FAQ
About Functional Mushrooms
What are functional mushrooms?
Functional mushrooms are fungi with a long history of use in traditional systems, particularly traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Common examples include Lion's Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps and Turkey Tail.
What's the difference between functional mushrooms and psychedelic mushrooms?
They're completely different. Functional mushrooms like Lion's Mane and Reishi are non-psychoactive and don't contain psilocybin.
What are adaptogens?
"Adaptogen" is a descriptive term for herbs and fungi traditionally associated with helping the body cope with stress. It isn't a medical category, and the research is still developing.
What are polysaccharides and beta-glucans?
Polysaccharides are a broad group of complex carbohydrates. Beta-glucans are one type found in mushroom cell walls. A polysaccharide figure doesn't tell you the beta-glucan content, because polysaccharide tests can also pick up other carbohydrates. Our label guide in The Mushroom Journal explains how to read these numbers.
What's the difference between fruiting body and mycelium?
The fruiting body is the mushroom itself. The mycelium is the root-like network it grows from. They contain different compounds, and it's worth checking which one a product uses. Our supplier has confirmed that our Lion's Mane and Reishi extracts come from the fruiting body.
About QiMycology
What is QiMycology?
QiMycology makes functional mushroom and adaptogen blends inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, one for the day and one for the evening.
Where is QiMycology based?
QiMycology Ltd is registered in England and Wales (company number 16922447). Founder Toni-Lee McCulloch runs the business from Beijing, China. Our blends are made by our supplier in China, then stored in the UK and shipped from Marlow, Buckinghamshire.
What makes QiMycology different?
We list every ingredient with its own amount per serving, explain why each is included, and try to be honest about where the research is still early.
Are your products tested?
In 2026, samples of both blends were tested by an independent accredited laboratory for microbes (including salmonella), heavy metals (arsenic, cadmium, mercury and lead) and nutritional content. The testing was commissioned by our manufacturer.
Choosing the Right Product
What products do you offer?
Two blends, available separately or together:
Qi Adaptogen Blend, for your daytime routine: Lion's Mane, Astragalus, Schisandra and Rhodiola.
Qi Harmony Blend, for your evening routine: Reishi, Suan Zao Ren and Ashwagandha.
Which product should I start with?
Choose by the part of your day: Qi Adaptogen for daytime or Qi Harmony for the evening. Our Beginner's Guide has more detail.
Do I need both products?
No. Each blend can be used on its own. Using both is optional.
Using the Products
How do I use these products?
Both blends are powders. Add one serving to coffee, hot water, milk of your choice, a smoothie, a protein shake or oatmeal.
When should I take each product?
Qi Adaptogen Blend: morning or early afternoon.
Qi Harmony Blend: in the evening, as part of your wind-down routine.
Can I take these every day?
They're made for daily use at the amount shown on the label. Don't exceed the recommended daily amount. If you have a medical condition or take regular medication, check with your GP or pharmacist first.
Can I take them together?
They're designed to be used at different times of day: Qi Adaptogen in the morning and Qi Harmony in the evening.
What to Expect
How long does it take to feel the effects?
Experiences vary, and we can't promise a particular effect or timeline. If you're looking for something that works immediately, these may not be the right fit, and we'd rather be honest about that upfront.
Will Qi Adaptogen give me an energy boost?
Our blends don't contain added caffeine, and Qi Adaptogen isn't designed to work like a caffeinated drink.
Will Qi Harmony make me feel drowsy or groggy?
Qi Harmony isn't designed as a sedative, but experiences vary. Take it in the evening as directed and see how it suits you.
Ingredients & Quality
What mushrooms are in your products?
Qi Adaptogen Blend: Lion's Mane
Qi Harmony Blend: Reishi
Do your products contain caffeine?
We don't add caffeine to our blends. If you mix them with coffee or tea, your drink will contain caffeine.
What's in the powder besides the listed ingredients?
Our blends are made from the extract powders listed on the label, with every amount shown per serving. Extract powders can contain processing carriers, and we're confirming the full specification with our supplier. We'll update this answer when we have it.
What does the powder taste like?
Both blends have an earthy, herbal flavour. Many people mix them into coffee, oat milk or a smoothie.
Safety & Lifestyle
Are there any side effects?
Any supplement can disagree with some people. Stop using it and speak to a healthcare professional if you feel unwell. Avoid our blends if you're allergic to mushrooms or any listed ingredient.
Can I take these with coffee?
Yes, Qi Adaptogen can be mixed into coffee. Qi Harmony is intended for the evening.
Can I take these with other supplements or medication?
If you take any regular medication or other supplements, check with your GP or pharmacist first, particularly for blood thinners, immunosuppressants, or medication for blood pressure, blood sugar, thyroid, mood or sleep.
Can I take these if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Qi Harmony contains ashwagandha. The UK Food Standards Agency advises pregnant women and people with existing liver conditions to avoid ashwagandha supplements, and we don't recommend Qi Harmony if you're breastfeeding. For Qi Adaptogen, check with a healthcare professional first.
I have an autoimmune condition. Can I take these?
If you have an autoimmune or thyroid condition, or take immunosuppressant medication, please consult your healthcare professional before use.
Are these products suitable for children?
No. Our products are for adults and we don't recommend them for anyone under 18.