Exploring the Potential Health Benefits of Lions Mane Mushroom.

Sarah Bennett

Apr 19

3 min read

Lions Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

Common Names

Lions Mane
Bearded Tooth Fungus
Tree Hedgehog Fungus
Pom-pom Mushroom
Monkey Head Mushroom.

Traditional Uses

Lions mane mushroom is a type of mushroom that is commonly found in North America and Asia. It has been used for hundreds of years in traditional Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects. It is usually taken as tablets made from dried and powdered fruiting bodies. Lions mane mushroom is also known to be good for the brain and nervous system. Recent research has found that it contains compounds that can help with memory loss, depression, anxiety, dementia, neurological disorders, and cancer.

One of the reasons why Lions mane mushroom is good for the brain is that it contains compounds that can help nerve growth. This can improve cognition, memory, and learning. Lions mane mushroom is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body. This is why it is being studied as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

Research has also found that Lions mane mushroom may have other health benefits, such as fighting dementia, managing diabetes, treating nerve damage, and preventing ulcers. While more research is needed to confirm these benefits, studies have shown that consuming mushrooms in general can be good for your health. This is because they are full of essential nutrients, like protein and antioxidants, which can help to prevent damage caused by oxidation in the body.

Lions Mane is a unique type of mushroom that's quite rare in the UK. It's so special that it's protected by law under a special act made in 1981. This means that it's illegal to collect them, and it's best to leave them alone. But if you're interested in growing them, you can try growing them from a special type of seed. It's a great way to enjoy these mushrooms without harming them.

Based on the information we have so far, Lions Mane mushrooms could potentially offer a range of health benefits. These benefits are still being studied, but some of the possible advantages include:

Helping support your mental health.

Recent studies have shown that consuming Lions Mane mushrooms can have a positive impact on mental health. These mushrooms may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, making you feel better and more in control of your emotions. 3

Helping your body handle stress.

Lions Mane mushrooms contain adaptogens that bring your body back to a stable balance when you're feeling overwhelmed. It's a natural way to support your body's ability to deal with the challenges of daily life. 1

Helping to support your immune system.

Studies have indicated that consuming Lions Mane mushrooms can improve the health of your gut by boosting your immune system's response to harmful bacteria. However, it's important to keep in mind that more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of this mushroom. 4

Supporting your brain function

Lions Mane mushrooms contain two special compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which are believed to protect the brain from the cognitive decline that comes with ageing. So, including Lions Mane mushrooms in your diet could be a great way to support your brain health as you age. 1

Lions Mane mushroom side effects

It's crucial to prioritize your health and safety. Therefore, it's highly recommended that you consult a medical professional before considering adding Lions Mane mushrooms to your diet in any form, especially if you're already taking any form of medication. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, it's advised to avoid Lion's Mane because there isn't enough information available for it to be considered safe. This precaution ensures that you are well-informed and can make the best decisions for your health.