3 Benefits Of Lion’s Mane Mushroom

TL:DR: We unpack the benefits of lion’s mane, where it came from and how you can take it. It’s worth a read tbh. 

Mushrooms are a big deal right now. But I’m not talking button mushrooms you’d find in the local supermarket. Or the psychedelics people used to take in the 60s. 

We’re talking about functional mushrooms. Ones that look completely bizarre when you see them in the wild.

Lion’s mane mushroom is one of those. 

Aptly named, its looks would certainly turn your head. Once you’ve read this article on benefits of lion’s mane mushroom and got to know this odd looking shroom a little better, we think you’ll be pretty amazed. 

What is Lion’s Mane Mushroom?

Lion’s mane mushroom, or Hericium erinaceus, is an edible fungi found in Asia, Europe, and North America. 

Sometimes called hedgehog mushroom, lion’s mane is a white shaggy looking thing that sprouts from the wood of dead or dying trees such as fallen oak, beech, or maple. It literally looks like a lion’s mane, hence the name.

Lion Mane history 

Lion mane mushroom has been used in Chinese and Japanese medicine for centuries to nourish the gut, for insomnia, and muscle weakness. In recent years it has been used as an anti-cancer treatment.

What may be the benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushroom?

From brain function to mental and gut health, lion’s mane mushroom may have many benefits. 

1. May Brain Boost and Memory

In a few clinical trials there has been evidence to suggest that lion’s mane may improve cognitive function. Basically, it might improve your ability to learn, think, remember, make decisions and pay attention. 

We’re loving this benefit of lion’s mane as women really do get hit with brain fog. Whether it’s before your period or during menopause the dip in oestrogen can cause us to be forgetful, struggle to concentrate and even make decisions. 

In one placebo-controlled study, subjects took 3 grams of lion’s mane a day for 16 weeks. Their performance on a cognitive test improved, however it declined after they stopped taking it – suggesting there are no lasting effects, so you’ll need to make sure you keep up with your supply on this one. 

2. May Reduce anxiety and depression

Anxiety and depression has many causes, one is chronic inflammation. In animal research it was found that lion’s mane mushroom has anti-inflammatory effects and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety in mice. 

Other studies found that it may also regenerate brain cells and may improve the part of the brain that processes memories and emotion. The benefits of lion’s mane just keep going!

3. May Support the digestive system

This is what lion’s mane has been used for in historical medicine. Not only may it help boost the immune system, but the mushroom feeds the healthy gut bacteria thanks to its beta-glucan content. There are also studies that analyse the benefits of it treating IBS. 

Fingers crossed for easing that bloating being a benefit of lion’s mane!

4. Packed with vitamins and minerals 

Our bodies love a dose of vitamins and minerals and these mushrooms have just that – potassium, B-vitamins, and iron. These can help to boost your immune system, energy, and support red blood cells. 

What are the side effects of Lion’s Mane Mushroom?

Like with any new supplement you take, it’s advisable to talk to your doctor. The side effects that we have read on the web are mild,  including stomach discomfort, nausea, and a skin rash.

It’s advisable to chat with your doctor, particularly if you take medication for blood clots, asthma, or diabetes.

The benefits oflLion’s mane mushroom, wrapped up.

Lion’s mane mushroom is the main mushroom of the moment. We really rate it.

We take one a day and have seen great changes in our focus in the office.

Have you tried it? Let us know your thoughts [email protected]

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