L-Ergothioneine
Novel 'longevity vitamin' antioxidant found in mushrooms that accumulates in cells under oxidative stress — emerging longevity compound.
Ergothioneine is a unique amino acid antioxidant produced by fungi and certain bacteria, not by humans. The body has a dedicated transporter (OCTN1) that concentrates it in tissues under oxidative stress. Some researchers propose it as a longevity vitamin. Found primarily in mushrooms, it protects mitochondria and has been linked to reduced cognitive decline and mortality in observational studies.
Protects cells from oxidative damage
Concentrates in and protects mitochondria
Body actively concentrates it where needed
How Ergothioneine works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
5-25mg daily
Can be taken without food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Synthetic L-ergothioneine capsules | Recommended |
| 💊Mushroom extracts (lower content) | Alternative |
| 💊Fermented production | Alternative |
Pure ergothioneine supplements provide consistent dosing. Mushrooms vary in content (king trumpet/oyster highest).
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 12 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Stable compound that can be taken any time.
Reduced oxidative damage
Potential brain protection
Generally considered very safe; found naturally in diet
May interact with anticonvulsants; consult healthcare provider
Theoretical interaction; both use organic cation transporters
Antioxidants may theoretically interfere with oxidative stress-based treatments; consult oncologist
May potentially affect efficacy; limited research available
Tip: N/A
Top studies from 39+ peer-reviewed papers
Arslan NP et al. • Critical reviews in food science and nutrition (2025)
“This review summarizes the antioxidant potential of different fungi (mushrooms, yeasts, and molds)-derived natural compounds such as polysaccharides, pigments, peptides, ergothioneine, ergosterol, phenolics, alkaloids, etc.”
Jędrejko M et al. • Nutrients (2025)
“Nevertheless, supplementation with anserine and ergothioneine shows promise for enhancing physical performance and recovery, though further research is required to better understand their mechanisms and optimize their use in sports and exercise.”
Halliwell B et al. • Annual review of food science and technology (2023)
“By contrast, α-tocopherol has demonstrated in vivo antioxidant effects in humans.”
Ba DM et al. • Nutrition journal (2021)
“In a meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies, mushroom consumption was associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality.”
Holeček M • Nutrients (2020)
“Of concern should be findings of hepatic enlargement and increases in ammonia and glutamine and of decrease in branched-chain amino acids (valine, leucine, and isoleucine) in blood plasma indicating that HIS supplementation is inappropriate in patients with liver disease.”
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