The Best Time to Take Functional Mushrooms

The Best Time to Take Functional Mushrooms


Functional mushrooms have been cherished for centuries, offering a natural way to support health and wellbeing. Whether you’re looking for a morning energy boost, midday balance, or evening relaxation, taking them at the right time can help you get the most out of their incredible benefits. So, when is the best time to take mushrooms? Let’s explore how to make these fungi work best for you.



Does Timing Matter When Taking Functional Mushrooms?


Absolutely! Just like your body follows a natural rhythm, different mushrooms work best at different times of the day. Some are great for a morning pick-me-up, while others help you unwind before bed.


Your body’s ability to absorb and utilise the beneficial compounds in mushrooms can also depend on when and how you take them. Factors like metabolism, activity levels, and even whether you take them with food can make a big difference.


Find out How to Boost Your Energy Levels & Productivity Naturally.


Morning, Afternoon, or Night? A Breakdown by Mushroom Type


The best mushrooms for the morning are our Energy and Focus mushrooms. If you want to start your day feeling vibrant and mentally sharp, these mushrooms are your best bet:


Cordyceps - The Natural Energiser


Best time to take: Morning, before exercise or work.


Why? Cordyceps is like nature’s energy booster, supporting endurance, oxygen uptake, and stamina. It’s a fantastic alternative to caffeine, providing a steady lift without the crash (1)(2).


How to take it: Take before a workout. Add it to your morning coffee, smoothie, or a warm cup of DIRTEA Cordyceps.


Lions Mane - The Brain Booster


Best time to take: Morning, with breakfast


Why? If you need mental clarity and focus, Lion’s Mane is your go-to. It’s known for its potential to support cognitive function, memory, and concentration (3).


How to take it: Stir into your tea, coffee, or matcha for a brain-boosting start to the day.



Best Mushroom for the Afternoon – Sustained Energy and Gut Support


For those midday slumps, this mushroom help maintain energy and support digestion:


Chaga - The Immune Defender


Best time to take: Midday, between meals


Why? Chaga is packed with antioxidants and supports immune health. It also provides a gentle energy lift that keeps you going without overstimulation (4).


How to take it: Enjoy in a coffee or take it on the go.



The Best Mushrooms for the Evening - Relaxation and Recovery


If winding down is your goal, these mushrooms are perfect for the evening:


Reishi – The Relaxation Mushroom


Best time to take: Evening, 30–60 minutes before bed


Why? Reishi is like a deep breath for your body, helping you relax, manage stress, and enjoy a restful sleep (5).


How to take it: Brew a warm cup of DIRTEA Reishi tea or mix into your nighttime routine.


Tramella – The Beauty Mushroom


Best time to take: Evening, before bed


Why? Tremella is like a natural moisturiser from the inside out, supporting skin hydration and collagen production overnight (6).


How to take it: Take it on the go, add to a soothing herbal tea or mix into a bedtime drink.


How to Take Functional Mushrooms for Best Absorption


To make the most of your mushrooms, try these simple tips:


  • Be consistent: Functional mushrooms work best when taken daily, as their effects build over time.
  • Experiment with formats: Whether in tea, powders, or capsules, find a method that fits your lifestyle.


Can You Mix Different Mushrooms?


Definitely! Many mushrooms complement each other beautifully. You can browse our Super Blends, or why not try these combos?:




Consistency is Key – Building a Mushroom Routine


To truly experience the benefits, make functional mushrooms a seamless part of your day. Why not add Lion’s Mane to your morning coffee or sip on Chaga tea in the afternoon. Perhaps wind down with a warm Reishi drink before bed?


Finding the best time to take functional mushrooms depends on your goals and lifestyle. Whether you need an energy boost, mental clarity, or deep relaxation, functional mushrooms can be your daily allies.


Final Thoughts – Finding Your Perfect Timing


The best time to take mushrooms depends on what you want to achieve. Cordyceps and Lion’s Mane work well in the morning for energy and focus. Chaga supports midday balance, while Reishi and Tremella are best for evening relaxation and recovery.


If you’re wondering, when to take functional mushrooms, the answer lies in listening to your body and making them a part of your daily routine. Try different times and see what works best for you. And remember, like any wellness practice, consistency is key. Looking for high-quality mushroom products? 


Explore DIRTEA’s range and start your journey towards better health today.



Functional Mushroom FAQS


Does it matter what time of day I take functional mushrooms?

Yes, different functional mushrooms may work best at specific times of the day. For example, Cordyceps and Lion’s Mane are great in the morning for energy and focus, while Reishi and Tremella are better suited for evening relaxation and recovery.


Can I take multiple mushrooms at the same time?

Absolutely! Many mushrooms complement each other. For instance, Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps make a great morning blend, while Reishi and Tremella are perfect for nighttime relaxation and skin support.


Should I take functional mushrooms with food or on an empty stomach?

This depends on the mushroom and your body’s response. Some, like Cordyceps, may be taken on an empty stomach for an energy boost, while others, like Reishi, are best consumed with food to aid digestion and absorption.


How long does it take to feel the effects of functional mushrooms?

Some benefits, like energy and focus from Cordyceps and Lion’s Mane, can be felt within hours. Others, like immune support from Chaga or stress reduction from Reishi, may take weeks of consistent use to notice full effects.


Can I take functional mushrooms before bed?

Yes, but choose the right ones. Reishi helps with relaxation and sleep, while Tremella supports overnight skin hydration. Avoid stimulating mushrooms like Cordyceps before bed as they may interfere with sleep.


Can I take functional mushrooms every day?

Yes! Consistency is key to experiencing their full benefits. Functional mushrooms work best when taken regularly over time.


What’s the best way to take functional mushrooms?

You can take them as teas, powders, capsules, or in smoothies. Find a method that fits into your routine and makes consumption easy.


Can I take functional mushrooms if I drink coffee?

Yes! Some mushrooms, like Lion’s Mane, pair well with coffee and can enhance focus. Others, like Reishi, may counterbalance caffeine’s jittery effects if taken later in the day.


Can I take functional mushrooms if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before taking functional mushrooms during pregnancy or breastfeeding to ensure they are safe for you.




References


  1. Holliday, J., & Cleaver, M. P. (2008). Medicinal value of Cordyceps: Traditional and modern research. Mycology Journal.

  2. Zhou, X., Gong, Z., Su, Y., Lin, J., Tang, K. (2009). Cordyceps fungi: natural products, pharmacological functions and developmental products. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. 

  3. Mori, K., Inatomi, S., Ouchi, K., Azumi, Y., Tuchida, T. (2009). Improving effects of the mushroom Hericium erinaceum (Lion’s Mane) on mild cognitive impairment. Phytotherapy Research. 

  4. Zhong, X., Deng, Y., He, J., Zheng, Y., Li, Q., & Li, Q. (2019). Chaga mushroom polysaccharides and immune function. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 

  5. Wachtel-Galor, S., Yuen, J., Buswell, J. A., Benzie, I. F. F. (2011). Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi), a medicinal mushroom. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 

  6. Chen, S., Li, W., Wang, H., Wang, W. (2019). Polysaccharides from Tremella fuciformis and their applications in skin health. Carbohydrate Polymers. 

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