Lion's Mane Mushrooms

What is Lion's Mane? Where is it found?

  • History and Origin

    • Lion's mane mushrooms (Hericium Ernaceus) are large white shaggy hair like mushrooms that resemble a lion's mane. 

    Lion's mane grows on hardwood trees in the Northern Hemisphere. You can Lion's mane is available in fresh, dried and supplement form. This particular mushroom has been consumed for its medicinal properties among Asian countries and specifically in Chinese medicine. Buddhist monks consumed lion's mane as it was believed to help them gain a deeper focus and concentration in meditation practices.

    Research has shown Lion’s mane contains a number of health promoting properties including being high in antioxidants and beta-glucans. 

    Healing Properties and Health Benefits

    • Alzheimer's Disease  
    • Anxiety 
    • Boost Immune Health
    • Depression  
    • Digestive Support 
    • Dementia                    
    • Heart Disease      
    • High Cholesterol   
    • Inflammation
    • Parkinson’s Disease
    • Protects Liver
    • Reduces high blood pressure
    • Regulates blood sugar levels
    • Speedy recovery from nervous system injuries
    • Ulcers

    Brain Function

    • Studies have shown the effects of Lion’s mane on brain function results revealed that Lion’s mane helped protect against memory problems caused by the buildup of amyloid beta (a substance that forms the brains plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease. 
    • Lion’s mane has also shown neuroprotective effects against ischemic strokes.
    • Lion’s mane contains two special compounds that stimulate the growth of brain cells: hericenones and erinacines
    • The neurodegeneration, or progressive breakdown of nerve cells, caused by TBI can lead to further conditions like Parkinson's disease. Studies shown treatment with Lion’s mane may reduce the impact of brain trauma and TBI complications like Parkinson's disease.  

    Depression and Anxiety

    • Lion’s mane has also shown studies support significant anti anxiety effects. Lion's mane offers neuroprotective functions, cytotoxicity, anticarcinogenic, antimicrobial and herbicidal properties. 
    • Research has shown that Lion’s mane improved hippocampus function which explains the reduction in anxious feelings and depressive behaviors.
    • Helps ensure the presence and growth of neurotransmitters.
    • Minimizes inflammation linked to depression.

    Supports Digestive Health

    • Lion’s mane contains properties that have been shown to support the digestive tract.
    • In particular, Lion's mane helps protect ulcers by forming by stripping the growth of Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria that can have negative effects on the gut lining. 
    • Lion’s mane also protects the intestine from inflammation and inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and crohn's disease.

    Boost Immune Health

    • Lion’s mane has shown signs that strengthen the immune system by helping protect against bacteria, viruses and other harmful substances.

    Managing Diabetes

    • Lion’s mane helps improve blood sugar levels and control symptoms like nerve pain, making it a helpful tool for diabetes management. 
    • Lion’s mane has several compounds to prevent alpha glucosidase activity. Lion’s mane works similar to alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (AGI’s) , an antidiabetic medication used to manage type 2 diabetes. AGI’s limit the absorption of carbohydrates from the small intestine, helping lower the rise in blood sugar levels.

    Reduces Heart Disease Risks

    • Research shows that Lion’s mane may lower the risks of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels.

    Possible Side Effects

    • Always consult your physician before taking new supplements.
    • Avoid using Lion’s mane mushrooms if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
    • If you are taking diabetes medication, be aware that Lion’s mane can lower your blood glucose levels. Keep a close eye on your readings.
    • Any mushroom allergy sensitivity.