Medicinal Mushrooms: Lion's Mane

May 19, 2025Annie Davies

Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a unique medicinal mushroom known for its potential to support cognitive health, nervous system function, and overall well-being. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is now widely available as a supplement in various forms.

Key Components

Lion's Mane contains bioactive compounds that contribute to its health benefits, including:

  • Hericenones: Promote nerve regeneration and brain health.
  • Erinacines: Stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production, essential for repairing and maintaining nerve cells.
  • Polysaccharides: Support immune modulation and provide antioxidant effects.

Health Benefits of Lion's Mane Supplements

Cognitive Health:

  • Supports memory, focus, and mental clarity.
  • May reduce symptoms of mild cognitive impairment and support conditions like Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Nerve Regeneration:

  • Stimulates NGF production, promoting the repair and growth of neurons.
    Beneficial for neurodegenerative diseases and nerve injuries.

Mood and Anxiety Support:

  • May alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety by modulating brain function and reducing inflammation.

Gut Health:

  • Supports the gut-brain axis and may improve digestion by balancing gut microbiota.

Immune System Boost:

  • Enhances immune responses and protects against pathogens through its polysaccharide content.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects:

  • Reduces oxidative stress, supporting overall cellular health.

Potential Clinical Applications

Cognitive Disorders: Alzheimer’s, dementia, or mild cognitive impairment.

Neuropathy: Nerve repair after injury or due to conditions like diabetes.

Mood Disorders: Depression, anxiety, or stress-related concerns.

Gut Health: Support for gut lining integrity and microbiota balance.

Supplement Forms

Capsules/Tablets: Convenient and pre-measured for consistent dosing.

  • Buy Lion's Mane supplement (capsule form) HERE

Liquid Extracts: Concentrated tinctures offering high bioavailability; available in alcohol-free options.

  • Buy Lions Mane supplement (liquid form) HERE

Powders: Dried and ground Lion’s Mane; easily added to hot water or favourate milk to make a latte.

  • Buy Adaptogenic Coffee with Lion;s Mane and Rhodiola HERE

Precautions

Medication Interactions: Lion’s Mane may interact with blood thinners, antihypertensives, or immunosuppressants.

Lion's Mane mushroom supplements provide natural support for brain health, immune function, and overall wellness. Incorporating high-quality Lion’s Mane into your routine can benefit those seeking cognitive enhancement or recovery from nerve-related conditions. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable dosage and form for your needs.

 

Further support at Body Fabulous

Book a General Advice Call - Speak with our clinical team who can advise on the right testing or supplements based on your symptoms and needs.

 

References

1. Szućko-Kociuba I, Trzeciak-Ryczek A, Kupnicka P, Chlubek D. Neurotrophic and Neuroprotective Effects of Hericium erinaceus. Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Nov 3;24(21):15960. doi: 10.3390/ijms242115960. PMID: 37958943; PMCID: PMC10650066.

2. Xie XQ, Geng Y, Guan Q, Ren Y, Guo L, Lv Q, Lu ZM, Shi JS, Xu ZH. Influence of Short-Term Consumption of Hericium erinaceus on Serum Biochemical Markers and the Changes of the Gut Microbiota: A Pilot Study. Nutrients. 2021 Mar 21;13(3):1008. doi: 10.3390/nu13031008. PMID: 33800983; PMCID: PMC8004025.

3. Brandalise F, Roda E, Ratto D, Goppa L, Gargano ML, Cirlincione F, Priori EC, Venuti MT, Pastorelli E, Savino E, Rossi P. Hericium erinaceus in Neurodegenerative Diseases: From Bench to Bedside and Beyond, How Far from the Shoreline? J Fungi (Basel). 2023 May 10;9(5):551. doi: 10.3390/jof9050551. PMID: 37233262; PMCID: PMC10218917.

4. LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2012-. Lion’s Mane. [Updated 2024 Jan 5]. Available
from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK599740/

 

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