FOUNDATIONAL INGREDIENTS

The Focused Blend

While every ingredient in NORINA has a purpose, Walnut Protein and Lion's Mane form the foundation of the blend. One provides a naturally complete plant-based protein source, while Lion’s Mane has been valued for centuries and remains one of the most widely recognised functional mushrooms today.
MODERN NUTRITION

Lion's Mane Mushroom

A distinctive mushroom known for its naturally occurring bioactive compounds

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is one of the most widely recognised functional mushrooms in modern nutrition. It contains naturally occurring compounds such as hericenones and erinacines, which have made it a subject of growing scientific interest.

Alongside its long history of traditional use, Lion’s Mane is increasingly being explored for its relationship with cognitive function, making it a natural fit within NORINA’s thoughtfully composed blend.

Plant-based source of protein

Walnut Protein

A complete plant-based source of protein and essential amino acids

Walnut Protein serves as the nutritional foundation of NORINA. Unlike highly processed protein isolates, it comes from a recognisable whole-food source while naturally providing all essential amino acids.

Chosen for its balanced nutritional profile and plant-based origin, it supports the formula’s focus on simple, purposeful ingredients without relying on soy, dairy, or artificial additives.

What Research Is Exploring

While research is ongoing, these are some of the areas most commonly explored in relation to Lion’s Mane and Walnut Protein

Lion's Mane

Cognitive Function

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) has attracted scientific interest for its unique compounds, including hericenones and erinacines.

These naturally occurring compounds have been studied for their potential role in supporting nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein involved in the maintenance and function of neurons.

While research is ongoing, cognitive health remains one of the most actively explored areas of Lion’s Mane research.

Li, I., Lee, L., Tzeng, T., Chen, W., Chen, Y., Shiao, Y., & Chen, C. (2018). Neurohealth Properties of Hericium erinaceus: Mycelia Enriched with Erinacines. Behavioural Neurology

Neurological Research

A growing number of studies have investigated Lion’s Mane in relation to memory, learning and overall neurological function.

Researchers are particularly interested in how compounds found in the mushroom may interact with pathways involved in neuronal maintenance and communication.

Although further human studies are needed, the findings have helped establish Lion’s Mane as one of the most researched functional mushrooms available today.

Lin, C., Chen, Y., Hsu, C., Lin, Y., Chen, P., Kuo, T., Ho, C. T., Chen, H., Huang, S., Chiu, H., Chen, C., & Hwang, E. (2023). Erinacine S from Hericium erinaceus mycelium promotes neuronal regeneration by inducing neurosteroids accumulation. Journal of Food and Drug Analysis

Bioactive Compounds

Unlike many culinary mushrooms, Lion’s Mane contains two groups of compounds, hericenones and erinacines, that are rarely found elsewhere in nature.

These compounds have become a major focus of scientific investigation due to their potential involvement in nervous system research and their ability to cross biological barriers that many plant compounds cannot.

Friedman, M. (2015). Chemistry, Nutrition, and Health-Promoting Properties of Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane) Mushroom Fruiting Bodies and Mycelia and Their Bioactive Compounds. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry

Walnut Protein

Plant-Based Protein

Walnut protein provides a naturally plant-based source of amino acids while retaining many of the nutritional characteristics associated with whole walnuts.

Unlike highly refined protein isolates, walnut-derived ingredients also contain naturally occurring compounds that contribute to the ingredient’s broader nutritional profile.

Ros, E. (2010). Health benefits of nut consumption. Nutrients

Essential Amino Acids

Protein is made up of amino acids, several of which must be obtained through the diet.

Walnuts contain a range of essential amino acids alongside naturally occurring fatty acids and micronutrients.

While not intended as a standalone protein source, walnut protein can contribute to a diverse and balanced plant-based nutritional intake.

Mao, X., Hua, Y., & Chen, G. (2014). Amino Acid Composition, Molecular Weight Distribution and Gel Electrophoresis of Walnut (Juglans regia L.) Proteins and Protein Fractionations. International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Nutritional Profile

Beyond protein, walnuts are widely recognised for their naturally occurring polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidant compounds.

Research has explored how this combination of nutrients contributes to the overall nutritional value of walnuts, making them one of the most extensively studied tree nuts in human nutrition.

Sánchez-González, C., Ciudad, C. J., Noé, V., & Izquierdo-Pulido, M. (2015). Health benefits of walnut polyphenols: An exploration beyond their lipid profile. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition