Description
DESCRIPTION: After harvesting, the mature fruiting bodies of the Lion’s Mane mushroom are hand shredded into smaller pieces before being air-dried on-site using a commercial low-temperature drier. This gently removes moisture while fully preserving the beneficial compounds within. We offer Lion’s Mane only in its shredded form. In terms of mass, 10g of dried Lion’s Mane is equivalent to 100g of fresh Lion’s Mane.
HISTORICAL USE: Traditionally, in Chinese medicine, Lion’s Mane has been shown to help heal gastric ulcers, and also protect, repair and regenerate nerves of the brain and body, promote better mental clarity and mood, reduce circular thinking, help with depression and potentially halt and reverse cognitive decline such as that associated with dementia.
It is rapidly 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 & cognitive abilities. Current research has shown that Lion’s Mane species produces two unique classes of active compounds: erinacines and hericenones; both highly valued for their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and stimulate the synthesis of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in the central nervous system.
BDNF and NGF 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 the brain’s ability to rewire itself learn and form new memories (neuroplasticity). Low levels are strongly linked to neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and neuropsychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety. Hericenones are primarily produced by the fruiting body and are linked with an increase in the production of BDNF.
HOW TO USE AS A FUNCTIONAL FOOD: These are the dried fruiting bodies of Lion’s Mane mushrooms. They may be rehydrated in a little hot water before adding to broths, soups and stews.
Do not consume raw.
TEA: Use ±1 teaspoon of dried, crushed fruiting body and brew in 250 ml hot water (not boiling, but simmering) to make a cup of tea. Allow to steep for 5 minutes and drink. Sweeten if desired.
SOUPS & STEWS: Add ± 1 teaspoon of dried, crushed fruiting body per person to the pot where the contents are simmering (not boiling). Allow to simmer for 15 -20 minutes before serving. The pieces may be eaten once they have been heated through as described. Adding butter tremendously improves the overall flavour and benefits.
STORAGE: To maintain freshness over the long term, keep the mushrooms sealed tightly in their original resealable bag and store them in a cool, dry place.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION & PRECAUTIONS: While Lion’s Mane mushroom has a long history of traditional use and is generally regarded as safe in Traditional Chinese medicine, Western scientific research on its safety, especially its interactions with pharmaceuticals and / or other substances is still evolving. It is not advisable for use as self-medication. Always consult your primary healthcare physician before adding Lion’s Mane to your routine, especially if you have an existing medical condition or take chronic medication. Always start with a minimal amount to test your body’s response to the product. If you experience any adverse effects, stop consumption immediately and consult your healthcare specialist if need be.
In an effort to provide useful information on Lion’s Mane as a supplement; we have compiled the following information which is based on anecdotal use and research from the internet. This is not an exhaustive list or the only information on this topic by any means and consumers are encouraged to check with their primary health care physician on the suitability of Lion’s Mane consumption for them.
Lion’s Mane may alter and affect the intended outcome when combined with the following pharmaceuticals, conditions and supplements. Do not consume Lion’s Mane if you fall into any of these categories.
- People taking drugs for gastric and intestinal related issues
- People with transplants and those on immunosuppressants
- People taking drugs for mental health issues or ADD including sedatives, Anxiolytics and Anti-depressants
- On High / Low blood pressure treatments
- Pregnant or Breastfeeding
- Diagnosed with any medical condition & on any Treatment
- People planning to have surgery or laboratory tests – stop 2 weeks before.
- Diagnosed with Diabetes or on Diabetes treatments
- On Cholesterol lowering drugs
- People who take chronic pharmaceuticals, use over the counter drugs, supplements, recreational and other mind and consciousnessaltering or hallucinogenic substances.
- On Aspirin, Paracetamol and anti-inflammatories
*All of the above statements relating to the benefits, use, preparation and precautions relating to Lion’s Mane are based on anecdotal use and research publications and have not been evaluated by SAHPRA. 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 form of illness disease or alter any condition. Please check with your primary care physician if this product is suitable for your use.
