If you're suffering from depression, you may be searching for natural remedies to treat your symptoms. Mushroom supplements have been shown to have various health benefits, with certain varieties linked explicitly to improvements in mental health. If you're in the market for the best mushroom supplements for depression, this guide has you covered.
A promising 2020 joint study by the University of Malaya in Malaysia and the University of Hong Kong looked at the use of medicinal mushrooms as an alternative to traditional antidepressant drugs. Medicinal mushrooms showed several neuroprotective effects contributing to their anti-inflammatory, cholinesterase inhibitory, and neuroprotective properties.
Nevertheless, navigating the world of mushroom supplements can feel overwhelming. With so many options, how do you know which ones will truly help? What ingredients should you look for, and which should you avoid? Mushroom supplements that help with depression are numerous and varied.
The vital thing to know is each mushroom variety offers its own unique benefits when consumed, and some are more effective for anxiety and depression than others. At the same time, quality, dosage, and formulation all contribute to the efficacy of these functional mushrooms.
When picking a mushroom supplement, you want to select a product that effectively supports mental health and cognitive function while aligning with your health goals and preferences. Hopefully, these mushrooms will help alleviate symptoms of depression and lead you to a brighter tomorrow.
At a glance:
Best Mushroom Supplements for Depression
Top Choice — Goomz Mushroom Gummies
While many mushroom supplement brands only sell products formulated with one specific mushroom, Goomz takes a more varied approach. Instead of forcing you to pick and choose between individual types, we use a proprietary formulation containing multiple medicinal mushrooms blended with other natural supplements to reduce depressive symptoms.
With Goomz Mushroom Gummies, you get it all. Reishi, Chaga, Lion's mane, and Cordyceps are all present. These species work together to enhance one's mental health and provide a natural focus boost.
Chaga plays a crucial role in brain function and mental health. Reishi mushrooms are known for their calming effects. Lion's mane can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression and act as a mood enhancer. Cordyceps mushrooms' anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can counteract the effects of prolonged anxiety or depression.
Those benefits alone would be impressive enough, but with our Goomz gummies, we take it a step further. In addition to the medicinal mushrooms listed above, we include nutrient-rich ingredients like Kava root, Blue lotus flower, and Kanna to improve and enhance overall well-being.
In short, our gummies are a fantastic choice to improve your mental health and alleviate feelings of depression, but you can use them for so much more. Best of all, they taste amazing! Choose between four delicious berry flavors and enjoy the same incredible health benefits in each.
Shop Goomz Mushroom Gummies here
Freshcap Ultimate Mushroom Complex
Like Goomz gummies, these mushroom supplements contain a proprietary blend combining the most popular mushroom species on the market today. The big difference is that this supplement comes as capsules designed to be swallowed whole, while Goomz gummies are meant to be savored.
These organic capsules contain no grains, fillers, or GMOs. They offer several potential health benefits and are a great way to regulate mood and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Just keep in mind a couple of things. First, each bottle contains 120 capsules, but the serving size is listed as two, so you are not getting a 120-day supply. Second, you cannot easily divide a capsule in half, so you can't microdose like you can with Goomz gummies.
Shop Freshcap Ultimate Mushroom Complex capsules here
Fungies Mushroom Gummies
If you are okay with purchasing a supplement with a single mushroom, Fungies’ products are excellent choices. While the brand sells three unique mushroom supplements — Lion's mane, Cordyceps, and Reishi — you probably want to stick with Lion's mane or Reishi for depression and anxiety.
While Lion's mane mushrooms are known for boosting cognitive function and sharpening memory, Reishi is best known for managing stress, regulating mood, and reducing the effects of generalized anxiety disorder. If you have to choose one and only one, go with Reishi.
Of course, you must buy two mushroom supplements instead of one to get effects that are even close to those of a single Goomz gummy. Also, many reviewers found the taste of Fungies’ gummies unpalatable.
Shop Fungies Mushroom Gummies here
Supermush Daily Chill Mouth Spray
If neither gummies nor capsules appeal to you, you may be looking for a medicinal mushroom supplement spray. In that case, Supermush’s Daily Chill is an option worth considering.
While you can get these sprays in three different varieties, we recommend sticking with the Daily Chill option. As mentioned, Lion's mane and Reishi mushrooms are the two mushroom species best suited for treating anxiety and depression, and it's no coincidence those two are found here.
The flavor is hibiscus dominant with a hint of lemon. Unfortunately, many reviewers specifically mentioned that the taste was quite unpleasant. One review even commented that it was akin to taking a shot of alcohol. Another common complaint was that the spray nozzle didn't function properly upon arrival.
Shop Supermush Daily Chill mouth spray here
Elm & Rye Superfood Mushroom Creamer
If you're looking for a mushroom supplement to improve your mental health that you can mix into your morning coffee, this supplement is for you. This blend contains extracts from several mushroom species and is available in capsules, gummies, and coffee creamer powder.
In addition to the standard Lion's mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, and Chaga species, this creamer includes Maitake mushrooms — a variety commonly used to improve artery function and overall cardiovascular health.
While Elm & Rye lists several notable publications in which its products have been featured, actual user reviews are conspicuously absent. It's also worth noting that the creamer costs almost $50, making it one of the most expensive medicinal mushroom options. The brand’s capsules and gummies are also steeply priced at $45.
Shop Elm & Rye Superfood Mushroom Creamer here
Plant People WonderCalm & WonderDay Mushroom Gummies
For those looking for a sugar-free mushroom supplement, we recommend Plant People's WonderCalm gummies. Ashwagandha, Reishi, and Rhodiola are the core ingredients in this non-drowsy, calming formula.
Alternatively, you may want to check out Plant People's WonderDay gummies. Like many brands, the blend comprises Lion's mane, Chaga, Reishi, and Cordyceps. What sets it apart is the addition of Turkey tail mushroom. While not as commonly consumed as the other species, Turkey tail can help fight chronic inflammation, anxiety, and depression.
Most users report that the flavors of both varieties are pretty pleasant. They aren’t to everyone's taste, but this should be expected with any zero-sugar option. Another complaint is that the gummies can become hard and less palatable if they are not consumed immediately.
Shop Plant People WonderCalm & WonderDay Mushroom Gummies here
Mushroom Design Vitamin Formula
These top-rated supplements contain the most added vitamins of any product on our list. If you're looking for a mushroom supplement that can double as a multivitamin, these might be your best bet.
While not explicitly marketed as a supplement to treat anxiety and depression, these capsules contain several essential B Vitamins. Taking high doses of certain B Vitamins, especially Vitamin B6 or B12, has been shown to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression.
If you're not interested in taking mushroom capsules, you can also purchase a mushroom-enhanced protein powder to aid muscle growth and regeneration. While user reviews are generally positive, there aren't very many of them, so keep that in mind before purchasing.
Shop Mushroom Design supplements here
The Genius Brand Genius Mushrooms
Like other mushroom supplements, The Genius Brand's Genius Mushrooms capsules contain a potent mix of Lion's mane, Reishi, and Cordyceps (Chaga is conspicuously absent for some reason).
With 1500 milligrams of organic mushrooms per serving, you get everything you need to improve brain function, boost your immune system, and enhance the body's response to stress and anxiety.
Remember that a single serving is three capsules, so it isn't the most convenient option. Also, some reviewers who are suffering from more serious neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD found the supplements did little to alleviate their symptoms.
Shop The Genius Brand Genius Mushrooms capsules here
FAQ
Could Mushroom Supplements Actually Help With Depression?
Yes, mushroom supplements can help manage depression. Modern research and traditional medicine both suggest that consuming medicinal mushrooms can play a role in regulating mood and enhancing mental health.
Certain mushroom species, like Lion's mane or Reishi, are rich in compounds that may influence the brain's neurotransmitters related to anxiety and depression. While mushroom supplements aren't a magical cure for depression, they can certainly alleviate the symptoms.
What Mushroom Types Are Good for Helping With Depression?
When it comes to helping with depression, Lion's mane, Reishi, and Cordyceps are the big three species you should look for. Lion's mane is noted for its ability to enhance cognitive function, which can benefit those struggling with depression.
Reishi is known for its calming effects and can aid in reducing stress and anxiety. Lastly, Cordyceps helps boost the body's energy levels and can even support a healthy immune system, both of which can be adversely affected by chronic stress and depression.
What Is Important To Take Into Account When Choosing a Mushroom Supplement for Depression?
Choosing the best mushroom supplement for depression involves several important factors. First and foremost, make sure you only purchase supplements you will enjoy and consume regularly; buying a mushroom supplement just to have it sit in your pantry won't do you any good.
Beyond that, consider the supplement’s quality and source. Also, consider the formulation—whether it's designed to enhance overall well-being, regulate mood, boost mental clarity, or specifically target symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Is It Safe To Take Mushroom Supplements for Depression?
Mood-boosting mushroom supplements and gummies are generally safe if you buy from reputable sources and follow the dosage recommendations. At Goomz, we design our gummies with micro-dosing in mind, making them an excellent choice for anyone new to mushroom supplements and wishing to experiment with their effect on their mental health.
Like any supplement, you should consult a healthcare professional before adding medicinal mushrooms to your daily routine. This advice is especially important if you have existing health conditions or are taking prescription medications to treat your depression.
What Are the Potential Side Effects of Mushroom Supplements for Depression?
Most people find mushroom supplements of all forms to be very tolerable. When side effects occur, they can include digestive issues, allergic reactions (itchiness or dry mouth), or interactions with other medications. The likelihood of experiencing such symptoms will vary from person to person.
Choosing a high-quality mushroom supplement that allows you to experiment with lower doses can help minimize these risks. If you experience any adverse effects, contact a healthcare professional immediately.
Where Can I Buy Mushroom Supplements?
As mushroom supplements become increasingly popular, they're becoming easier to find. Supermarkets, pharmacies, and supplement stores all carry various supplements.
If you opt for an online retailer, purchasing directly from the brand's website is always best to ensure you get the lowest price possible. Also, keep an eye out for subscription plans or the option to buy in bulk since these often result in a lower per-unit cost.
Besides Taking Mushroom Supplements, What Else Can You Do to Reduce Anxiety and Depression and Promote Mental Wellness?
Lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and mindfulness exercises can all help alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression. While there is no one proven method for curing depression, specific healthy lifestyle practices can help.
Regular exercise can release endorphins (also known as "feel good" hormones) and be a powerful tool for managing mood. Eating a balanced diet low in sugar and processed foods can also help. Mindfulness exercises like deep breathing or meditation can help manage stress and anxiety and foster a deeper state of relaxation.
Live a Better Life With Mood-Boosting Mushroom Supplements
When shopping for mushroom supplements for depression, it's essential to consider the quality and formulation before making a purchase. Goomz stands out as one of the best choices for those looking to enhance their mental health and well-being.
With its unique blend of Reishi, Chaga, Lion's mane, and Cordyceps — plus nutrient-rich ingredients like Kava root, Blue lotus flower, and Kanna — Goomz offers a comprehensive solution for anyone looking to combat the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Combining these powerful mushroom species doesn't just alleviate depressive symptoms but helps support cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and regulate the body's stress response.
Best of all, Goomz Mushroom Gummies are delicious and convenient! The four tasty fruit and berry flavors make incorporating these medicinal mushrooms into any wellness routine easy. Each bag of functional mushroom gummies contains specific micro-dosing instructions on the back so you can experiment and find a dose that perfectly suits your needs.
If you're new to the world of medicinal mushrooms, Goomz Gummies are a terrific way to start exploring. Click here to learn more and explore our product page.