The compound L-ergothioneine is currently receiving a surge of interest among medical experts and manufacturers of dietary supplement products as it is claimed to be among the factors affecting overall longevity. It is believed to support immune functions, reduce oxidative stress, and optimize overall mitochondrial health and function.
What is L-ergothioneine?
L-ergothioneine is a naturally-occurring amino acid considered as an L-histidine derivative. Structurally, the compound is an N(alpha), N(alpha), N(alpha)-trimethyl-L-histidine in which the hydrogen at position 2 on the imdazole ring is replaced by a mercapto group. It is naturally found in certain microbial organisms including Actinobacteria, Cyanobacteria, and certain fungi. Among humans, L-ergothioneine is supplemented through diet and the intake of dietary supplement products containing the compound.
The CAS number of the compound is 497-30-3 and its molecular formula is C9H15N3O2S. The molar mass of L-ergothioneine is 229.3 g/mol. The compound is also referred to as Natural L-Ergothioneine, Synthetic L-Ergothioneine, fermented L-Ergothioneine, Ergoneine®, MitoPrime, ErgoActive, L-Ergo, L-ET.
As a dietary supplement ingredient, L-ergothioneine is has a white solid powder appearance. It is generally soluble in water. It is also sparingly soluble in organic solvents.
L-ergothioneine sources
Natural sources of L-ergothioneine include black beans, liver, kidney, and oat bran. Mushroom species like ergot mushroom and oyster mushroom yield high quantities of L-ergothioneine.
The compound is also developed synthetically under laboratory procedures for inclusion in dietary supplement formulations. Some manufacturers also obtain the product through fermentation procedures.
L-ergothioneine forms and specifications
Among the common forms of L-ergothioneine in dietary supplement products are natural L-ergothioneine powder, synthetically-formulated L-ergothioneine powder having 99% purity based on high-performance liquid chromatography, and the naturally produced form through fermentation.
The L-ergothioneine powder is available for purchase in many ingredients’ supplier stores, including Nutriavenue. The product is offered for both bulk purchases and purchases in lesser quantities.
At Nutriavenue, the product is usually packed in paper drums having 25 kilograms weight when purchased in bulk. Inside the drums are two layers of polybags for added product protection. You may also avail of a different packaging material when buying from Nutriavenue, depending on your preference.
Safety of synthetic L-ergothioneine
Synthetic L-ergothioneine is a novel food supplement ingredient which is recently evaluated in a study by the EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition, and Allergies to determine its safety among various age groups. In the said same study, it was established that the said compound is sufficient and safe within the stated corresponding margins of exposure.
In the said study, researchers have concluded that the compound may be used under the proposed uses among infants, toddlers, and young children, as well as among lactating and pregnant women.
The compound has also achieved GRAS or Generally Recognized as Safe status from the Food and Drug Administration.
As a GRAS compound, the use of the super antioxidant L-ergothioneine in dietary supplement products is believed to be safe and effective within recommended doses.
How does L-ergothioneine work?
According to researches, low levels of L-ergothioneine, which is mostly seen in elderly individuals, is a risk factor for degenerative health conditions. As such, supplementation of the said compound is essential.
L-ergothioneine primarily works by resisting cellular oxidation and scavenging reactive oxygen species, reactive nitrogen species, and reactive chlorine species. These free radical species are believed to interfere with normal cellular functions, thereby resulting in cellular damage and rapid deterioration. By scavenging these compounds, it is believed that L-ergothioneine may slow down rapid aging effects, as well as cellular function decline.
Studies also reveal that the compound works to protect cells and tissues from pro-inflammatory conditions which result in cellular oxidation.
L-ergothioneine Manufacturing Process
One recognized method to produce L-ergothioneine is through the use of the bacterial species Escherichia coli (E.coli) which contains four biosynthesis proteins as raw material. The manufacturing process of the compound begins with the production of the microorganism. After obtaining the working strain, the fermentation process ensues and the supernatant is collected for centrifugation. Thereafter, extraction and purification procedures are conducted, followed by crystallization and oven drying.
L-ergothioneine Health Benefits
The use of the compound L-ergothioneine in dietary supplement products may result in the following health benefits:
It provides anti-inflammatory benefits and immunity support
L-ergothioneine has been found to inhibit several inflammatory patterns which result in its effective anti-inflammatory properties. The compound is also found to possess immunomodulating effects.
It reduces oxidative stress
The compound helps eliminate toxins in the body that cause oxidative stress. Hence, it promotes cellular health by preventing cellular destruction and rapid deterioration.
It optimizes mitochondrial health and function
Following findings that the compound l-ergothioneine is concentrated in the mitochondria, experts suggested that the compound may have specific protective effects on mitochondrial components including DNA from oxidative damage. Thus, the compound may optimize mitochondrial health and promote optimum cellular and tissue function.
It promotes longevity and prevents rapid aging
It is also believed that the compound may help prevent the rapid deterioration of body cells brought about by oxidative damage. Thus, cells and tissues are able to effectively function, resulting in longevity and healthy aging among adults.
L-ergothioneine side effects
L-ergothioneine side effects may include mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as irritation and stomach pain. No adverse reactions are expected with L-ergothioneine supplementation. Users who experience life-threatening adverse reactions, or side effects that do not disappear, are advised to consult their physicians immediately.
L-ergothioneine dosage
The recommended daily intake for L-ergothioneine is roughly around 17 milligrams per day. Nonetheless, the said dose may vary depending on the individual user’s weight, age, and overall physical condition.
Where to buy bulk L-ergothioneine powder?
Bulk L-ergothioneine powder, along with many other ingredients for dietary supplement formulations, are available for purchase at Nutriavenue.
At Nutriavenue, we offer pure and high-quality products at very affordable prices. We are among the best choices for ingredient supply as we are duly registered with the FDA and recognized by entities like Halal, Kosher, and GMP.
We also offer shipping services through the air, sea, and couriers like UPS and FedEx. Shipping rates may vary depending on your location and the weight of the products you purchase.
For more details on our products and services, you may contact our technical support staff.
