Lion's Mane
Lion’s Mane mushroom (scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus) has exploded onto the “nootropic” (brain enhancing) scene for its well documented, brain-boosting benefits. This unique-looking mushroom has a distinctive appearance with cascading white spines. It resembles a lion’s mane, hence its name. While its culinary uses are well-known in certain Asian cuisines, Lion’s Mane has also been studied for its medicinal properties such as its positive impact on the gut and immune system, heart health, blood sugar balance, and mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
Research conducted on two of Lion’s Mane’s most significant phytonutrients, hericonones and erinacines, is shown to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF). Martin Powell, author of Medicinal Mushrooms, A Clinical Guide, documents that, “lower than normal levels of NGF have been linked to early stages of both Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Although therapeutic interest has largely focused on its importance for neurological function, NGF plays a much wider role in maintaining homeostasis (balance) in the body. It is known to have insulin tropic (affects the production of insulin), angiogenic (the process through which new blood vessels are formed), and antioxidant properties. Consequently, reduced plasma (blood) levels of NGF have been associated with cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndromes, including type 2 diabetes. It has been shown to accelerate wound healing and there is evidence it could be useful in the treatment of skin and corneal ulcers. Animal studies have shown NGF to have a profound effect on airway inflammation and asthma-related symptoms” (1).
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Brain & Nervous System | Memory, Focus & Mental Clarity
First and foremost, Lion’s Mane is celebrated for its potential to support cognitive function. Research indicates the compounds found in this functional mushroom (such as hericenones and erinacines), can stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is a protein that’s crucial for the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons. This discovery led to further research into Lion’s Mane for enhancing memory, focus, motor function, and overall cognitive health. Studies have shown promising results, particularly in age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
In one particular study, Lion’s Mane was shown to boost mental functioning in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Participants were split into two groups. One group was given Lion’s Mane extract and the other was given a placebo. The group given Lion’s Mane extract showed significant improvement in mental functioning (2).
Helps Gut & Immune System Function
Lion’s Mane mushroom is not only renowned for its cognitive benefits but also its remarkable impact on gut health. This unique mushroom has been the subject of research because of its prebiotic properties. Prebiotics are a type of dietary fiber that provides nourishment for the good kind of gut bacteria. A diverse and healthy gut microbiome is linked to improved digestion, enhanced nutrient absorption, and a more robust immune system.
It is well established that 70% of the immune system resides next to the lining of the gut. Lion’s Mane has been found to have several ways in which it boosts the body’s immunity. Also, its medicinal compounds exhibit immunomodulating (immune system regulating) activity (3).
Lion’s Mane extract also halts the growth of Helicobacter pylori (4) and protects the stomach and intestinal lining from damage. The active component responsible for this is the polysaccharide fraction of Lion’s Mane extract. Studies also demonstrate its anti-inflammatory effects on the gut, benefiting those with ulcerative colitis, IBS, and other inflammatory bowel diseases.
Heart Health
Lion’s Mane’s potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are vital to combating oxidative stress. Stress is oftentimes a precursor to various chronic diseases and it can accelerate the aging process. Oxidized cholesterol molecules have a greater tendency to adhere to the arterial walls, ultimately contributing to arterial stiffening. Arterial stiffening is a condition that significantly elevates the risk of heart attacks and strokes. As such, mitigating inflammation and countering the detrimental effects of free radicals (both of which Lion’s Mane extract is adept at accomplishing) emerges as a noteworthy benefit for cardiovascular health. By addressing these factors, Lion’s Mane may contribute to overall well-being and serve as a safeguard against conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and specific types of cancer.
Within the Lion Mane extract lies hericenone B, a compound that has “exhibited an inhibitory effect on the formation of blood clots” (5). This function is particularly important because blood clots are a significant risk factor when it comes to heart disease. By reducing the propensity for clot formation, Lion’s Mane adds another layer of protection against heart-related complications. This shows the potential it has as a valuable ally in promoting cardiac health.
Anxiety & Depression
By regulating the release of neurotransmitters and reducing neuroinflammation, emerging research suggests Lion’s Mane reduces anxiety and depression. A preliminary analysis indicated Lion’s Mane may help modulate the release of serotonin and dopamine, which play key roles in mood regulation. In other studies, it is noted that Lion’s Mane extract helped to improve the functioning of the hippocampus, a region of the brain in charge of memories and emotional responses.
Inflammation of the brain is also believed to be a major contributing factor to depression. New studies demonstrate Lion’s Mane extract has an anti-inflammatory effect (6) that can help reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. One of these studies showed that amycenone, a substance obtained from extracts of Lion’s Mane, has antidepressant effects in the LPS-induced inflammation model of depression.
Balances Blood Sugar Regulation
