It’s hard to go a couple days without hearing about functional mushrooms in some way. They are making a buzz everywhere due to their incredible potential to support overall health and even prevent diseases. A common question among people who have started supplementing with them is when is the best time to take them?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the best time to take certain mushrooms and how they can fit into your schedule.
Reishi – Best Taken at Night for Stress Relief and Better Sleep
Reishi mushrooms, often referred to as the “mushroom of immortality,” have long been prized in traditional medicine for their calming and stress-relieving properties. Known for promoting relaxation and helping to reduce anxiety, Reishi is best taken in the evening to help ease the body and mind after a long day.
Optimal Time: Evening (1–2 hours before bedtime)
Taking Reishi in the evening allows its natural sedative effects to kick in, promoting a restful sleep cycle. This is especially beneficial for individuals who struggle with insomnia or stress-related sleep issues. Reishi helps to calm the nervous system and lower cortisol levels, which is why it is commonly used as a natural sleep aid.
Lion’s Mane – Best Taken in the Morning for Cognitive Enhancement
Lion’s Mane mushroom is renowned for its cognitive-enhancing effects. It contains compounds that support brain health, promote neurogenesis (the growth of new brain cells), and improve memory, focus, and concentration. If you’re looking to boost mental clarity, Lion’s Mane is the perfect functional mushroom for your morning routine.
Optimal Time: Morning (with or after breakfast)
To start your day on the right foot, Lion’s Mane is best taken in the morning. Its energizing and brain-boosting effects can help improve focus and cognitive performance throughout the day. Whether you prefer the capsule form for convenience or mixing powder into your morning coffee or smoothie, Lion’s Mane is a powerful addition to your daily routine.
Taking Lion’s Mane in the morning ensures that you can tap into its cognitive benefits right when you need them most—whether you’re heading to work, studying, or tackling important tasks. Many people report feeling a noticeable boost in their ability to concentrate and think clearly after consistent use.
Cordyceps – Best Taken Before Physical Activity for Energy and Endurance
Cordyceps mushrooms are known for their ability to enhance physical performance and endurance. This functional mushroom is highly regarded among athletes and fitness enthusiasts for its natural ability to increase energy levels, improve oxygen utilization, and support muscle recovery. If you’re looking to take your workouts to the next level, Cordyceps might be the perfect addition to your supplement regimen.
Optimal Time: 30–60 minutes before physical activity
Taking Cordyceps approximately 30 to 60 minutes before exercise can significantly enhance your physical performance. This gives the body enough time to absorb the beneficial compounds and start ramping up energy production. Cordyceps is often taken in capsule or powder form, and many athletes mix the powder into their pre-workout shake or smoothie for an energy boost that won’t cause jitters.
Because Cordyceps help improve stamina and reduce fatigue, it can be especially helpful during long workouts or endurance sports. It also aids in faster recovery, so you can feel more refreshed after intense physical activity.
Chaga – Best Taken Throughout the Day for Immune Support
Chaga mushrooms are packed with antioxidants and immune-boosting properties, making them an excellent choice for overall health and wellness. Whether you’re looking to fight off colds, reduce inflammation, or support long-term wellness, Chaga can be a powerful ally. Its effects are more subtle compared to other functional mushrooms, so it can be taken throughout the day to provide ongoing immune support.
Optimal Time: Anytime, but consistently throughout the day
Chaga is best taken consistently over time, rather than in one large dose. Whether you choose to take tinctures throughout the day or capsules with meals, maintaining a steady intake will help support your immune system and provide sustained antioxidant protection.
For those who prefer a more soothing option, Chaga powder can be added to a warm beverage like tea or coffee. It’s a great way to ensure that your body receives continuous immune support while also giving you a burst of energy and focus throughout the day.
Tinctures vs. Capsules vs. Powders vs. Gummies
Choosing which form to supplement your functional mushrooms with can be a challenging decision. What might help is that there is no functional or medicinal benefit to taking these mushrooms in one form or the other, it’s all preference, the only difference would be how fast they take effect. If you want the fastest form to digest these mushrooms, then tincture is your best option. If speed of effect is not a primary concern, then capsules would be your go to choice. If you want something a little more appetizing than gummies are the route to go. It’s all up to you. Check out or shop page to browse our selection of functional mushroom supplements.