Mycelab: A Mushroom Renaissance in Modern Wellness
*MYCELAB
*MYCELAB
At the helm of Mycelab, Alexandra Courio is pioneering a wellness movement anchored in the arcane yet progressive domain of mycology. Her personal journey, marked by a childhood struggle with allergic asthma, veered her away from the conventional avenues of pharmacy into the holistic embrace of medicinal mushrooms. Since its inception in 2018, Mycelab has become a confluence of tradition and science, offering a gamut of products, each a concoction of nature's essence aimed at fortifying the immune system. Alexandra’s daily regimen, embodying the holistic lifestyle Mycelab advocates, is a testament to the brand’s core ethos. Through Mycelab, Alexandra extends beyond merely offering products; she's fostering a community where wellness is a voyage back to nature's profound simplicity, with mushrooms as steadfast allies. Her narrative, laden with explorations and discoveries, unfolds below, providing a glimpse into the landscape of holistic wellness she navigates daily.
Alexandra, your journey with MYCELAB is nothing short of inspiring. Can you share the pivotal moment that led you to embark on this path?
Being a pharmacist's daughter, I have always been immersed in the world of health and wellness. My commitment to Mycelab stems from a personal need to heal naturally and effectively. Indeed, I was diagnosed with allergic asthma at the age of 5. At the time, I underwent medical treatments which, certainly, were effective in desensitizing me to allergies but had subsequent repercussions on my immune health. I would fall ill all the time and had a strong tendency toward self-medication... Entering Pharmacy studies at 18, I discovered a new perspective on Western medicines, a drug is defined as a toxic, a poison that will have side effects on the human body. For me, medications are necessary in cases of extreme emergencies or severe conditions but not for minor everyday ailments, and this tends to be forgotten in France. I also quickly realized that most chemical drugs are, fundamentally, derived from fungi and plants, and thus, we have everything we need in nature to heal and maintain good health. Hence, I became interested in natural medicines quite early on. I searched and tried many things over the years; I also worked for major supplement brands in pharmacies during my studies and worked in the family pharmacy since I was 17, so I had a fairly comprehensive view of the supply and demand in the French market. My personal challenge was a highly disrupted immune system, which manifested in recurrent ailments: colds, tonsillitis, digestive disorders, psoriasis, seasonal allergies, herpes.. etc.. The available solutions back then provided support during the treatment period, but all my problems returned forcefully as soon as I stopped taking the supplements. Nothing lasting for my issue... In the 4th year of pharmacy, at 23, Mycology courses were on the schedule. I had heard some benefits just before classes resumed and bought a book on the subject. When my professors began listing the therapeutic effects of certain medicinal mushrooms like Reishi or Lion's Mane, I realized I needed to try them on myself and had a great interest in delving deeper. Ten years ago, no French brands in pharmacies offered dietary supplements containing mushrooms. No one was yet talking about mushrooms in France in the realm of health and wellness. I did some research, discovered that traditional medicines have been using mushrooms for millennia, and also that we in the West have been using them for a very long time too, but this medicine was forgotten as medieval knowledge associated it with witchcraft... I also discovered that the pharmaceutical industry has also been using mushrooms to create medications for nearly a century, so why not use them more as a preventive measure?
I stumbled upon tens of thousands of studies on scientific search engines. It fascinated me. I then decided not to follow the path that was intended for me, the pharmacy, and I applied to business school to complete my curriculum with the idea of creating mushroom-based supplements. I went to ESSEC for my MS Entrepreneurs in 2016-2017 and founded Mycelab in 2018. After some research, I found a few foreign brands that make mushrooms, I began consuming them in 2017 and all my health problems vanished over time. My encounter with mushrooms was a real crush; I could not stop thinking about it, and above all, I wanted to make this medicine accessible to as many people as possible. Once you start exploring the universe of mushrooms, especially when you have a scientific mind and are close to nature, you can't help but fall in love :) It's been 10 years now, and I don't think there's a day where I am not amazed by their powers.
The story of MYCELAB is deeply intertwined with the power of mushrooms. What was it about these fungi that captivated your interest?
It's their myriad benefits for human health that most captured my attention. Mushrooms are rich in both macro and micro-nutrients as well as bioactive molecules. We are talking about more than 150 bioactive compounds within their structure. Essentially, they are modifiers of biological response. They have this ability, notably thanks to their beta-glucans, to modulate the response of our immune system. They enable the activation and proliferation of immunity cells to combat pathogens and cancerous cells more effectively. In a preventive framework, they hold, in my view, unprecedented interest and I have been experiencing this for 7 years (I don’t fall sick anymore, no more chronic pains linked to my fragile immune system or to stress, no more allergies...) and in a more "therapeutic" framework, they are a real support in conjunction with conventional medicine as they can enhance the effectiveness of treatments and especially improve the patient's quality of life, which is significant. They have indeed been used for a long time as adjuncts to treatments in certain countries like Japan or some Eastern countries.
I also discovered over the years a whole bunch of other applications that can be had with mushrooms. They are used to make biomaterials, to replace plastic and animal leather, to insulate our homes, to clean up our soils (this is called mycoremediation), to make biopesticides, biofuels and so on... their potential is infinite...It’s quite thrilling :) the moment you understand their role on Earth, you can no longer see a mushroom in the same way! They are essential to the process of life as well as death, they are part of us, whether we like it or not :)
The world of fungi is vast and diverse. How do you select which mushrooms to incorporate into your formulations?
Over several years, I have conducted extensive research, poured through thousands of studies, and read a large number of books on the subject. I also reached out to scientists, researchers, and practitioners in the field of mycotherapy; it was amusing to notice that all these people had been consuming mushrooms on a daily basis for over ten years.
The biodiversity of mushrooms is estimated to range between 2 to 5 million different species, depending on the sources, and only 10% has been systematized and described... there is still much to discover about these extraordinary organisms. It turns out that there are over 1000 species with therapeutic properties worldwide, fifty are used but in practice, only 12 are commonly used. I based myself on these 12 species and selected 7 of the most studied and authorized mushrooms in France for dietary supplements for the launch of Mycelab. There are certain mushrooms I would have loved to use from the outset but unfortunately, not all are yet authorized in France... for instance, Coriolus versicolor, which is a powerful immunostimulant and currently used by pharmaceutical laboratories as a chemotherapy agent, he is currently not authorized in Europe under the Novel Food regulation.. I sincerely hope that this will evolve favorably so that we can use them preventively from a young age.
Are there any specific mushrooms or ingredients you're keen to explore for future products?
I launched a new range of supplements in October 2023, featuring five mushrooms, contained in the pure complexes of the B-Care range. I am also working on new formulations in complex mushrooms + plants to address new wellness segments. I'm considering incorporating a newly discovered mushroom into a formula targeting blood and lymphatic circulation, renowned for its potent diuretic properties and effectiveness in reducing edema. I can't divulge all my secrets, but the way I conceive my formulas is specific to me, I like to seek out ingredients that are little known in the West and yet have immense potential for our health, relying on research, scientific and clinical studies whenever possible, and choosing the most appropriate ingredients for the indications I desire for my product. If European regulations evolve positively in favor of mushrooms, there are still many mushrooms I would like to make available to consumers to better support them in their healing and daily well-being.
With a plethora of supplement brands emerging in the wellness space, what, according to you, sets MYCELAB apart?
Mycelab stands out for its unique use of mushrooms in each of its products. You will never see a product without mushrooms in our range. This allows for a direct action on the consumers' immune system. A well-functioning immune system is the key to better health and I believe recent years have proven how important it is to maintain a high-quality immune health. If your immune system isn't operating properly, it can't protect you adequately. When one consumes a B-Care Mycelab cure, there's always an action on modulating the immune system which makes us much more efficient in our ability to defend and resist against various types of stress. Over the years, I have realized that consuming mushrooms enhances the action of other ingredients or medications. For instance, I had patients undergoing chemotherapy who used some of my products during their treatment and experienced better tolerance to their heavy treatment regimen. When I receive such feedback, I know why, despite certain difficulties, I continue my work over all these years—to democratize the use of mushrooms in the wellness routine of the French populace. The strength of Mycelab lies in having very specific and highly effective formulas for the concerned indications. Our consumers feel the effects of the cures very quickly, which allows for more observance in taking the capsules.
The world is witnessing a resurgence of interest in functional mushrooms. How do you educate your consumers about their myriad benefits?
Initially, I created a lot of written content about mushrooms. I wrote my professional thesis on this topic, so I had already done a massive amount of research. Even before launching the products, I had begun educating the general public about the benefits of mushrooms through social media and a blog. Since then, I continue to feed these channels and also respond to many interviews by the press who are increasingly interested in this topic. In France, we are quite limited in what we can say about mushrooms. Indeed, there are no authorized health claims, although many requests have been made over the last ten years and none of them have been accepted yet. Asia has been using mushrooms as therapeutic agents for millennia, and still do today, and countries like the USA have been on the subject for over 20 years... Moreover, the US market has exploded over the past three years. In France, a supplement brand is prohibited from promoting prevention, yet that’s the purpose of our profession: to prevent for better healing. I have also started conducting webinars for therapists seeking new natural solutions to offer their patients. I am also considering setting up workshops open to the general public interested in mushroom medicine. Lastly, I constantly keep myself informed about the latest discoveries in the mushroom field to share with my community.
The testimonials and reviews for MYCELAB products speak volumes about their efficacy. How do you measure the success of a product?
The effectiveness of a product is most important to me while staying natural. I would never include a chemically-derived or ultra-processed ingredient in my formulas. It's the quality and concentration of the ingredients I've selected that have made my products successful. I am a very big consumer of dietary supplements since my teenage years. When I look at a supplement, the first thing I check is the formula.
The beauty industry is rapidly evolving, with new trends emerging every day. How does MYCELAB stay ahead of the curve while staying true to its roots?
Launching Mycelab 5 years ago when no one in France was interested in mushrooms, makes Mycelab an avant-garde brand. I practice my pharmacy profession and I see many new products coming out on the market, especially new formulations. To be very honest with you, I believe in natural and what is closest to us from a genetic point of view. We have always used products from nature to heal and prevent throughout human history. I struggle with everything that is too processed; out of curiosity, I try new products and it's amusing to see that my body and mind have a hard time integrating them into my routine. I have been consuming almost exclusively my products for 4 years and have never been in better health, no deficiencies and excellent medical check-ups over the years. Obviously, all of this fits into a framework and a healthy lifestyle. Supplements are not magic pills and belong in a holistic health framework. This is what we advocate at Mycelab, holistic well-being and beauty.
With a focus on both inner and outer well-being, how do you see the convergence of beauty and wellness in the future?
The convergence of beauty and wellness is an ever-evolving realm, playing an increasingly vital role in the health, beauty, and wellness industry. Here are some trends and outlooks on how these two domains might converge in the future:
A more holistic approach: More people are adopting a holistic approach to beauty and wellness, recognizing that inner and outer health are interconnected. Beauty products and treatments will likely incorporate more wellness elements, such as nutrition, meditation, sleep, and stress management.
Natural products and sustainability: The demand for natural, organic, and environmentally-friendly products will continue to grow. Beauty and wellness companies will be obliged to engage more in sustainability and social responsibility to meet consumer expectations.
PSYCARE: The growing awareness of the importance of mental health will lead to an increased focus on "mental beauty." Companies will develop products and services that promote self-confidence, stress management, and self-esteem.
The importance of sleep: Sleep plays a crucial role in beauty and wellness. We will likely see more products and services aimed at improving sleep quality, such as personalized sleep treatments and night skincare products.
Education and awareness: Consumers will become more informed and aware of the ingredients and practices contributing to beauty and wellness. Education on nutrition, skin health, stress management, and other wellness aspects will become essential and should be introduced to younger individuals to instill these practices early on for better prevention in future generations.
Technologies and personalization: Technological advancements like artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and data analytics will allow for increased personalization in beauty and wellness care. Products and treatments will be tailored to individual needs, leading to more effective results.
Inter-industry collaboration: The beauty industry should collaborate more with other sectors like medicine, health technology, and scientific research to develop innovative solutions in beauty and wellness.
In my opinion, the future convergence of beauty and wellness will center around a holistic approach, personalization, sustainability, and the integration of technology to enhance individuals' quality of life. It's clear that these trends will continue to evolve as society realizes the importance of balancing inner and outer well-being for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Among the myriad products MYCELAB offers, which one holds a special place in your heart and why?
It's hard to say, I love them all :) In fact, when launching the b-care range, as I used to fall ill often, I decided to test only the b-immunity and did two three-month cures. I finished the last month just before the first lockdown. I realized that I hadn't fallen sick for over a year and a half (I caught covid not long after getting vaccinated...) whereas before, I used to have 2-3 white anginas per year. I also noticed that I no longer had seasonal allergies and cold sores. After completing these 6 months of cure, I started consuming b-vitality and b-cell simultaneously. I love this combination; it helps me manage stress better and especially have a more luminous skin. I also noticed an improvement in my respiratory capacity as well as the regulation of my hormonal cycle. Then, I tried b-brain barely a year ago... I had a hard time taking it every day at first, but quickly noticed that on the days I took it seriously, I was much more focused and efficient at work, and my mood was also improved. I also noticed that depending on the time of day when I took it, I had a different effect; for example, taken in the evening, I felt more relaxed, and my sleep was better. I don’t have memory problems, on the contrary, but I can get scattered easily and it has been an infallible support during intense work periods to stay focused. Taken in the morning, it quickly brings me more clarity to start my day. b-xcare, I have never used it in a cure, I take it occasionally when I have pains to avoid paracetamol or ibuprofen, for example when I have migraines or painful menstruations, 3-4 capsules in one take and about 30 minutes later, I have no more pain. Finally, the b-immunity, now I take it in loading dose (6-8 capsules in the day) when I start to have symptoms of winter ailments (runny nose, flu syndrome) or while I had covid, in 24-48h, I got out very quickly with a very quick recovery and I also opened a capsule in the throat when I had a sore throat, it's not very good but it's super effective. I love juggling with the different cures depending on the periods of life. The interest of this range is to always have a good supply of mushrooms to support my immune system and the plants bring their virtues in the indication sought. I also tested the mushrooms of the new range coming out very soon, I alternate the different ingredients. For example, I had tested a combination of shiitake and maitake when I wanted to lose a few pounds this year, it helped me a lot in weight loss without any difficulty. Then, one of my secrets to keep fit and have good digestion is that I have integrated mushrooms into my food bowl, I can’t do without it and I see the difference when I eat them every day or not... I feel much better when they are present in my meals... more satiety and a much better transit, it’s quite striking actually.
Mental well-being is as crucial as physical health. How does MYCELAB address the holistic well-being of its consumers?
I must say I was pleasantly surprised by the success of my b-brain cure; it has been my best seller in 2022, and judging by the figures, it will be this year too. I created this complex as I felt the solutions offered in the market for supplements focusing on memory/cognitive system were not very effective. The Lion's Mane mushroom is extensively studied for its support of the cognitive system, particularly in the regeneration of nerve fibers. There are numerous studies showcasing its benefits in treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson’s, and also inflammatory digestive diseases. I combined it with Reishi for its neuro-protective and adaptogenic properties, and I also included very specific plant actives that work on micro-circulation and neurotransmitters. The feedback speaks for itself :) In general, mushrooms are adaptogens, thus modifiers of the biological response to stress - they aim at better stress management from a physiological standpoint.
Concerning MYCELAB, I have always positioned the brand in a holistic approach to care. On social media, for instance, I've had the pleasure of sharing with other brand founders or other holistic practices that I test on myself and see the benefits of, for example, light therapy with Sensolight. It's an integrative tool particularly effective in everything related to mental health. In addition to b-brain, I use different brainwave ranges to get me more quickly into the desired state: b-brain + gamma wave for a concentration boost, it's quite impressive!!
I retain my role as an advisor to my clientele. When contacted, I always ask many questions to better understand where the individual is at and to provide very personalized advice. I will suggest different avenues to test so that the person finds what suits them best and the intake of MYCELAB supplements is a success.
We regularly create content related to holism. I also encourage consumers to take more time and to be more in tune with their bodies and feelings. Indeed, we live in a society where everything moves extremely fast, where performance is always demanded, but when the body or mind starts to falter, it's a significant sign that something is amiss, it then becomes imperative to slow down, observe, and take the time to understand what's happening. We tend to take too many medications to alleviate symptoms, but these symptoms are there to signal to us that something is no longer balanced within us. By continuing like this, without seeking the root cause, we create sometimes irreversible diseases...
On my end, I am also training in other practices like naturopathy and energy medicine. These were two components I found lacking in my pharmacy doctorate education. It allows me to better understand the functioning of the human body as a whole: physical, physiological, psychological, emotional, mental, energetic, and spiritual. And it changes everything :)
I would like to do more, provide even more to my consumers, but each person is different so I let those in need come to me.
• Lastly, what's a day in the life of Alexandra Courio like, and how do MYCELAB's products integrate into your daily routine?
A typical Mycelab day in Paris, I sleep an average of 6h30-7h per night, I like to set an alarm earlier to start my day with meditation, it allows me to gain more clarity on the flow of my day, I get up, drink a very large glass of water, take 2-4 Mycelab capsules (vitality/cell usually) and I start my day with some movements, I love letting my body express itself through movement and breathing to find more space. Then, I prepare my favorite morning drink: maca, guarana, raw cacao, 6 mushroom powder that I made myself, and plant milk. I get ready calmly, leave my home, and take a stroll in the nearby park to have a bit of nature in my daily life, it's essential for me to have a moment of reflection in nature before I start the workday. After lunch my concentration has decreased, so I take 2 caps of B-brain. I enjoy engaging in a more intense sporting activity at the end of the day to clear my head and disconnect from work.
I also have another activity as a facilitator in Inner Dance, so it happens 1 or 2 times a week that I have group sessions in a yoga room or private sessions at my home where I also do sound therapy (especially crystal bowls) in my free time. when i'm facilitating, i'm no longer in the doing but in the being. i'm even more in tune with my mission to help my fellow.
I don’t have exactly the same routine in my other living place where I have less free time in a day for myself, I do 12-hour standing days (4-5 days per week) and I have very little time at home but I have my days off in nature which allows me to recharge well despite the pace. During this period, I generally take more Mycelab, my body asks for it to keep up the pace and to be in a good mood at the pharmacy counter :)
Lastly, I cut off screens 1 hour before going to sleep; if I don’t do this, you can be sure it's impossible for me to sleep properly!
And otherwise, in general, in a year, I have a budget allocated to care, training, readings, and quite substantial travel: I always bet on my well-being.
Taking care of oneself is also taking care of others.
We each have the capacity to radiate around us to help our surroundings feel better. The better I feel, the better my loved ones feel too. Try it, you'll see!