Groundbreaking Research Confirms: Mycelium Matters

Have you heard of "mycelium" before?
It's the hidden part of the mushroom that grows underground—a dense network of thread-like roots that absorbs nutrients and powers the mushroom's growth.

Many mushroom supplement brands claim mycelium is just "filler" with no real benefits. Some even argue it has no medicinal value at all.

In this guide, we'll show you why that couldn't be further from the truth—and why mycelium may actually be the most important part of the mushroom when it comes to supporting human health.

At Forest Super Foods, we're committed to transparency and optimal efficacy in every formulation. That's why our Australian-grown Lion's Mane includes both the fruiting body and mycelium — two parts of the mushroom that together create a powerful, full-spectrum extract.

Historically, mycelium has been misunderstood or dismissed as a filler. But new research is proving otherwise - it is shedding light on just how bioactive and powerful it really is!

A major 2024 scientific review published in the Chinese Journal of Natural Medicines catalogued 253 unique bioactive compounds found in Hericium species (the genus that includes Lion's Mane), including:

• Cyathane diterpenoids (e.g., erinacines)
• Alkaloids
• Phenols, benzofurans, chromenes
• Steroids and terpenoids

What stood out most was the tissue-specific distribution of these compounds:

Mycelium is the exclusive source of many powerful compounds, especially erinacines — neuroactive molecules capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier.

You can read the full study here.

Many supplement companies still focus only on the fruiting body. But this review shows you could be missing out on an entire class of neuroprotective compounds. For example:

💡 "Erinacine A," a compound linked to nerve growth factor (NGF) stimulation, is found almost entirely in the mycelium.

That's why we believe whole-hericium is greater than the sum of its parts—and why health-conscious professionals, ageing adults, and anyone seeking cognitive support should choose full-spectrum blends.

1. Erinacine A is 57% more in the mycelium blend vs fruiting body alone. Known to stimulate NGF, erinacine A is a critical compound for cognitive health. If cognitive clarity, memory, and mental performance are important to you, then erinacine-rich mycelium is a must.

2. Tryptophan levels were over 2x higher in the mycelium blend. Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin—a key player in mood regulation and emotional wellbeing. If mood support is your goal, then tryptophan boost in the full-spectrum blend will make a tangible difference.

Our full-spectrum Lion's Mane is ideal for:

• Professionals looking to stay mentally sharp
• Older adults concerned about cognitive decline
• People managing stress or seeking a mood lift
• You! who wants backed-by-science ingredients

No fillers. No alcohol. Just pure, potent mushrooms grown and lab-tested in Australia.

Trusted by 9,407+ Australians. Hear from them here!

As research continues to evolve, one thing is clear: mycelium deserves a permanent place alongside the fruiting body in any truly effective Lion's Mane product.

At Forest Super Foods, we remain committed to transparency, potency, and results you can feel. If you're seeking a Lion's Mane supplement that's both backed by data and crafted with care, our fruiting body + mycelium blend delivers the complete benefits your brain and body deserve.