Mushrooms Guide

Medicinal mushroom supplements can contain different species with different traditional and modern uses. Learn about common varieties, how they’re used, and what to consider when choosing a formula.¹

✅ Reviewed by Jamieson's Science Team

Quick Answers

What are medicinal mushrooms?

They’re mushroom species used as medicinal ingredients in natural health products, including reishi, lion’s mane, chaga, and shiitake.¹

Do all mushroom supplements do the same thing?

No. Benefits depend on the mushroom species, preparation, amount, and other ingredients in the formula.¹

What is an adaptogenic mushroom?

Some mushroom formulas are used as adaptogens to help increase the body’s resistance to stress.²

Can mushrooms support immune health?

Certain mushroom preparations may be used in herbal medicine to support the immune system.¹

What are medicinal mushrooms?

Medicinal mushrooms are fungi used in natural health products for specific wellness purposes. Health Canada’s mushroom monograph includes species such as reishi, lion’s mane, chaga, shiitake, maitake, and cordyceps.¹ 

Supplements may use the fruiting body, mycelium, or cultured mycelium, depending on the species and preparation. 

How are mushroom supplements used?

Different mushroom species and preparations can support different wellness goals. Health Canada recognizes certain mushroom preparations for immune-system support and as sources of fungal polysaccharides with immunomodulating properties.¹ 

Combination formulas may also carry additional approved uses based on the specific mushrooms and other medicinal ingredients they contain. Jamieson Mushroom Complex, for example, is positioned for immune health, energy, stress resistance, and traditional liver support. 

Which health goals can mushroom supplements support?

Immune Support

Certain medicinal mushroom preparations may help support immune function.¹

Stress Support

Some mushroom formulas are used as adaptogens to help increase resistance to stress.²

Liver Health

Some mushroom-containing formulas are traditionally used in herbal medicine as liver tonics.²

How can mushrooms fit into your routine?

Mushroom supplements are often used when immune health, stress, or everyday resilience is a priority. 

  • During busy periods: Adaptogenic formulas may be used when stress and fatigue are harder to manage. 
  • For immune support: Certain mushroom preparations may support immune function.¹ 
  • As part of everyday wellness: Multi-mushroom blends can combine several traditional uses in one routine. 
  • Support the basics: Sleep, balanced nutrition, movement, and stress management still matter for overall resilience. 

*It is important to consult your trusted healthcare practitioner before adding any new natural health supplement to your routine. 

What should you look for in a mushroom supplement?

Start with your wellness goal, then look closely at what the formula actually contains.

  • Check the species: Reishi, lion’s mane, chaga, shiitake, and other mushrooms aren’t interchangeable.¹ 
  • Check the part used: Products may use fruiting body, mycelium, or cultured mycelium.¹ 
  • Check the preparation: Water extracts and other preparations can provide different mushroom constituents.¹ 
  • Review the full formula: Multi-mushroom products may also contain herbs such as garlic. 
  • Match the claims to the product: Don’t assume every mushroom provides every advertised benefit. 
  • Look for an NPN: Choose a licensed natural health product with an eight-digit NPN. 
  • Look for quality: Jamieson products are backed by the Jamieson 360 Quality Promise. 

For more than 100 years, Jamieson has combined scientific expertise with rigorous quality testing. Every product is backed by the Jamieson 360 Quality Promise. 

*It is important to consult your trusted healthcare practitioner before adding any new natural health supplement to your routine.  

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FAQs
What types of mushrooms are commonly used in supplements?

Health Canada’s mushroom monograph includes species such as reishi, lion’s mane, chaga, shiitake, maitake, and cordyceps.¹

What mushrooms are in Jamieson Mushroom Complex?

Jamieson Mushroom Complex contains reishi, lion’s mane, chaga, and shiitake, along with garlic.

What is an adaptogenic mushroom?

An adaptogen is an ingredient used to help increase resistance to stress. Jamieson’s current Mushroom Complex is licensed for adaptogenic use based on its complete formula.

Sources

1. Health Canada. Mushrooms Monograph. Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate. Updated October 31, 2025.[Text Wrapping Break]https://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/dbImages/mono_mushrooms_en.pdf 

2. Health Canada. Licensed Natural Health Products Database — Mushroom Complex, NPN 80087030.[Text Wrapping Break]https://health-products.canada.ca/lnhpd-bdpsnh/info?licence=80087030