Lion's Mane Mushroom is not only a nutrition food, it is also a Medicine for Brain
Lion’s Mane (Hericum Erinaceus), also known as Hou Tou Gu, are large, white, and shaggy mushrooms that resemble a lion’s mane. For centuries they have been used in traditional Japanese herbalism by making it into a tea and using it as a tonic.
Lion’s mane mushroom boosts nerve growth factor (NGF), helping with neuron and brain tissue repair, maintenance, and regeneration. It can improve memory and concentration while supporting cognitive function and the nervous system. It contains high levels of beta-glucans (25%+) known for their immune-supportive properties, as well as antioxidants for cellular protection, and increased vitality.
Lion's Mane Mushrooms For Brain Health
It is evident that brain functions naturally slow down over time. The symptoms associated with aging such as cognitive decline, memory loss, and lack of focus have been linked to factors like shrinking neurons and damaged brain cells.
Research shows that Lion’s mane mushroom has the potential to promote brain health by stimulating the creation of Nerve growth factor (NGF) and Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).
NGF and BDNF are proteins that stimulate the production of new cells and strengthen existing ones. NGF is also important in the formation of myelin, the covering around nerve cells that helps transmit impulses stimulating brain cells to do their job. BDNF increases brain pliability, helping the brain cells to maintain their integrity.
Help for Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Currently, no human studies have been done to examine the effects of Hericium erinaceus on Alzheimer’s patients.
In mouse studies, however, extracts of the mushroom were able to reduce symptoms of memory loss and prevent beta-amyloid (β-amyloid) plaque damage*.
Since β-amyloid buildup is a key factor in the development of Alzheimer’s, this activity could have significant implications for preventing or even treating the disease*.
Other studies reveal additional ways lion’s mane could help prevent damage associated with both dementia and Alzheimer’s*:
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Hericium erinaceus extracts improved memory and reduced Alzheimer’s symptoms in rat studies.
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The mushroom may up-regulate an anti-inflammatory molecule known as lipoxin A4 within the brain, leading to a reduction in inflammation-related damage suspected of playing a role in cognitive decline
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In a mouse model of Alzheimer’s, erinacine-A-enriched lion’s mane mycelia showed anti-plaque activity and promoted both NGF and its precursor, leading to neurogenesis (nerve growth) in the hippocampus
REDUCE DEPRESSION, ANXIETY AND HELP AUTISM
Lion’s mane isn’t only a powerhouse for memory—it may also help with mood. Extracts of Hericium erinaceus appear to regenerate cells in the hippocampus, the area of brain responsible for emotional response and memories.
In a mouse model, the mushroom showed potential to support neurogenesis, the process of growing new nerve cells.
The practical daily benefit of all this can be seen in studies relating to anxiety and depression. A four-week trial involving a group of 30 post-menopausal women found that cookies made with lion’s mane won out over placebo cookies for reducing anxiety and irritability.
Lion’s mane extracts have been shown to block the signaling power of nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-kB), a protein complex responsible for promoting inflammation by inducing synthesis of pro-inflammatory compounds*. The mushroom can also reduce elevated levels of two pro-inflammatory cytokines known as IL-6 and TNF-alpha.
Because inflammation may play a role in some mood disorders, these actions could offer significant benefits for people struggling with anxiety and depression*.