We would love to be smarter, healthier and happier. Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericiumerinaceus) is showing excellent medicinal activity for thousands of years. It is powerhouse fungi and can protect the brain against cognitive decline. It also boosts memory, reduces anxiety, supports immunity and boosts mood. Lion’s Mane mushroom grows abundantly in North America, Asia and Europe. It resembles neuronal tissue just like the brain. It grows on harder surfaces which are rich in cellulose.
Lion’s Mane mushroom possesses several medicinal health benefits. Some brilliant health benefits of lion’s mane for the body and brain are here.
1. Protects and regenerates the brain as well as nervous system
Lion’s Mane possesses excellent neuro-supportive activity. There is no other mushroom found in nature that has the effect on stimulating the formation of nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF is a remarkable protein that stimulates the formation of new brain cells and strengthens the existing ones. When the body secretes BDNF, it helps to activate a series of genes that support the growth of brand new brain cells. A better level of BDNF boosts to learn faster, age slower, remember better, and rapidly revive your brain.
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2. Boosts cognitive functioning, ability to focus and memory
There is evidence available that shows that this mushroom supports cognitive functioning, supports mental focus and improves memory. The scientific research in human beings reflects the positive results on cognitive functioning in the elderly people. The mushroom’s mood-boosting properties help to promote a focused and peaceful state of mind.
3. Improves mood and aids relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression
Some recent studies suggest the positive, mood-boosting effect from the Lion’s Mane mushroom. A study on Japanese menopausal women showed positive results in supporting emotional well-being and reducing stress. An animal model study reflects that Lion’s Mane mushroom helps to reduce depression and anxiety.
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4. Immune support
Just like most medicinal mushrooms, it contains beta-glucans and polysaccharides. It is believed that these help to support a healthy immune system. Some scientific studies in animals showed enhanced immune systems, especially via antimicrobial activity and even anti-cancer activity.
5. Anti-Aging properties
Just like several other herbs and mushrooms it shows anti-aging effects by supporting overall health and well-being. It stimulates some processes in the body that slow down the aging process.
6. Repairs the Gut health
Consuming extracts of Lion’s Mane on the regular basis provide many health benefits. In addition to this it also protects the gut in a number of ways. The studies on mice suggest that it protects and heal the intestines from developing ulcers. It also helps with inflammatory conditions of the intestines such as gastritis, Crohn’s disease and colitis.
7. Fights Inflammation
Just like other medicinal benefits of Lion’s Mane mushroom it also shows fight with inflammation. Inflammation-fighting capacity can be measured through antioxidant activity. It is considered as a power house for inflammation-reducing activity.