Winning the “mushroom with the most unique appearance award” lion’s mane, with its beautiful cascading white icicles, is extraordinary in more than just its looks. Typically it is known for its ability to support the health of the brain and nervous system along with supporting gut health.
Lion’s mane played a role in Asian culture and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) long before it was introduced to the West. In Chinese and Japanese medical systems lion’s mane has traditionally been used to fortify the spleen, nourish the gut and as an anticancer herb. It is said to be nutritive to the five internal organs (liver, lung, spleen, heart and kidney), and promotes good digestion, general vigour and strength. Traditional use of lion’s mane in China and Japan has focused on its benefits for the gut, in particular its antimicrobial and immunologic properties as applied to conditions such as gastric and duodenal ulcers, chronic gastritis and gastric and oesophageal cancer.
Lion’s mane is also known for its effects on the central nervous system and is used for insomnia and weakness which are characteristic symptoms of Qi (life force) deficiency in TCM. Buddhist monks were said to have made tea using lion’s mane mushroom powder to enhance brain function and heighten their focus during meditation. Human clinical trials, though still relatively small at this stage, have reinforced the ability of lion’s mane to support brain health, revealing significantly improved cognitive function and a reduction in depression and anxiety. The ability of lion’s mane to promote nerve growth and protect the brain from Alzheimer’s-related damage may explain some of its beneficial effects on brain health. However, it is important to note that most of the research has been conducted on animals or in test tubes. Therefore, more human studies are needed.
References
Lion’s Mane Mushroom. NatMed c2024 Therapeutic Research Center. (updated 19 Jan 2024; accessed 12 Jun 2024). Available from https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=1536
Spelman K, Sutherland E, Bagade A. Neurological Activity of Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus). Journal of Restorative Medicine. 2017 March 6(1)12:19-26 (8)
Julson E. 9 Health Benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Plus Side Effects) c2024 Healthline Media (updated Jan 12 2024; accessed 26 Mar 2024). Available from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lions-mane-mushroom
Add new comment