There are many lion’s mane mushroom supplements on the market, making it hard to choose one. To help you make an educated decision and reap the full benefits of this extraordinary fungus, we will discuss the adverse health effects of lion’s mane mushrooms and the key considerations for choosing the best dosage.
If you want the most out of your lion’s mane mushroom supplement, make sure it contains both the fruit body and the mycelium.
The lion’s mane mushroom – what is it?
The edible lion’s mane mushroom, scientifically known as Hericiumerinaceus, is a native North American, European, and Asian mushroom. Thanks to its distinctive white shaggy coat, it looks like a lion’s mane. Because of its possible positive effects on cognitive function, neuroprotection, and immune system health, it is also widely used as a supplement to the diet.
Research suggests that lion’s mane can potentially alleviate mood and depression issues. However, unlike commonly believed, it does not produce any hallucinogenic effects. Instead, the brain seems to benefit from a number of distinct (non-psychedelic) compounds discovered in lion’s mane.
Where can one locate lion’s mane mushrooms?
The lion’s mane’s natural environment is a forest. Broadleaf trees, such as birch, maple, beech, or black walnut, are common. Late summer and early fall are prime times to spot them blooming on decaying logs. This fungus can also be found in the holes left by branches that have died or are near death.
The lion’s mane mushroom: why give it a go?
Numerous useful bioactive substances are found in the best lion’s mane supplement, including polysaccharides, beta-glucans, erinacines, hericerins, steroids, alkaloids, and lactones. In addition to bolstering the immune system and preventing inflammation and oxidative stress-induced damage, these chemicals can encourage the growth and healing of brain cells. The extract from a lion’s mane can also hasten the death of cancer cells.
Advantages of lion’s mane mushrooms:
In addition to its well-known cognitive-enhancing properties, lion’s mane mushroom offers many health benefits.
Makes the brain healthier and memory better:
One of the most desired effects of a lion’s mane is its ability to improve memory. When applied topically, lion’s mane improves neuronal development, affecting brain function. As a result, this fungus has the potential to alleviate neurodegenerative diseases.
Helps alleviate symptoms of depression:
Signs of depression may be alleviated by using this fungus. It prevents stress-induced nerve cell death, ensures an adequate supply of neurotransmitters in the brain, and lessens depressive inflammation.
Promotes further development of nerves:
Because it promotes the growth and repair of nerve cells, lion’s mane extract may speed the recovery process after a brain or spinal column injury. It also has the potential to mitigate brain damage after a stroke.
Benefits the digestive system:
Lion’s mane has anti-inflammatory and probiotic properties that may be useful for people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The mushroom may also encourage a balanced microbiome in the digestive tract.
Acts as an effective antioxidant:
This fungus contains antioxidant qualities to help prevent and treat oxidative stress. Animal research suggests that its antioxidants may prevent liver damage caused by alcohol, delay skin ageing, and ward off osteoporosis.