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Lion's Mane - Adaptogens, What are They?

Updated: Feb 14, 2024


What it is:

A fungus with a white beard-like appearance. A mild, succulent mushroom that, although classified as rare to find wild, is quite easy to cultivate. It is considered best sauteed and used in multiple cuisines as a specialty item.


Origins:

Grown in many areas of Asia, Europe, and Northern America but it is mostly utilized in China.


Supplement form:

A beige-colored powder or, in its whole form, a beige sponge.


Claims:

Stated to possess neuroprotective effects on the nerves. It may help with memory, nerve injury, and mental focus. An antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Used in Chinese medicine for gastric ailments.


What the science says:

A 2016 study on Hericium Erinaceus (Wong, 2016) showed an ability of nerve regeneration after injury in rats. This mushroom has been used in Eastern medicine for concentration, memory, and mental clarity.


The active ingredients are theorized to be hericenones and erinacines as they may promote nerve growth factor (NGF) production. NGF protein plays a vital role in maintaining the structure and function of the nervous system, influencing various aspects of cognition, sensory perception, and motor function.


Limited research exists, and most studies are small and contain a mixture of dose forms (dried supplements, etc.) However, it is a widely consumed fungus in Asian countries for culinary and medicinal purposes.


Remember when it comes to new supplements:


  • Start slow and low. Gradually increase your dosage over time.

  • Be aware of any changes to your body or mind, good or bad.

  • Source well. Speak to your Apeiron Life Client Advocate about our supplementation program.

  • Speak with your doctor before adding supplements to your diet regime to avoid interactions with your medications or adverse combinations.


References and additional reading:


https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25159861/

https://www.drugs.com/npp/lion-s-mane-mushroom.html

http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:indexfungorum.org:names:356812

https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/lions-mane-for-memory-in-older-adults/lions-mane/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25070597/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21383512/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27350344/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5133811/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4895996/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18844328/



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