Functional Mushroom Myths Debunked: What’s Actually True About Adaptogens?

Adaptogens and the Rise of the Mushroom Renaissance

Functional mushrooms are having a moment — from morning mushroom coffee to evening Reishi rituals, adaptogens are now woven into daily wellness routines across the globe. But with popularity comes confusion. Are mushroom powders really effective? Do mushroom gummies even work? Are they psychoactive like magic mushrooms?

At DIRTEA, we believe in demystifying wellness through a blend of ancient ritual and modern science. This blog cuts through the noise and addresses the most common functional mushroom myths, helping you separate facts from fiction when it comes to adaptogens.

Myth #1: “Functional mushrooms are the same as magic mushrooms”

Truth: Functional mushrooms are non-psychoactive and completely legal.

One of the biggest misconceptions is confusing functional mushrooms like Tremella, Chaga, Reishi, Lion’s Mane, or Cordyceps with psychedelic mushrooms that contain compounds like psilocybin. Functional mushrooms do not alter your perception and are not used recreationally. Instead, they’re rich in bioactive compounds like beta-glucans, triterpenes, and polysaccharides — all known for supporting immune, cognitive, and stress-related functions.

 Adaptogen fact: Adaptogens are non-toxic plants and fungi that help the body adapt to stress — physically, mentally, and emotionally. Functional mushrooms are some of the most well-researched natural adaptogens.

Myth #2: “Mushroom powders just taste like mushrooms — earthy and unpleasant”

Truth: Not all mushroom supplements taste like mushrooms.

It's a common assumption that all mushroom products have a strong umami or earthy flavour. In reality, high-quality extracts, especially when blended with natural flavours, herbs, or B vitamins, can be neutral, sweet, or even zesty.

For example:

• DIRTEA Tremella Gummies are peach-flavoured and formulated with biotin, zinc, and Tremella extract — more like a beauty treat than anything fungal.

• Lion’s Mane Focus Powder has a mild, nutty profile that blends effortlessly into coffee, smoothies, or plant-based milk.

• DIRTEA Cacao with Reishi offers a rich, comforting taste with zero mushroom flavour and no added sugar.

Adaptogen fact: Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners have used mushroom teas and tonics for thousands of years — not for flavour, but for function. Modern formulations make these rituals more palatable and enjoyable.

Myth #3: “Mushroom gummies don’t work — only powders are effective”

Truth: Gummies can be effective — if they’re made right.

Some believe that mushroom powders are superior to gummies, but this isn’t universally true. What matters is the quality and concentration of extract, the synergy with other ingredients (like vitamins), and your body’s ability to absorb them.

At DIRTEA, we formulate our mushroom gummies with correct dosages, standardised mushroom extracts, and complementary nutrients to enhance absorption and function. For example:

• Focus Gummies = Lion’s Mane + B5 + B12 for cognition and mental clarity

• Immunity Gummies = Chaga + Vitamin C + Zinc for daily immune support

• Beauty Gummies = Tremella + Biotin + Selenium + Zinc for skin, hair, and nails

• Performance Gummies = Cordyceps extract + Vitamins B3, B5, and C → formulated to support energy metabolism and stamina

Each gummy is designed to be both bioavailable and enjoyable, ideal for those who travel or want a more flavourful ritual.

 Adaptogen fact: Mushrooms in gummy form can be just as functional as powders or teas.

Myth #4: “Functional mushrooms work instantly — like caffeine or medication”

Truth: Adaptogens work cumulatively, not instantly.

Unlike stimulants, adaptogens help the body adapt over time, restoring balance rather than offering a quick high. This means you may not “feel” anything on day one — and that’s a good thing.

Think of it like building a foundation:

• Lion’s Mane may support focus and memory over time by promoting nerve growth factor (NGF).

• Reishi may support deeper rest after consistent use due to its calming triterpenes and polysaccharides.

• Chaga, especially when paired with Vitamin B12 or C, as in DIRTEA products, may support the body’s daily immune function.

• Tremella may support skin hydration and elasticity thanks to its natural polysaccharides that hold moisture.

• Cordyceps, combined with B vitamins and Vitamin C in DIRTEA products, can contribute to energy metabolism and help reduce tiredness and fatigue.

The real magic happens when functional mushrooms are used as part of a consistent daily ritual, often showing noticeable support after 2–3 weeks of regular use.

Adaptogen fact: According to research, adaptogens exert their effects through regulation of the HPA axis and balancing cortisol rhythms — processes that require regularity, not immediacy.

Myth #5: “You don’t need adaptogens if you already eat well and exercise”

Truth: Even with a good lifestyle, modern stressors affect our resilience.

While a healthy diet and movement are foundational, they don’t always address mental fatigue, poor sleep, or burnout caused by the pace of modern life. Functional mushrooms help support the mind-body connection, especially during times of emotional or immune stress.

For example:

• Reishi can be part of an evening wind-down ritual to support your body’s natural sleep rhythm.

• Cordyceps, paired with B12, can support energy production at the mitochondrial level — ideal for physically active individuals.

• Chaga, fortified with antioxidants and B vitamins, is a useful year-round addition for daily wellness maintenance.

Adaptogen fact: Research has highlighted mushrooms as adaptogenic allies for resilience, homeostasis, and stress recovery.

Myth #6: “All mushroom supplements are the same”

Truth: Not all extracts are created equal — purity and potency matter.

Unfortunately, some mushroom products on the market contain:

• Mycelium on grain (low in active compounds)

• Non-standardised extracts

• Fillers, sweeteners, or low-dose formulas

At DIRTEA, we use 100% fruiting body extract, which contains higher levels of the bioactive compounds you actually want — including beta-glucans, terpenes, and antioxidants. We also fortify our powders and gummies with vitamins like B12, B5, and zinc for enhanced synergy.

Adaptogen fact: Always check for third-party testing, the use of fruiting body vs. mycelium, and added co-factors in any supplement you choose.

Functional Mushroom Truths at a Glance

So… Are Mushroom Powders Effective?

Yes — when they’re made from fruiting body extracts, dosed appropriately, and taken consistently. Especially when blended with key vitamins (like those in DIRTEA’s Super Blends), they offer a holistic approach to focus, calm, immunity, beauty, and performance.

Gummies, on the other hand, are great for on-the-go use or when flavour and convenience matter.

Final Thought: Ritual Over Quick Fix

Adaptogens like functional mushrooms aren’t a magic pill — they’re a ritual. When combined with sleep, nutrition, and stress management, they can be powerful allies for long-term wellness.

At DIRTEA, our goal is to make functional mushrooms easy, enjoyable, and effective — whether you’re drinking your morning coffee with Ashwagandha or taking a focus gummy on the school run.

FAQs

Q: Are functional mushrooms safe to take every day?
Yes — they’re non-toxic and can be part of a daily ritual. If you’re on medication or have a health condition, consult a healthcare provider first.

Q: Will mushroom supplements make me high?
No — functional mushrooms like Chaga, Lion’s Mane, Tremella, Reishi, and Cordyceps are not psychoactive.

Q: Can I take them with coffee or tea?
Absolutely. Many people add Lion’s Mane or Chaga to their morning brew for enhanced benefits.

Q: How long until I see results?
Most people feel the difference after 2–4 weeks of daily use. Adaptogens work best with consistency.

Q: Are powders better than gummies?
Both can be effective. It depends on your lifestyle, taste preferences, and how you want to integrate mushrooms into your day.

References

• Kumar Malesu, V. (2025, April 8). What Are Adaptogens—and Do They Actually Work? News-Medical. Retrieved September 14, 2025, from https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-Are-Adaptogens-and-Do-They-Actually-Work.aspx

• Panossian, A., & Wikman, G. (2010). Effects of adaptogens on the central nervous system and the molecular mechanisms associated with their stress—protective activity. Pharmaceuticals, 3(1), 188–224. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph3010188