Lion’s Mane Extracts: Hot Water vs. Dual – What’s the Difference?
🧠 What’s the Difference Between Lion’s Mane Hot Water Extract and Dual Extract?
Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is widely known for its potential brain-boosting properties, from supporting memory and focus to encouraging nerve growth and long-term cognitive wellness. But when it comes to choosing the right extract, you may have seen terms like hot water extract or dual extract and wondered—what’s the difference? And which one should I choose?
At BKW Mushroom Co., we’re here to break it down simply and clearly, so you can make the best choice for your wellness goals.
🌿 What is Hot Water Extract?
Hot water extraction is a traditional method that has been used for centuries in herbal medicine. It involves a process of extracting by putting the dried Lion’s Mane mushrooms in hot water (but not too hot where you lose beta-glucans) to pull out the beneficial water-soluble compounds—primarily beta-glucans and other polysaccharides.
These compounds are known to:
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Support immune system function
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Promote gut health
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Encourage brain cell regeneration
This method is clean, gentle, and effective. If you're looking for a classic, time-tested approach to Lion’s Mane, hot water extract is a great starting point. It also tends to have a milder flavor and is more neutral in drinks like tea or smoothies.
🌿 What is Dual Extract?
Dual extraction goes a step further. In addition to using hot water, the mushrooms are also soaked in alcohol (typically ethanol). This alcohol extraction pulls out non-water-soluble compounds, like hericenones and erinacines—powerful terpenoids that are believed to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) production in the brain.
Dual extract contains:
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Everything in the hot water extract (beta-glucans and polysaccharides)
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PLUS alcohol-soluble compounds that target brain and nerve function
This makes dual extract a more complete option for those focused on nootropic benefits—enhancing memory, mental clarity, and focus.
🔬 So Which One Should You Choose?
Depends on your goals.
Immune support, general wellness, gut health = Hot Water Extract
Brain function, cognitive support, neuroprotection = Dual Extract
You want both? Try both and rotate, or use dual extract for a more complete profile
Both extracts come in pure powder form with no fillers, additives, or artificial ingredients—just 100% fruiting body mushroom extract from Lion’s Mane grown with care.
💡 Why BKW Offers Both
At BKW Mushroom Co., we believe in empowering our customers with choices. That’s why we offer both extract types. Whether you're new to mushrooms or a seasoned supplement user, you’ll find an option that fits your routine, taste, and goals.
And just like everything we produce—our Lion’s Mane extracts are:
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Made from fruiting bodies only (never mycelium on grain)
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Extracted to maintain potency and purity
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Grown with sustainability and care in Arizona
🛒 Ready to Explore Lion’s Mane?
Whether you're looking to support your brain, your gut, or your whole wellness routine, Lion’s Mane is one of nature’s most powerful allies. Choose your extract—or try both—and feel the difference for yourself.