Benefits of Lion's Mane Mushroom for Health

Benefits of Lion's Mane Mushroom for Health

Hericium erinaceus, sometimes known as the lion's mane mushroom, has long been a popular food and supplement in Asia. The mushroom gets its name from its large, white, fluffy cap, which resembles the mane of a lion.12

If you include lion's mane mushrooms in your diet or take them as a supplement, they have nutritional advantages. The mushroom also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The majority of lion's mane research has been conducted on animals, however some studies have examined the effects on people.1

Dietary supplements may or may not be right for you and are only loosely regulated by the FDA. Supplemental effects differ from person to person and are influenced by a wide range of factors, including kind, dosage, frequency of usage, and interactions with other drugs. Before beginning any supplements, please see your doctor, chemist, or other healthcare professional.

Enhances Cognitive Function

The anti-inflammatory characteristics of the lion's mane mushroom may help shield your brain from conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.1

In one study, people with Alzheimer's took a daily dosage of one gramme of lion's mane mushroom for nearly a year. According to the findings, those who took the supplement outperformed those who received a placebo on cognitive tests.3

Another study reported that after taking a supplement containing lion's mane mushroom for 12 weeks, subjects displayed increases in cognitive performance. The lion's mane mushroom may potentially affect brain nerve cells, improving cognitive function, according to the study.2

Aids Symptoms of Depression

The lion's mane mushroom may be useful in treating major depressive disorder symptoms. Over 280 million individuals worldwide suffer from depression, a prevalent mental health problem.41

Use of the lion's mane mushroom as a supplemental or alternative treatment for depression is possible. The anti-inflammatory qualities of the fungus may have depressive effects. Additionally, research suggests that lion's mane mushrooms have an impact on brain function and nervous system modulation, which may lessen depressive symptoms. Before changing or beginning any new therapy for depression, it's crucial to speak with your doctor.1

Some sleep disorders and other mood disorders may benefit from lion's mane mushroom treatment. According to one study, using a lion's mane mushroom supplement for eight weeks reduced anxiety and despair while improving mood

Lion's Mane Mushroom Nutrition

The lion's mane mushroom is a meal that contains a variety of vitamins and nutrients. Lion's mane mushroom, 100 grammes (g), contains:

43 calories

2.5 g of protein

7.6 g of carbohydrates

4.4 g of fibre

Fat: 0.26 g

443 milligrammes (mg), or 15% of the daily value (DV), of potassium

Potassium: 94 mg

88.6 g of water

16.9 micrograms (g) of biotin

Fatty acid: 30 (g)

The lion's mane mushroom is a nutritious potassium source. Potassium is a vital mineral that aids in nerve and muscle conduction, as well as kidney and heart function.7

It also contains minerals like phosphorus, which aids in cell growth and maintenance, and magnesium, which, among other things, helps control how muscles and nerves operate.89

Taking Lion's Mane Mushrooms

You can consume lion's mane mushrooms raw, cooked, or dried. They can be cooked with seasoning and used to stir-fries, soups, or sauces. Additionally, some supermarket stores sell mushroom burgers with lion's mane.

Supplements containing Lion's mane mushroom in the form of capsules, powders, or liquid extracts are additionally offered in addition to food products.2

Dosage

One gramme of lion's mane mushroom taken daily for up to 16 weeks has been proven to be safe.10

People have been observed eating up to 3 grammes of the lion's mane mushroom twice daily, according to a study based on self-reported usage.2

Talk to your doctor before taking lion's mane mushroom because there isn't enough data to suggest a precise dosage for you.

How Safe Is Lion's Mane Mushroom?

The Lion's Mane Mushroom is a healthy dietary item. In studies, the lion's mane mushroom has been well tolerated as a supplement with few adverse effects noted.10

It is advised to avoid lion's mane mushroom consumption at those times because there is not enough research on the subject.10

Possibly Interacting Drugs

The lion's mane mushroom may have antiplatelet properties, which means that it hinders the development of blood clots. When combined with blood thinners or anticoagulants, this may increase your risk of bleeding.10

According to certain studies, lion's mane mushrooms may reduce blood sugar levels. When combined with other herbs or supplements that lower blood sugar, it may have an additive impact that causes your levels to fall too low.10

Any worries you may have regarding possible drug interactions with lion's mane should be brought up with your healthcare provider.

What to Check Out

Most grocery stores sell the lion's mane mushroom. It's crucial to look for lion's mane mushroom supplements that have undergone independent quality and safety testing. Supplements are not subject to the same regulations as food and medication items by the U.S. Food and medication Administration.11

Companies like ConsumerLab.com, NSF International, and U.S. Pharmacopoeia perform tests to guarantee that the product is safe and has the right chemicals in the right amounts. A stamp of approval for these organisations' testing will appear on the product.National Institutes of Health, number 11. Background information about dietary supplements made from plants.

A Brief Overview

You can consume lion's mane mushrooms as food or take them as a supplement, powder, or liquid extract.

Despite the paucity of research on the health advantages of this mushroom, improvements in brain function and depressive symptoms appear promising. The mushroom is a wonderful source of potassium and is packed with vitamins and nutrients.

The lion's mane mushroom supplement has few negative effects, but it's still vital to consult your doctor to see if it's right for your particular health needs.