When purchasing, look for firm mushrooms without blemishes. 2011 Sep 28;59(18):9861-9. doi: 10.1021/jf201944n, Kim SP, Nam SH, Friedman M. Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane) mushroom extracts inhibit metastasis of cancer cells to the lung in CT-26 colon cancer-tansplanted mice. The benefits stem from its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Lastly, a study suggested that lion's mane extracts are active against liver cancer cells, colon cancer cells, and gastric cancer cells when isolated in a test tube. Animal studies show that lion's mane mushroom may increase levels of BDNF, a protein that supports brain health. A healthy intestine fights bacteria and other pathogens that may enter through the nose or mouth and cause infection. One study found taking a lion's mane mushroom supplement for eight weeks decreased depression and anxiety and improved sleep quality in people with obesity or higher weights. It may also help reduce the severity of brain damage after a stroke. Studies suggest that lions mane mushrooms may help relieve mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, but more research involving humans is needed to better understand the correlation. That is what researchers from Singapore aim to find out. One study showed that rats with nerve damage receiving a daily extract of lions mane mushrooms had quicker nerve regeneration than control animals. People use lions mane for various health issues, such as lowering the risk of heart disease, boosting the immune system, and managing diabetes. Wong, K.-H., Naidu, M., David, P., Abdulla, M. A., Abdullah, N., Kuppusamy, U. R., & Sabaratnam, V. (2011, August 11). Phytother Res. Little evidence supports these claims, Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable rich in nutrients. A 2012 study evaluating the medicinal potential of 14 types of mushroom found that lions mane had the fourth highest antioxidant activity, which researchers described as moderate to high.. In one study, lions mane dietary supplements appeared to give mice better object recognition and recognition memory. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. Animal and test-tube studies suggest that lions mane extract can reduce the risk of heart disease in several ways, but human studies are needed to confirm these findings. The safest, most beneficial amount depends on factors like your age and overall health. For example, you can chop them up and use them instead of crab meat in crab cakes. Many people describe their flavor as seafood-like, often comparing it to crab or lobster (58). Neuronal health - can culinary and medicinal mushrooms help? Few side effects were reported. Neuronal healthcan culinary and medicinal mushrooms help? Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. What are chaga mushrooms? When the study authors reviewed the existing evidence, they noted that much of it was performed on mice or had other methodological issues (such as small study size or confounding factors). According to animal studies, it works by stimulating the intestinal immune system and regulating gut bacteria. Inflammation contributes to many medical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune diseases. Animal and test-tube studies show that lions mane extract can kill cancer cells and slow the spread of tumors, but studies involving humans are still needed. Lion's mane is sometimes called the smart mushroom, because they are believed to help support cognitive function, memory, and attention span. An older Japanese study on adults aged between 50 and 80 years with mild cognitive impairment found that daily consumption of mushroom extract for 16 weeks led to higher scores on cognitive function scales compared with a placebo group. Another 2013 animal study found that lions mane extract was more effective at preventing alcohol-induced stomach ulcers than traditional acid-lowering drugs and without any negative side effects (21). One way that lions mane lowers blood sugars is by blocking the activity of the enzyme alpha-glucosidase, which breaks down carbs in the small intestine (33). All rights reserved. From Folk Medicine to Modern Day Supplement In one case, depression symptoms including sleep issues in people with menopause were reduced after taking lions mane 80% mycelium extract and 20% fruiting body extract daily for eight weeks. Lions mane mushroom powder can be mixed into hot water, tea, coffee, a smoothie, or other beverages. Do reading, puzzles, and similar activities really stave off dementia? Kim, S. P., Kang, M. Y., Choi, Y. H., Kim, J. H., Nam, S. H., & Friedman, M. (2011, June 8). In theory, this . Research conducted to understand the antioxidant qualities of several types of mushrooms found that lions mane mushrooms show the fourth most potent antioxidant activity. They are extensively used in Asian countries such as Korea, Japan, India, and China. In the 2009 study conducted in Japan, participants consumed four 250 mg tablets containing 96% lion's mane dry powder. A study published in 2013 found that lion's mane extract not only reduced glucose levels but also increased insulin levels in diabetic rats when they were administered the extract for 28 days. Other animal studies have found that lions mane extract can also help regenerate brain cells and improve the functioning of the hippocampus, a region of the brain that processes memories and emotional responses (11, 12). When this enzyme is blocked, the body is unable to digest and absorb carbs as effectively, which results in lower blood sugar levels. For example, a study conducted in 2011 demonstrated that extracts of freeze-dried lion's mane mushrooms reduced the tumor size of tumors in mice. Liang. Researchers are investigating the role of erinacines that are found in lion's mane mushrooms. Test-tube studies have also found that lions mane extract can help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in the bloodstream (29). Lions mane is legal to buy and use. 1. Brain or spinal cord injuries can cause various adverse medical outcomes. Major risk factors for heart disease include the following: Research shows that lions mane extract can influence some of these factors and reduce the risk of heart disease. However, at least one older study has failed to replicate these results (41). Front Immunol. Kushairi N, Phan CW, Sabaratnam V, et al. Lions mane is also a very good source of neurotrophic compounds, a family of biomolecules (most of which are protein-based) that promote the growth, survival, and several physiological functions of both new and mature neurons. Lions mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus) are white, globe-shaped fungi that have long, shaggy spines. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Research has found that lions mane may protect against dementia, reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, and help repair nerve damage. Unfortunately, there is not much concrete evidence to support the use of these mushrooms or supplements for most of these benefits. There have also been reports of individuals who have had difficulty breathing and skin rashes that have been linked to eating lions mane mushrooms. Lions mane mushrooms can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried. Rat studies have found that lions mane extract can speed up recovery from nervous system injuries, but research involving humans is lacking. The study involved 30 Japanese men and women (ages 50 to 80) diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. After illness or surgery, you may wonder what to eat to help your body recover. Vegetables are a very important food group on a low-carb diet. You may also want to buy slightly more than you plan to consume as they lose volume when cooked. In vitro studies report that lions mane mushrooms can result in antibacterial activity that may improve digestion. There are no official guidelines for lion's mane supplementation. How bacteria can colonize skin and accelerate eczema growth, Social isolation linked to lower brain volume that may affect cognitive health, Vitamin D supplements may benefit heart health, research finds, Elevated blood sugar, lower gray matter volume linked to depression. Piping Rock's Lion's Mane supplement is also gluten-free, lactose-free, soy-free, Non-GMO, and vegetarian. Most studies on lions mane mushrooms have used animals, but it appears to be safe to eat the mushrooms in moderate quantities, as people do in many countries in Asia. The immune-boosting effects of lions mane mushrooms are very promising, but this area of research is still developing. Of course, you can consume as-is. 2019;21(1):163. However, at least one researcher notes that it may be better to consume the fresh mushrooms because other preparations are not regulated "to ensure safety, efficacy, and other parameters." A., Sabaratnam, V., Wong, K. H., Kuppusamy, U. R., Abdullah, N., & Ismail, S. (2011). Lions mane mushroom shows potential as a therapeutic diabetes supplement, but more research is needed to determine exactly how it might be used in humans. Dosage is not standardized. Abdulla, M. A., Fard, A. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. How Does Beet Juice Improve Athletic Performance? When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. There are growing kits available and sources say that they are one of the easier mushrooms to grow. However, in the animal studies, even high doses did not produce adverse effects in the rodents. The brains ability to grow and form new connections typically declines with age, which may explain why mental functioning worsens in many older adults (2). Neurotrophic properties of the Lion's mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia. The majority of the most widely purported benefits are related to possible neuroprotective benefits. Protective effect of ethanol extracts of Hericium erinaceus on alloxan-induced diabetic neuropathic pain in rats, Anaphylaxis after contact with a jellyfish. People wishing to incorporate lions mane mushrooms into their diet should cook them until the outer layer is crispy as the taste can be bitter otherwise. To make this version add one or twoblack tea bags, a tablespoon of cinnamon, a tablespoon of cardamom, and a tablespoon of ground ginger. Also consult with your doctor and proceed with caution/avoid if you are taking diabetes medication or blood thinners (anticoagulant/antiplatelet medications) because lion's mane may slow blood clotting and blood sugar levels and interact with these medications. The limited toxicology studies investigating possible adverse effects have found that it is likely safe. Lions mane mushrooms have a flavor that many describe as similar to seafood, and its enjoyed either raw, dried, or cooked. Two major factors typically cause stomach ulcers: overgrowth of the bacteria H. pylori and damage to the mucous layer of the stomach thats often due to long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (17). You can find it dried, fresh, or in tinctures and in tea, capsule, coffee, powder, and other forms. However, there is currently a lack of research on the effects of lions mane mushrooms in humans with Alzheimers disease. Tatjana Zlatkovic/Stocksy. Lions mane appears to be safe to use, as long as you speak with a doctor before you start using it and follow the instructions carefully. The most effective dosage of lions mane mushrooms depends on factors like your age and overall health. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Research on rats showed that the mushroom extracts might have a cholesterol-lowering effect. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and nutrition and exercise healthcare professionals. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties, Possible Side Effects of Lions Mane Mushrooms. A study using animal models found that these mushroom extracts may also fight liver, colon, and gastric cancer cells. Erinacine A-enriched, Choi, W.-S., Kim, Y.-S., Park, B.-S., Kim, J.-E., & Lee, S.-E. (2013, June 30). Lion's mane supports the immune system by promoting better gut health. 2018;2018:5802634. Restorative Medicine. 2013;15(6):539-54. doi:10.1615/intjmedmushr.v15.i6.30, Li IC, Lee LY, Tzeng TT, et al. 2019;21(1):163. doi:10.3390/ijms21010163, Vigna L, Morelli F, Agnelli GM, et al. Many people believe that this is the best way to release the mushroom's beneficial extracts (although there is no evidence to support this belief). Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22135902, https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2012/464238/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5237458/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5855563/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3714447/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5492111/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21779573, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27816657, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24631140, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3852124/#__ffn_sectitle, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26364939, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18844328, https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/biomedres/31/4/31_4_231/_pdf/-char/en, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26853959, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28266682, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26853960, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3176599/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26150007, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4415746/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5133811/. Everything you need to know about reishi mushrooms. A chemical called the nerve growth factor (NGF) is similarly essential for the normal functioning of the part of the brain (called the basal forebrain) that produces acetylcholine. This mushroom also protects against stomach ulcers, improves anxiety, cognitive function, and depression, and has anti- fatigue and anti-aging properties [ 6, 2 ]. However, most of the research supporting these benefits has been done in a lab and did not involve humans. By Michelle Pugle May Help Overcome Dementia As you age, the ability of your brain to form connections reduces along with its capacity to form new brain cells called neurons, and this leads to diminished mental. Behav Neurol. Research shows that lion's mane has many health-promoting ingredients that come with several benefits. If you have a mushroom allergy, you may consider avoiding lion's mane mushroom. Lion's mane medicinal mushroom is not psychoactive, so it does not have any intoxicating effects. That is a 4 month supply of brain food for only $15! A 2016 study of people with ulcerative colitis found that taking a mushroom supplement containing 14% lions mane extract significantly reduced symptoms and improved quality of life after 3 weeks (25). However, research has found that lions mane mushroom extract may help speed recovery from these types of injuries by stimulating the growth and repair of nerve cells (15, 16). This has been demonstrated with several types of cancer cells, including liver, colon, stomach, and blood cancer cells (37, 38, 39, 40). Published 2019 Dec 25. doi:10.3390/ijms21010163, Vigna L, Morelli F, Agnelli GM, Napolitano F, Ratto D, Occhinegro A, Di Iorio C, Savino E, Girometta C, Brandalise F, Rossi P.Hericium erinaceus improves mood and sleep disorders in patients affected by overweight or obesity: Could circulating pro-BDNF and BDNF be potential biomarkers?. Spelman K, Sutherland E, Bagade A. People can eat them or take them in the form of supplements. 2015;2015:418023. doi:10.1155/2015/418023, Diling C, Chaoqun Z, Jian Y, et al. Several animal studies have found that lions mane extract reduced markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in rodents and may be especially useful in managing inflammatory bowel disease, liver damage, and stroke (22, 50, 51). Theres not much research currently available assessing whether its safe to eat lions mane for a prolonged period or about its side effects. 2019;21(1):1-11. doi:10.1615/IntJMedMushrooms.2018029487, Hao L, Xie Y, Wu G, et al. J Tradit Complement Med. Product and . 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Mushrooms are hearty and versatile, making them an excellent substitute when a recipe calls for meat. Allergies to lion's mane can cause breathing problems or some rash-like symptoms. Many health conditions such as heart diseases and autoimmune disorders such as arthritis are due to chronic inflammation. You can find fresh and dried lion's mane mushrooms and lion's mane extracts in supplement stores and online. In the U.S., however, fresh lion's mane mushrooms can be hard to find. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? Chronically high blood sugar levels eventually cause complications like kidney disease, nerve damage in the hands and feet, and vision loss. However, more research is needed. A Beginners Guide to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Possible Side Effects of Lions Mane Mushroom, What to Know About the Benefits of Peppermint Leaf, intestinal immune system and regulating gut bacteria, symptoms may include throat swelling and skin rash symptoms, Immunomodulatory activities of a fungal protein extracted from. Stomach ulcers can also result from the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which damages the stomach's mucous layer. It is also advisable to discuss the use of any new supplement with a doctor. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. So when choosing any supplement, it is a good idea to look for products that have been verified by a third-party organization such as USP or NSF. Stomach ulcers can occur due to an overgrowth of a certain type of bacteria known as H. pylori. Michelle is the author of Ana, Mia & Me: A Memoir From an Anorexic Teen Mind. Another 2014 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 (43). Be sure to read labels carefully to know what you are buying. (57). Lions mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus) are big, white mushrooms that resemble a lions mane (hence the name). Mo Med. Neuronal healthcan culinary and medicinal mushrooms help? Continue reading to learn more about lion's mane mushroom, including its history of traditional use in Chinese medicine, as well as potential health benefits that encompass supporting. Mycelium is the root-like network from which mushrooms grow or fruit. Does eating mushrooms protect brain health? However, lion's mane is marketed for its potential to increase focus and is associated with reduced feelings of depression. However, allergic reactions in humans have been reported, so anyone with a known mushroom allergy should avoid it. (59). Some studies also indicate the benefits of lions mane mushrooms to fight obesity by lowering the impact of fat tissue inflammation. Malia Frey is a weight loss expert, certified health coach, weight management specialist, personal trainer, and fitness nutrition specialist. Vitamin D Deficiency: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments. Whats more, lions mane mushrooms contain a compound called hericenone B, which can decrease the rate of blood clotting and lower the risk of heart attack or stroke (30). Acetylcholine is one of the most common neurotransmitters that is used by neurons (brain cells) to transmit information and is also the chemical responsible for your waking state. 2013;3(1):62-68. doi:10.4103/2225-4110.106549, Lai PL, Naidu M, Sabaratnam V, Wong KH, David RP, Kuppusamy UR, Abdullah N, Malek SN. In one study, blood sugar levels in rats with diabetes were lower after they received lions mane mushroom extract for 4 weeks. Most people looking for health benefits will purchase lion's mane supplements. They often cause paralysis or loss of mental functions and can take a long time to heal. They also exhibit immune-stimulating functions, all of which combine to lower the inflammatory fallout of such conditions. You can consume lion's mane tea just like you consume other types of mushroom tea. Yi, Z., Shao-long, Y., Ai-hong, W., Zhi-chun, S., Ya-fen, Z., Ye-ting, X., & Yu-ling, H. (2015, April 16). J Ethnopharmacol. Animal studies suggest that lions mane mushroom and its extracts are very safe, even at high doses. Nutrition, benefits and risks. In a small Japanese study, women with a variety of health complaints, including menopausal symptoms and poor sleep quality, ate cookies containing lions mane extracts or placebo cookies for 4 weeks. A 2020 study of people with mild Alzheimers disease found that supplementation with 1 gram of lions mane mushroom daily for 49 weeks significantly improved cognitive test scores compared with a placebo (7). Native to North America, Europe, and Asia, it can be identified by its long spines (longer than 1 centimetre or 1 2 inch), occurrence on hardwoods, and tendency to grow a single clump of dangling spines. One dated case report shows a lion's mane allergy resulting in breathing problems (acute respiratory distress). Could protect against dementia The brain's ability to grow and form new connections typically declines with age, which may explain why mental functioning worsens in many older adults ( 2 ).. Tastes earthy and light, not at all like a culinary umami mushroom. Anti-. Human studies are needed to understand this benefit fully. What is the nutritional content of lion's mane mushrooms? Overview Lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a mushroom that grows on trunks of dead hardwood trees such as oak. 2003;42(12):1219-22. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.42.1219. You can get your fix of lions mane in the form of powders you can add to your morning cup of coffee or find in capsules.. We avoid using tertiary references. You're likely to see these claims promoted on lion's mane supplement labels. In this article, youll learn about the health benefits of lions mane mushroom including how to supplement with lions mane, what it feels like to take lions mane, what you need to know about lions mane dosing, and possible side effects from taking this non-psychoactive mushroom. When Is the Best Time to Take Vitamin D? While this is not a guarantee of safety, it provides at least some level of protection that what is in the bottle is what is stated on the label. When preparing lion's mane mushrooms, it is generally recommended that you cook them quickly over high heat, but you can also try drizzling them with olive oil and roasting them. More Study-Backed Benefits of Lion's Main Mushroom Supplement. They contain bioactive substances that have many beneficial effects on the body, especially the brain, heart, and gut. 2019;2019:7861297. Now, lions mane mushrooms are found in grocery stores, your favorite restaurants, supplement shops, and even some of the most popular coffee varieties. The neuroprotective properties of, Why Parkinson's research is zooming in on the gut. Here we discuss the potential benefits of lions mane mushrooms and consider the possible risks and side effects of their use. In fact, some people use them as a substitute for seafood in recipes. Lions mane mushrooms contain compounds that stimulate brain cell growth and protect them from damage caused by Alzheimers disease. The researchers suggest that this is due to the extracts anti-inflammatory effects. Possible health benefits of lion's mane include: Lions mane mushroom provides many health benefits, but there are two plant compounds (hericenones and erinacines) in particular that are neuroprotective. One literature review of studies shows many of the studies regarding the use of lions mane for depression are conducted on mice, which makes comparison with human mental health challenging. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Here are 21 iron-rich plant foods for vegetarians and vegans. At 5x strength, you get the . Some of these women were given lions mane extracts while others were given placebo cookies for four weeks., The women who were given extracts of lions mane reported lower levels of stress and anxiety compared to the placebo group.. In this study, participants took four 250mg tablets containing 96% of lion's mane dry powder three times a day for 16 weeks. To make your own cup of tea at home, you'll want to use dried mushrooms. Effects of amycenone on serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-, interleukin-10, and depression-like behavior in mice after lipopolysaccharide administration [Abstract]. They can also be steeped and consumed in tea or other beverages. Therefore, more human studies are needed. Lion's Mane Supplement: Benefits, Studies and Dosage. The fruiting body is what you think of when you think of mushrooms.

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