MudWtr's Approach: Full-Spectrum Mushrooms
Unlike some competitors who exclusively use fruiting body extracts, MudWtr proudly declares that its mushroom blends are full-spectrum, meaning they contain both the fruiting body and the mycelial biomass. The company explains that both parts of the fungus offer unique benefits. For example, in Lion's Mane, the mycelium contains erinacine compounds, while the fruiting body provides hericenone compounds. By including both, MudWtr aims to offer a more complete profile of the mushroom's potential benefits. MudWtr partners with a U.S.-based grower to ensure the mushrooms are fully grown and the grain substrate is properly digested by the mycelium, addressing common purity concerns raised by proponents of fruiting-body-only products.
The Debate: Mycelium vs. Fruiting Body
The discussion over which part of the mushroom is superior often focuses on concentration levels of specific compounds, like beta-glucans. While some studies show fruiting bodies typically have higher beta-glucan content, the mycelium contains unique enzymes and other compounds that the fruiting body may lack. For example, the neuroprotective erinacines in Lion's Mane are found predominantly in the mycelium. The key takeaway from this debate is that neither part is inherently better; they simply offer a different spectrum of bioactive compounds. The quality of a supplement depends more on the cultivation process and proper digestion of the growing substrate, which MudWtr emphasizes through its use of U.S.-grown, fully developed mushrooms.
Specific Mushrooms in the MudWtr Blend
MudWtr's products feature a range of functional mushrooms, each chosen for specific attributes:
- Chaga (Inonotus obliquus): Included for its antioxidant properties and immune support. The product contains chaga mycelium and the very small fruiting bodies, not the large, classic conks.
- Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): Known as the "King of Mushrooms" and included for its adaptogenic qualities and immune support. MudWtr uses both the bitter fruiting body and the milder-tasting mycelium.
- Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus): Prized for its nootropic benefits to support focus and mental clarity. As mentioned, it's beneficial to include both the fruiting body and mycelium for a full range of compounds.
- Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris): Used for natural energy and physical performance. The product includes both parts of the mushroom to capture all active ingredients.
For products like their :mushroom boost, MudWtr expands this blend to include other functional fungi, such as Turkey Tail, Maitake, Shiitake, and King Trumpet.
Comparison Table: Full-Spectrum Powder vs. Fruiting Body Extract
| Feature | Full-Spectrum Powder (MudWtr) | Fruiting Body Extract |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Both mycelium and fruiting body | Primarily the fruiting body |
| Active Compounds | Broad range, including unique compounds from both parts | Concentrated amounts of specific compounds like beta-glucans |
| Purity Risk | Lower risk if substrate is fully digested, as MudWtr claims | Lower risk if produced correctly, but some may contain fillers |
| Potency | Offers a more complete profile of the mushroom's compounds | Often higher concentration of certain compounds |
| Cultivation | Grown on substrates like oats/sorghum | Requires more specific, controlled conditions |
Understanding the Product Quality
MudWtr emphasizes its commitment to quality through several practices:
- Transparency: Explicitly states the use of both mycelium and fruiting bodies.
- Cultivation: Utilizes a U.S.-based grower (M2) that ensures a complete growth cycle, allowing the mycelium to digest the substrate.
- Purity: Third-party testing is conducted to verify the purity of the mushrooms and to check for heavy metals.
- Full-spectrum over extracts: The company claims that the full-spectrum whole mushroom powder avoids the potential denaturation or loss of compounds that can occur during the harsh extraction process.
Conclusion
In short, yes, MudWtr uses fruiting bodies, but not exclusively. The brand's products are defined by their full-spectrum approach, which incorporates both the fruiting body and the mycelium. This strategy is designed to capture a wider array of beneficial compounds from the mushrooms, including specific compounds like erinacines found in the mycelium. By prioritizing U.S.-based growers and full-cycle cultivation, MudWtr aims to deliver a high-quality, comprehensive mushroom product, while acknowledging the ongoing industry debate over mycelium versus fruiting body potency. For consumers, understanding this distinction is crucial for making informed decisions about their functional mushroom supplements.
