AN IN DEPTH LOOK AT LION’S MANE MUSHROOM IN TERMS OF CURRENT RESEARCH AND ANCIENT TRADITIONAL PRACTICES.
BACKGROUND: Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), a toothed fungus, is considered to be both a gourmet and functional mushroom. In Asia, it is said to bestow “nerves of steel” and “the memory of a lion” and that Buddhist monks consumed Lion’s mane tea to enhance brain power as well as their ability to focus during meditation. In Japan, it’s called yamabushitake – mountain priest mushroom – referring to the flowing robes of the Shugendo sect of monks.
In recent years, Lion’s Mane has become very popular for two reasons:
- it is a culinary delight having a chicken / lobster like texture and umami taste
- it is proving to be one of the most popular and promising natural nootropics currently available on the market. A nootropic (smart supplement) boosts one’s memory, focus, mood and cognitive abilities.
BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE COMPOUNDS: Based on current research, there are many known active constituents of Lion’s Mane. However, unlike other supplements, Lion’s Mane contains two unique classes of active compounds: erinacines and hericenones; both highly valued for their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and stimulate the production of 2 neurotrophins, : Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF).
BDNF and NGF: These are essential for the maintenance, differentiation and survival of the entire nervous system and for the development of higher cognitive function. They are involved in the rebuilding of myelin (insulation around nerve fibres); as well as in the brain’s ability to rewire itself and learn and form new memories (neuroplasticity). Research also suggests that low levels are strongly linked to neurodegenerative conditions (Alzheimer’s); neuropsychiatric disorders (depression and anxiety); poor sleep, obesity and depression.
TRADITIONAL USE & RESEARCH FINDINGS
- Apart from well-being, cognitive and nervous system benefits Lion’s Mane has also long been used in the East for the treatment of chronic gastritis and inflammatory bowel diseases (including leaky gut and ulcerative colitis). It has natural antibacterial properties that protect the gut against harmful bacteria and has demonstrated significant inhibition of H. pylori – a bacterium implicated in the causation of gastric ulcers.
- Studies also show that Lion’s Mane mushroom can help improve insulin sensitivity and support healthy blood glucose levels.
OUR LION’S MANE EXTRACT: We cultivate our Lion’s Mane on wood, on site, to full maturity. The fruiting bodies are then harvested, dried and subjected to extraction processes using hot water and alcohol. This finally results in the production of our extract which contains the full spectrum of active constituents that this amazing mushroom has to offer.
DISCLAIMER: These statements are based on anecdotal use and research publications. This product is sold as a nutritional supplement and has not been evaluated by SAHPRA (South African Health Products Regulatory Authority) for its quality, safety, or intended use. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, prevent any disease or alter any condition. While mushroom extracts have a long history of traditional use, scientific research on their safety when combined with pharmaceutical medication and / or other substances is still ongoing. Recommendation: If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, diagnosed with a medical condition, or currently taking chronic medication, other pharmaceuticals, substances or supplements, please consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before deciding if Lion’s Mane supplementation is appropriate for you.
