citrus juice) to support beta-glucan absorption.
• Avoid combining with caffeine or milk products—these can interfere with absorption.
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)
Use For: Immune support, antioxidant defence, skin health.
and cellular protection
Quality Markers:
High-quality Chaga powder should instantly tint hot water deep amber. If this colour takes minutes to appear—or doesn’t appear at all—it’s likely been over-diluted. This is a direct reflection of its polyphenol and melanin content, both critical for antioxidant activity. If your Chaga stays pale or murky, it’s likely been over-processed, under-extracted, or diluted with fillers.
Additionally, true Chaga will never taste sweet or neutral. A mild bitterness with a mineral, earthy backbone is a strong indicator of potency and wild-harvest quality.
How to Take Them: Practical Tips
Capsules: Easiest for consistent daily use.
Powders: Customizable for smoothies, teas, or coffee, but not as easy for exact dosing.
Dosing: Start with the recommended dosage between 600mg and 900mg.
Double the dosage when needed
Consistency is key—functional mushrooms build benefits graduallyFinal Notes: What to Watch for in a Crowded Market
The rising demand for functional mushroom supplements has attracted a wave of new brands, but with it, a surge in low-quality, under-regulated products. The market is still in its infancy, and while awareness is growing, oversight and consumer protections have not kept pace. Many products today are driven more by marketing than therapeutic value. As a result, misleading terminology and questionable testing practices are increasingly common.
Here’s what you should be aware of:
●Verified beta-glucans, bioactives (e.g., cordycepin, hericenones, ganoderic acids)
●ISO 17025-accredited third-party lab testing
●Transparent extraction methods (hot water or dual)
●Certification under ISO 9001, ISO 22000, HACCP, and cGMP manufacturing
standards
This is about more than supplements—it’s about your health, your focus, and your long-term wellbeing. Choose wisely. Demand proof. Respect your biology.
also if you want to look at this user link on reddit -its worth a read of his posts - hes done alot of research about and on mushroom products and knows his stuff -he mentions some of the best brands and what to look for.
These days there an literally 1000s of mushroom supplements available to buy - however many of them are low quality and some useless!
Be warned !
Ive listed below a guide on what to look for if youre thinking of obtaining a good /effective mushroom supplement.
Each mushroom offers a distinct set of benefits, and choosing the right one begins with knowing your goal. What Makes a Functional Mushroom Supplement Effective? Look for these non-negotiable quality markers: 1.100% Fruiting Body Extracts—With a Few Key Exceptions. Always avoid mycelium grown on grain (MOG), as it contains high levels of starch and negligible active compounds. The most potent supplements come from 100% fruiting body extracts. However, there are two scientifically supported exceptions:
Lion’s Mane Mycelium (Deep Liquid Cultivation): When cultivated in a liquid
medium (not on grain), Lion’s Mane mycelium can yield high concentrations of
erinacines.
Cordyceps CS-4 Strain: A unique mycelial strain developed through deep liquid
fermentation. This is not grain-based mycelium—it’s standardised and clinically
validated, with high levels of cordycepin and adenosine.
Look for brands that clearly distinguish between grain-grown mycelium and liquid-
fermented mycelium, and always demand verified lab data for active compounds.
- Third-Party Lab Reports – Ask for lab results that verify:
●Bioactive compounds like cordycepin, ganoderic acids and betulinic acid.
●Polyphenol profile (critical for antioxidant activity)
●Absence of contaminants (heavy metals, microbes, pesticides)
- Extraction Method Matters:
retains all water-soluble compounds in a balanced ratio.
Dual Extract: Combines water and alcohol extraction to unlock both water- and
fat-soluble compounds (ideal for Reishi and Chaga)
- Transparency – Third-party lab results are a must. If a brand doesn’t show you the
What to Avoid: Common Industry Red Flags
Polysaccharide% % instead of Beta-Glucans: Polysaccharides can include starch.
Always insist on verified beta-glucan content, not vague numbers. Beta-glucans are a subclass of polysaccharides, but not all polysaccharides are beneficial. Many
brands inflate their numbers by including non-active starches.”
Mycelium on Grain: These are grown cheaply and often contain more grain than
mushrooms. Check the label for "mycelium" or “myceliated rice/oats.”
Tinctures: Often alcohol-based with low or unmeasurable active compounds. Difficult to dose
effectively. Low value for money. Tinctures also often lack standardised dosing
and may contain negligible levels of beta-glucans or key actives.
Gummies and Drinks: Popular, yes—but often underdosed, unstable, or packed
with sugars and flavourings. Rarely offer therapeutic potency.
Product Breakdown: What to Look For
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) Use For: Mental clarity, focus, memory, neurogenesis.
Quality Markers:
●Beta-glucans: >35% – Supports cognitive function, immune resilience.
●Polyphenols: ~5 mg per dose – Antioxidant support for brain health and
inflammation control.
●Extraction: Full-spectrum hot water (1:1) – Preserves all water-soluble neuroactive
compounds, including NGF-stimulating hericenones and erinacines.
●Verification: Third-party tested in ISO 17025-accredited labs – Confirms potency,
purity, and active compound content
Lion’s Mane Quality Test: The Cloud Test, A quick way to check if your Lion’s Mane extract is truly potent is to mix it into hot water.
High-quality, full-spectrum Lion’s Mane extracts—especially hot water extracted powders— should dissolve easily and turn the water cloudy or milky-white.
This turbidity indicates the presence of water-soluble polysaccharides like beta-glucans and other beneficial compounds. If the powder floats, clumps, or leaves a grainy residue without dissolving fully, it’s often a sign of poor extraction, low beta-glucan content or use of filler-rich mycelium on grain (MOG). High-quality Lion’s Mane blends smoothly and disappears into your water. Poor quality powder simply floats, clumps, or sinks.
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Use For: Stress reduction, sleep quality, nervous system regulation
Quality Markers:
●Beta-glucans: >18% – Supports immune balance and cellular resilience.
●Ganoderic acids: ~6 mg per dose – Adaptogenic triterpenes that help regulate
stress response and promote parasympathetic activation.
●Polyphenols: ~12 mg per dose – Contribute to antioxidant protection and
inflammatory regulation.
●Extraction: Dual (water + alcohol) – Captures both triterpenes and polysaccharides
for full-spectrum efficacy.
●Verification: Third-party tested in ISO 17025-accredited labs – Ensures potency,
purity, and active compound accuracy.
A simple at-home test for Reishi quality is the bitterness test.
High-quality Reishi is naturally very bitter due to its concentration of ganoderic acids, one of its most important bioactive compounds. If your Reishi extract tastes mild or bland, it likely contains low levels of triterpenes and may be diluted, under-extracted, or made from low-grade material.
Bitterness isn't a flaw—it’s a sign of potency.
Cordyceps (Cordyceps CS-4 strain)
Use For: Energy, stamina, oxygen efficiency, and libido support. Cordyceps CS-4 is a standardised, fermented mycelium extract—not to be confused with grain-grown mycelium. It has been studied extensively in clinical trials, particularly for ATP production and oxygen utilisation.
Quality Markers:
●Beta-glucans: >34% – Immune and performance support
●Cordycepin: ~11 mg per dose – Cellular energy, endurance, anti-fatigue
●Adenosine: ~4.5 mg per dose – Supports ATP production and oxygen delivery
●Polyphenols: ~14 mg per dose – Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support
●Extraction: Hot water + alcohol purified for full-spectrum actives
●Verification: Third-party tested, ISO 17025-accredited labsCordyceps Quality Test – The Iodine Starch Test: A reliable home method for checking
Cordyceps extract purity is the iodine test, which helps detect the presence of starch-based fillers, common in mycelium-on-grain (MOG) products.
How to test it:
●Mix a small amount of the powder (about ¼ teaspoon) in a small cup of water.
●Add a few drops of iodine tincture (available at most pharmacies).
●Watch for colour change.
What to look for:
If the mixture turns dark blue or black, it contains starch fillers—a clear sign of grain-based mycelium or adulteration.
If there’s little to no colour change, the powder is likely free of starchy contamination and higher in genuine mushroom extract.
Why it matters:
True Cordyceps CS-4 extract contains no starch, so it should not react strongly with iodine. This simple test offers a clear, at-home indicator of product integrity—no lab needed.
Personal Response: Unlike caffeine, Cordyceps doesn’t stimulate—it enhances. You might notice improved stamina, reduced fatigue during physical exertion, or sustained mental energy across demanding work sessions. This subtle uplift, without the crash, is a sign of genuine potency.
For best results:
• Take on an empty stomach with water, at least 30 minutes before meals.
• Pair with a vitamin C source (like citrus juice) to support beta-glucan absorption.
• Avoid combining with caffeine or milk products—these can interfere with absorption.
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)
Use For: Immune support, antioxidant defence, skin health.
and cellular protection
Quality Markers:
- Beta-glucans: ~30% – Supports immune modulation and systemic balance
- Polyphenols: ~35 mg per dose – Provides broad-spectrum antioxidant support
- Triterpenes: ~30 mg per dose – Contributes to anti-inflammatory and skin-
regenerative effects - Betulinic Acid: ~20 mg per dose – A rare antioxidant compound unique to Chaga,
Supports healthy cell function - Extraction: Dual extract (water/alcohol) to access both water- and fat-soluble
compounds - Verification: Third-party tested in ISO 17025-accredited labs
High-quality Chaga powder should instantly tint hot water deep amber. If this colour takes minutes to appear—or doesn’t appear at all—it’s likely been over-diluted. This is a direct reflection of its polyphenol and melanin content, both critical for antioxidant activity. If your Chaga stays pale or murky, it’s likely been over-processed, under-extracted, or diluted with fillers.
Additionally, true Chaga will never taste sweet or neutral. A mild bitterness with a mineral, earthy backbone is a strong indicator of potency and wild-harvest quality.
How to Take Them: Practical Tips
Capsules: Easiest for consistent daily use.
Powders: Customizable for smoothies, teas, or coffee, but not as easy for exact dosing.
Dosing: Start with the recommended dosage between 600mg and 900mg.
Double the dosage when needed
Consistency is key—functional mushrooms build benefits graduallyFinal Notes: What to Watch for in a Crowded Market
The rising demand for functional mushroom supplements has attracted a wave of new brands, but with it, a surge in low-quality, under-regulated products. The market is still in its infancy, and while awareness is growing, oversight and consumer protections have not kept pace. Many products today are driven more by marketing than therapeutic value. As a result, misleading terminology and questionable testing practices are increasingly common.
Here’s what you should be aware of:
- Dry Labs: Some brands pay third-party labs for favourable results without real
testing. Always look for ISO 17025-accredited lab verification to ensure legitimacy. - Misleading Ratios: Terms like “16:1 extract” can sound impressive, but they’re often marketing fluff. These ratios do not indicate potency unless tied to verified active compound content.
- Polysaccharide Claims: Total polysaccharides can include starches. Insist on
- verified beta-glucan content instead.
- Filler-Free Guarantees: Look for “100% fruiting body” and clear labels stating no
mycelium on grain (MOG). - Lab Transparency: Trust brands that offer full lab reports, not just claims on the
label. QR-coded batch-level access is ideal.
●Verified beta-glucans, bioactives (e.g., cordycepin, hericenones, ganoderic acids)
●ISO 17025-accredited third-party lab testing
●Transparent extraction methods (hot water or dual)
●Certification under ISO 9001, ISO 22000, HACCP, and cGMP manufacturing
standards
This is about more than supplements—it’s about your health, your focus, and your long-term wellbeing. Choose wisely. Demand proof. Respect your biology.
also if you want to look at this user link on reddit -its worth a read of his posts - hes done alot of research about and on mushroom products and knows his stuff -he mentions some of the best brands and what to look for.
