Beginner’s Guide to Medicinal Mushrooms: What to Take and Why It Works

If you’ve heard the buzz around medicinal mushrooms but don’t know where to start, you’re not alone.

Maybe you’ve seen tinctures at the farmers market. Maybe someone mentioned Lion’s Mane for focus or Reishi for sleep. But between powders, blends, capsules, and tinctures, the world of functional mushrooms can feel overwhelming.

That’s why we created this simple guide—to help you understand the purpose of each mushroom, the difference between supplement formats, and why our tinctures are the best way to get started.

Let’s simplify your mushroom journey—without watering it down.

What Are Medicinal Mushrooms?

Medicinal mushrooms are not your average portobellos. These fungi contain unique compounds that support health on a cellular level, helping to:

• Strengthen the immune system

• Reduce stress and fatigue

• Support cognitive clarity

• Balance inflammation

• Promote sleep and recovery

These are functional mushrooms—time-tested in traditional medicine and now validated by modern science.

At Boxed-In Mushroom Company, we specialize in single-species tinctures of five of the most effective mushrooms for daily wellness.

Why Start with a Tincture?

There are powders. There are pills. But if you want full-spectrum benefits with faster absorption and higher potency, a dual extract tincture is the gold standard.

Here’s why:

• Dual extraction (hot water + alcohol) captures both water-soluble and fat-soluble compounds

• Liquid form allows for faster absorption into the bloodstream

• Flexible dosing gives you control over your intake

• Cold-served use preserves the integrity of the active compounds

All of our tinctures are made with Certified Organic sugarcane alcohol and 100% fruiting bodies—no fillers, no mycelium on grain, no fluff.

Which Mushroom Should You Start With?

Here’s a breakdown of our top five functional mushrooms and who they’re best suited for.

Lion’s Mane

For focus, memory, and nervous system support

This mushroom promotes the production of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which supports brain health, mental clarity, and even mood. A favorite for students, creatives, and anyone looking to stay sharp without stimulants.

When to take: Morning or early afternoon

Reishi

For stress relief, immune regulation, and restful sleep

Reishi is deeply calming. It helps the body adapt to stress, unwind before bed, and recover from physical or emotional strain. Often called the "mushroom of immortality," it’s ideal for winding down and rebuilding resilience.

When to take: Evening or before bed

Turkey Tail

For gut health, immune defense, and microbiome balance

Packed with beta-glucans and prebiotic fiber, Turkey Tail helps strengthen immune response and feeds healthy gut bacteria. It’s a gentle, daily tonic for digestion and long-term vitality.

When to take: Anytime, preferably with or after food

Cordyceps

For energy, endurance, and physical performance

Unlike caffeine, Cordyceps provides non-jittery, sustainable energy. It helps improve oxygen uptake and ATP production, making it a favorite among athletes, active individuals, and anyone battling fatigue.

When to take: Morning or before physical activity

Shiitake

For heart health, antioxidant support, and cellular repair

Shiitake may be culinary, but its medicinal side is powerful. It supports cardiovascular health, immune system modulation, and is rich in L-ergothioneine—an antioxidant your body can’t produce on its own.

When to take: Morning or early afternoon

How to Take a Tincture

• Take 2 mL daily (two full droppers)

• Place directly under the tongue for fast absorption

• Or mix into cold drinks like juice, smoothies, or functional elixirs

• Use daily for best results—mushrooms work cumulatively over time

Important: Do not add tinctures to hot beverages. Heat can degrade the active compounds.

What Makes Boxed-In Tinctures Different?

You deserve to know what you’re taking. Here’s why our tinctures stand apart:

• Made with Certified Organic cane alcohol, never corn, wheat, or barley

• Grown, extracted, and bottled by us—no outsourcing

• Lab-tested for purity and potency

• Always 100% fruiting bodies. Never mycelium on grain or fillers. Ever.

Want to learn how to spot a supplement that’s worth your money? Read our full post: How to Spot a High-Quality Mushroom Supplement

Build Your Own Routine

Your wellness journey should be as unique as your body. Start with one tincture that aligns with your goals, and layer in others over time.

Need inspiration? Browse our Functional Tincture Elixir Series for cold-served recipes that make your daily dose something to look forward to.

Ready to Start?

If you're ready to explore real, high-integrity mushroom medicine made the traditional way, we’re here to help.

Have questions? Contact us anytime or tag us on Instagram @BoxedInMushroomCo.

Stay Rooted. Stay Resilient.Boxed-In Mushroom Co. | Your Trusted Source for Real Functional Mushrooms