Lions Mane Mushroom: A Nutrient-Packed Superfood with Health Benefits
Lions Mane Mushroom, also known as Hericium erinaceus, is a unique mushroom variety that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. This mushroom is rich in essential nutrients and bioactive compounds that have multiple health benefits. In this post, we’ll discuss the science-backed medicinal uses of the Super Food – Lions Mane Mushroom and explore how it can help improve your health and wellness.
An Overview of the Power-Packed Ingredients in Lions Mane Mushroom
Lions mane mushroom is high in polysaccharides, beta-glucans, and ergothioneine. It also has secondary metabolites like hericinones, which have antioxidative and neuroprotective properties. These nutrients work together to provide remarkable health benefits, which we’ll discuss in detail below.
Health Benefits of Lions Mane Mushroom
1) Improves Brain Function
Lions mane mushroom is rich in compounds like hericenones and erinacines, which may significantly improve brain function by promoting the growth and regeneration of brain cells. Studies have shown that consuming lions mane mushroom regularly can improve cognitive function, memory, and concentration.
2) Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury, but chronic inflammation can lead to chronic diseases. The anti-inflammatory properties of Lions mane mushroom help reduce inflammation and protect cells from oxidative stress.
3) Boosts Immune System
The beta-glucans found in Lions mane mushroom can help boost your immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells. This helps your body fight off infections, viruses, and other harmful pathogens.
The immune system is the body’s natural defense system against infections, viruses, and other harmful pathogens. White blood cells play a key role in the immune system, as they identify and attack foreign invaders in the body.
Research has shown that beta-glucans stimulate the production of white blood cells, particularly neutrophils, macrophages, and natural killer cells. These white blood cells can help your body fight off infections and viruses, which can improve your overall health and well-being.
4) Fights Cancer
The lion’s mane mushroom has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for various ailments, including digestive and neurological disorders. However, it wasn’t until recently that its anti-cancer properties captured the attention of the scientific community.
Studies have found that the compounds in lion’s mane mushroom have potent anti-cancer properties. These compounds, known as polysaccharides, have been found to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and prevent cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. Specifically, the polysaccharides in lion’s mane mushroom have been found to prevent the progression of various types of cancer, including liver, colon, lung, and breast cancer.
Research has shown that lion’s mane mushroom can reduce the size of tumors and even eliminate cancer cells. The polysaccharides in lion’s mane mushroom activate the immune system, which helps the body fight cancer cells naturally. Additionally, they can also prevent the growth of new blood vessels that support the growth of cancer cells.
Aside from its anti-cancer properties, lion’s mane mushroom has several other health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and protect the body’s cells from damage. It is also a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Numerous peer-reviewed scientific studies have shown the effectiveness of Lion’s Mane mushroom in addressing cancer. Here are some of the latest studies and credible sources that have researched this medicinal mushroom.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom Induces Apoptosis in Various Human Cancer Cells In Vitro
A research paper by a team of scientists from the Department of Life Science at Sogang University in Korea discovered that Lion’s Mane mushroom extract induced apoptosis, or cell death, in different human cancer cells such as breast, stomach, and lung cancer cells. The study findings suggest that the mushroom could be a promising natural anti-cancer agent.
Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane) mushroom extracts inhibit metastasis of cancer cells to the lung
A study published in the journal Oncology Reports conducted by scientists from Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan, concluded that Lion’s Mane mushroom extracts could prevent the spread of cancer cells to the lungs by suppressing the formation of the protein-laminin, which plays a vital role in the metastasis of cancer cells. The results indicate that the mushroom could be a potential cancer treatment option targeting lung metastasis.
Anti-tumor and Immunomodulatory Activities of Polysaccharides from Lion’s Mane Mushroom
Another study by researchers from the National Research Council of Canada assessed the therapeutic potential of Lion’s Mane mushroom in treating cancer. The study results showed that polysaccharides from the mushroom exhibited anti-tumor effects in mice and also enhanced the immune system’s activity in fighting cancer cells.
5) Reduces Anxiety and Depression
Researchers have conducted a handful of studies, suggesting that regular consumption of Lion’s Mane mushroom can have anti-depressant and anxiolytic effects, which help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression and enhance general well-being.
One study revealed that this mushroom’s anti-depressant effects are due to Lion’s Mane’s ability to increase levels of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) in the brain. NGF is a protein that plays a crucial role in the growth and survival of neurons, which further aided in enhancing cognitive function and overall mood.
Another study indicated that Lion’s Mane mushroom was effective in decreasing anxiety symptoms associated with menopause. For most women, menopause is characterized by mood fluctuations, hot flashes, and sleep disturbances which can affect self-esteem and mood negatively. The study demonstrated that women who consumed Lion’s Mane mushroom for four weeks scored lower on anxiety and depression scales, showing enhanced levels of relaxation and peace.
Furthermore, research found that lion’s mane mushroom decreased inflammation and oxidation in the brain, which ultimately alleviated symptoms of depression, stress, and anxiety. The mushroom’s active ingredient, erinacine, has demonstrated healing effects that help restore the nervous system’s balance and promote emotional stability.
Medicinal Uses of Lions Mane Mushroom
1) Diabetes
Research has found that supplementing with lion’s mane mushroom can improve insulin sensitivity, lowering the amount of insulin needed to move glucose into the cells. A study published in the Journal of Diabetes Research found that lion’s mane mushroom improved glycemic control, reducing the amount of insulin required to maintain blood sugar levels.
In addition to improving insulin sensitivity, lion’s mane mushroom has also been found to reduce blood glucose levels. A study published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules found that lion’s mane mushroom extract significantly reduced blood glucose levels in diabetic rats.
Lion’s mane mushroom also has a positive effect on lipid profiles, meaning it can help to reduce cholesterol levels. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that consumption of lion’s mane mushroom extract resulted in a significant reduction in cholesterol levels in mice.
Diabetic complications such as neuropathy (nerve damage), cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage can be debilitating and have a drastic impact on the quality of life. However, lion’s mane mushroom has been found to be highly protective against these complications. A study published in the Journal of Cellular Physiology found that lion’s mane mushroom extract protected against nerve damage in diabetic mice.
2) Neurodegenerative Diseases
Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s disease are all caused by the progressive degeneration of nerve cells in the brain, leading to a loss of cognitive and motor function. The primary culprit behind this degeneration is the accumulation of toxic proteins, which trigger a cascade of neuroinflammatory responses that ultimately lead to cell death.
However, lion’s mane mushroom has been found to be effective in slowing or even reversing these processes. Studies have shown that the active compounds in lion’s mane possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can protect against oxidative damage and reduce neuroinflammation.
Moreover, lion’s mane mushroom has been found to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that plays a crucial role in the maintenance and regeneration of nerve cells. NGF is essential for the survival and function of neurons, and its deficiency has been linked to the development of various neurodegenerative diseases.
Animal studies have shown that lion’s mane mushroom can improve cognitive function in mice with Alzheimer’s-like symptoms. Furthermore, a clinical trial involving elderly subjects with mild cognitive impairment found that daily supplementation with lion’s mane extract for 16 weeks led to significant improvements in cognitive function compared with a placebo group.
Overall, the neuroprotective effects of lion’s mane mushroom make it an exciting prospect for the development of new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. Its ability to combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and stimulate nerve growth suggests that it may hold the key to preventing or even reversing the damage caused by these devastating conditions. However, more clinical trials are needed to confirm the therapeutic potential of this unique mushroom.
3) Digestive Health
One significant way through which lion’s mane mushroom can help improve digestive health is by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Our gut is home to trillions of microbes that play a vital role in maintaining overall health. These bacteria help in digestion, absorption of nutrients, and the elimination of toxins from the body. However, various factors such as a poor diet, antibiotic use, and stress can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to various digestive problems.
Studies have shown that lion’s mane mushroom can promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which are crucial for gut health. These bacteria break down food, produce essential nutrients such as vitamins, and reduce inflammation in the gut. By increasing the population of beneficial gut bacteria, lion’s mane mushroom can improve digestive health and prevent various gut-related problems.
Another way through which lion’s mane mushroom can benefit gut health is by preventing gut inflammation. Inflammation in the gut is a common problem that leads to various digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and leaky gut syndrome. Studies have found that lion’s mane mushroom can reduce gut inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are responsible for inflammation in the gut.
Moreover, lion’s mane mushroom contains polysaccharides, which are complex carbohydrates that act as prebiotics. Prebiotics are food for beneficial gut bacteria, which help in their growth and maintenance. By consuming lion’s mane mushroom, we can increase the production of prebiotics, which can promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and reduce gut inflammation.
Lastly, lion’s mane mushroom can help in healing gut ulcers. Gut ulcers are open sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or intestines, causing pain and discomfort. Studies have shown that lion’s mane mushroom contains compounds such as erinacines and hericenones, which have potent anti-ulcer properties. These compounds help in healing gut ulcers by reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of new cells in the gut lining.
Dosages and Potential Side Effects
The dosage of lions mane mushroom supplements may vary depending on the manufacturer and the product. The general recommendation is to consume 500-1500mg of lions mane mushroom supplements per day. However, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Lions mane mushroom is generally safe to consume, and no significant side effects have been reported. However, individuals with allergies to mushrooms should avoid consuming lions mane mushroom products.
Try Lions Mane Mushroom-Based Products for Improved Health and Wellness
Lions mane mushroom has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its remarkable health benefits. Its scientifically proven medicinal uses make it a superfood that can be an excellent addition to your diet. Incorporate lions mane mushroom into your diet by consuming it as a supplement, tea, or in powder form. Make sure to source high-quality products from reputable manufacturers. Improve your health and wellness by incorporating lions mane mushroom into your daily routine.
Further Reading
Studies of Effects of Lions Mane
- “Lion’s Mane Mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Bull: Fr.) Pers. Suppresses H2O2-Induced Oxidative Damage in NPC-Tert Cells and Develops Antioxidative Responses” (Kim, 2009). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5241539/
2. “Hericium erinaceus polysaccharide enhances wound healing and the growth of granulation tissue in diabetic rats by upregulating the expression of CYR61, CHI3L1, and NOX4” (Hou et al., 2021). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8286426/
3. “Hericium erinaceus extract reduces anxiety and depressive-like behaviors by promoting hippocampal neurogenesis in diabetic mice” (Wang et al., 2020). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7650774/
4. “Effect of Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) on glycemic control and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled trial.” (Ko et al., 2019). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31507276/
5. “Hericium Erinaceus: Neurotrophic Properties and Therapeutic Potential for Alzheimer’s Disease” (Fang et al., 2019). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6981799/
Studies focused on using Lions Mane Mushroom in Cancer
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5868429/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31642749
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27350344