Understanding Beta-Glucans

Today, we’re diving into one of the most important compounds found in medicinal mushrooms: beta-glucans.

Beta-glucans are naturally occurring polysaccharides (a type of carbohydrate) found within the cell walls of fungi, yeast, algae, oats, and certain other plants.

Fungal beta-glucans are particularly well known for their interaction with the immune system and are widely regarded as some of the key active compounds found in medicinal mushrooms.

What Are Beta-Glucans?

When consumed, mushroom beta-glucans interact with immune receptors located within the digestive system.

These interactions help support communication between immune cells and may help support balanced immune function.

Beta-glucans are also increasingly researched for their broader role in supporting gut health, healthy inflammation responses, antioxidant activity, and overall wellbeing.

How Beta-Glucans Support Health

All mushrooms contain beta-glucans, however different species contain different amounts and structures of these compounds.

Many of the medicinal mushrooms traditionally used throughout Asia, such as Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail, Reishi, and Maitake, are naturally rich in beta-glucans.

This is one reason these mushrooms have attracted so much scientific and traditional interest for immune and wellness support.

Polysaccharides vs Beta-Glucans

One of the most important things to understand when comparing mushroom supplements is the difference between “polysaccharides” and “beta-glucans.”

Some mushroom products advertise high polysaccharide percentages, however this can potentially be misleading.

The term “polysaccharides” includes many different carbohydrates, including starches and fillers that may not come directly from the mushroom itself.

Beta-glucans are a much more specific measurement and are generally considered one of the best indicators of mushroom extract potency and quality.

For this reason, we believe beta-glucan testing provides a far more meaningful measure than simply listing total polysaccharides.

Dual Extraction and Testing

Our mushroom extracts are dual-extracted using both hot water and alcohol extraction methods to help capture as many beneficial compounds as possible.

We aim for a minimum of 30% beta-glucans across our encapsulated mushroom extracts, with many batches testing significantly higher.

Our most recent batches of Lion’s Mane and MyComplete both independently tested at over 50% beta-glucans.

To help verify potency, our beta-glucan testing is performed through Massey University using the Megazyme testing method.

Transparency Matters

Rather than simply making claims about potency, we openly publish our third-party test reports so customers can review the results for themselves.

We believe transparency around sourcing, testing, and active compound levels should be standard practice within the mushroom supplement industry.