It Could Help Heal The Nervous System
Injuries to the nervous system can cause paralysis, loss of cognitive function, and more. Some research has found that Lions Mane extract may be able to speed the recovery process for nervous system injuries.
Injuries to the brain or spinal cord can be devastating. They often cause paralysis or loss of mental functions and can take a long time to heal. One study found Lions Mane to be one of three different functional mushroom extracts that may help stimulate the growth of nerve cells within the brain, spinal cord, and retina.
Another study puts this speedy recovery time into perspective, claiming that Lions Mane extract may speed nervous system recovery by 23-41% in animal subjects.
May Help Fight Cancer
Cancer occurs when DNA becomes damaged and causes cells to divide and replicate out of control.
Some research suggests that lions mane mushroom has cancer-fighting abilities, thanks to several of its unique compounds (
44 ).
In addition to killing cancer cells, lions mane extract has also been shown to slow the spread of cancer.
One study in mice with colon cancer found that taking lions mane extract reduced the spread of cancer to the lungs by 69% .
Another study found that lions mane extract was more effective than traditional cancer medications at slowing tumor growth in mice, in addition to having fewer side effects .
However, the anti-cancer effects of lions mane mushroom have never been tested in humans, so more research is needed.
Summary
Animal and test-tube studies show that lions mane extract can kill cancer cells and slow the spread of tumors, but human studies are still needed.
Lions Mane Exhibits Extraordinary Skin Benefits
This mushroom appears to be beneficial for skin too.As within so without, as the saying goes. Inflammation, oxidative stress, and environmental damage take their toll on both internal systems and our outermost layer.As a great source of natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, Lions mane mushroom may calm skin problems. In fact, when applied topically, Hericium erinaceus has been shown to accelerate wound healing.As you can see, there is a range of profound benefits associated with consuming this natural healing agent. As with any form of therapy, its important to ask what are the potential side effects?
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Is Lions Mane Mushroom Safe
There is little research about the long-term effects of consuming Lions Mane mushroom, and not much information about using it in the form of dietary supplements. Nevertheless, while most of the experiments have been tested on animals, no ill-effects have been noted as such, even in high doses. Moreover given that it has been used successfully in Chinese traditional medicine since millennia, it appears relatively safe for consumption.
However, for those suffering from asthma and allergies, there is a slight chance that it may worsen symptoms. Therefore it is always advisable to avoid a self-diagnosis and to consult a physician and inform them about your medical history, before including Lions Mane in your diet.
What Are Lions Mane Mushrooms
Wild lion’s mane mushrooms can be found on dying maple, oak, and beech trees. Lions mane is a saprophytic fungus, which means it decomposes dead trees. Lions mane mushrooms essentially digest its host trees, collecting the nutrients accumulated over the trees lifetime.
In traditional Chinese medicine, lion’s mane has a reputation as a longevity tonic. It is used as a folk treatment for improving cognition, treating nerve pain, and delaying or preventing degenerative brain diseases.
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Helps Relieve Mild Symptoms Of Depression And Anxiety
Up to one-third of people living in developed countries experience symptoms of anxiety and depression .
While there are many causes of anxiety and depression, chronic inflammation could be a major contributing factor.
New animal research has found that lions mane mushroom extract has anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in mice (
14 ).
Researchers believe that improved functioning of the hippocampus may explain the reductions in anxious and depressive behaviors in mice given these extracts.
While these animal studies are promising, there is very little research in humans.
One small study in menopausal women found that eating cookies containing lions mane mushrooms daily for one month helped reduce self-reported feelings of irritation and anxiety .
Summary
Studies suggest that lions mane mushrooms may help relieve mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, but more human research is needed to better understand the correlation.
Lions Mane Mushroom 9 Incredible Science
Lions Mane Mushroom 9 Incredible Science-Based Benefits
Lions Mane Mushroom is a mushroom that grows on fallen hardwood trees. As a result of the beautiful cascade of strands that hang from it, the mushroom is commonly known as Lions Mane Mushroom. However, its other names include Hericium erinaceus, Yamabushitake, Monkeys Head and the Bearded Tooth Mushroom.
Lions Mane has been revered in Asian cuisine and medicine for centuries due to its cognitive and digestive benefits. In recent years, its become more popular in the West too, with many people taking it in supplement form.
In this article, well talk about the potential evidence-based benefits of Lions Mane. Also, how you may be able to use this powerful supplement to boost your physical and mental health.
However, keep in mind that most research studies to date have been carried out on animals or in vitro . Those studies are a good indication of potential benefits for us. However, more human studies are needed to conclusively prove them. With that in mind, you shouldnt rely on the following as medical advice. You shouldnt use Lions Mane in place of appropriate medical care.
Ok, on to the good stuff
Lions mane mushroom
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The Best Lions Mane Mushroom Supplements
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Always look for a Lions Mane supplement that uses the whole fruiting body. This refers to the above ground part of the mushroom that contains the majority active triterpenes, beta-glucans and hericenones. These active ingredients that support brain health and stimulate nerve growth.
- Best Bulk Lions Mane Mushroom: 8:1 Dual Extract Lions Mane Mushroom Powder
Relieves Symptoms Of Depression And Anxiety
A small 2019 study in overweight or obese participants found that taking three capsules a day of a lion’s mane dietary supplement for eight weeks reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety by about 34.9% and 49.6% respectively.
Additionally, a 2018 study in adult mice found that lion’s mane extract may reduce anxiety and depression, possibly by promoting the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus.
Medical term: The hippocampus is a brain region essential for processing emotions and memories.
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Lions Mane Mushroom May Boost The Immune System
Animal studies have shown Lions Mane to have a very positive effect on the immune system. This is partly due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but there are a few other benefits at work.
One study in particular found that a polysaccharide in Lions Mane can increase activity in the intestinal immune system. Another discovered that a protein found in Lions Mane encourages the growth and regulation of healthy gut bacteria, stimulating the production of key disease-fighting cells.
Interested In Taking Lions Mane For Inflammation
If youre interested in trying lions mane for inflammation, our Forij Superfood Granola is a great way to start your mornings.
In addition to lions mane extract, our granola contains hyperconcentrated extracts of cordyceps and chaga mushrooms . That means youll get 10-15 times the nutrients these mushrooms provide than you get in a regular mushroom powder.The Forij mushroom granola is vegan, gluten-free, and contains organic, high-quality ingredients. What more could you ask for in a delicious bowl of cereal youll be excited to eat every morning?
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Lions Mane As Adaptogen
When it comes to combining lions mane with CBD, its the adaptogenic properties of the mushroom that we look to. What does that mean?
Adaptogens are natural compounds that can help your body manage and adapt to stress, including biological, chemical, and physical stress. They were first named by the Russian scientist Nikolai Lazarev, who was looking for ways to increase vitality in athletes and soldiers.
Lions mane has long been looked to for help managing stress and anxiety, as well as boosting creativity and fighting depression.
History Of Lions Mane Mushroom
The lions mane mushroom is named for its appearance: it looks exactly like the mane of the powerful lion!
Theyre white in color with long and shaggy tendrils making up its mane. It grows naturally in North America, Asia, and Europe, but has mainly been used for its medicinal properties in Asia. Only recently did use of this amazing mushroom become more well-known in Western parts of the world.
Traditionally, this mushroom was often reserved for royalty and monks. It was even called yamabushitake in Japan, which means Mountain Priest Mushroom.
Those who eat this mushroom describe the flavor to be similar to seafood, but only when its cooked! When brewed as a tea, it has a very mild & subtlety sweet flavor that pairs incredibly well with spices including turmeric, and ginger.
As we mentioned earlier, lions mane mushroom has a long history in traditional medicine. Its often consumed raw or in the form of powders or capsules. But brewing it as a tea has a long-standing tradition, and if you love a cup of tea, its certainly the easiest and most enjoyable way to enjoy the lions mane mushroom benefits everyday.
Historically, lions mane was used to treat various types of cancer as well as nourish the spleen and fortify the gut.
These traditional uses are surprisingly close to their modern uses and modern scientific findings as well.
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Lions Mane Mushroom Tea
Lions mane tea is just what it sounds like a brewed tea containing extract from H. erinaceus. All you need to do is use a tea strainer to steep the mushrooms in hot water to extract the beneficial compounds, then drink it like a regular cup of tea.
If youre opting for a pre-packaged lions mane tea, try and find a brand that offers 100% natural ingredients, as this will help to take full advantage of the active compounds that are present. Most sachets come with instructions regarding water temperature and brewing time.
Potential Protection Against Dementia
According to a study published in The International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms in 2013, lions mane contains erinacines and hericenones. These compounds potentially stimulate the growth of brain cells.
Nerve growth factor is crucial for maintaining the basal forebrain cholinergic system. The researchers wrote that the aforementioned compounds in lions mane could induce NGF synthesis in nerve cells.
Some compounds in lions mane could help to stimulate brain cell growth, fighting against dementia.
Meanwhile, a study published in Biomedical Research in 2011 tested the effects of lions mane on amyloid peptide-induced learning and memory deficits in mice. Amyloid plaques are found in the brains of Alzheimers patients.
In the study, the researchers fed amyloid-beta peptides to mice before giving them lions mane. The mushroom helped prevent spatial short-term and visual recognition memory impairments
Also, a study published in Phytotherapy Research in 2009 involved giving lions mane to individuals aged 50-80 who were diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. At the end of the 16-week trial, users of lions mane showed significantly increased scores on the cognitive function scale compared to placebo users.
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Analysis Of Mechanical Contribution To Bacterial Dynamic Balance
Metastats analysis revealed the difference of taxonomic abundance between different groups together with FDR correction, as revealed in Figure âFigure5.5. Some bacteria in the fecal samples sharply changed from the family classification level. Moreover, at the genus level, the TNBS-induced rats exhibited enrichment of potentially proinflammatory microbes, such as Corynebacterium, Staphylococcus, Ruminococcus, Roseburia, Dorea, and Sutterella, and reduction of potentially anti-inflammatory microbes, such as Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, Prevotella, Parabacteroides, Coprococcus, Desulfovibrio, and Lactobacillus , compared with the normal group .6). However, treatment with the H. erinaceus extracts exhibited reduction in proinflammatory microbes and enrichment of anti-inflammatory microbes, especially in the AE-treated group. All the results indicated that the H. erinaceus extracts had the potential to regulate the gut microbiota structure.
Tree species classification of the differently treated samples from IBD rats induced by TNBS enema
The pie chart of different colors represents different samples in that classification unit. The size of the radius denotes the tag number accounts for the proportion of the total tag the larger the radius, the higher the abundance. The numbers next to the pie chart represent the percentage of tag number of the percentage of the total tag.
Lions Mane May Prevent Digestive Ulcers
According to one study, Lions Mane extract may help prevent stomach ulcers by combating the growth of H. pylori, one of the most common bacteria known to cause stomach ulcers. The same study found that Lions Mane may also protect the stomach lining from other damages.
Another study found that Lions Mane extract may be more effective than traditional antacid medications at preventing stomach ulcers caused by alcohol consumption.
Some research also suggests that Lions Mane extract can prevent or manage certain inflammatory conditions affecting the digestive tract, like Crohns disease. One study found that a blend of functional mushrooms, including 14% Lions Mane, may significantly improve symptoms in patients with ulcerative colitis.
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What Kind Of A Mushroom Is Lions Mane
Theres a common belief that the more visually attractive a fungus is, the more poisonous it is likely to be. But Lions Mane which is easily recognized by its long thin white spines is both edible and has medicinal value.
The fungi grows on hardwood trees, during late summer or autumn, belongs to the hydnoid fungi or the tooth fungus group and are also sometimes called the Hedgehog mushroom and Satyrs beard. Its scientific name is Hericium Erinaceus and is commonly spotted all over Asia, Europe, and North America.
Possibly Helps Prevent Stomach Ulcers
Ulcers are able to form anywhere along the digestive tract. Ulcers cause a burning sensation that is often unpleasant and can lead to a loss of appetite. They are usually accompanied by gastritis, which can be be improved through Lions Mane supplementation.
One of the most common causes of stomach ulcers is H.pylori overgrowth. Lions mane can stop the growth of H.Pylori and protect the gut .
Lions Mane can also protect against ulcerative colitis, by lowering inflammation and intestinal bleeding.
However the majority of research has been performed on animals and human studies are required.
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Lions Mane Mushroom Dosage
At present, there is no recommended daily dose of lions mane. However, in the Phytotherapy Research study, the researchers gave half of the volunteers 3,000mg of the mushroom in capsule form for 16 weeks. The other half received a placebo.
Take lions mane capsules according to the manufacturers instructions. If you use a powdered form of the fungi, it is best to first begin with a small dose to see how it affects you. From there, increase the dose gradually until youre happy with the effects.
Why Is Inflammation Bad
Short-term inflammation is good. Its the chronic type thats bad.Ideally, the body triggers an inflammatory response in response to a problem, neutralizes the threat, and returns to normal.Often, however, folks have ongoing inflammation, not in response to a specific threat, but as a new normal. Many people today have chronic inflammation in their body, whether in the full-blown manifestation as one of the many diagnosable autoimmune diseases, or as a more low-grade form. Poor diet, stress, toxins, or other triggers can keep the immune system releasing inflammatory cells.Ongoing inflammation can cause any of the following symptoms and issues:
- Reduced cognitive abilities
Chronic inflammation is really bad. Fortunately, lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes, can help reduce it.
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Boosting Neuro Cognitive Health
It is believed that Lion Mane mushroom benefits the development and function of nerves protecting them from being damaged. This is of particular interest to science in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson Disease and multiple sclerosis. Diseases which afflicts nearly 100 million people worldwide.
Hericium erinaceus is a well known medicinal mushroom for brain health. It has been documented for its regenerative capability in peripheral nerves.
The mushroom is sometimes referred to as the ‘smart mushroom’ and helps to support cognitive function, memory, and focus.
The mushroom hosts a protective effect with cognitive function by
- Improving object recognition
- Improving mild cognitive impairment
- Preventing or treating diseases associated with cognitive decline, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease
The mushroom contains two compounds called hericenones and erinacines. These compounds may help stimulate brain cell growth and improve a person’s mental functions, including memory and general cognition.
The ability of Lion’s Mane to stimulate brain growth may help protect against certain conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.
Alongside these compounds,the mushroom also contains polysaccharides.
Polysaccharides can help protect neurons and boost their functioning. Some of the other fatty acids in the mushroom may also reduce the risk of neurodegenerative cell death. It may also help promote nerve growth factor secretion.
Biological Treatment For Ulcerative Colitis: Are Medicinal Mushrooms Compatible
When managing the symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases, biological treatment for ulcerative colitis is effective.
This is reassuring news for those living with the disease and its symptoms, which include severe pain, fatigue and constant bathroom trips. All are part of living with ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the colon and rectum.
The good news is there are ways to find relief. Thus, this blog post provides information on:
- Biological treatments for ulcerative colitis
- How supplementing with mycomedicine can help
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