Lion’s Mane Mushrooms and Brain Health

Lions Mane Mushrooms 18 July 2023

If you are looking for a natural way to enhance your cognitive function, you might want to consider adding lion’s mane mushrooms to your diet.

These white, fluffy fungi have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, especially in Asia and India, for their various health benefits. But what makes them so special for your brain?

What are lion’s mane mushrooms?

Lion’s mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus) are also known as hedgehog mushrooms, bearded tooth mushrooms, or pom pom mushrooms. They grow on hardwood trees in temperate forests, and have long, shaggy spines that resemble a lion’s mane.

Lion’s mane mushrooms are edible and have a mild, seafood-like flavor. They can be cooked, dried, or powdered and used in soups, salads, teas, or supplements. They are rich in antioxidants, fiber, B vitamins, and other nutrients that support overall health.

How do they affect the brain?

Lion’s mane mushrooms contain unique compounds that may stimulate the growth and repair of brain cells. These compounds include N-de phenylethyl isohericerin (NDPIH) and hericenones, which can cross the blood-brain barrier and reach the brain tissue.

According to a recent study published in the Journal of Neurochemistry, NDPIH and its derivative hericenone A can promote the growth of hippocampal neurons in a lab setting. The hippocampus is a part of the brain that is involved in learning and memory formation.

The researchers found that these compounds increased the size of the growth cones, which are structures at the tips of the neuronal branches that connect with other neurons. This suggests that lion’s mane mushrooms may enhance the communication and plasticity of the brain network.

What are the benefits for cognitive health?

By stimulating the growth and repair of brain cells, lion’s mane mushrooms may offer a range of cognitive benefits, such as:

Improving memory and recall

Enhancing learning and creativity

Protecting against cognitive decline and dementia

Reducing anxiety and depression

- Boosting mood and motivation

There is some evidence from animal and human studies to support these claims.

For example:

A study on mice showed that lion’s mane mushroom extract improved their object recognition and memory.

A study on older adults with mild cognitive impairment found that taking lion’s mane mushroom supplement for 16 weeks improved their cognitive function.

A study on healthy women who ate cookies containing lion’s mane mushroom extract reported lower levels of irritation and anxiety than those who ate placebo cookies.

How to use lion’s mane mushrooms for brain health?

Lion’s mane mushrooms are generally safe and well-tolerated, but they may cause some side effects such as allergic reactions, stomach upset, or skin rashes in some people. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your doctor before using them, especially if you have any medical conditions or allergies.

You can consume lion’s mane mushrooms in various forms, such as fresh, dried, powdered, or extracted. You can find them in some health food stores or online. The dosage may vary depending on the product and your personal needs, but a common recommendation is to take 1 gram of dried mushroom powder or 500 mg of extract per day.

You can also incorporate lion’s mane mushrooms into your diet by adding them to your favorite dishes.

Here are some delicious recipes to try:

Lion’s Mane Mushroom Soup

Lion’s Mane Mushroom Risotto

Lion’s Mane Mushroom Vegan Crab Cakes

Closing Thoughts

Lion’s mane mushrooms are not only tasty but also beneficial for your brain health. They contain compounds that can stimulate the growth and repair of brain cells, which may improve your memory, learning, mood, and more. You can enjoy them in various forms and recipes, but make sure to check with your doctor before using them.

If you want to learn more about lion’s mane mushrooms and other natural ways to boost your brain health, check out these articles: