Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is celebrated for its diverse health benefits, particularly in supporting cognitive function, nerve health, and gut wellness. However, supplement labels often feature different extraction ratios—most commonly 1:1 and 8:1—which can be confusing for consumers. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right product for your needs.
Extraction Ratios Explained
1:1 Extract (Raw Water Extract)
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Concentration: A 1:1 extract means that 1 part raw mushroom is concentrated into 1 part extract.
Example: 1,000 mg of a 1:1 extract contains the equivalent of 1,000 mg of raw mushroom. -
Extraction Method: Uses hot water only, preserving water-soluble compounds like beta-glucans (polysaccharides).
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QCE (Quality Concentrate Equivalent): Equal to the actual weight of the extract—e.g., 1,000 mg extract = 1,000 mg QCE. QCE is a measure of how much raw mushroom material the extract represents. A higher QCE means a more concentrated product.
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Primary Actives: High polysaccharide content, including beta-glucans, which are linked to immune modulation and digestive support.
8:1 Extract (Dual Extract)
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Concentration: Eight parts raw mushroom are concentrated into one part extract.
Example: 1,000 mg of 8:1 extract contains the equivalent of 8,000 mg raw mushroom. -
Extraction Method: Dual extraction using both water and organic grain alcohol, pulling out both water-soluble and fat-soluble compounds. The grain alcohol is then evaporated at the end leaving none in the end product.
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QCE: Significantly higher potency—e.g., 1,000 mg extract = 8,000 mg QCE.
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Primary Actives: Contains beta-glucans plus higher concentrations of hericenones and erinacines, which are associated with nerve regeneration and Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) stimulation.
Understanding the Concentration Difference
The 8:1 ratio is achieved by starting with eight times the raw mushroom material and reducing it to one part of concentrated extract through dual extraction. This process:
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Intensifies water-soluble compounds (e.g., polysaccharides for immune/gut health).
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Adds fat-soluble compounds (e.g., hericenones for nerve regeneration).
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Produces a smaller serving size with significantly higher active compound content compared to a 1:1 extract.
Benefits Compared
| Feature | Lion’s Mane 1:1 | Lion’s Mane 8:1 |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Gut health & immune support | Cognitive function & nerve health |
| Extraction | Water only | Water + organic grain alcohol |
| Concentration | 1,000 mg extract = 1,000 mg QCE | 1,000 mg extract = 8,000 mg QCE |
| Primary Actives | Beta-glucans | Beta-glucans, hericenones, erinacines |
| Main Actions | Supports microbiome balance, reduces inflammation, strengthens gut lining | Promotes NGF production, supports myelin sheath regeneration, enhances memory & focus |
Choosing the Right Extract
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Choose 1:1 if your goal is to improve digestion, balance the gut microbiome, or strengthen immune function.
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Choose 8:1 if you want to support memory, focus, and nerve health, or if you’re targeting conditions involving nerve regeneration.
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Combine Both for a synergistic approach—leveraging the immune/gut benefits of 1:1 alongside the brain and nerve benefits of 8:1.
Final Note:
While both extracts come from the same mushroom, their potency, concentration, and primary benefits differ due to their extraction methods and compound profiles. Always check product labels for the extraction ratio and serving size, and consult your healthcare provider before starting a new supplementation routine.
