Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) extract (40% polysaccharides) is a rich source of beta-glucans, polysaccharides that stimulate immune functions, and also contains cyanthane-derived triterpenes known as hericenone and erinacine that work on nerve growth factor (NFG).
Lion’s mane is a magnificent member of the mushroom kingdom that’s found in North America as well as Europe and Asia. Our lion’s mane is cultivated in shade-free, climate-controlled greenhouses, reducing strain on the natural supply of this medicinal mushroom as commercial demand grows.
New Roots Herbal’s Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a hot water–extracted medicinal mushroom formula standardized to contain 40% polysaccharides (500 mg per capsule). Hot-water extraction is critical in obtaining a high-quality and effective mushroom product, and is the traditional Asian method of extraction. In the whole mushroom, polysaccharides are bound by indigestible cell wall comprised of chitin; chitin must be dissolved through hot water in order to gently release the medicinal components, the mushroom polysaccharides. Conversely, grinding the mushroom may cause damage to the long-chain polysaccharides and fails to remove the indigestible chitin (fibre), limiting the amount of therapeutic constituents that can be fit per capsule. Standardization ensures that the final product contains a consistent amount of polysaccharides to allow delivery of a therapeutic dose.
Marker compounds in lion’s mane, including hericenones and erinacines, act as nerve growth factors (NGFs). These compounds hold the key to its reputation for improved memory, mood, cognitive, and neurological functions.
