Unless you've been living under a rock, you've probably heard about Lion's Mane. Legend has it that even Buddhist Shaolin monks have not only heard about it, but use it in their meditation practices!
The mushroom, known scientifically as Hericium erinaceus, has become one of the most famous fungi in the world—more critically acclaimed than a Steven Spielberg movie. This high praise is not without merit.
Despite the mushroom skyrocketing to prominence in recent years, it's not actually a new discovery, as Lion's Mane has been used in traditional Asian and European medicine for centuries. Fast forward to today, this potent adaptogen has gained an impressive reputation as an effective supplement for those seeking to enhance their cognitive function, focus and memory. Which let’s face it, we could all do with from time to time.
In this blog we’ll deep dive into the awe-inspiring benefits of Lion's Mane, so you can decide whether it’s right for you (spoiler alert: it most definitely is!)
1. Cognitive Health Enhancement
Lion's Mane is often given the nickname 'smart mushroom', due to it's potential impact on cognitive health. Studies have shown that even a small amount of Lion’s Mane per day may help reduce brain fog, improve memory, cognitive function and mood.
But how is it possible for a mushroom to do such a thing?
Well, Lion’s Mane contains two unique bioactive compounds: hericenones and erinacines. These compounds are unique for two reasons:
- They are only found in this mushroom, nowhere else in nature.
- They can cross the blood-brain barrier in the human body.
This is important because once in the brain, these compounds stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which is a protein that stimulates the growth and proliferation of new brain cells, especially in the hippocampus.
This is the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory.
This boost in NGF levels has been shown to support brain function and memory retention. Most memory problems result from cognitive decline due to factors like age or genetic predisposition. By boosting NGF production, individuals can maintain a sharp mind well into old age.
Preliminary studies suggest that Lion's Mane may slow down or reverse cell degeneration in the brain, offering hope for neurodegenerative conditions.
One such study was conducted in Japan on 50-80 year old adults with mild cognitive decline, who were given Lion’s Mane extract (3g / day total) for 16 weeks. Subjects receiving the extract increased scores on cognitive function without any adverse side effects.
Lion's Mane may help strengthen and create new neural pathways in the brain, improving overall brain function. Lion’s Mane has also shown promise as a neuroprotective agent, meaning it can protect existing neurones from damage.
Which is pretty incredible for a humble mushroom!
2. Battles Low Mood & Stress
The two primary bioactive compounds found in Lion's Mane, erinacine and hericenones, are unique in their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.
In addition to supporting cognitive function, the downstream effects of NGF stimulation and potential anti-inflammatory effects may help to uplift mood, reduce stress, and even combat mental health ailments.
A 4-week study in women (age 41 ± 5.6 years) experiencing menopausal symptoms (lack of concentration, stress, irritability, etc.) found that supplementing with Lion’s Mane improved their menopausal symptoms as well as their sleep quality.
3. Focus Amplification
In our fast-paced modern world, an increasing number of individuals are seeking a natural way to enhance their focus and memory.
Little wonder then that Lion's Mane has become so sought after for its capacity to promote focus and memory. Lion's Mane supplementation has been shown to increase acetylcholine levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter associated with memory and learning. This may help explain the boost in motivation and productivity many people report when taking Lion's Mane.
So, whether you’re studying for a big exam, writing a long article on mushrooms (like this one), or just trying to focus better in the office, Lion's Mane can help. Those once dreaded tasks will soon feel like a walk in the park!
Thanks to its ability to boost NGF levels, Lion's Mane can also amplify your working memory and ability to learn. This is due to the neurones in the hippocampus, the area in the brain associated with learning and memory, being more efficient at storing and accessing information when stimulated by NGF.
Furthermore, Lion's Mane may also increase dopamine in the brain, fostering focus and concentration without leading to feelings of overstimulation, a common side effect of alternatives like caffeine.
4. Liver Function Support
Lion's Mane has been shown to protect and support liver function. A study conducted on mice showed that the extract of Lion's Mane inhibited hepatic injury by decreasing serum enzymes, such as ALT and AST levels.
It also increased antioxidant enzyme activity in liver cells while protecting them from free-radical damage. Given your liver’s essential role in filtering out toxins, keeping it in good health should be everyone’s top priority. Lion’s Mane can help with that.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Lion's Mane is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate chronic inflammation.
The compounds found within Lion’s Mane activate anti-inflammatory macrophages and cytokines, which act together to reduce swelling and discomfort throughout the body.
6. Gut Health Promotion
Like most mushrooms, Lion's Mane contains high levels of Vitamin D, which helps with calcium absorption. This is critical for maintaining a healthy gut. There is also Chitin-Glucan, an insoluble fiber that can improve digestion and nutrient absorption while promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in your intestines to stimulate immune system function.
7. Neurodegenerative Ailment Prevention
It’s a truth that none of us want to admit, but the reality is that 1 in 2 of us will suffer from cognitive decline as we age, including serious degenerative ailments.
As previously mentioned, Lion's Mane contains bioactive compounds that cross the blood-brain barrier and are capable of activating NGF production, thereby helping to maintain brain cell health.
Studies in mice have also demonstrated that supplementing with Lion's Mane reduces harmful beta-amyloid proteins, protecting brain cells and inhibiting neurodegenerative progression.
8. Immune System Enhancement
Lion's Mane is packed with beta-glucans, a type of polysaccharide known to support the immune system function by increasing the activity of T-cells and macrophages.
Since Lion's Mane is able to activate macrophages in your body, it can also activate the production of cytokines, which are responsible for protecting cells from damage and promoting healthy cell function.
As if that wasn’t enough, Lion's Mane also contains a compound called Ergothioneine, which acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory to help protect your muscles from exercise-induced damage.
9. Metabolic Aid
Lion's Mane promotes adiponectin production, a hormone that increases your resting metabolic rate and aids in glucose regulation.
It achieves this by increasing insulin sensitivity in muscle cells, making them more effective at burning fatty acids for energy. This also helps prevent leptin resistance, which is common among individuals who overeat due to excessive hunger.
10. Resilience Promotion
Commonly used as an adaptogen, Lion's Mane can help promote healthy brain function and resilience, particularly beneficial for individuals with demanding work schedules or intense exercise regimens.
Lion's Mane might also indirectly contribute to increased motivation and resilience through its effects on cognitive function and stress reduction.
The takeaway is that Lion's Mane can help you complete more tasks or goals set for yourself without feeling burnt out!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Lion's Mane mushrooms offer a wealth of benefits, from memory enhancement to inflammation reduction, mood upliftment, and beyond. Whilst these benefits have long been known in Asia, it’s exciting to see modern science catching on to the incredible health properties of Lion’s Mane.
At Shroomex, we are proud to offer the world's most potent Lion's Mane extract, which you can purchase here. Do your brain a favour and get on it!
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