Articles

You’re not unwell. But you don’t feel at your best either. You’re somewhere in between. Well enough to get through your days, but not quite feeling like yourself. Your energy dips, your focus drifts, your thinking feels slower, or you’re more on edge. Something feels slightly off. It’s a frustrating place to be. Not bad enough to call it a problem. Enough to notice....

In New Zealand, “lion’s mane” can refer to two completely different mushrooms, which is why there’s so much confusion online. One is Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), the widely researched mushroom used in supplements for focus, clarity, and cognitive support. The other is a native New Zealand species called Pekepeke-Kiore, sometimes referred to as “NZ Lion’s Mane.” While they look similar, they are not the...

What Is Chaga Mushroom? Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) is a type of medicinal fungus that grows predominantly on birch trees in cold climates such as Siberia, Northern Europe, Canada, and parts of Asia. Known for its dark, rugged exterior and rich antioxidant content, Chaga has been used in traditional wellness practices for centuries. It is particularly valued for its naturally occurring polysaccharides, beta-glucans, melanin,...

Most of what a mushroom is actually good for is locked inside cell walls made of chitin, the same structural compound found in insect exoskeletons, which the human body can't break down on its own. Eating a raw or simply dried mushroom, or taking a supplement made from unextracted mushroom powder, means a lot of that potential passes straight through undigested. Extraction is the...

Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum) have been used in traditional Eastern wellness practices for centuries and are now widely recognised around the world for their potential health-supporting properties. Often referred to as the “Mushroom of Immortality,” Reishi is commonly consumed as capsules, tinctures, teas, and powders. Reishi mushroom powder is particularly popular due to its versatility and ease of use. Below, we’ll explore the potential...

Turkey tail mushrooms (Trametes versicolor) have gained significant attention for their potential health benefits. This unique mushroom, recognized for its distinct layered appearance resembling a turkey’s tail, has been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries. 

Mushroom supplements are becoming an increasingly popular part of daily wellness routines. Medicinal mushrooms such as Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail, Cordyceps, and Chaga are commonly available as concentrated powders, capsules, or tinctures. While some medicinal mushrooms naturally have earthy or bitter flavours, mushroom powders can blend surprisingly well into drinks and meals when used in the right combinations. The key to experiencing the potential...

The estrobolome is an amazing new term used to discuss the intricate connection between our ‘estrogen’ and the ‘microbiome’. Did you know that down there in your gut little species of bacteria are choosing whether you need more active estrogen or more inactive estrogen?

Since Flow State began, Lion’s Mane capsules have consistently been our most popular product. As interest in medicinal mushrooms has grown throughout New Zealand and around the world, Lion’s Mane has become one of the most widely recognised functional mushrooms for people looking to support focus, mental clarity, and overall wellbeing. Over the years, it has remained our best-selling mushroom extract, and there are...

One of the most common questions we receive is where our mushrooms are grown. The answer is primarily China, with the exception of our Chaga, which is wild-harvested in Siberia. For some people unfamiliar with medicinal mushrooms, hearing “China” can initially raise concerns around quality. Given the reputation of some mass-produced products coming from China, this reaction is understandable. However, when it comes to...

In New Zealand, supplement companies are not currently required to independently test their products before selling them. This means it is largely the responsibility of each individual company to ensure their products are safe, accurately labelled, and free from harmful contaminants. Unless a company is actively testing their supplements and openly sharing the results, customers often have no reliable way of knowing exactly what...

During winter, many people begin looking for ways to support their immune system and overall wellbeing. Mushroom extracts have traditionally been used to support immune health, with different parts of the mushroom offering unique compounds and benefits. There is often debate around whether fruiting body extracts or mycelium extracts are “better,” however our view is that both can offer valuable and complementary properties. Understanding...