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Nootropic Extraction, The Right Way
It’s a given that not all mushroom products will be made equally, but did you ever factor in that there might be a right way and a wrong way? To prevent you from spending your hard-earned coin on useless supplements, we’re here to explain the science behind developing the perfect nootropic supplement that is the utmost effective. With Microgenix choice of nootropic extraction, you can kickstart your wellness journey – all potential benefits intact.
An effective way (and our chosen way) to extract the beneficial compounds from mushrooms is through steam extraction; a method most commonly used on medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi, Turkey Tail, and Lion’s mane. The steaming method involves drying the mushrooms and grinding them into a fine powder, before steaming for several hours. This method allows the cell walls of the mushrooms to break down, releasing their beneficial compounds as a result of the steaming process. Steam extraction increases the bioavailability of the beneficial compounds as well, making them easier for the body to absorb.
Unlike alcohol extraction, using a steaming process to extract mushroom compounds is considered eco-friendly, omitting the use of chemicals or harsh solvents. It is the bioactive compounds such as beta-glucans, polysaccharides, triterpenes, etc, that make nootropic supplements particularly beneficial for human health. Hence why choosing the right extraction process plays such an important role in formulating a high quality supplement.
Steam extraction is rightfully the chosen method for Microgenix nootropic products. Here are some facts about the medicinal compounds we are able to reap from this extraction process and how they may benefit your health:
1. Beta-glucans
Beta-glucans can be found in the cell walls of various plants, algae, and fungi. They have been recognized for their beneficial effects on both immune and gut health, and may also aid in the regulation of blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Beta-glucans are a group of polysaccharides, which aid in bodily function and act as a source of energy.
There has been extensive research regarding the health benefits of beta-glucans, with major focus directed at the immune system. Beta-glucans have been shown to stimulate important immune cells, including macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer cells. Stimulating the activity of these cells helps the body fight off serious infections and diseases, and may even prevent certain forms of cancer. An enticing review published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism found beta-glucans not only stimulate the immune system, but could also be an effective form of cancer therapy.
Aside from the immune system, beta-glucans have shown promise in yet another popular area of research. Many studies have shown the beneficial impact of beta-glucans on the human gut, as they’ve shown the ability to increase the growth of healthy gut bacteria as well as reduce intestinal inflammation. Because of this, beta-glucans may assist in cognitive improvement by enhancing brain function via the gut-brain axis, hinting that beta-glucans impose a dual benefit on both the brain and gut when consumed. Beta-glucan can be used as a natural way to relieve symptoms of IBS, bloating, and other abdominal issues relating to poor gut health. The correlation between the gut and mind is a vital component to consider when it comes to improving overall health, seeing as the gut has been recognized as our second brain, which we should cater to equally.
2. Triterpenes
Triterpenes are a class of compounds belonging to the terpenoid family. Much like beta-glucans, triterpenes can be found in a variety of plants and fungi, and play an important role in various biological processes. Triterpenes have been recognized for their anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, and antioxidant properties.
Because of their anti-inflammatory properties, triterpenes may help reduce chronic pain linked to various diseases. With chronic inflammation being associated with so many neurodegenerative diseases, triterpenes could have the ability to slow the progression of these diseases by reducing inflammation in the brain. The antioxidant properties of triterpenes can also protect brain cells from free radical damage, reducing the risk of cognitive decline due to age.
Triterpenes have also exhibited anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects, by potentially modulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin, GABA, and glutamate.
3. Polysaccharide-K
Polysaccharide-K (PSK) is another form of polysaccharide, extracted from the fruiting body of Turkey Tail mushrooms. This form of polysaccharide has similar benefits to beta-glucans, more specifically in relation to their immune boosting properties. By reducing liver damage caused by various toxins, PSK can improve liver health and also liver function, in those with liver diseases.
Although studies on PSK remain limited, some studies have implied that PSK may also have a beneficial effect on symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Trusting the Process
When we recognize the plethora of benefits involved with these medicinal compounds, we want to know that we are not losing any benefits in the process of extracting them. Unlike other popular extraction methods, steaming is a gentle and non-abrasive approach that best ensures there is no damage caused to the compounds. Through progressive technology and attentive extraction measures, our nootropic blends are considered to have higher levels of bioavailable compounds than other available supplements.
When it comes to supplementing nootropics, there are various components involved that could either hinder or improve the quality of the compounds. Therefore if you have tried nootropics before and did not obtain the expected results you initially hoped for, odds are it was less about you and more about the variables involved in the formulation of the supplement.
We are proud to say our nootropic supplements are formulated in high regards to quality and intention. As plant medicine advocates, we understand that there is no better way to spread the positive word on medicinal mushrooms than to prove it through the benefits they offer. In order to do that, we must choose a process worth trusting.
Reliable, effective, healthy – Microtropics are here to stay.
Yours,
Olive
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