In recent years, the concept of microdosing has become increasingly popular among alternative wellness enthusiasts and scientific researchers. With suggested benefits of the practice ranging from improved mood to enhanced cognitive performance, what exactly is microdosing, and how does it work?
What is Microdosing?
In the most literal sense, “microdosing” refers to the practice of taking a fraction of a regular dose of a drug or medicinal.
When it comes to mushrooms, you may have heard this term used most commonly in conversations around psychedelic mushrooms, or mushrooms containing psilocybin. A number of studies conducted with psilocybin fungi, detailing the potential benefits of regularly consuming small amounts of the mushrooms.
In one study led by researchers from the University of Toronto, adult participants receiving low doses of psilocybin-containing mushrooms exhibited improved mood, enhanced focus, boosted creativity, lower stress, improved overall well-being, and increased mental flexibility after one month of use.
On the flip side of the microdosing coin, a scientific review published in the Sage Journal of Pharmacology explored whether the perceived impacts of the practice may in fact be nothing more than a placebo effect. Analyzing 19 placebo-controlled studies, these researchers found that while more research remains to be conducted, there is no strong evidence for this theory.
Given current data, the benefits of microdosing psilocybin fungi appear promising.
So, if a micro intake of psychedelic mushrooms might lead to numerous positive wellness outcomes, can microdosing functional or “medicinal” mushrooms do the same?
The Science of Functional Mushrooms
There is a vast body of evidence, drawing from both clinical research and historical use in traditional medicine, that supports functional mushrooms as powerful wellness solutions.
Lauded for their adaptogenic, health-boosting, and mood-lifting properties, functional mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine practices for centuries.
Reishi, which has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for more than 2,000 years, has been widely studied for its calming, immune-supporting, and antioxidant capabilities. It has also shown potential to support balanced blood sugar levels and may offer anti-stress, antiviral, and antibacterial activity.
Cordyceps, a mainstay among those seeking a natural energy boost, was first documented in medicinal use in 1694 and has demonstrated antitumor, immune support, antioxidant, blood sugar regulating, libido enhancing, and anti-fatigue properties in clinical studies.
Chaga’s history in medicinal use dates back to 12th century Russia and Siberia, and has shown potential in research to support immunity, healthy cholesterol levels, antioxidant activity, and healthy skin.
Turkey Tail mushroom has been regarded for its wellness benefits in TCM for at least 2,000 years. Modern science upholds its promise as a remedy for immune and digestive health, antioxidant support, and as a possible therapy for those undergoing cancer treatments.
Lion’s Mane, a centuries-trusted medicinal mushroom historically celebrated across a number of cultures, has been explored for its nootropic and cognitive enhancement benefits. These include improved mental clarity and mood, sharper focus and mental clarity, reduced stress and anxiety, and positive impacts on mood.
Microdosing Functional Mushrooms
While a great deal of research is available detailing the vast array of wellness benefits functional mushrooms promise, little research has gone into the specific practice of microdosing these non-psychedelic fungi. However, because everyone is different and each individual's nutritional needs will vary, microdosing may be a more effective solution for some than others.
Functional Mushroom Gummies
Today, one of the most popular ways to experience the potent benefits of medicinal mushrooms is by enjoying them as tasty, easy-to-take gummy supplements. While other supplement forms like tinctures and powders offer similar support, many find functional mushroom gummies to be the simplest, most satisfying way to incorporate mushies into their wellness routines.
Don’t like the taste of mushrooms? No problem. While quality mushroom gummies may be packed with high-potency functional mushroom extracts, they’re surprisingly delicious.
Mushroom flavor? Undetectable. Just mouthwatering gummy goodness.
Can You Microdose Mushroom Gummies for Wellness?
Evidence supports that, taken at optimal dosage levels, functional mushrooms are largely considered to be safe and beneficial. With this in mind, there should be no harm in taking mushroom gummies in smaller than recommended amounts, or in other words, in “micro” doses. However, it’s possible you may see better results when taking them as directed.
The benefits you see when supplementing with functional mushroom gummies, and how long it takes to experience results, can depend on many factors – from your unique body chemistry to your individual wellness goals.
Quality mushroom gummies will contain extracts specifically formulated for maximum bioavailability and desired benefits. For best results, we recommend taking your gummies as directed on the packaging.
Finding the Right Dose
So, what is the ideal dose of each type of functional mushroom? Each of our functional mushroom gummies is crafted from the highest quality mushroom extract available, made with whole, US-grown fungi, and heavily tested for safety and optimal potency.
On average the suggested dosage for functional mushrooms generally ranges from 1,000 to 3,000 mg per day. Source 1, source 2, source 3, source 4, source 5
Reishi Mushroom Gummies
Each of our Red Reishi Mushroom Gummies contains 2500 mg of organic red reishi extract, with over 400 bioactive fungal compounds to help:
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Boost immunity
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Naturally fight stress
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Promote a healthy sleep cycle
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Support a positive mood
Recommended Use: Take 1 to 2 gummies daily.
Cordyceps Mushroom Gummies
Each of our Cordyceps Mushroom Gummies contains 2500 mg of organic cordyceps extract, with bioactive compounds like cordycepin to help power up:
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Energy levels
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Libido
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Immunity
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Heart health
Recommended Use: Take 1 to 2 gummies daily.
Chaga Mushroom Gummies
Each of our Chaga Mushroom Gummies contains 2500 mg of organic chaga extract. This antioxidant fungal powerhouse delivers:
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Immune system support
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Powerful antioxidants
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Healthy aging support
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Skin health support
Recommended Use: Take 1 to 2 gummies daily.
Turkey Tail Mushroom Gummies
Each of our Turkey Tail Mushroom Gummies contains 2500 mg of organic turkey tail extract, with immune-boosting bioactives like PSK and PSP to promote:
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A healthy immune defense
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Digestive health
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Antioxidant support
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Natural therapeutic support
Recommended Use: Take 1 to 2 gummies daily.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom Gummies
Each of our Lion’s Mane Mushroom Gummies contains 2500 mg of organic lion’s mane extract, with unique brain-boosting compounds to support:
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Focus and cognition
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Healthy brain aging
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Memory
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Mental health
Recommended Use: Take 1 to 2 gummies daily.