FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why Full Spectrum Mushrooms ?
Full spectrum mushrooms includes all parts of the mushroom life cycle—the fruiting body, mycelium, and sometimes even spores-along with other naturally occurring compounds, to offer a more complete and synergistic profile of beneficial compounds.
What are Functional Mushrooms?
- Lion's Mane - possesses antioxidant properties, reduces inflammation and repairs cellular stress; promotes nerve growth and regeneration, reduces stress due to stimulation of nerve growth factors which helps regulate mood. Compounds in Lion’s Mane such as hericerin have anticarcinogenic properties. Lion's Mane may increase cognitive function.
- Cordyceps - improves respiratory function and recovery after exercise; promotes production of ATP and is anti-inflammatory.
- Reishi - increases immune function and reduces inflammation.
- Chaga - is rich in antioxidants, may reduce cholesterol, contains Immune Assist Micron which increases immune function, heart and respiratory functions, energy and cognitive functions.
- Maitake - boosts the immune system and possesses anticarcinogenic properties.
- Turkey Tail - increases bone density, boosts energy and is neuroprotective.
- Agricus blazei - increases immune function, possesses anticarcinogenic properties.
What is Psilocybin?
Psilocybin is a molecule found in certain species of mushrooms. These fungi are colloquially known as “magic mushrooms” for the alterations in perception and brain function experienced by the consumer. The psilocybin molecule (4-phosphoryloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine) is similar to the molecule serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects biological functions such as sleep, eating, cognitive function, and reward behaviors. 5-HT2A receptors interact with serotonin to produce these effects, and the psilocybin molecule activates the same receptors. While serotonin merely activates the neurotransmitters, psilocybin also infiltrates neurons in a way that allows for dendritic growth, contributing to neuroplasticity (6). Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to grow and change through new experiences.
What effect does Psilocybin have on depression?
The default mode network, salience network, and executive network are brain regions which are tightly connected in patients with depression. Psilocybin has been shown to decrease these connections, allowing for more flexibility in thinking.
The Default Mode Network is involved in introspective thinking. In people with depression this network is often overactive, causing rumination and a lack of perspective. By focusing on the past, fears about the future, and regrets, the brain is unable to see possibilities.
What should I know about Harm Reduction?
While some people choose to micro-dose while on medication, the effects can vary and safety is always our top priority.
- Psilocybin is a psychoactive compound that may interact with certain medications.
- SSRIs and SNRIs may dull or block the effects of psilocybin due to serotonin receptor competition.
- Other medications - especially those that impact the brain, mood, or serotonin, may also ause unpredictable interactions.
Because each person's body is different, we strongly encourage you to speak with a qualified healthcare provider before microdosing, especially if you are taking:
- Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs)
- Mood stabilizers
- Anti-anxiety or antipsychotic medications
- Seizure medications
- Blood pressure or heart medications
What many people choose to do:
- Some people wait until they’ve tapered off certain medications (under medical supervision) before beginning micro-dosing.
- Others experiment gently, beginning with low doses and noting any unusual effects.