What Are Nootropic Mushrooms? (+ 8 Ways to Have Them Daily)

Looking to boost focus, memory, or brain health naturally?

Nootropic mushrooms, like these, might be the upgrade your routine needs:

  1. Lion’s mane
  2. Chaga
  3. Reishi
  4. Cordyceps
  5. Shiitake
  6. Maitake
  7. Tremella

For centuries, these fungi have been prized for sharpening focus, easing stress, and reducing brain fog.

Now, these nootropic mushrooms come in every form—tinctures, powders, capsules, even convenient oral pouches.

With so many choices, the real question is: which one’s right for you?

This post will highlight the best products containing nootropic mushrooms that you can try in 2025. We’ll also reveal the key benefits of nootropic mushrooms and safe ways to add them to your routine.

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What Are Nootropic Mushrooms? (+ Benefits)

Nootropic mushrooms are a group of fungi that may help boost focus, memory, and learning—especially when your brain needs extra support. Used for centuries in Eastern herbal medicine, they’ve recently gained popularity in the West as natural supplements.

Some are delicious enough to cook with, but the real magic goes beyond the taste and flavor.

You'll usually need a steady, concentrated dose to get the most out of them. That’s why they’re often taken as gummies, powders, capsules, or pouches.

Eager to know how they benefit you? 
Let’s dive in!

What Are the Benefits of Nootropic Mushrooms?

Nootropic mushrooms (aka medicinal mushrooms) are naturally rich in bioactive compounds that support brain and body health, including:

  • Polysaccharides (especially beta-glucans): Strengthen immunity and help protect brain cells.
  • Terpenoids: Support healthy brain signaling for better focus and memory.
  • Antioxidants: Defend against oxidative stress—the “wear and tear” that can age your brain.

Together, these compounds protect brain cells, keep nerves firing smoothly, and help sharpen cognitive performance.

In fact, early research suggests that nootropic mushrooms may also:

  • Encourage brain cell growth
  • Ease mild symptoms of anxiety
  • Protect the brain after injury or stroke
  • Reduce cognitive decline, particularly in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s

Now that you know what makes nootropic mushrooms special, let’s explore some popular varieties.

7 Nootropic Mushrooms to Sharpen Your Focus

Here are some must-try nootropic mushrooms:

1. Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

This medicinal mushroom helps boost brain cell growth and production of nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is a special protein your body makes to help nerve cells grow, stay healthy, and self-repair.

Early research also suggests that this adaptogenic mushroom may protect against memory loss linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Studies also indicate that the mushroom has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce symptoms of depression.

2. Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

The chaga mushroom may help improve brain health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation while boosting serotonin, the “happy hormone”. 

It’s also been studied as a potential solution for managing amnesia, and it has shown promising results in improving memory and learning.

3. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

Some animal studies suggest that the reishi mushroom may help protect the brain from damage related to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. 

The reishi mushroom also fights excessive protein buildup, which can harm brain cells and impair cognitive function. Additionally, it supports cells that produce dopamine, the “feel-good” hormone that controls our mood.

4. Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris)

Animal studies in recent years indicate that this medicinal mushroom may boost learning and memory. 

This may also support recovery from brain problems linked to poor circulation or inflammation.

5. Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)

The shiitake mushroom packs brain-friendly minerals like copper and selenium, which help protect brain cells against damage. 

Just half a cup of the shiitake mushroom provides 72% of your daily copper and 33% of your selenium needs.

6. Maitake (Grifola frondosa)

The maitake mushroom may boost learning and memory by increasing key brain proteins like BDNF and AMPAR. 

What are they?
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) supports brain cell growth, survival, and maintenance.

AMPAR (α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor) helps transmit signals between neurons, which is key to learning and memory.

The maitake mushroom is also rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and amino acids for overall wellness.

7. Tremella (Tremella fuciformis)

Also called snow fungus, Tremella is best known for its jelly-like texture, but it’s also gaining attention for brain health. Its natural sugars (polysaccharides) act as powerful antioxidants, helping protect brain cells from damage. It also supports nerve growth factor production. 

In one small human study, people who took Tremella daily for eight weeks showed better short-term memory and mental sharpness than those on a placebo. 

Another recent animal study found that the Tremella mushroom extract eased stress, reduced anxiety-like behavior, and supported healthy cognitive function.

NOTE: Sometimes “magic mushrooms” (psilocybin mushrooms) are discussed in conversations about brain health. However, magic mushrooms differ from nootropic mushrooms as they contain psychoactive compounds that can cause hallucinogenic effects. Additionally, psilocybin mushrooms are prohibited in many places.

Now, finding nootropic mushrooms or even a good-quality nootropic supplement in your local store can be tricky, depending on where you live. 

That’s why we’ve rounded up eight nootropic mushroom products, from pouches to powders, that make adding these brain-boosting fungi to your daily routine easy.

8 Effective Ways to Include Nootropic Mushrooms in Your Wellness Routine

Nootropic mushrooms come in different forms to suit every routine, including:

  • Pouches for quick boosts
  • Capsules for on-the-go convenience
  • Powders for blending into smoothies
  • Gummies for a tasty alternative
  • Tinctures for fast absorption 

Here are some top products featuring nootropic mushrooms to consider for your daily routine:

1. Cyclone Pods’ Focus and Energy Pouches

Cyclone Pods Focus & Energy pouches are small, ready-to-use packets you place between your gum and lip. The ingredients absorb quickly through the oral lining without the need for mixing, swallowing, or water. 

Each pouch contains a powerful blend of natural ingredients, including two nootropic mushrooms — Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps. 

As explained, these functional mushrooms can help clear brain fog, improve focus, and promote a balanced mood.

But that’s not all: These pouches also include other functional ingredients, like ashwagandha and Bacopa monnieri, that may support stress relief and overall well-being. 

The best part? 
They come in different flavors like peach, mint, cinnamon, and wintergreen. 

You can expect these fast-acting pouches to kick in within 10 minutes. Unlike energy drinks, they deliver a smooth, jitter-free focus and clean energy boost for up to four hours. 

With 20 pouches per pack, they’re discreet, portable, and ready to use anytime, even when you’re on the go. They’re even a smart swap for nicotine pouch users—offering the same familiar oral feel, but with brain-boosting mushrooms instead of nicotine.

Cyclone Pods’ pouches are perfect for anyone who needs a sharp mental edge, whether you're studying, working, or gearing up for a workout.

Ingredients:

  • Lion’s Mane mushroom
  • Cordyceps mushroom
  • Guarana (a natural source of caffeine for energy)
  • Ashwagandha (an adaptogen for stress management)
  • Bacopa Monnieri (an herb for better cognitive performance)

Pricing: $9.99 per pack (20 pouches)

2. Mind Lab Pro® v4.0 Universal Nootropic

Each Mind Lab Pro® v4.0 Universal Nootropic capsule contains 11 research-backed ingredients to support mental clarity.

These ingredients help support every major aspect of brain function, from balancing brain chemicals and improving circulation to encouraging cell repair.

Ingredients:

  • Organic Lion's Mane Mushroom (mycelium and fruiting body)
  • Citicoline (as Cognizin®)
  • N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine
  • Phosphatidylserine (from sunflower lecithin)
  • Bacopa Monnieri (aerial parts)
  • L-Theanine
  • Maritime Pine Bark Extract
  • Rhodiola Rosea (root)
  • Nu-FLOW® Rice Concentrate
  • Vitamin B6
  • Vitamin B9
  • Vitamin B12

Pricing: $69 per pack (30 capsules)

3. Host Defense Mushrooms BrainPower Stack® Powder

Created by Paul Stamets, a well-known mycologist (a scientist who studies fungi), this mushroom powder is designed to support brain health. 

It has a mild, pleasant taste and blends effortlessly into your favorite beverages, such as coffee or smoothies. The Lion’s Mane mushroom used in the formula is certified organic, vegan, and gluten-free.

Ingredients:

  • Niacin (as nicotinic acid)
  • Vitamin B12 (as methylcobalamin)
  • Lion's Mane 

Pricing: $31.95 per pack (100 grams)

4. Genius Consciousness

This brain-boosting mushroom powder comes in three flavors — mango, snow cone, and watermelon. 

The product comes with third-party lab reports to verify quality and is made without artificial sweeteners, delivering clean energy.

Ingredients:

  • Lion’s Mane mushroom
  • Alpha Size®
  • SerinAid®
  • NeuroFactor®
  • Dynamine®

Pricing: $37.99 per pack (77 grams or 15 servings)

5. Nourish 2.1

Nourish 2.1 delivers 25 grams of vegan protein per serving and comes in rich chocolate or smooth vanilla flavors. 

It’s gluten-free, soy-free, and devoid of artificial sweeteners—and even includes a stainless steel shaker for easy mixing on the go.

Ingredients:

  • Lion’s Mane mushroom
  • Cordyceps mushroom
  • Pea and brown rice protein
  • Cocoa
  • Ashwagandha root extract
  • Bacopa
  • Probiotics
  • Vitamin D3
  • Natural sweeteners
  • Himalayan salt

Pricing: $80 per pack (15 servings)

6. Real Mushrooms Lion’s Mane Cognition

This Lion’s Mane mushroom powder by Real Mushrooms is gluten-free, non-GMO, and USDA-certified organic. 

The mushroom supplement is made from a 100% fruiting body, with no starch, fillers, or mycelium-fermented grain.

Core Ingredient: Organic Lion’s Mane mushroom

Pricing: $34.95 per pack (60 servings or 60 grams)

7. Focus Lion’s Mane Tincture

This tincture is a fast-acting way to support memory, focus, and mood. Just a few squeezes under your tongue or into your morning coffee delivers the brain-boosting benefits of organic lion’s mane mushroom.

Made only from 100% mushroom fruiting bodies (never mycelium on grain), this vegan, non-GMO tincture is clean and effective.

Ingredients:

  • Lion’s Mane mushroom
  • Cinnamon bark

Pricing: $113.85 per bottle (59ml)

8. WonderDay Mushroom Gummies

These mushroom gummies by Plant People contain medicinal mushrooms designed to support mood, ease stress, boost energy, and strengthen immune function. 

They also promote gut health—without sugar, peanuts, soy, dairy, or other common allergens.

Ingredients:

  • Lion’s Mane
  • Cordyceps Sinensis
  • Reishi
  • Chaga mushroom
  • Maitake
  • Turkey Tail mushroom
  • Shiitake mushroom extract
  • Royal sun
  • Herbal equivalent of 10:1
  • Maltitol
  • Isomalt
  • Water
  • Pectin
  • Organic raspberry flavor
  • Citric acid
  • Vegetable juice (color)
  • Sodium citrate
  • Coconut MCT oil
  • Carnauba wax

Pricing: $29.99 per pack (60 gummies)

Still wondering if nootropic mushrooms deserve a place in your daily routine?
Let’s address some common queries that you may have.

Other FAQs About Nootropic Mushrooms

Here are answers to some common questions related to nootropic mushrooms:

1. What Are Adaptogenic Mushrooms, and How Are They Different From Nootropic Mushrooms?

An adaptogenic mushroom is best known for helping the body adapt to stress and restore balance. It supports resilience against fatigue, anxiety, or physical strain, making it a go-to for overall well-being.

A nootropic mushroom, on the other hand, is more focused on brain health—supporting sharper focus, better memory, and improved mental clarity.

Of course, the two categories aren’t entirely separate. Some mushrooms, like Lion’s mane, Reishi, and Cordyceps, are often considered both. 

For example, Lion’s Mane is studied to boost memory while helping with stress resilience. Similarly, Cordyceps is linked to energy and endurance but may also support brain function.

2. How Long Does It Take for Nootropic Mushrooms to Work?

The effects of nootropic mushrooms can vary depending on the type, dose, and how consistently you take them. 

For instance, with Cyclone Pods Focus and Energy pouches, you may notice immediate short-term health benefits, such as increased focus or energy.

However, lasting cognitive performance, like improved memory, mental clarity, or stress resilience, typically takes 2 to 3 weeks of consistent use. That’s because the mushrooms need time to build up in your system and support your brain at a deeper level.

3. How to Select the Best Nootropic Mushroom Supplement or Product?

Here are a few things to consider:

  • Clean ingredients: Choose a nootropic supplement made with natural, high-quality ingredients and no unnecessary additives. Avoid products with added sugars or artificial fillers, which can reduce the overall health benefits.

  • Fits your lifestyle: Pick a product that suits your dietary needs, whether you're vegan, gluten-free, or on a budget.

  • Caffeine check: Some blends include caffeine for an energy boost, while others are caffeine-free for calm focus. If you're choosing one with caffeine, look for formulas balanced with calming ingredients to avoid jitters. For instance, Cyclone Pods’ pouches give you a steady, crash-free caffeine boost from brain-supporting plants — minus the questionable chemicals or calories.

  • Noticeable results: Give it a couple of weeks. If you don’t see improvements or experience side effects, it might be worth trying a different blend.

  • Enjoyable format: Whether it’s mushroom gummies, coffee, or pouches, choose a form and flavor you like. You’ll be more likely to take it regularly.

  • Talk to your doctor: Especially if you’re on medication or have health conditions, check in with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

4. Are Nootropic Mushrooms Safe to Use Daily?

Yes, most nootropic mushrooms are considered safe for daily use when taken in recommended amounts. They're generally well-tolerated and have been used for centuries in traditional medicine.

However, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you're pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.

Nourish Your Brain with Nootropic Mushrooms

Nootropic mushrooms offer a natural way to keep your mind sharp — helping support memory, focus, and overall cognitive function.

However, adding them to your routine shouldn’t feel like a chore.

Thankfully, Cyclone Pods Focus & Energy pouches pack the health benefits of two nootropic mushrooms into a convenient, mess-free format you can enjoy anytime. No brewing, no blending — just clear thinking, made easy.

Try Cyclone Pods today and experience nature-backed mental clarity, anytime you need it.

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