For their numerous health advantages, reishi mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.
This nootropic has recently gained popularity as a dietary supplement in France and across Europe. Reishi mushrooms, which are sold as liquid tinctures or in capsule form, are potentially rivalling the CBD market as more people choose this all-natural alternative to treat anxiety, inflammation, and other health issues.
We all know that over the past few years, the therapeutic benefits of CBD (cannabidiol) have made it popular in France and in many other countries across the world. However, Reishi mushrooms have become yet another highly sought-after supplement in Paris and across other major cities in France.
The obvious shift from CBD to nootropics could be down to two things: one is the rise in popularity and interest in natural alternatives to traditional medication or, more specifically, the negative association people have with the cannabis industry.
Regardless of the reasons, the sales of Reishi mushroom supplements are anticipated to rise by 25% in 2023, reaching a value of €24 million, according to the French market research company Xerfi.
France’s reishi mushroom boom
Reishi mushroom extracts’ growing popularity is largely due to the fact that they provide advantages compared to those of CBD but with less stigma attached. Although it is legal in France, CBD, which is derived from the hemp plant, still carries some stigma because of its connection to the cannabis plant family – which is largely associated with marijuana.
Unless you are an avid CBD user or take the time to learn about the differences between hemp and marijuana (both varieties of cannabis), then you are likely to assume CBD has the ability to be psychoactive.
This, of course, is untrue. CBD products are all derived from the hemp plant, which contains a natural trace amount of THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid which is prominent in marijuana and is responsible for causing a ‘high’.
The confusion leads to restrictions in some countries on the use and sale of CBD supplements due to the lack of knowledge, understanding and specification under the law in this industry.
Reishi mushrooms, on the other hand, are a naturally occurring nootropic that is legal to grow and harvest. Additionally, nootropic guarantees that these fungi are safe to use as a daily health supplement and are not psychedelic. The freedom this supplement has from any legality issues or misinformation lends to people being more open to trying it and accepting it.
Triterpenes and beta-glucans, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, are found in the reishi mushroom. These substances can enhance immune response, lower inflammation, and support brain function.
This nootropic has also been shown to support the body’s stress responses, which can be helpful for those dealing with anxiety, insomnia and other health conditions triggered by stress.
Understanding the French interest in nootropic mushroom tinctures
Supplements for reishi mushrooms are best purchased in tincture form, which are liquid extracts that can be ingested with food, drinks, or better yet, taken underneath the user’s tongue.
Tinctures are easy to use and absorb nutrients quickly, making them a popular supplement option. Drops can be added to drinks or recipes, making them more convenient than capsules or powder forms. Drops placed under the tongue also make them more bioavailable.
Reishi mushroom supplements are cheaper than CBD oils, which may also explain their popularity. CBD oils can cost €100 per small bottle. Reishi mushroom tinctures, which last a month or more, cost around €40. Depending on the frequency of use and the quality and quantity of the supplement you purchase, the tincture should last 1-3 months.
CBD vs nootropic mushrooms
Nootropic mushrooms like Reishi interact with various systems and pathways to provide specific health benefits. Nootropic mushrooms can naturally help to regulate the immune system.
Beta-glucans, complex sugars found in many mushroom species, boost the immune system and improve disease resistance it has been found. Triterpenes, polysaccharides, and antioxidants in nootropic mushrooms can support cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and prevent oxidative stress.
CBD, in comparison, interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signalling system that regulates many bodily functions. The ECS regulates pain, inflammation, mood, appetite, and sleep, among other things.
CBD binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, immune system, and nervous system to activate the ECS. This interaction can modulate neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine to relieve pain, inflammation, and anxiety.
Nootropic mushrooms and CBD have similar health benefits but work through different mechanisms. Nootropic mushrooms benefit multiple body systems by interacting with them. CBD targets the endocannabinoid system for more targeted effects.
Reishi supplement safety and efficacy
Nootropic mushrooms and CBD are safe, with few side effects. Before taking any supplement or medication, consult a doctor, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications simultaneously.
It is advised in the health food supplement industry to allow time between other medications you may be taking and any other additions, such as nootropic fungi or CBD oil. Two or more hours allow time for all substances to work independently in the body and not interfere with the possible effects of the others.
Overall, it is clear that reishi mushrooms are dominating the French market due to their health benefits, affordability, and lack of negative associations. Reishi mushrooms are likely to remain popular as more people seek natural treatment over traditional medications which come with unwanted side effects.
Nootropic mushrooms are valuable supplements due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cognitive-enhancing properties. The impact they will have on the CBD oil market in France has yet to be realised, but this article can give you a good idea of the direction this is headed.
