Vitamin D3 from Lichen (Vegan)

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) derived from lichen (Cladonia or Usnea species) is a vegan-sourced form of Vitamin D3, biochemically identical to animal-derived D3. Key bioactive compound: cholecalciferol at typical supplement concentrations of 400–5000 IU (10–125 mcg) per serving. Lichen-derived D3 contains no significant macronutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrates) in isolated supplement form. Micronutrient content is primarily the D3 molecule itself, with trace amounts of naturally occurring plant sterols and lipids from the lichen extraction matrix. Bioavailability: Lichen-derived D3 demonstrates comparable bioavailability to lanolin-derived D3 (from sheep's wool), with absorption rates of approximately 60–80% when taken with a fat-containing meal, as cholecalciferol is a fat-soluble vitamin. Once absorbed, D3 is hydroxylated in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], the primary circulating form, and further converted in the kidneys to the active hormone 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol). Studies confirm lichen-sourced D3 effectively raises serum 25(OH)D levels similarly to conventional D3, making it a clinically validated vegan alternative. No significant difference in absorption compared to animal-sourced D3 has been noted in bioequivalence studies.