Mushroom Science
Lion’s Mane: How It Supports the Brain
A. Supports pathways linked to NGF (nerve growth factor)
Lion’s Mane contains compounds that appear to activate pathways related to nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is a protein your body uses to support certain neurons — especially ones involved in memory formation and learning.
Why this matters: These NGF-sensitive neurons help you store new information, recall past information, and keep cognitive processes smooth.
Why this matters: These NGF-sensitive neurons help you store new information, recall past information, and keep cognitive processes smooth. Supporting NGF-related activity may help these neurons stay healthy and functional as you age.
B. Helps maintain synaptic plasticity (how the brain adapts)
Synaptic plasticity is your brain’s ability to strengthen connections between neurons. This flexibility is the foundation of learning, memory, creativity, and adaptability.
Why this matters: When synaptic plasticity is supported, your brain stays better at adapting — which helps with focus, problem-solving, and steady mental performance. Lion’s Mane contains compounds being studied for supporting the cellular processes behind plasticity.
C. Provides beta-glucans for immune balance
Beta-glucans are natural fibers found in the walls of mushrooms.
Why this matters: Your immune system has receptors that respond to beta-glucans in a way that supports balance — not “boosting,” not overstimulating. Balanced immune activity helps maintain energy levels and overall resilience.
Chaga: How It Supports Cellular Protection & Recovery
A. High antioxidant capacity to counter everyday stress
Your cells constantly face oxidative stress — the natural “wear and tear” from metabolism, exercise, and daily life. Chaga contains antioxidants including polyphenols, melanin complexes, and certain triterpenes.
Why this matters: Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals so they cause less strain on cells. This supports recovery, energy, and long-term cellular health.
B. Beta-glucans that support immune system communication
Like Lion’s Mane, Chaga is rich in beta-glucans.
Why this matters: These compounds help immune cells communicate and respond appropriately — which is essential for resilience, physical performance, and overall well-being.
C. Compounds studied for supporting stress resistance
Your cells constantly face oxidative stress — the natural “wear and tear” from metabolism, exercise, and daily life. Chaga contains antioxidants including polyphenols, melanin complexes, and certain triterpenes.
Why this matters: Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals so they cause less strain on cells. This supports recovery, energy, and long-term cellular health.
Why Extracts Matter (Not Raw Powder)
Raw mushroom powders contain indigestible chitin - something the human body can’t break down efficiently.
Why this matters: Without proper extraction, your body cannot access many of the compounds responsible for Lion’s Mane and Chaga’s studied benefits.
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Water extraction breaks down the cell walls so beta-glucans become available.
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Dual extraction can pull alcohol-soluble compounds such as certain triterpenes.
Fruiting Body vs. Mycelium on Grain
Some mushroom products use mycelium grown on grain, which is easier and cheaper to produce.
Why this matters:
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Mycelium on grain contains far lower levels of beta-glucans.
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It often contains starch from the grain itself.
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It can dilute active compounds significantly.
Fruiting bodies — the part of the mushroom that grows above ground — contain higher concentrations of the studied active compounds. That’s why Headwater uses fruiting-body extracts only.
Ingredient Integrity: Why Every Component Is There
L-Theanine
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A naturally occurring amino acid found in green tea.
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Why it matters: L-Theanine supports calm, steady alertness by promoting alpha-wave brain activity - the same state seen in focused engagement without stress.
Vitamin C
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A well-known antioxidant.
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Why it matters: It works with Chaga’s natural antioxidant compounds to support cellular defense and recovery.
Natural Fruit Essences & Light Agave
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These ingredients are there for flavor — clean, crisp, refreshing, and designed for daily drinking.
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Why it matters: Headwater is designed to deliver the functional benefits of mushrooms while genuinely tasting delicious — bright, refreshing, and free of any mushroom flavor.
What Headwater Does Not Contain - and Why
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No caffeine: stimulation isn’t the goal — steady mental performance is.
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No artificial sweeteners: avoids irritation or chemical aftertaste.
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No preservatives or chemical additives: clean ingredients only.
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No mycelium on grain: doesn’t deliver the compounds associated with cognitive support or cellular resilience.
