When we delve into this wonderful world, we come across the Fungi Kingdom, or Eumycota, commonly known as the kingdom of true fungi (domain Eumycetes) is one of the 5 kingdoms of nature that encompass each and every one of the different forms of life that exist on Earth.

In this realm are included all the eukaryotic organisms that belong to the classification of fungi, according to micology (the science that studies fungi) only is known 5% and it is estimated that there are 1.5 million types of fungi that we do not know, these are divided into:

• Yeast (if beer and bread yeast)
• Molds
• Mushrooms

Back to our question: Difference between Mushroom and Mushroom?

Basically the mushroom is a part of the mushroom that is composed:

• Mycelium: It is found under the soil and is not edible, commonly called mushroom root.
• Mushroom: It is the aerial part, visible, is the body of the fungus, or fruit, sometimes edible.

In fact, not all mushrooms produce mushrooms, so what is a mushroom?

They are those macroscopic structures that have a reproductive function, i.e., they are the fruiting body or carpophore.

The anatomy of the mushroom is composed of two main parts:

• Cap: mostly hymen covered by the cuticle (which gives the shape and color to the mushroom) is composed of sheets that are like partitions where the spores are stored, which will fall to spread and thus reproduce.
• Stipe or foot: tubular structure that supports the cap, during development a veil appears that, depending on the type, becomes a ring that hangs on the foot or becomes a volva, typical in many venomous species.

Basically, functional mushrooms are mushrooms that have adaptogenic properties and health benefits beyond their nutritional value .

The exact benefits depend on the mushroom species. However, functional mushrooms are usually classified into two main groups:

Medicinal mushrooms: contain compounds that provide specific health benefits. Many of these mushrooms offer antioxidant and cytotoxic properties, which means they can inhibit the harmful process of oxidation and kill harmful cells. While these mushrooms may provide medicinal benefits, it is important to recognize that they are considered dietary supplements.

Adaptogenic mushrooms: contain adaptogens, compounds that help the body adapt to and combat chemical, biological and physical stress. Rather than relieving coughs or eliminating the inflammation that causes headaches, adaptogens help our body’s stress response systems function as they should.

Functional mushroom varieties and benefits:

1. Lion’s Mane(Hericium erinaceus): These white mushrooms are reminiscent in appearance of small hairy brains, which is quite appropriate for their functions: known for their ability to positively influence brain health thanks to their neurotrophic properties. Neurotrophic factors promote the growth and differentiation of neurons, the nerve cells in the brain that send and receive information. Lion’s mane is also associated with reducing inflammation in the brain, thus providing neuroprotective benefits. It has even been linked to the prevention and slowing of cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
2. Chaga (Inonotus obliquus): they look more like truffles than the typical mushroom and have a bright orange interior similar to turmeric. It is an excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and cholesterol-lowering agent. In addition, evidence was uncovered suggesting that chaga is a potentially effective treatment for type 2 diabetes and cancer. Another study supports this and found that chaga mushroom extract inhibits signaling pathways vital for breast cancer cell growth.
3. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): A chestnut-brown color noted for its semicircular cap, it has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine and is believed to promote general health and longevity. A review of evidence published in 2021 found that this mushroom has therapeutic benefits for body inflammation, diabetes, heart disease, neurological disorders, cancer and mood. In addition to liver disorders and diseases, although it needs further research.
4. Cordyceps (Clavaria militaris): are one of the most unique looking mushrooms, resembling long golden caterpillars. Interestingly, it actually grows on insect larvae. Beyond their intriguing appearance, cordyceps have been the subject of an impressive amount of research. Data show that cordyceps mushrooms can have positive impacts on respiratory health, a variety of cancers, blood sugar regulation, kidney disease and overall body inflammation.
5. Shiitake (Lentinula edodes): it is a light brown mushroom, very similar in shape to the mushroom, very appreciated in gastronomy for its smell and flavor. It is native to East Asia, can help improve immunity and improve the treatment of gastric cancer.

The market offers a wide variety of consumption formats: from mushrooms (fruits) that can be purchased, cultivated or harvested, to more versatile formats, such as tinctures, capsules, jelly beans, drinks…

It is a new category, although in Europe this type of mushrooms are old acquaintances especially in the Netherlands, in recent years has had a fairly large growth level thanks to technology and new studies have come to find doses to reach a balance either recreational or wellness either mental, physical or both.

Under our criteria and what is available in the European market we can classify the experiential mushrooms in three types:

Magic: Or hallucinogenic mushrooms are mushrooms that contain psychoactive substances such as psilocybin, psilocin and baeocystin, which can create hallucinations or trips in the individual, depending on the type and quantity consumed. They generally present a high level of psilocin. They can be found dried or in ‘loaves’ for cultivation.

Microdoses: They are presented in the form of psilocybin truffles, the edible spores of mushrooms, which contain a low amount of the psychotropic substance, basically seeking the consumption of a dose below the minimum threshold, i.e. when a substance is related to the minimum amount of that substance in which its effects are barely perceptible. It is used to fight depression and improve mood, thanks to the regularization of serotonin and glutamate in our brain.

Alkaloids: Another type of mushrooms, in which the alkaloids that have a psychoactive effect are isolated, mainly Muscimol, a potent selective agonist of GABA receptors. GABA receptors are widely distributed in the brain, so when muscimol is administered, it is particularly active in the cerebrum, cerebral cortex and hippocampus.

Psychoactive effects, which generally begin one hour after ingestion and peak at about three hours. The experience can last from 10 to 24 hours. The effects are often described as euphoria, lucid dreams, out-of-body experiences, synesthesia and a dreamlike state. Some also experience nausea and dizziness (side effects).

The Muscimol molecule, being present in the Amanita Muscaria (fly swatter), can be found dried or in powder form for infusions, jelly beans, chocolates or even vapes.

The effects and purpose of the two types of mushrooms we have discussed are very different:

Functional mushrooms: as they are collected as food supplements we cannot speak of a medicinal use, however in many cultures for centuries they have been attributed that condition. We will limit ourselves to listing the general benefits recognized:

• They improve overall health by strengthening the immune system, reducing stress, increasing energy and supporting brain function.
• These powerful mushrooms contain bioactive compounds such as beta-glucans that help the body fight disease and adaptogens that help control stress.
• Different types of mushrooms offer specific benefits; for example, Lion’s Mane can improve cognitive function, while Chaga is known for its immune support.

Experiential Mushrooms:

Microdose Truffles:

• More focus and clarity
• Increasing productivity
• Improved creativity and fluidity
• Improved mood and emotional stability
• More love and connection
• Less stress and anxiety

Muscimol:

In low doses:

• Treating stress and anxiety
• Relieve muscle pain
• Promote restful sleep
• Reduce insomnia
• Memory-protecting activities
• Helping with addiction

In high doses:

• Euphoria and tranquility
• A lucid or dreamy state of mind
• Out-of-body experiences
• Synaesthesia (experiencing one of the senses through another, such as seeing words in color)

Functional mushrooms: any of the functional mushroom species are 100% legal in Spain and Europe.

Experiential Mushrooms:

• Magic mushrooms: Dried mushrooms (fruits) are prohibited with high doses of psilocybin in the member states of the European Union, except spores for mycological cultivation or study.
• Microdoses: Truffles are legal in Spain as they contain small amounts of psychedelic substances for personal use. The sale or distribution of psychedelic substances remains illegal. Rules may differ between regions. The Spanish model has been called “decrim-lite” as opposed to total decriminalization, as it allows subnational autonomous regions to implement their own policies if they are based on harm reduction and the rejection of prohibitionist principles.
• Alkaloids: Muscimol is legal as a molecule (not regulated) but prohibited for sale as a medicinal plant, referring to the mushroom Amanita muscaria.

Functional mushrooms:

Always consult with a physician before adding functional mushrooms to your diet to avoid possible interactions with medications or health conditions.

Seek third-party certifications on mushroom products to ensure their quality and safety when incorporating them into your meals.

Experiential Mushrooms:

Consult a health care professional before using this type of product, especially if you have any medical condition or are taking any medication.

Must be 18 years of age or older.

Keep out of reach of children and animals.

Do not use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a history of liver or kidney problems.

Do not operate a vehicle or heavy machinery while using this product.

If you experience any adverse reactions or side effects, discontinue use immediately and consult a professional.