Why the Library exists
The Spore & Bloom Library is a free guide to mushrooms, fungal biology, extraction, quality, history and the research behind functional mushrooms. It is written for general interest and education. Our aim is simple: to explain things clearly and honestly, so you can understand what you’re reading and buying, wherever you buy it.
How articles are written
- Plain English first. Every article opens with a short summary in simple terms, and technical words are explained when they appear.
- Grounded in published sources. We draw on scientific literature, mycological references and reputable food and regulatory sources. Where an article relies on specific studies, we list them in its references.
- Correct names. We give scientific names for species and note where names are disputed or have changed, as with Reishi and Cordyceps.
How we treat evidence
Much mushroom research is carried out in cells or animals, and human studies are often small. We say what kind of evidence a statement rests on, and we don’t present laboratory or animal findings as if they apply to people. Research notes in our articles flag where caution is needed. Our guide How to Read Mushroom Research explains the approach.
Tradition and evidence
Many mushrooms have long histories in food and botanical traditions. We think that history is worth telling, but we keep it clearly separate from scientific evidence. A long tradition tells us how people valued a mushroom, not what it does.
No health claims
Health claims on foods and food supplements are strictly regulated in the UK, and no health claims are currently authorised for the mushrooms we write about. The Library doesn’t describe what our products, or any mushroom, will do for your health. Nothing in the Library is medical advice. If you have a health condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take medication, speak to a qualified healthcare professional.
Our products
We make mushroom tinctures, and some articles explain how we make them. When we mention our own products, we describe what they are and how they’re made, never what they will do. Articles about quality and buying are written to help you judge any product, not just ours.
Images
Article images are illustrations created to accompany the text. They are not botanical identification guides, and they shouldn’t be used to identify wild mushrooms. Never eat a wild mushroom unless you are certain of its identity.
Reviews and updates
Each article shows the date it was last reviewed. We revisit articles when new research, regulations or product details change what they should say, and we merge or retire articles that overlap so the Library stays clear.
Corrections
If you spot an error or something that could be clearer, please tell us at info@sporeandbloom.co.uk. We read every message and correct mistakes promptly.