Functional mushrooms, also known as medical mushrooms, are varieties of mushroom such as Reishi, Lion’s Mane and Chaga which have been used for 100’s, if not 1000’s of years in Asian medicine for specific health benefits. They’ve gained popularity in Western culture in recent months due to their potential to support overall health and well-being, as well as  immune support, cognitive function, energy and focus.

To get the most benefit from functional mushrooms it is best to use an extracted supplement which concentrates their beneficial compounds. This is because in their raw or dried form mushroom cells have tough walls that our bodies cannot efficiently break down. By using extraction the mushroom compounds are made bioavailable which means that your body can easily put them to use.

To start the extraction process whole mushroom fruiting bodies (stem and cap) are dried and turned into a powder, this powder is then simmered in hot water or alcohol to draw out the active properties. The result is a more concentrated version of the beneficial compounds.

At fourfive we use a double-extraction process which uses both alcohol and water to extract different properties. Some beneficial properties in mushrooms called beta-glucans are water-soluble whilst other properties called triterpenes are alcohol-soluble. Both of these are valuable and for that reason, it’s often best to use a double extraction method to get all the goodness you can. 

The mushrooms used in fourfive supplements are extracted at a 10:1 ratio. This means that for every 1 gram of dried, powdered extract we put in a capsule, 10 grams of raw mushrooms were used. This makes the powder extract much more highly concentrated than others you may see on the shelves, which are typically 4:1 or even 1:1 ratio.

Most functional mushrooms are not great for cooking and eating. Not only do they not taste great but all the beneficial compounds are held in the cell walls, which our bodies have trouble breaking down. 

fourfive uses dual extracted mushroom powder in capsule form, to provide a high potency, bioavailable supplement which your body can easily put to work. 

Whilst you may see other forms of mushrooms supplements on the shelves, such as teas, coffees and dried mushroom powders, these products typically don’t come from extracted forms so contain a much lower concentration of active compounds. 

The fourfive mushroom range has been carefully designed to help you achieve optimum performance from morning to night.

We have drawn on the strengths of the best functional mushrooms available and combined these with vitamins and minerals to support daily needs.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom: Energy & Focus : This mushroom complex combines Lion’s Mane, Bacopa Monnieri and Guarana with the power of Vitamins B6 and B12 to support brain function, focus and energy.

Reishi Mushroom: Bedtime Blend: This dual-extracted mushroom complex combines Reishi and Ashwagandha with the power of Magnesium to support normal psychological function and contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Multi Mushroom:Ultimate Blend: This high strength, all in one blend contains 5 log-grown mushroom extracts and is perfect for anyone looking to take the optimum dose in one easy product.

The best time to take mushroom supplements varies depending on the specific type and your individual response. Generally, Lion’s Mane is ideal for mornings to boost focus, while Reishi may be better suited for evenings to promote relaxation.

The best time to take mushroom supplements varies depending on the specific type and your individual response. Generally, Lion’s Mane is ideal for mornings to boost focus, while Reishi may be better suited for evenings to promote relaxation.

Mushrooms aren’t just for culinary use; functional mushrooms offer various health benefits.

Not all mushrooms are psychoactive; functional mushrooms don’t typically cause hallucinations.

Mushroom supplements are generally safe, but individual responses may vary, so it’s essential to use them responsibly and consult with healthcare professionals when necessary.