Question 1

What makes this product better than cheaper Lion's Mane products?

Accepted Answer

Paul Stamets is what makes this product better than cheaper lion’s mane products.

Question 2

I understand this supplement works, but does it continue to work for months after initial use or does the effect wear off? Your experiences?

Accepted Answer

This is one data point. In my case when I stopped taking this supplement, most  effects (improved memory, mental clarity, increased focus) were not as strong and gradually wore off in a month or two. There still seems to be some lasting effects from where I was before taking the supplements. This is my last posting on the subject. There is a need for some serious research on the subject. Good Luck-John

Question 3

Why do they only use the mycelium and not the fruiting body?

Accepted Answer

This is usually how the supplement facts panel of a mycelium-based product will appear. They should disclose the fact that it is mycelium and not whole fruiting bodies. However, other companies are more deceptive and simply list the names of the mushroom species without clarifying whether they are fruiting bodies or mycelium. It is important to be a discerning consumer and do your research. If the company isn’t clearly stating that their product is made from whole fruiting bodies, and what percentage is such, they are likely composed of mostly grain dust.

Things to look for in a medicinal mushroom supplement:

Make sure the product is stated to be 100% whole fruiting bodies. If it’s stated that it’s “full spectrum”,  or some combination of mycelium and fruiting bodies, then it’s impossible to know the ratio. The product could be 99% grain and 1% mushrooms. Make sure the product is clear and specific about its ingredients, and not simply listing mushroom species without listing their origins.
Check the color of the product. Mushrooms blends (depending on which species they contain) should be a rich, dark color. Reishi and Chaga specifically are dark in color. A very lightly colored or tan product may be a sign that it’s grain based.
Smell and taste the product. Bitterness is usually a good thing in a mushroom supplement. Just like certain dark leafy greens taste bitter, so do mushrooms. It’s evidence of a wealth of active compounds.

Question 4

In which country are the mushrooms in this product grown & harvested?

Accepted Answer

The previous comment from 2015 contains an invalid link. There is controversy within the industry right now (https://www.inquirer.com/business/kennet-square-mushroom-farm-bankruptcy-chinese-imports-shiitake-20190128.html?fbclid=IwAR3hj5OCYvZbUEDy7tZrLJBEBYka5VHDJ3YhVvQ1Me1LGPkjB42xVHW7A-Q). While a maker can claim they're US made and certified organic, etc; they can actually buy logs and/or substrate from China, making them not truly 100% USA made. I reached out to Host Defense to ask if they use US logs/substrate.

Host Defense Mushrooms Lion's Mane - Supplement Capsules for Brain Health Support - Mushroom Support for Focus & Memory Function - Immune & Nervous System Supplement - 30 Capsules (15 Servings)*USDA Organic

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