LION’S MANE Hericium erinaceus
Known Uses :
– Stimulate the nerve growth factor (NGF) in the central and peripheral nervous system
– Repair neurological degradation from senility
– Improve cognitive function and memory
– Improve reflexes
– Alleviate head pressure and tightness associated with Lyme Disease
– Used for it anti-depressant effects, especially noticeable in women
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is most noted for its action of stimulating the nerve growth factor (NGF) in the central an peripheral nervous system that causes brain neurons to regrow. This has gained a lot of attention for use in working with dementia patients and the potential in preventing early onset dementia. Studies have found that lion’s mane mushrooms contain two special compounds that can stimulate the growth of brain cells: hericenones and erinacines.
Lion’s Mane stimulates the nerve growth factor (NGF) in the central and peripheral nervous system, repairing neurological degradation from senility, cognitive function and memory loss, and improving reflexes.
Lion’s Mane is also known to have anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects, especially in women, subtly bringing on a feeling of “well being”.
In certain protocols for Lyme Disease that is presenting with symptoms of “brain fog” and inflammation, Lion’s Mane is also recommended.
Constituents:
Some of the compounds found in Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) that are rendered in the fresh tincture include hericenones A-H, cyclic dipeptides, indole alkaloids, pyrimidines, flavones, anthraquinones, amino acid derivatives, and phenolic compounds.
Research:
There have been many studies on the virtues of the Lion’s Mane mushroom showing there are compounds like threitol, D-arabinitol, and palmitic acid that have antioxidant effects, may regulate blood lipid levels and reduce blood glucose levels. More recently, scientists have investigated this mushroom for possible anti-dementia compounds and found that it stimulates the nerve growth factor in human astrocytoma cells and myelination. A double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trial showed improved cognitive ability.
Among the scientific evaluations of Lion’s Mane, a group of Japanese researchers have patented an extraction process which isolates a NGSF (Nerve Growth Stimulant Factor). They found a compound in Hericium erinaceus which causes brain neurons to regrow, a feat of great significance in potentially helping senility, repairing neurological degradation, increasing intelligence and improving reflexes. Studies also confirm many of its traditional uses, supporting the digestive system, and acting as a tonic for the nervous system.
In 2015 a study was published by Chinese researchers that reported Hericium erinaceus can offer pain relief in diabetic neuropathic pain, as studied in diabetic laboratory rats.
Lion’s Mane has been shown in studies to affect the hippocampus, primarily known for being the part of the brain where memory is stored. This area of the brain also processes emotional responses.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided here is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare provider and should not be construed to indicate that the use of this herbal product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare provider before taking this herbal product.