Mushrooms have been part of folk and traditional medicine in various cultures around the world since ancient times.

More recently, scientific research has shown how several mushroom species are natural powerhouses with medicinal properties.

Lion’s mane mushroom, in particular, has proven health benefits. In this blog, we’ll explore the Lion’s Mane health benefits. So if you’re wondering what are the health benefits of lion’s mane mushroom, keep on reading.

What Is Lion’s Mane?

Hericium Erinaceus, or Lion’s Mane, is a type of mushroom native to North America. As the name suggests, the mushroom is identical in appearance to a Lion’s mane.

In the wild, Lion’s Mane mushroom grows on dying hardwood logs. However, it can be cultivated using grain spawn and hardwood substrate.

So, what is Lion’s mane used for? Commercially, the mushroom is grown for its highly sought-after health benefits. It is also a culinary mushroom and can be a wonderful addition to any meal or a main course.

What Is Lion’s Mane Good For? Main Benefits

Lion’s mane mushroom has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine. More recently, it has been confirmed to be rich in antioxidants and other health-promoting chemical compounds.

Here are the main health benefits of lion’s mane mushrooms:

• Good for the nervous system: The nervous system contains a vast number of cells that die every day. Consuming lion’s mane may promote the release of nerve growth factor, which repairs and regenerates the nervous system.
• Mental Health Benefits: Lion’s mane mushrooms may improve mental health upon consumption. Research and anecdotal evidence alike point to improvements in depression and anxiety as a result of eating the mushroom.
• Disease Management: There is evidence to suggest that the lion’s mane mushroom may be a powerful ally against certain chronic diseases. Those with cancer and diabetes may find consuming the mushroom particularly beneficial.
• Memory and Brain Health: Lion’s mane has also been shown as beneficial for improving cognitive function. It is a natural nootropic or cognitive enhancer that may help treat Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.
• Lower Cholesterol: Finally, lion’s mane mushrooms may help lower cholesterol. It is possible to cook lion’s mane fruiting bodies as a steak, additionally making it a healthier alternative to red meat.

Benefits of Lion’s Mane For Brain and Memory

The most promising research on lion’s mane so far is for brain health and improving memory. According to a study, adult participants who consumed four dried grams of powdered lion’s mane every day for four months of the mushroom showed improved cognitive functioning.

Can Lion’s Mane Help Dementia

There is some evidence to suggest that lion’s mane health benefits extend to Dementia prevention as well. However, there are currently no randomized, double-blind studies that suggest that the mushrooms can prevent or treat Dementia.

Lion’s Mane For Alzheimer’s Disease

The neuroprotective properties of lion’s mane extend beyond just repairing the nervous system or promoting cognitive function. One major reason the mushroom is so highly-regarded is its ability to help treat Alzheimer’s disease. There is a good body of scientific evidence to suggest that lion’s mane mushrooms can help improve living conditions for those with Alzheimer’s. Ingesting the mushroom can help patients perform daily activities with greater ease, including dressing, cooking, or taking care of hygiene.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom Benefits For Mental Health

Beyond just improving brain function and cognition, the lion’s mane mushroom is a powerful ally in the fight against mental illness. In an age riddled with anxiety and where depression is increasingly common, a small dose of lion’s mane mushroom may just make the difference for the consumer.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom For Depression

One mechanism that may explain lion’s mane health benefits has to do with the mushroom’s anti-inflammatory properties. Ingesting some lion’s mane can therefore help treat depressive disorders by reducing inflammation. Animal trials with mice have shown that lion’s mane can improve hippocampus functioning— a region of the brain that helps regulate emotion and process memories.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom For Anxiety

Similarly, lion’s mane mushrooms can also help reduce anxiety. The mushroom is a natural anxiolytic that can help consumers relax. Unlike other anxiolytics on the market, lion’s mane is non-psychoactive and non-addictive. You can quit taking the mushroom at any time without experiencing significant withdrawals or side effects, unlike with other anxiety medications. Always consult your doctor for medical decisions regarding your medications.

Lion’s Mane For Disease Prevention

The final major category of lion’s mane health benefits is disease prevention. Just like with the other benefits, the mushroom is not a miracle cure-all that can reverse any health condition. Rather, it has known health-boosting properties that may help with certain physical complications.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom For Cancer

It would be a stretch to claim that lion’s mane mushrooms can cure cancer. However, the mushroom can nonetheless aid in the fight against the deadly disease. A study found that lion’s mane mushroom contains compounds that kill cancer cells faster than normal.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom For Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a silent killer that is a leading cause of heart disease. A healthy diet goes a long way in managing cholesterol levels. However, some foods can take you the extra mile in the fight against cholesterol. One such food is lion’s mane mushroom, which can help reduce cholesterol in the body.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom For Diabetes

No, consuming lion’s mane mushrooms is not a substitute for taking insulin. However, it can also help with complications of diabetes. Lion’s mane can help reduce blood sugar, a property only a few foods have. You can reap these benefits from the mushroom whether you consume it in its fresh or dried powder form.

Where To Buy Lion’s Mane Supplements?

If you’ve made it this far, you’re already familiar with Lion’s Mane health benefits. Now, you may be wondering where exactly you can buy this mushroom.

Fresh lion’s mane mushrooms may be difficult to acquire for some. However, getting the mushroom in its dried powder form or in capsules is easy! You can find the highest quality dried organic lion’s mane powder on Longevity Botanicals.

Try out lion’s mane mushroom supplements today, and you’ll be ready to build a healthier mind and body in no time!