the functional mushroom company
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to our most frequently asked questions below. If you can't find what you're looking for please contact us and we'll get in touch with 24 hours.
Product Information
Our mushrooms are sourced from the pristine, remote mountain regions of Southeast China, an area celebrated for its rich heritage and long-standing expertise in cultivating medicinal mushrooms. This location, far removed from industrial areas, allows us to harvest organic certified mushrooms of the highest quality. Emphasising purity and potency, we select only the finest mushroom fruiting bodies, grown and wild-harvested in carefully protected environments.
The extraction of our mushroom powders is conducted in a state-of-the-art facility, certified with cGMP and ISO22000 standards. Here, we maintain rigorous quality control throughout the production cycle. Every batch of extract powder undergoes thorough testing for pesticides, heavy metals, and microbial contamination. This comprehensive testing regimen underscores our commitment to delivering products of unparalleled safety and quality.
We’ve chosen to focus exclusively on utilising the fruiting bodies of mushrooms for our extracts. While mycelium, the vegetative part of fungi, does possess beneficial properties, the industry-wide practice of growing mycelium on grain substrates (known as myceliated grain) often results in products with high starch content and significantly diluted levels of active mushroom compounds. This dilution potentially compromises the health benefits that these compounds can offer.
To avoid any ambiguity in the potency and purity of our products, we therefore opt for mushroom fruiting bodies. These parts of the mushroom are not only the most recognised and studied but are also rich in crucial bioactive compounds such as beta-glucans and triterpenes.
Usage and Effects
Medicinal mushrooms have been used safely for thousands of years. While allergic reactions or sensitivities are rare, they can occur.
We recommend individuals who are taking medication or have preexisting health conditions consult with a healthcare practitioner before starting mushroom supplements. This precaution ensures compatibility and safety, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of our products with peace of mind.
Medicinal mushrooms, as adaptogens, generally show their effects over time with consistent use. The body’s response to these compounds varies from person to person; some may experience benefits within weeks, while for others it might take longer. Consistent, long-term use is key to experiencing the full range of benefits these mushrooms offer.
Our standard recommended dose is 1000 mg(about 1/2 teaspoon or 2 capsules) per day for general health and immune support. This dosage can be adjusted according to individual health needs and goals. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, especially if you have specific health conditions or are taking other medications.
Mushroom supplements are most effective when taken consistently over an extended period. As adaptogenic substances, mushrooms work gradually to support the body's natural ability to cope with stress and maintain balance. For some individuals, noticeable improvements may be observed within a few weeks, while for others, it may take longer. The duration of use can vary based on individual health objectives and responses, and long-term use is often recommended for sustained benefits.
It is generally recommended to take mushroom supplements on an empty stomach for optimal absorption of the active compounds. However, individual responses can vary, and some people may prefer or require taking them with a small amount of food. Listening to your body and making adjustments as needed is key, and consulting with a healthcare professional can provide additional guidance tailored to your specific needs.
Product Quality
We utilize the Megazyme method for the quantification of beta-d-glucans in our products. This method is renowned for its accuracy and specificity in measuring these vital compounds. By employing this analytical approach, we ensure our products are potent and free from fillers or grains. This rigorous testing protocol is part of our commitment to delivering high-quality, scientifically validated mushroom supplements to our customers.
Our capsules are made from hydroxypropyl methylcellulose(HPMC), a plant-derived material. This choice is in line with our commitment to natural, environmentally friendly, and health-conscious practices. HPMC is suitable for a variety of dietary preferences, including vegan, kosher, and halal diets, and is free from animal products, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer or require plant-based supplements.
Our products have a shelf life of 36 months after opening. To ensure optimal preservation, they should be stored away from intense heat and light.
Yes, we provide certificates of analysis for our products upon request. These certificates offer detailed information about the composition, purity, and potency of our mushroom extracts, reflecting our dedication to transparency and trust.
The decision not to sell liquid extracts or tinctures is grounded in our commitment to offering the most potent and effective mushroom products. Most liquid tinctures on the market are predominantly composed of alcohol and water, with active mushroom compounds comprising only a small fraction of the total product. This means that customers are often paying for a product where the majority is water and alcohol, not the beneficial mushroom compounds.
Additionally, the vast majority of scientific research on the benefits of medicinal mushrooms is based on studies using hot water or dual extracts in powdered form. This body of research supports the efficacy of powdered extracts over liquid forms in delivering health benefits. By focusing on powdered extracts, we ensure that our products are aligned with scientific evidence and provide a higher concentration of active compounds, offering greater efficacy and value to our customers.
Shipping and Returns
The Functional Mushroom Company is based in London, and our shipping operations are conducted from our warehouse in Peckham. This location is not just a shipping hub but also the site where we freshly roast, grind, and blend our coffee products with mushroom extracts. Our central location in London allows us to efficiently manage our logistics and ensure timely delivery of our products to our customers.
To locate your order, please refer to the link in your order confirmation email, which includes real-time tracking information. We aim for prompt delivery, with orders placed before 11 am GMT shipped on the same day using Royal Mail's Tracked 24-hour service. This efficient process ensures that your order is delivered to you as quickly as possible.
We accept returns within 30 days of delivery, provided the items are unused and in their original condition. Please note that we cannot accept returns of opened packages. While customers are responsible for the return shipping costs, we are committed to ensuring a smooth and fair return process. In cases of damaged or defective items, we request customers to contact us immediately for resolution, including replacement or refund as appropriate.
Currently, we do not offer international shipping, but we are actively working towards expanding our reach to serve customers globally. We recommend staying updated with our latest announcements through our website or subscribing to our newsletter for information on when international shipping becomes available.