From the Research
Lion's Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) primarily works by stimulating nerve growth factor (NGF) production in the brain, with its bioactive compounds, particularly hericenones and erinacines, promoting neurogenesis and neuronal repair. The mechanism of action of Lion's Mane involves the induction of NGF synthesis in nerve cells, which is essential for the maintenance of the basal forebrain cholinergic system 1. This is supported by a study that found the aqueous extract of H. erinaceus to be non-cytotoxic and to promote neurite outgrowth in neuroblastoma-glioma cells 1. Additionally, Lion's Mane has anti-inflammatory effects that reduce neuroinflammation, which is implicated in cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases 2, 3. The mushroom also exhibits antioxidant properties that combat oxidative stress in the brain.
Some of the key benefits of Lion's Mane include:
- Promoting neurogenesis and neuronal repair
- Reducing neuroinflammation
- Combating oxidative stress
- Potential cognitive benefits, with a typical dosage ranging from 500-3000mg daily of Lion's Mane extract (standardized to contain at least 30% beta-glucans), taken consistently for at least 8-12 weeks to notice effects 2, 3.
It is worth noting that while Lion's Mane appears to be safe and well-tolerated, it may cause mild digestive discomfort in some individuals when first starting supplementation 2. Furthermore, the biosynthetic pathway of hericenones, the bioactive compounds responsible for the benefits of Lion's Mane, has been partially reconstituted, which may enable large-scale production of these compounds in the future 4. Overall, the current evidence suggests that Lion's Mane mushroom may be a useful adjunctive treatment for cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases, although more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential benefits.