The Ultimate Guide to Lion's Mane Mushroom: History, Health Benefits, and Research

Dutch: Pruikzwam

Latin: Hericium Erinaceus

Welcome to the most comprehensive source of information about Lion's Mane, the medicinal mushroom that not only has a rich history but also a promising future in modern medicine. Here, we dive deep into the world of this extraordinary fungus, whose health benefits range from stimulating cognitive functions to supporting the nervous system.

Growth area & conditions

Lion's Mane is native to Asia and North America, growing primarily on hardwood trees in humid, wooded areas. Although it is found primarily in countries such as China, Japan, and Korea, it has also been observed in some parts of North America and Europe. The mushroom prefers a humid and slightly shady environment, and is usually found in late summer and autumn.

History

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Lion's Mane has a rich history, especially in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine, where it was known as “Hou Tou Gu” or “Yamabushitake.” The mushroom was praised for its medicinal properties and was a privilege of the nobility.

The first written documentation of Lion's Mane can be traced to the Tang dynasty in China (618-907 AD), where it was believed to promote longevity and improve brain function.

‍Fun Fact: Ancient texts suggest that it could impart the strength of a lion and an elephant's memory, which explains its name.

In addition, Lion's Mane was also used in monastic traditions. Monks and spiritual practitioners would use the mushroom to improve their concentration during meditation. Various historical accounts show that this mushroom was not only valued for its medicinal properties but also for its taste; it was often described as a luxury ingredient in the cuisine of kings and nobles.

Finally, the mushroom has found a place in folklore and myths. In some cultures, the Lion's Mane mushroom was believed to have mystical powers, and it was often associated with legends of immortality and spiritual enlightenment.

Nutritional values of fresh Lion's Mane (100gr) *
Energy	33 kcal
Proteins	3.0 g
Fats	0.3 g
Of which saturated	0.1 g
Carbohydrates	6.0 g
Of which sugars	2.0 g
Fibers	2.1 g
Vitamin D	3 ONION
Vitamin B6	0.1 mg
Potassium	400 mg

Nutritional values of dried Lion's Mane (100gr) *
Energy	296 kcal‍
Proteins	26 g
Fats	2.5 g
Of which saturated	0.5 g
Carbohydrates	18 g
Of which sugars	2.0 g
Fibers	19 g
Vitamin D	27 ONION
Vitamin B6	0.9 mg
Potassium	3600 mg

*It is important to note that mushroom nutritional values may vary depending on growing conditions, harvest season, and other factors. In addition, the availability of detailed nutritional information may vary.

Modern science

Over the past decades, modern science has shown increasing interest in the medicinal properties of Lion's Mane. Several studies point to potential benefits such as promoting neural growth, fighting inflammation, and supporting overall mental health. It is being actively investigated for its possible role in treating neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's and Multiple Sclerosis.

In addition, recent studies have shown that Lion's Mane may also have antimicrobial and anticancer properties. This mushroom contains a range of bioactive compounds, including hericenones and erinacins, that have potential therapeutic effects. Because of these substances, Lion's Mane is an interesting topic for pharmaceutical research, with clinical trials now underway.

In addition, Lion's Mane is also being studied in the context of mental health. There is evidence that it can reduce anxiety and depression, and even improve cognitive functioning. While more research is needed to verify these claims, the preliminary scientific consensus is promising and exciting.
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Published studies about Lion's Mane

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Publisher	Year
“Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial”	2009
“Anticancer potential of Hericium erinaceus extracts against human gastrointestinal cancers”	2014
“Anti-Fatigue Activities of Polysaccharides Extracted from Hericium erinaceus”	2015
“Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks of Hericium erinaceus intake”	2010
“Nerve Growth Factor-Inducing Activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1 Human Astrocytoma Cells”	2008

Using Lion's Mane

Lion's Mane is versatile and can be consumed in many ways. Whether you eat it fresh, make it into tea, add it in powder form to your smoothie, or opt for a tincture, each form has unique benefits. We'll cover these different forms and their respective benefits extensively in the following slides so that you can make an informed choice.

Gehakte lions mane met een theelepel waar een tinctuur uit druppelt

Lion's Mane Tincture

The fastest and most effective way to experience the benefits of lion's mane is with high-quality tinctures. Instantly absorbable, our tinctures ensure almost immediate absorption of all active nutrients, directly into your bloodstream. This is the most efficient way to incorporate the health benefits of mushrooms into your daily routine.

High quality tinctures

poeders van dieverse paddenstoelen in witte lepels omringd door diverse paddenstoelen

Lion's Mane powder

A versatile choice for the DIY enthusiast in you. Lion's mane powder can easily be added to smoothies, meals, or even coffee. Although the absorption is not as immediate as with tinctures, the mushroom powder offers a convenient way to get your daily dose of mushrooms.

Een plaat met lions mane waarvan een exemplaar door midden is gesneden met het mes ernaast

Fresh Lion's Mane

Consuming fresh Lion's Mane offers an authentic, earthy experience, but freshness can be a limiting factor. They are a great addition to culinary dishes, but have a shorter shelf life and should be consumed quickly.

Een japanse theepoit met verse lion's mane op de achtergrond

Lion's Mane Tea

Lion's Mane tea is a traditional way to enjoy its benefits. Although it is a soothing and tasty option, the absorption of the active nutrients is generally slower than when using tinctures.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about Lion's Mane

1. What exactly is Lion's Mane?

Lion's Mane is a type of edible mushroom that is mainly found in Asia. It is known for its health-promoting properties, such as improving cognitive function and supporting the immune system.

2. Where does Lion's Mane occur naturally?

Lion's Mane occurs naturally in the forests of North America, Europe, and Asia, especially in areas with a temperate climate.

3. What are the health benefits of Lion's Mane?

Lion's Mane has been associated in various studies with promoting neurological health, improving cognitive function, and supporting the immune system.

4. How can I consume Lion's Mane?

Lion's Mane is available in various forms, including fresh mushrooms, powders, and tinctures. At Mystic Spores, we use a triple extraction method and ultrasonic extraction for our tinctures.

5. Are there any known side effects about Lion's Mane?

Although Lion's Mane is generally considered safe, in rare cases, people may experience allergic reactions. At Mystic Spores, we haven't had a single case of an allergic reaction to any of our tinctures.

6. Is Lion's Mane suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

Yes, Lion's Mane is a plant-based product and therefore suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.

7. What makes Mystic Spores tinctures unique?

Our tinctures come from organic fruit bodies and undergo triple and ultrasonic extraction, which breaks open the cell walls to release the active components.

8. How long does it take before I notice effects?

The time it takes to notice effects may vary from person to person, but users typically report feeling improvements within a few days to a few weeks.

9. Can I combine Lion's Mane with other medications?

Lion's Mane may have a blood thinning effect, which may cause complications for people who are already taking blood thinners. It is not recommended to use Lion's Mane in this case. It is also advisable to always consult a doctor when in doubt.

Mystic Spores

At Mystic Spores, you are assured of the very best in medicinal mushrooms. All of our tinctures are made from 100% organic fruit bodies and undergo a triple extraction procedure to ensure maximum potency and effectiveness. By using ultrasonic extraction, we break open the cell walls of the mushrooms, releasing all the beneficial substances and making them easy to absorb by your body. The result? A fast-acting, high-quality product that is perfect for your daily wellbeing routine.

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The Ultimate Guide to Lion's Mane Mushroom: History, Health Benefits, and Research

Growth area & conditions

History

Modern science

Published studies about Lion's Mane