Lions mane mushroom: perhaps one of the most beloved medicinal mushrooms. The word of these powerful little fluff balls has been circulating the Globe. Humans have been using this mushroom for centuries as an effective treatment for an array of ailments. By 2023, the word of this mushroom has reached each continent! And for good reason, too!
In this article, we will be looking at one of my personal favourite medicinal mushrooms of all time. From the mind to the body, to the soul… This mushroom definitely deserves all the hype it gets and I am going to explain why! But first, let’s start with the basics as per usual.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom, also known as Hericium Erinaceus (scientific name), is a beautiful species of edible fungus that is native to North America, Europe, and Asia. In some parts of Asia, it is referred to as Yamabushitake and Houtougu. In many other parts of the World, it is referred to as Bearded Tooth fungus! This is most definitely due to the striking appearance of these fungi. This mushroom is known for its texture, displaying cascading spines that resemble a lion’s mane-hence the name!
You can typically find this mushroom growing in/on hardwood trees. It can also be found on hardwood logs, stumps and dead/decaying trees. However, it most commonly grows in cool and damp climates and can more rarely be spotted in warmer climates. It prefers to grow in shaded areas and is generally found in late summer to early autumn.
The mushroom has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine and is believed to have many medicinal properties. These mushrooms are an excellent source of nutrition and have a variety of health benefits. Eating lion’s mane mushrooms is a good way to consume a high source of dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals. Speaking of its nutritional value, let’s move onto a more detailed section on lion’s mane mushroom benefits.
Below I will share 10 benefits of taking lion’s mane mushroom. Please keep in mind whilst reading that all the science on this mushroom is ongoing. We have yet to truly optimize our application and usage of this medicinal mushroom.
Dementia: Studies have found that consuming lion’s mane mushrooms can increase the production of nerve growth factor, which is essential for the protection of neurons in the brain and can help to prevent age-related memory loss. Furthermore, the mushroom is known to contain bioactive compounds that can act as antioxidants to protect against oxidative stress, which is a major cause of cognitive decline.
Cancer: According to some studies, consuming lion’s mane mushroom extracts can help to reduce levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules associated with the development and progression of cancer. Furthermore, the mushroom is known to contain compounds that can act as antioxidants to protect against oxidative stress (as stated above), which is a major cause of cancer. Additionally, research has found that consuming lion’s mane mushrooms can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to reduce the risk of cancer. All of these elements combined make the lion’s mane mushroom a potentially powerful tool in the fight against cancer.
Anxiety: Unfortunately, many individuals suffer from anxiety. While there is no ‘one method solution’ available to this complex mental health complication, lion’s mane may be able to help alleviate the weight of anxiety. This mushroom has been found to have a number of beneficial effects on mental health and well-being, particularly in relation to reducing anxiety. Studies have found that consuming lion’s mane can increase levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with improved mood and reduced anxiety. Furthermore, the mushroom has been shown to reduce levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Nervous System Injury Recovery: While studying his mushroom, researchers have found it to have a number of beneficial effects on the nervous system, particularly in relation to injury recovery. Studies have found that consuming lion’s mane extracts can help to reduce inflammation in the nervous system, which can help to speed up recovery from injury. Furthermore, the mushroom is known to contain compounds that can help to increase the production of nerve growth factor, which is essential for the brain’s ability to repair and regenerate nerve cells!
Depression: Looking at the benefits above, it is no surprise that taking a lion’s mane could also have a positive impact on depression. Some studies have found that consuming lion’s mane mushrooms can increase levels of serotonin (as stated above), which is associated with improved mood and reduced depression. Additionally, research has found that consuming lion’s mane mushrooms can help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which is a key factor in the development of depression. As a collective, all of these factors could mould a potential tool in fighting against depression!
Heart Disease: New studies have discovered that consuming lion’s mane could potentially help in reducing levels of LDL cholesterol, which is a major risk factor for the development of heart disease. This powerful mushroom is known to contain helpful compounds that can help to reduce inflammation in the cardiovascular system. This in itself could help to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. We may be opening a new medical door with this mushroom! It appears we have a lot to learn about its effects on the body.
Energy: This may be one of the few very noticeable effects of supplementing this mushroom vs the more subtle benefits. Studies have found that consuming lion’s mane mushroom can help to increase levels of ATP, which is the primary energy source for the body. We know by now that this mushroom’s extracts can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which we also know can help to improve overall energy levels! This is an adaptogenic mushroom, meaning it works naturally with the pathways of the body, allowing us to feel more balanced via sustainable energy output! Lastly, lion’s mane contains compounds that can help to increase the production of mitochondria, which are responsible for converting food into energy. Looking for a natural boost? LMM should be your go-to!
Inflammation: According to studies, consuming lion’s mane can help to reduce inflammation in the gut, which can help to improve overall health and well-being. They say that health begins in the gut. That being said, any daily incorporation that involved improving gut health will have a tremendous effect on your mental and physical well-being! Additionally, consuming lion’s mane mushrooms can help to reduce levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules associated with inflammation.
Immune system: This next benefit is one I do not notice is spoken about much when it comes to discussions revolving around lion’s mane benefits. A high-functioning immune system is essential to thriving and not just surviving! Studies have found that lion’s mane mushroom can help to increase levels of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infection and illness. Lions mane also reduces inflammation in the body, which can help to improve the functioning of the immune system. Lions mane can also have a positive impact on your quality of sleep due to its many anti-stress benefits, which are vital for a good immune system.
Helps manage diabetes symptoms: Did you know that lion’s mane can help to reduce levels of glucose in the blood? This is essential for managing diabetes. This mushroom is known to contain compounds that can help to improve insulin sensitivity, which is key for controlling diabetes. This is definitely a new territory of scientific research for diabetes, however, the data looks promising.
There you have it, 10 benefits of lions mane mushroom. We have a long way to go when it comes to medicinal mushrooms and treating modern-day problems with them. Ensure that you speak with a doctor before introducing this supplement into your life, especially if you are currently taking other medication(s). If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, avoid this supplement unless your doctor advises you to do otherwise. As always, stick to the recommended dose and listen to your body!
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