Lions Mane: The Mushroom That Can Boost Your Brain

Last updated:
Mar 2024
Have you ever heard of the Lion's Mane mushroom? It is a mushroom that has traditionally been used in Chinese medicine and has promising properties when it comes to improving cognitive functions. In this article, we're going to tell you more about the benefits of this mushroom, and why it's worth adding it to your diet.

What is a Lion's Mane mushroom?

The Lion's Mane mushroom, or the “wig mushroom”, is a mushroom that mainly grows in Asia. It is known for its characteristic appearance: it has white, long, tentacle-like structures that look like a wig. This mushroom may have properties that can improve cognitive functions and nervous system health.

What are the benefits of the Lion's Mane mushroom?

One of the main benefits of the Lion's Mane is to improve cognitive functions. Some studies have shown that Lion's Mane extracts can reduce the causes of memory loss in rats and improve cognitive functions. Other studies suggest that using Lion's Mane supplements may increase mental clarity and focus in people.

In addition to improving cognitive functions, Lion's Mane mushrooms also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can contribute to healthy sleep and nervous system. Due to the anti-inflammatory properties of this mushroom, inflammation in the brain is reduced, which can reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

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How to use Lion's Mane?

Lion's Mane mushrooms are available in various forms, including supplements, tinctures, extracts, and dried mushrooms. While supplements are useful for determining the correct dosage, tinctures often the fastest and most effective absorption. Thanks to the low alcohol content in the tincture, the active ingredients of Lion's Mane are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. In addition, the alcohol helps to extract valuable substances from the mushroom that would otherwise be less easy to absorb. The recommended dose for a supplement is 500-1000 milligrams 1-2 times a day. Dried Lion's Mane mushrooms are also a versatile culinary addition and can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups and stews. There are many recipes for preparing these culinary delights online.

Are there any side effects?

Generally, Lion's Mane supplements are considered safe, especially when taken at the recommended dosage. No serious side effects have been reported, but some people may experience mild stomach problems. It is always recommended that you contact your doctor before you start taking supplements.

Want to read more about Lion's Mane? Then check out the article 'Lion's Mane: An introduction to this unique medicinal mushroom'.

Conclusion:

The Lion's Mane mushroom is an interesting mushroom that may have promising benefits for nervous system health and cognitive functions. Whether you're looking for ways to improve focus and clarity, or just want to develop healthier sleep habits, Lion's Mane supplements and extracts can be an effective option. Remember, always consult your doctor before you start taking supplements.

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Resources
1. Mori, K., Obara, Y., Hirota, M., Azumi, Y., Kinugasa, S., & Inatomi, S. (2008). Nerve growth factor-inducing activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells. Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 31(9), 1727-1732.2. Wong, K. H., Naidu, M., David, P., Abdulla, M. A., Abdullah, N., Kuppusamy, U. R., & Sabaratnam, V. (2012). Peripheral nerve regeneration following crush injury to rat peroneal nerve by aqueous extract of medicinal mushroom Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr) Pers.(Aphyllophoromycetideae). Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2012.3. Lai, P. L., Naidu, M., Sabaratnam, V., Wong, K. H., David, R. P., Kuppusamy, U. R., & Abdullah, N. (2013). Neurotrophic properties of the Lion's mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, 15(6).4. Phan, C. W., Wong, W. L., David, P., Naidu, M., Sabaratnam, V. (2014). Therapeutic potential of culinary-medicinal mushrooms for the management of neurodegenerative diseases: diversity, metabolite, and mechanism. Critical Reviews in Biotechnology, 34(4), 346-356.

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