Lion’s Mane Mushroom.
Lions Mane Mushroom - ‘Hericium Erinaceus’
Cognitive Function & Mental Clarity
Lion’s Mane contains bioactive compounds (hericenones and erinacines) which have been shown to stimulate the production of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). NGF is a protein that plays an integral role in growth, maintenance and regeneration of neurons (nerve cells) in the brain. Healthy nerve cells are required for processing and transmitting information within the brain and throughout the entire body, and therefore Lion’s Mane can enhance cognitive function and mental clarity. In addition, Lion's Mane may support the process of myelination, which is the formation of a protective sheath around nerve fibers. This sheath, made of myelin, helps conduct nerve impulses more efficiently. Improved myelination can enhance the speed and efficiency of neural communication; contributing to better cognitive function.
Alzheimers Dementia & Memory
Alzheimer's disease is characterised by the loss of synapses, the connections between neurons that facilitate communication. Lion's Mane supports synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken in response to activity. This can aid in maintaining cognitive function and memory. Alzheimer's disease is also marked by the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain; Lion’s Mane has been shown to decrease amyloid plaque burden through promoting expression of an enzyme that can degrade these proteins, and increase neurogenesis which is the formation of new neurons (nerve cells) within the brain.
Anxiety & Depression
Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a crucial role in promoting the growth and development of nerve cells, as well as maintaining the connections between them. Reduced levels of BDNF have been associated with both anxiety and depression through decreasing excitatory neurotransmitter function. Lion's Mane mushroom significantly increased BDNF levels in the hippocampus, a brain region closely linked to emotional regulation. By promoting the production of BDNF, Lion's Mane mushroom may contribute to the alleviation of anxiety and depression symptoms.
Chronic inflammation has been linked to both anxiety and depression, but the unique bioactive compounds found in Lion's Mane mushroom, such as hericenones and erinacines, possess anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing systemic inflammation, Lion's Mane mushroom may indirectly alleviate anxiety and depression symptoms associated with inflammatory processes.
Digestion & Gut Health
There are bioactive compounds present in Lion's Mane called polysaccharides and beta-glucans. These possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Their properties work synergistically to promote a healthy gastrointestinal environment by protecting the digestive system against oxidative stress and reducing inflammation in the gut. Additionally, Lion's Mane mushroom has been found to enhance the production and activity of beneficial gut bacteria, particularly Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species, which are crucial for optimal digestion and nutrient absorption. Furthermore, Lion's Mane mushroom has been shown to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, improving the breakdown and assimilation of food. Its unique ability to nourish and support the growth of the gut lining may also contribute to the maintenance of a robust gut barrier, preventing the leakage of toxins and pathogens into the bloodstream.
