When you hear “functional mushrooms,” you might picture psychedelic trips, earthy-tasting teas, or a wellness fad that will fade as quickly as it appeared. The truth? Functional mushrooms have been part of human health for centuries—and today, modern science is confirming what ancient cultures already knew.
Still, misconceptions persist, keeping many people from experiencing their benefits. Let’s bust the five biggest myths so you can see functional mushrooms for what they are: powerful, safe, and science-backed allies for your health.
Myth #1: “They’ll make you hallucinate.”
Truth: Not even close. Functional mushrooms are legal, safe, and non-psychoactive.
It’s easy to understand the confusion—people hear “mushrooms” and immediately think of psychedelic varieties like Psilocybe cubensis. But functional mushrooms such as Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Chaga, and Cordyceps contain zero hallucinogenic compounds.
Instead, they’re valued for their bioactive compounds—like beta-glucans—that can support immune health, brain function, energy, and stress balance.
Learn more in our Beginner’s Guide to Medicinal Mushrooms.
Myth #2: “There’s no real science behind it.”
Truth: Functional mushrooms have been extensively researched for decades.
While they may feel “new” to the wellness scene, scientists have been studying their effects on human health for years. Research has shown promising results in areas such as:
- Immune support — Certain mushrooms can help regulate immune system activity.
- Cognitive function — Lion’s Mane has been studied for its potential to support nerve growth factor (NGF).
- Adaptogenic stress support — Reishi may help to adapt to stress.
Far from being pseudoscience, the benefits of functional mushrooms are backed by hundreds of peer-reviewed studies. Read more about the science here.
Myth #3: “They taste gross.”
Truth: You don’t have to taste them at all if you don’t want to.
It’s true—some functional mushrooms have a strong, earthy flavor. But here’s the good news: FreshCap offers capsules and fine powders that blend seamlessly into smoothies, coffee, or recipes.
If you enjoy the taste, you can embrace it by making mushroom teas or broths. If not, you can take them in capsule form and never taste a thing. Either way, you’re getting the same powerful benefits.
Myth #4: “They’re just a fad.”
Truth: Functional mushrooms have been used for centuries.
Long before they were bottled in supplement form, functional mushrooms were prized in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Japanese Kampo, and Indigenous healing traditions.
Reishi was known as the “Mushroom of Immortality” in ancient China. Chaga was brewed by Siberian communities for vitality. Lion’s Mane has been part of Japanese cuisine and herbal medicine for centuries.
What’s happening now isn’t a new craze—it’s a modern rediscovery of ancient wisdom, supported by today’s quality control and research.
Myth #5: “They’re not regulated or safe.”
Truth: Responsible brands test rigorously for safety and potency.
At FreshCap, every product is tested, third-party lab verified, and sourced from trusted growers. We screen for contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and microbes, and verify active compound levels to ensure you’re getting what the label promises.
While the supplement industry has varying standards, reputable companies like ours follow strict quality protocols to keep your health—and your trust—front and center.
