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Lion's mane mushroom, also known as Hericium erinaceus or yamabushitake, is gaining attention for its array of health benefits, particularly its impact on the brain, heart and gut health.

Originating from Asian countries like China, India, Japan, and Korea, lion's mane mushrooms have been used both in culinary dishes and traditional medicine practices.

Here are the notable health benefits of lion's mane mushrooms, supported by research, along with considerations for dosage:

Cancer-Fighting Potential

When lion's mane extract is applied to human cancer cells in labs, it speeds up the death of these cells. This happens with various types of cancer, like liver, colon, stomach, and blood cancers. However, some earlier studies didn't find the same results.

Apart from killing cancer cells, lion's mane extract can also stop cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.

In a study from 2013, mice with colon cancer saw a 69% decrease in cancer spread to the lungs after taking lion's mane extract.

Another study in 2014 showed that lion's mane extract slowed down tumor growth in mice more effectively than traditional cancer drugs, and with fewer side effects.

Still, we haven't tested if lion's mane mushroom can fight cancer in humans yet. That's why more research is needed.

Protection Against Dementia

Scientific studies have identified two special compounds in lion's mane mushrooms, called hericenones and erinacines, which can help grow brain cells.

Healthline reported, tests on mice show that lion's mane extracts can improve memory and protect brain cells from damage caused by amyloid-beta plaques, which are linked to Alzheimer's.

In a significant study in 2020, people with mild Alzheimer's who took 1 gram of lion's mane mushroom every day for 49 weeks showed improved cognitive abilities compared to those who took a placebo.

The brain-boosting and protective effects of lion's mane mushrooms are promising, but most research has been done on animals or in labs, so more studies with humans are needed.

Shields Against Digestive Tract Ulcers

Lion's mane extract has the potential to prevent stomach ulcers by stopping the growth of H. pylori bacteria and protecting the stomach lining.

Although studies have shown that lion's mane extract can inhibit H. pylori growth in lab settings, its effectiveness in the stomach remains uncertain.

Apart from guarding the stomach, lion's mane extract has anti-inflammatory properties and protects against tissue damage in various parts of the intestines, suggesting a potential role in managing inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

A 2016 clinical trial involving individuals with ulcerative colitis showed significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life after three weeks of supplementation with a mushroom blend containing 14% lion's mane extract. However, similar benefits were not seen in those with Crohn's disease, indicating a complex response.

Alleviation of Depression and Anxiety

Studies on animals indicate that lion's mane extract might support the growth of brain cells and enhance the function of the hippocampus, a crucial area of the brain involved in memory and emotions.

Scientists believe that the improvements in hippocampal function may contribute to the observed reductions in anxious and depressive behaviors in mice treated with these extracts.

A small study in 2010 involving menopausal women found that consuming cookies containing lion's mane mushrooms daily for one month led to a decrease in self-reported feelings of irritation and anxiety.

Heart Health Support

A 2010 study involving rats fed a high-fat diet and administered daily doses of lion's mane extract exhibited a notable decrease of 27% in triglyceride levels and a 42% reduction in weight gain over 28 days.

Given that obesity and elevated triglycerides are recognized as risk factors for heart disease, lion's mane mushrooms contribute to heart health by addressing these concerns.

Furthermore, findings from test-tube studies indicate that lion's mane extract possesses the capability to inhibit cholesterol oxidation in the bloodstream, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health.

There is no universally recommended dosage for lion's mane mushrooms. The appropriate amount varies depending on factors such as age and overall health. It's advisable to consult with a doctor to determine the correct dosage for your specific needs.