When Should You Take Mushroom Extracts?

Introduction: Timing Is Everything

If you're starting with functional mushrooms, knowing when to take them can make a huge difference in how they support your day. Whether you're using Lion's Mane for mental clarity, Reishi for relaxation, or Cordyceps for a natural energy boost, timing and consistency play a key role.

This guide breaks down the best time to take each mushroom extract—so you can feel the full benefit of what you're putting into your body.

Start Slow: One Species at a Time

If you're new to functional mushroom extracts, it's best not to jump into a complete mix right away. Instead, start with just one species, such as Lion's Mane, and give your body 3–5 days to adjust.

Once you've established how that mushroom feels for you, you can introduce a second species at a different time of day. Many Mycogenius clients build a simple, effective routine this way:

• Lion’s Mane in the morning or midday for focus and productivity

• Cordyceps before a workout or on days when stamina is needed

• Reishi in the evening to unwind or during high-stress moments

Some experienced users even stack Cordyceps and Lion's Mane for a clean, non-jittery pre-workout or work-day energy blend.

Why Timing Matters: Beta-Glucans and Bioavailability

One of the important bioactive compounds in medicinal mushrooms is beta-glucans, a large, complex molecule known for its immune-modulating properties.

Here's how it works:

• When taken orally, beta-glucans interact with your immune system via enterocytes, the absorptive cells in your gut.

• From there, they enter the lymphatic system and initiate a wide range of immunological responses.

• But because these molecules are large, they don't cross the intestinal barrier easily.

To increase absorption, it's best to take your mushroom extracts on an empty stomach:

• 30–60 minutes before meals

• Or 2+ hours after eating

This gives the beta-glucans the best chance to work their magic—without competing for absorption.

Best Time of Day for Each Mushroom

Lion’s Mane – Morning or Midday

• Promotes focus, memory, and mental clarity

• Ideal during work, study, or creative flow

• Can be taken with Cordyceps if you want a mental + physical performance stack

Cordyceps – Pre-Workout or Midday

• Supports stamina, oxygen uptake, and natural energy

• Take 30–45 mins before exercise or during afternoon slumps

• Avoid taking it with coffee.

Reishi – Evening or During Stress

• Calms the nervous system, supports better sleep, and reduces anxiety

• Ideal 1–2 hours before bed

• Can also be used earlier in the day if you feel emotionally dysregulated or tense

Final Thoughts: Build Your Ritual, Feel the Difference

At Mycogenius, we're here to help you build smart, personalised mushroom rituals. You don't need to take every extract at once. The best results often come from consistency, simplicity, and listening to your body.

Quick Timing Guide: When to Take Each Mushroom

For optimal results, take your mushroom extracts on an empty stomach—30–60 minutes before a meal or at least 2 hours after eating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I take multiple mushroom extracts simultaneously?

If you're new to functional mushrooms, we recommend starting with just one species for a few days to observe how your body responds. Once you're comfortable, you can introduce another at a different time of day. Many clients combine Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps in the morning, or Reishi in the evening, for a calming effect.

Is it better to take mushroom extracts with food or on an empty stomach?

For optimal absorption—especially of beta-glucans—take your extracts on an empty stomach. That means 30–60 minutes before eating, or at least 2 hours after your last meal. This minimises digestive “competition” and helps key compounds reach your system more effectively.

Can I take Lion’s Mane at night?

Lion’s Mane is generally best taken in the morning or during the day, as it supports mental clarity and alertness. Some people report vivid dreams or restlessness if taken too close to bedtime.

How long does it take to feel the effects?

Some people feel an effect within a few days, especially with Cordyceps. For deeper results (like immune support or cognitive resilience), consistency over a few weeks is key. Functional mushrooms are subtle but powerful when taken regularly.

Want to dive deeper into choosing the right mushroom for your current goal?

👉 Explore our full range of single-species extracts
👉 Contact us if you need help building your daily protocol