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Lion's mane mushroom health benefits


9 Health Benefits of Lion's Mane Mushroom (Plus Side Effects)

By Erica Julson, MS, RDN, CLT on May 19, 2018

Lion’s mane mushrooms, also known as hou tou gu or yamabushitake, are large, white, shaggy mushrooms that resemble a lion’s mane as they grow.

They have both culinary and medical uses in Asian countries like China, India, Japan and Korea (1).

Lion’s mane mushrooms can be enjoyed raw, cooked, dried or steeped as a tea. Their extracts often used in over-the-counter health supplements.

Many describe their flavor as “seafood-like,” often comparing it to crab or lobster (2).

Lion’s mane mushrooms contain bioactive substances that have beneficial effects on the body, especially the brain, heart and gut.

Here are 9 health benefits of lion’s mane mushrooms and their extracts.

1. Could Protect Against Dementia

The brain’s ability to grow and form new connections typically declines with age, which may explain why mental functioning gets worse in many older adults (3).

Studies have found that lion’s mane mushrooms contain two special compounds that can stimulate the growth of brain cells: hericenones and erinacines (4).

Additionally, animal studies have found that lion’s mane may help protect against Alzheimer’s disease, a degenerative brain disease that causes progressive memory loss.

In fact, lion’s mane mushroom and its extracts have been shown to reduce symptoms of memory loss in mice, as well as prevent neuronal damage caused by amyloid-beta plaques, which accumulate in the brain during Alzheimer’s disease (5, 6, 7, 8).

While no studies have analyzed whether lion’s mane mushroom is beneficial for Alzheimer’s disease in humans, it appears to boost mental functioning.

A study in older adults with mild cognitive impairment found that consuming 3 grams of powdered lion’s mane mushroom daily for four months significantly improved mental functioning, but these benefits disappeared when supplementation stopped (9).

The ability of lion’s mane mushroom to promote nerve growth and protect the brain from Alzheimer’s-related damage may explain some of its beneficial effects on brain health.

However, it’s important to note that most of the research has been conducted in animals or in test tubes. Therefore, more human studies are needed.

Summary

Lion’s mane mushrooms contain compounds that stimulate the growth of brain cells and protect them from damage caused by Alzheimer’s disease. However, more human research is needed.

2. Helps Relieve Mild Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety

Up to one-third of people living in developed countries experience symptoms of anxiety and depression (10).

While there are many causes of anxiety and depression, chronic inflammation could be a major contributing factor.

New animal research has found that lion’s mane mushroom extract has anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in mice (11, 12).

Other animal studies have found that lion’s mane extract can also help regenerate brain cells and improve the functioning of the hippocampus, a region of the brain responsible for processing memories and emotional responses (13, 14).

Researchers believe that improved functioning of the hippocampus may explain the reductions in anxious and depressive behaviors in mice given these extracts.

While these animal studies are promising, there is very little research in humans.

One small study in menopausal women found that eating cookies containing lion’s mane mushrooms daily for one month helped reduce self-reported feelings of irritation and anxiety (15).

Summary

Studies suggest that lion’s mane mushrooms may help relieve mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, but more human research is needed to better understand the correlation.

3. May Speed Recovery from Nervous System Injuries

The nervous system consists of the brain, spinal cord and other nerves that travel throughout the body. These components work together to send and transmit signals that control almost every bodily function.

Injuries to the brain or spinal cord can be devastating. They often cause paralysis or loss of mental functions and can take a long time to heal.

However, research has found that lion’s mane mushroom extract may help speed recovery from these types of injuries by stimulating the growth and repair of nerve cells (16, 17, 18).

In fact, lion’s mane mushroom extract has been shown to reduce recovery time by 23–41% when given to rats with nervous system injuries (19).

Lion’s mane extract may also help reduce the severity of brain damage after a stroke.

In one study, high doses of lion’s mane mushroom extract given to rats immediately after a stroke helped decrease inflammation and reduce the size of stroke-related brain injury by 44% (20).

While these results are promising, no studies have been conducted in humans to determine if lion’s mane would have the same therapeutic effect on nervous system injuries.

Summary

Rat studies have found that lion’s mane extract can speed up recovery time from nervous system injuries, but human research is lacking.

4. Protects Against Ulcers in the Digestive Tract

Ulcers are capable of forming anywhere along the digestive tract, including the stomach, small intestine and large intestine.

Stomach ulcers are often caused by two major factors: overgrowth of a bacteria called H. pylori and damage to the mucous layer of the stomach that’s often due to long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (21).

Lion’s mane extract may protect against the development of stomach ulcers by inhibiting the growth of H. pylori and protecting the stomach lining from damage (2, 22).

Several studies have found that lion’s mane extract can prevent the growth of H. pylori in a test tube, but no studies have tested whether they have the same effects inside the stomach (23, 24).

Additionally, an animal study found that lion’s mane extract was more effective at preventing alcohol-induced stomach ulcers than traditional acid-lowering drugs — and without any negative side effects (25).

Lion’s mane extract can also reduce inflammation and prevent tissue damage in other areas of the intestines. In fact, they may help treat inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease (26, 27, 28).

One study in people with ulcerative colitis found that taking a mushroom supplement containing 14% lion’s mane extract significantly reduced symptoms and improved quality of life after three weeks (29).

However, when the same study was repeated in patients with Crohn’s disease, the benefits were no better than a placebo (30).

It’s important to note that the herbal supplement used in these studies included several types of mushrooms, so it’s difficult to draw any conclusions about the effects of lion’s mane specifically.

Overall, research suggests that lion’s mane extract may help inhibit the development of ulcers, but more human research is needed.

Summary

Lion’s mane extract has been shown to protect against stomach and intestinal ulcers in rodents, but human research has been conflicting.

5. Reduces Heart Disease Risk

Major risk factors for heart disease include obesity, high triglycerides, large amounts of oxidized cholesterol and an increased tendency to get blood clots.

Research shows that lion’s mane extract can influence some of these factors and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Studies in rats and mice have found that lion’s mane mushroom extract improves fat metabolism and lowers triglyceride levels (31).

One study in rats fed a high-fat diet and given daily doses of lion’s mane extract observed 27% lower triglyceride levels and 42% less weight gain after 28 days (32).

Since obesity and high triglycerides are both considered risk factors for heart disease, this is one way that lion’s mane mushrooms contribute to heart health.

Test-tube studies have also found that lion’s mane extract can help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in the bloodstream (33).

Oxidized cholesterol molecules tend to attach to the walls of arteries, causing them to harden and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Therefore, reducing oxidation is beneficial for heart health.

What’s more, lion’s mane mushrooms contain a compound called hericenone B, which can decrease the rate of blood clotting and lower the risk of heart attack or stroke (34).

Lion’s mane mushrooms appear to benefit the heart and blood vessels in multiple ways, but human studies are needed to support this.

Summary

Animal and test-tube studies suggest that lion’s mane extract can reduce the risk of heart disease in several ways, but human studies are needed to confirm these findings.

6. Helps Manage Diabetes Symptoms

Diabetes is a disease that occurs when the body loses the ability to control blood sugar levels. As a result, levels are consistently elevated.

Chronically high blood sugar levels eventually cause complications like kidney disease, nerve damage in the hands and feet and vision loss.

Lion’s mane mushroom may be beneficial for diabetes management by improving blood sugar control and reducing some of these side effects.

Several animal studies have shown that lion’s mane can cause significantly lower blood sugar levels in both normal and diabetic mice, even at daily dosages as low as 2.7 mg per pound (6 mg per kg) of body weight (35, 36).

One way that lion’s mane lowers blood sugars is by blocking the activity of the enzyme alpha-glucosidase, which breaks down carbs in the small intestine (37).

When this enzyme is blocked, the body is unable to digest and absorb carbs as effectively, which results in lower blood sugar levels.

In addition to lowering blood sugars, lion’s mane extract may reduce diabetic nerve pain in the hands and feet.

In mice with diabetic nerve damage, six weeks of daily lion’s mushroom extract significantly reduced pain, lowered blood sugar levels and even increased antioxidant levels (38).

Lion’s mane mushroom shows potential as a therapeutic supplement for diabetes, but more research is needed to determine exactly how it might be used in humans.

Summary

Lion’s mane mushroom can help lower blood sugar and reduce diabetic nerve pain in mice, but more studies are needed to determine whether it might be a good therapeutic option in humans.

7. May Help Fight Cancer

Cancer occurs when DNA becomes damaged and causes cells to divide and replicate out of control.

Some research suggests that lion’s mane mushroom has cancer-fighting abilities, thanks to several of its unique compounds (39, 40).

In fact, when lion’s mane extract is mixed with human cancer cells in a test tube, they cause the cancer cells to die at a faster rate. This has been demonstrated with several types of cancer cells, including liver, colon, stomach and blood cancer cells (41, 42, 43).

However, at least one study has failed to replicate these results, so more studies are needed (44).

In addition to killing cancer cells, lion’s mane extract has also been shown to slow the spread of cancer.

One study in mice with colon cancer found that taking lion’s mane extract reduced the spread of cancer to the lungs by 69% (45).

Another study found that lion’s mane extract was more effective than traditional cancer medications at slowing tumor growth in mice, in addition to having fewer side effects (42).

However, the anti-cancer effects of lion’s mane mushroom have never been tested in humans, so more research is needed.

Summary

Animal and test-tube studies show that lion’s mane extract can kill cancer cells and slow the spread of tumors, but human studies are still needed.

8. Reduces Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are believed to be at the root of many modern illnesses, including heart disease, cancer and autoimmune disorders (46).

Research shows that lion’s mane mushrooms contain powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that may help reduce the impact of these illnesses (47).

In fact, one study examining the antioxidant abilities of 14 different mushroom species found that lion’s mane had the fourth highest antioxidant activity and recommended it be considered a good dietary source of antioxidants (48).

Several animal studies have found that lion’s mane extract reduced markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in rodents and may be especially useful in the management of inflammatory bowel disease, liver damage and stroke (20, 26, 49, 50).

Lion’s mane mushrooms may also help reduce some of the health risks associated with obesity, as they have been shown to decrease the amount of inflammation released by fat tissue (51).

More studies are needed to determine the potential health benefits in humans, but the results from lab and animal studies are promising.

Summary

Lion’s mane mushroom contains powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce the impact of chronic illness.

9. Boosts the Immune System

A strong immune system protects the body from bacteria, viruses and other disease-causing pathogens.

On the other hand, a weak immune system puts the body at a higher risk of developing infectious diseases.

Animal research shows that lion’s mane mushroom can boost immunity by increasing the activity of the intestinal immune system, which protects the body from pathogens that enter the gut through the mouth or nose (52).

These effects may partly be due to beneficial changes in gut bacteria that stimulate the immune system (53).

One study even found that supplementing with lion’s mane extract daily nearly quadrupled the lifespan of mice injected with a lethal dose of salmonella bacteria (54).

The immune-boosting effects of lion’s mane mushrooms are very promising, but this area of research is still developing.

Summary

Lion’s mane mushrooms have been shown to have immune-boosting effects in rodents, but much more research is needed.

Safety and Side Effects

No human studies have examined the side effects of lion’s mane mushroom or its extract, but they appear to be very safe.

No adverse effects have been seen in rats, even at doses as high as 2.3 grams per pound (5 grams per kg) of body weight per day for one month or lower dosages for three months (55, 56, 57).

However, anyone who is allergic or sensitive to mushrooms should avoid lion’s mane, since it is a species of mushroom.

There have been documented cases of people experiencing difficulty breathing or skin rashes after exposure to lion’s mane mushrooms, likely related to allergies (58, 59).

Summary

Animal studies suggest that lion’s mane mushroom and its extracts are very safe, even at high doses. However, allergic reactions in humans have been reported, so anyone with a known mushroom allergy should avoid it.

The Bottom Line

Lion’s mane mushroom and its extract have been shown to have a variety of health benefits.

Research has found that lion’s mane may protect against dementia, reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression and help repair nerve damage.

It also has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting abilities and been shown to lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, ulcers and diabetes in animals.

While the current research is promising, more human studies are needed to develop practical health applications for lion’s mane mushroom.

Lion’s Mane Mushrooms: What Are The Benefits

Written by Venkat S.R.

Reviewed by Christine Mikstas, RD, LD on May 20, 2022

In this Article

  • Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
  • May Help Overcome Dementia
  • Could Reduce Anxiety and Depression
  • Possible Side Effects of Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
  • Conclusion

Lion’s mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus) are big, white mushrooms that resemble a lion’s mane (hence the name). Although they’re generally thought of as a single type of mushroom, there are three different species, with Hericium erinaceus being the one that’s most widely available.

Lion’s mane mushrooms usually look like white pom-poms and have culinary, as well as medicinal, applications. They are extensively used in Asian countries such as Korea, Japan, India, and China. The demand for these mushrooms is growing quickly since it has several applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries.

Now, lion’s mane mushrooms are found in grocery stores, your favorite restaurants, supplement shops, and even some of the most popular coffee varieties. You can get your fix of lion’s mane in the form of powders you can add to your morning cup of coffee or find in capsules. 

Lion’s mane mushrooms have a flavor that many describe as similar to seafood, and it’s enjoyed either raw, dried, or cooked.

Lion’s mane mushrooms are also very nutritious and are rich in vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. It’s also a good source of essential minerals such as manganese, zinc, and potassium.

Research shows that lion's mane has many health-promoting ingredients that come with several benefits.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties

Many health conditions such as heart diseases and autoimmune disorders such as arthritis are due to chronic inflammation. Lion’s mane mushrooms are rich in a specific type of carbohydrate called oligosaccharides that have many critical biological functions including antioxidative and antitumor activities.

They also exhibit immune-stimulating functions, all of which combine to lower the inflammatory fallout of such conditions. Research conducted to understand the antioxidant qualities of several types of mushrooms found that lion’s mane mushrooms show the fourth most potent antioxidant activity. Some studies also indicate the benefits of lion’s mane mushrooms to fight obesity by lowering the impact of fat tissue inflammation.

May Help Overcome Dementia

As you age, the ability of your brain to form connections reduces along with its capacity to form new brain cells called neurons, and this leads to diminished mental functioning in elderly people. Studies have found that lion’s mane mushrooms, though, are a good source of hericenones and erinacines, two chemicals that accelerate the growth of brain cells.

A chemical called the nerve growth factor (NGF) is similarly essential for the normal functioning of the part of the brain (called the basal forebrain) that produces acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is one of the most common neurotransmitters that is used by neurons (brain cells) to transmit information and is also the chemical responsible for your waking state. Stimulating the basal forebrain leads to the release of this chemical in your brain that in turn causes you to wake up.

Studies have shown that NGF enables prolonged acetylcholine release, and chemicals such as hericenones and erinacines help induce NGF production in nerve cells. The presence of NGF is directly proportional to acetylcholine activity.

Other studies, meanwhile, found that when older adults who had cognitive impairments ate three grams of lion’s mane mushroom every day for four months, it led to considerably enhanced mental functioning. Moreover, their functioning reduced when they stopped taking the supplements.

Lion’s mane is also a very good source of neurotrophic compounds, a family of biomolecules (most of which are protein-based) that promote the growth, survival, and several physiological functions of both new and mature neurons. These neurotrophic compounds have a positive impact on human nerve cells that may help overcome many neurodegenerative conditions such as:

  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Huntington’s disease
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Motor neuron disease
  • Prion disease
  • Spinal muscular atrophy

Could Reduce Anxiety and Depression

Lion’s mane extracts could have possible benefits in treating depression and anxiety. To test this possibility, a study was carried out on Japanese women with many health conditions, including menopausal symptoms and poor sleep. Some of these women were given lion’s mane extracts while others were given placebo cookies for four weeks.  

The women who were given extracts of lion’s mane reported lower levels of stress and anxiety compared to the placebo group. 

Of course, further research needs to be done to determine the impact of lion’s mane on anxiety and depression. Also, since not many studies have been done to determine the benefits of lion’s mane, there is not much information about the recommended dosage.

Possible Side Effects of Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

There’s not much research currently available assessing whether it’s safe to eat lion’s mane for a prolonged period or about its side effects. Since it’s a species of mushroom, though, it’s better to be cautious. If you have a history of allergies, asthma, or any other medical condition, you would be better off checking with your doctor whether it’s safe for you to eat lion’s mane mushrooms in any form – in your food or as a supplement.

There have also been reports of individuals who have had difficulty breathing and skin rashes that have been linked to eating lion’s mane mushrooms.

Conclusion

While there are some advantages of lion’s mane mushrooms, you should keep in mind that there’s much research still being done to find evidence of its exact benefits. This is one of the main reasons why it’s too early to make conclusions about its specific upsides.

You should also keep this in mind when you come across products that mention health benefits, since research on the effectiveness of lion’s mane is yet to be done extensively on humans. Although several products already state these benefits, these products may not adhere to FDA regulations.

To cite an example, in 2019, the FDA had asked a company that promoted its lion’s mane supplement with claims that it’s beneficial for “brain injury recovery” to stop making such claims.

health benefits and side effects

What are lion's mane mushrooms?

Lion's mane mushrooms, also known as "hou tou gu" or "yamabushitake", are large white hairy mushrooms that resemble a lion's mane as they grow.

They are used in both culinary and medicinal applications in Asian countries such as China, India, Japan and Korea.

Lion's mane mushrooms can be eaten raw, boiled, dried or brewed as a tea. Their extracts are often used in over-the-counter health supplements.

Many describe their taste as "seafood", often comparing it to crab or lobster.

Lion's mane mushrooms contain biologically active substances that have a beneficial effect on the body, especially on the brain, heart and intestines.

Here are 9 health benefits of lion's mane mushrooms and their extracts.

1. Lion's mane mushrooms may protect against dementia.

The brain's ability to grow and form new connections typically declines with age, which may explain why mental functioning declines in many older people.

Studies have shown that lion's mane mushrooms contain two specific compounds that can stimulate the growth of brain cells: hericenones and erinacins.

In addition, animal studies have shown that lion's mane may help protect against Alzheimer's disease, a degenerative brain disease that causes progressive memory loss.

Lion's mane mushroom and its extracts have been shown to reduce symptoms of memory loss in mice and also prevent neuronal damage caused by beta-amyloid plaques that build up in the brain during Alzheimer's disease.

Although no studies have analyzed whether lion's mane is beneficial for Alzheimer's disease in humans, it appears to improve mental functioning.

A study in older adults with mild cognitive impairment found that eating 3 grams of minced lion's mane mushroom daily for four months significantly improved mental functioning, but these benefits disappeared when supplementation was discontinued.

Lion's mane mushroom's ability to promote nerve growth and protect the brain from damage associated with Alzheimer's may explain some of its beneficial effects on brain health.

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However, it is important to note that most of the research has been done on animals or in test tubes. Therefore, more human studies are needed.

Summary: Lion's mane mushrooms contain compounds that stimulate the growth of brain cells and protect them from damage caused by Alzheimer's disease. However, more human studies are needed.

2. Lion's mane mushroom helps relieve mild symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Up to a third of people living in developed countries experience symptoms of anxiety and depression.

While there are many causes of anxiety and depression, chronic inflammation can be one of the main factors.

A new animal study shows that lion's mane mushroom extract has an anti-inflammatory effect that can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in mice.

Other animal studies have shown that lion's mane extract may also help regenerate brain cells and improve the functioning of the hippocampus, the area of ​​the brain responsible for processing memories and emotional responses.

Researchers believe that improved hippocampal function may explain the reduction in anxiety and depressive behavior in mice treated with these extracts.

While these animal studies are promising, there are very few human studies.

One small study in menopausal women found that eating lion's mane mushroom biscuits daily for one month helped reduce self-reported feelings of irritability and anxiety.

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Summary: Research suggests that lion's mane mushrooms may help relieve mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, but more human research is needed to better understand the relationship.

3. Lion's mane mushrooms can speed up recovery after injuries to the nervous system.

The nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord and other nerves that run throughout the body. These components work together to send and transmit signals that control almost every bodily function.

Injuries to the brain or spinal cord can be very severe. They often cause paralysis or loss of mental function and can take a long time to heal.

However, studies have shown that Lion's Mane Mushroom Extract can help speed recovery from these injuries by stimulating nerve cell growth and repair.

Lion's mane mushroom extract has been shown to reduce recovery time by 23-41% when administered to rats with nerve injury.

Lion's mane extract may also help reduce the severity of brain damage after a stroke.

In one study, high doses of lion's mane mushroom extract in rats immediately after a stroke helped reduce inflammation and reduce the size of a brain injury caused by a stroke by 44%.

Although these results are promising, no human studies have been conducted to determine if lion's mane has the same therapeutic effect on nervous system injuries.

Summary: Studies in rats have shown that lion's mane extract can speed up recovery from nerve injury, but human studies are lacking.

4. Mushrooms "Lion's mane" protect against ulcers of the digestive tract.

Ulcers can form anywhere in the digestive tract, including the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.

Gastric ulcers are often caused by two main factors: an overgrowth of a bacteria called H. pylori and damage to the stomach lining, often due to long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

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Lion's mane extract may protect against the development of stomach ulcers by inhibiting the growth of H. pylori and protecting the gastric mucosa from damage.

Several studies have shown that lion's mane extract can prevent the growth of H. pylori in vitro, but no studies have tested whether they have the same effects in the stomach.

In addition, an animal study showed that lion's mane extract was more effective in preventing alcohol-induced stomach ulcers than conventional acid-lowering drugs, and without any negative side effects.

Lion's mane extract may also reduce inflammation and prevent tissue damage in other areas of the intestine. They can help treat inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

One study in people with ulcerative colitis found that taking a mushroom supplement containing 14% lion's mane extract significantly reduced symptoms and improved quality of life after three weeks.

However, when the same study was repeated in patients with Crohn's disease, the benefit was no better than placebo.

It is important to note that the herbal supplement used in these studies included several types of mushrooms, so it is difficult to draw any conclusions about the effects of lion's mane specifically.

Overall, research suggests that lion's mane extract may help suppress the development of ulcers, but more human studies are needed.

Summary: Lion's mane extract has been shown to protect against stomach and intestinal ulcers in rodents, but human studies are inconsistent.

5. Lion's mane mushrooms reduce the risk of heart disease.

Major risk factors for heart disease include obesity, high triglyceride levels, high levels of oxidized cholesterol, and an increased tendency to form blood clots.

Studies show that lion's mane extract may affect some of these factors and reduce the risk of heart disease.

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Studies in rats and mice have shown that lion's mane mushroom extract improves fat metabolism and lowers triglycerides.

One study in rats fed a high fat diet and given daily doses of lion's mane extract showed a 27% reduction in triglycerides and a 42% reduction in weight after 28 days.

Since obesity and high triglycerides are considered risk factors for heart disease, this is one of the ways that lion's mane mushrooms promote heart health.

Test-tube studies have also shown that lion's mane extract may help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in the bloodstream.

Oxidized cholesterol molecules tend to attach to artery walls, causing them to harden and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Therefore, reducing oxidation is good for heart health.

What's more, lion's mane mushrooms contain a compound called hericenon B, which can slow blood clotting and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Lion's mane mushrooms appear to be beneficial for the heart and blood vessels in many ways, but human studies are needed to confirm this.

Summary: Animal and test-tube studies indicate that lion's mane extract may reduce the risk of heart disease in several ways, but human studies are needed to confirm these results.

6. Lion's Mane Mushrooms help with diabetes symptoms.

Diabetes is a disease that occurs when the body loses the ability to control blood sugar levels. As a result, the levels are constantly rising.

Chronically high blood sugar eventually causes complications such as kidney disease, nerve damage in the arms and legs, and vision loss.

Lion's mane mushroom may be useful for diabetes by improving blood sugar control and reducing some of these side effects.

Several animal studies have shown that lion's mane can cause significant reductions in blood sugar levels in both normal and diabetic mice, even at daily doses as low as 2.7 mg per pound (6 mg per kg) of body weight .

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One way lion's mane lowers blood sugar levels is by blocking the activity of the alpha-glucosidase enzyme, which breaks down carbohydrates in the small intestine.

When this enzyme is blocked, the body cannot digest and absorb carbohydrates as efficiently, resulting in low blood sugar levels.

In addition to lowering blood sugar levels, lion's mane extract may reduce diabetic nerve pain in the hands and feet.

In mice with diabetic nerve damage, six weeks of daily lion fungus extract significantly reduced pain, lowered blood sugar, and even increased antioxidant levels.

Lion's mane mushroom shows potential as a therapeutic supplement for diabetes, but more research is needed to determine exactly how it can be used in humans.

Summary: lion's mane mushroom may help lower blood sugar and reduce nerve pain in diabetic mice, but more research is needed to determine if it might be a good therapeutic option in humans.

7. Lion's mane mushrooms may help fight cancer.

Cancer occurs when DNA becomes damaged and causes uncontrolled cell division and replication.

Several studies show that lion's mane mushroom fights cancer thanks to several unique compounds.

When lion's mane extract is mixed with human cancer cells in vitro, it causes the cancer cells to die faster. This has been demonstrated in several types of cancer cells, including cancer cells in the liver, colon, stomach, and blood.

However, at least one study failed to replicate these results, so more research is needed.

Lion's mane extract not only kills cancer cells, but also slows down the spread of cancer.

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One study in mice with colon cancer found that taking lion's mane extract reduced the spread of cancer to the lungs by 69%.

Another study showed that lion's mane extract was more effective than traditional cancer drugs in slowing down tumor growth in mice and also had fewer side effects.

However, the anti-cancer effects of lion's mane mushroom have never been tested in humans, so more research is needed.

Summary: Animal and test tube studies show that lion's mane extract can kill cancer cells and slow the spread of tumors, but human studies are still needed.

8. Lion's mane mushrooms reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are thought to underlie many of today's diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders.

Research shows that lion's mane mushrooms contain powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that may help reduce the effects of these diseases.

One study examining the antioxidant capacity of 14 different mushroom species found lion's mane to have the fourth highest antioxidant activity and recommended it as a good dietary source of antioxidants.

Several animal studies have shown that lion's mane extract reduces markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in rodents and may be particularly beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, liver damage and stroke.

Lion's mane mushrooms may also help reduce some of the health risks associated with obesity, as they have been shown to reduce the amount of inflammation produced by adipose tissue.

More research is needed to determine potential health benefits in humans, but laboratory and animal studies are promising.

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Summary: Lion's Mane Mushroom contains powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce the effects of chronic disease.

9. Lion's mane mushroom strengthens the immune system.

A strong immune system protects the body from bacteria, viruses and other disease-causing pathogens.

On the other hand, a weak immune system puts the body at a higher risk of developing infectious diseases.

Animal studies show that lion's mane mushroom can boost immunity by increasing the activity of the intestinal immune system, which protects the body from pathogens entering the intestines through the mouth or nose.

These effects may in part be due to beneficial changes in gut bacteria that stimulate the immune system.

One study even showed that daily intake of lion's mane extract nearly quadrupled the lifespan of mice injected with lethal doses of salmonella bacteria.

The immunostimulating effect of lion's mane mushrooms is very promising, but this area of ​​research is still developing.

Summary: Lion's mane mushrooms have been shown to have immunostimulatory effects in rodents, but more research is needed.

Lion's mane mushroom safety and side effects

No human studies have examined the side effects of lion's mane mushroom or its extract, but they appear to be very safe.

No side effects were observed in rats even at doses up to 2. 3 grams per pound (5 grams per kg) of body weight per day for one month or lower doses for three months.

However, anyone who is allergic or sensitive to mushrooms should avoid lion's mane as it is a type of mushroom.

There have been reports of people experiencing difficulty breathing or skin rashes after exposure to lion's mane mushrooms, likely related to allergies.

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Summary: Animal studies show that lion's mane mushroom and its extracts are very safe, even at high doses. However, allergic reactions have been reported in humans, so anyone with a known allergy to mushrooms should avoid it.

Summary

Lion's mane mushroom and its extract have been shown to offer a range of health benefits.

Studies have shown that lion's mane may protect against dementia, reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, and help repair nerve damage.

It also has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting abilities and has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, ulcers and diabetes in animals.

While current research is promising, more human studies are needed to develop practical health applications for lion's mane mushroom.

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Hericium erinaceus mushroom - benefits for the body, cancer treatment, disease prevention

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Hericium erinaceus improves brain function and fights cancer

Hericium erinaceus: history, risks and side effects

Have you ever tried mushrooms that look like a lion's mane? Surprised? However, this type of mushroom promotes brain function, has anti-cancer properties, and many other useful features.

Hericium erinaceus is a nootropic product often used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. A few years ago, a major study was conducted to study the effect of the fungus on brain function. The results were amazing.

One study, published in in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry , noted that Lion's mane has "antibiotic, anti-carcinogenic, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, anti-aging, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, anti-anxiety, and cognitive-enhancing properties."

Impressive results!

It doesn't matter if you are planning to introduce this mushroom into your diet or just interested in its properties, it has something to surprise you with.

What is Lion's mane?

The mushroom, whose Latin name is Hericium erinaceus , grows in North America, Europe and Asia, but it is most popular only in Asia. It is also called grandfather's beard, yamabushitake (Japanese name) or lion's mane (English name).

Hericium erinaceus has long hanging needles, reaching a length of more than one centimeter. Unlike most mushrooms, whose needles stick out to the sides, in Hericium erinaceus they hang down, giving them a resemblance to a lion's mane or beard. Mushrooms grow on both live and dead broad-leaved trees and are especially common in late summer and autumn.

Cellular, animal, and human studies state that urchin has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties. It has been used as a medicinal mushroom for thousands of years, particularly by practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Health benefits

1. Improves brain function

Perhaps the most thoroughly studied property of urchin is its effect on brain cells and related processes. This unusual mushroom actively affects neurodegenerative diseases.

According to a paper published in International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms , lion's mane enhances "neurite outgrowth" in the brain. The growth of neurites is the growth of axons and dendrites in neurons (remember the biology course in high school?).

This is a very important discovery. By increasing their growth, we can slow down or even stop the degeneration of brain cells, the main cause of diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

A 2012 study in Malaysia found that consumption of Lion's manure helps regenerate damaged cells after a peripheral nerve injury (the injury affects the delicate tissue between the brain and spinal cord).

When studying the effects of various drugs or treatments on brain diseases, scientists typically use the PC12 cell line for their experiments. As it turns out, extracts and other various forms of Hericium erinaceus have a significant effect on these cells, protecting them from damage and significantly prolonging their life. This discovery may be related to the possibility of treating or preventing the development of brain diseases.

Animal Study Published in Journal "Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine" , showed that these mushrooms stimulate cognitive function and help improve memory in rats (both healthy and with Alzheimer's disease). A number of studies have also observed an inverse relationship between Hericium erinaceus and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, thus, after taking this extract, the symptoms of malaise in rats subsided.

The fight against mild cognitive impairment in humans was the subject of a study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research . 8-16 weeks of supplementation with Hericium erinaceus showed significant improvements in the condition of the volunteers, but the effect did not persist after discontinuation of this drug.

The damage that ischemic disease (associated with insufficient blood circulation) can cause to neurons often leads to brain damage. In a laboratory experiment conducted in Taiwan, the lion's mane mushroom demonstrated the ability to prevent this type of damage.

Supplementation with this mushroom may also have a protective effect against the spread of Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders, according to a study published in the Journal of Translational Medicine .

Now this research is in its early stages and has not yet shown significant results in humans, but the discovered effect of urchin on brain cells cannot be ignored.

2. May protect against cancer

Scientists believe that Lion's mane may be effective in treating cancer. Food supplements containing this type of fungus can slow down the development and spread of the following diseases:

  • Leukemia
  • Stomach cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Cervical cancer
  • Liver cancer
  • Colon cancer
  • Breast cancer

A study conducted by South Korean scientists showed that Hericium erinaceus contributes to a significant reduction in the number of leukemic cells. Further research by the Department of Molecular Biotechnology at Aju University, South Korea, found that due to the substances present in these mushrooms, the dietary supplement has a "therapeutic effect on patients with leukemia."

With regard to gastric cancer, the work published in "International Journal of Biological Macromolecules" , says that Hericium erinaceus causes cell death and cell cycle arrest in gastric cancer. The scientists concluded: "Our study provides in vitro evidence suggesting that HEG-5 may be effective in the treatment of gastric cancer."

Studies published in Journal of Natural Products and Kaohsiung Journal of Medical Sciences state that Lion's Mane is able to treat lung cancer. In magazines "Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology" and "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" also states that grandfather's beard has an anti-cancer effect on colon cancer, breast cancer and others.

Some studies suggest that taking urchin supplements may help treat cancer, but these studies have not been large enough or long-term.

Another interesting observation concerns metastases (the spread of cancer) from the colon to the lungs. When the cancer spreads beyond the organ where it originated, we are talking about stage IV of the disease. During an animal study in South Korea, rats were given a water- or ethanol-based herbal extract. As a result of the experiment in animals, a slowdown in the development of metastases of cancer cells in the lungs by 66% and 69% was recorded.% respectively.

3. Supports heart and circulatory health

Hericium erinaceus is able to prevent the development of heart disease. The study found that the mushroom extract controlled LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels while increasing HDL (“good”) levels, as well as lowering the amount of triglycerides in the blood, the first markers of heart disease.

A stroke (damage to the brain caused by insufficient blood supply) can sometimes be caused by blood clots. It can also be caused by atherosclerosis, a serious disease of the blood vessels. A study conducted at the Department of Cell Signaling at the Graduate School of Pharmacology, Tohoku University, Japan, urchin extract can prevent clot formation and reduce the risk of stroke.

4. May improve gastrointestinal health

Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, grandfather's beard helps in regulating the functioning of the stomach and digestive system.

Numerous studies have shown that these mushrooms protect against and reduce stomach ulcers. Thus, an experiment on rats, conducted by the Center for Fungal Research at the University of Malaysia, showed that the bioactive components that make up the urchin can have a gastroprotective effect on animals. A study conducted by Chinese scientists and published in of the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, confirms this by noting that "the polysaccharide particle is the active component of H. Erinaceus mycelium ".

Human gastrointestinal tract

Lion's mane mushroom significantly reduces the symptoms of two major inflammatory diseases of the digestive system: gastritis and intestinal inflammation.

5. Reduces inflammation

Natural ways to relieve inflammation are the main methods of disease prevention among practitioners of traditional medicine and the object of research by scientists.

A 2015 study in Japan found that Hericium erinaceus was able to reduce inflammation in fatty tissue. This discovery is significant because inflammation in adipose tissue is a factor in metabolic syndrome, a group of disorders that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Hericium also has an antibacterial effect on H. pylori , "the most pathogenic bacterium in human history." For many, this bacterium does not cause any symptoms. But for some people, it causes serious problems, such as ulcers in the stomach and intestines.

6. Acts as a powerful antioxidant

The fight against harmful free radicals brings the body great benefits, including protection against the occurrence of many diseases. Lion's Mane's molecules have antioxidant properties and help prevent and manage oxidative stress caused by poor diet and environmental exposure.

Antioxidants can be useful, for example, in wound healing. A study on rats from the University of Malaysia found that a liquid extract of the mushroom significantly accelerated the healing of various injuries.

Antioxidants are also capable of:

  • Prevent osteoporosis
  • Protect the liver from damage caused by alcohol
  • Slow down skin aging

7. Improves mental health and general well-being

Lion's Mane also improves well-being by helping you sleep better and relieving symptoms of mental illness.

Experiments on mice have shown that polysaccharides extracted from lion's mane extract fight apathy. As shown by an experiment conducted on mice by the Department of Agroecological Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, this substance is also able to normalize circadian rhythms. This discovery is of great importance, in particular for people at high risk of developing dementia.

Hedgehog can be a natural remedy for depression and anxiety. In one study, 30 women were asked to consume this mushroom or a placebo for 4 weeks. The scientists concluded, "Our results show that supplementation with Hericium erinaceus promotes relief from depression and anxiety, suggesting a new mechanism for stimulating nerve growth factor (NGF) with this mushroom. " This may be due to the inflammatory factor caused by depression.

8. Strengthens the immune system

You need to know how to strengthen your immune system so that the body can fight infections. Studies in mice have shown that the polysaccharides present in Hericium erinaceus help the immune system function.

9. May be useful in diabetes

A 2013 animal study noted improvements in blood glucose levels, insulin sensitivity, and a range of other symptoms of diabetes after animals took grandfather's beard extract.

And antioxidants are likely to help relieve pain caused by diabetic neuropathy.

Nutritional properties

Due to the limited mass use of the blackberry, it is difficult to judge its features. However, we do know that one serving of this mushroom (84 grams) has 20 calories, 2 grams of protein, and 3 grams of carbs.

Scientists believe that urchin is the source of at least 32 bioactive components. Although we don't know for sure what vitamins and minerals it contains, it is believed to be rich in potassium, zinc, iron, and selenium. The object of study of the lion's mane most often became the polysaccharides present in it. Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrate structures like glucose.

Hericium erinaceus contains the polysaccharide beta-glucan, which is known for its beneficial properties, such as protecting heart health and stimulating the immune response.

Use in traditional medicine

In many Asian countries, the blackberry has been used for many centuries not only as a food product, but also as a medicine. Over the past 10 years, this medicinal mushroom has become more popular due to its therapeutic abilities in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases.

In the East, mushrooms are traditionally revered and called "spiritual plants". It is believed that they give longevity and spiritual strength. A study published in the Journal of Restorative Medicine states that in Chinese and Japanese medical practices, Lion's mane is traditionally used to normalize bowel function, strengthen the spleen, and as an anti-cancer agent. In traditional medicine, this mushroom is considered very beneficial for five internal organs: lungs, heart, spleen, kidneys and liver. It is also able to improve digestion, give strength and vigor.

Hericium erinaceus

Lion's mane is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to relieve symptoms of Qi deficiency (lack of "vital energy"), and is also used for problems with the central nervous system, insomnia and weakness.

Lion's mane and Reishi

Both species of these mushrooms are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for various therapeutic purposes. They have a lot in common, for example, both mushrooms are able to strengthen the immune system and fight oxidative stress.

However, lion's mane is known and valued for its neuroprotective properties. This mushroom promotes cognitive health by stimulating “neurite outgrowth,” which play an important role in neuron formation and inflammation. Hericium is widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to restore Qi and treat problems of the central nervous system. The mushroom is recommended for patients suffering from Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, depression, anxiety, insomnia and cognitive impairment.

Reishi also has powerful healing properties. Like Hericium erinaceus, this type of fungus is able to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Reishi is used to increase mental clarity, fight stress; it is believed that in many ways it behaves as an adaptogen. Reishi mushrooms also contain polysaccharides, which give them anti-cancer properties.

Where to find and how to use

Unfortunately, it is difficult for residents of more western countries to find lion's mane in stores (of course, if you have not gone to an oriental food store).

However, a way out can be found. First, you can grow your own mushrooms by purchasing seeds online.

Keep in mind, their taste is often compared to seafood. Mushrooms go great with brown rice or quinoa, especially if you add fresh vegetables like onions or bell peppers.

If this option does not suit you, then you can buy hedgehog in the form of a dietary supplement. When purchasing a drug, make sure of its quality.

Recipes

Before cooking, remove all the dirt from the blackberry, cut off the part that touched the tree, cut the rest. Then fry in a dry frying pan for a few minutes. For the formation of a crisp, it is necessary that all the water comes out of the mushrooms.

Once the mushrooms start to darken, add some vegetable, olive or ghee, salt, pepper and continue to cook over low heat until they turn golden brown.

When sautéing mushrooms, add some garlic, onions, or other vegetables that you think would go well with shrimp, as the two have a similar flavor.

Try to cook vegetarian ceviche, blackberry will add an unusual fish flavor to the dish.

Dosage

Hericium erinaceus supplements are often used to boost immunity and support cognitive function. They can be seen in the form of extract, powder, capsules and can be purchased online or at a pharmacy.

In capsules, urchin may be the only ingredient or part of a complex aimed at improving brain function. In this case, there may be nootropic products such as reishi, cordyceps, ginkgo biloba and ashwagandha.

Before using a dietary supplement, carefully read the instructions and take only the recommended dose. It usually varies in volume from 300 to 3000 mg 1-3 times a day. To avoid an unwanted reaction of the body, start taking a small dosage and gradually increase it.

If you have an allergic reaction (itching, indigestion, rash), stop taking the drug immediately.

History

Like many other useful products, Lion's mane is widely used in Asia to maintain health and treat ailments. In Japan, it has been used for more than one hundred years (maybe a whole millennium), and Buddhist monks considered it a mystical source of power.

The attire of a group of Buddhist hermit monks known as Yamabushi is called "suzukake" and consists of many long strips of fur, resembling a blackberry mushroom. Perhaps for this reason, in some regions the mushroom is known as yamabushitake.

Some sources claim that the blackberry was only served to members of the royal family.

Risks and side effects

Hericium erinaceus is a safe food product. A number of studies have shown that this mushroom is non-toxic even when consumed frequently over a long period of time.

However, there are isolated reports of side effects of lion's mane, such as contact dermatitis and respiratory distress syndrome.

If you experience symptoms such as burning, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the lips while using urchin, consult your doctor immediately.

Final findings