Mushrooms have a plethora of wellness properties, and lions mane mushroom is no exception. It contains compounds that can enhance your brain function, boost your body’s immune system, and also improve your digestive system. Plus, its striking appearance means it can add an eye-catching, gourmet flair to any meal. If you’d like to learn more about lions mane mushroom, its numerous benefits, and how to incorporate it into your diet, then read on!
What is Lions Mane Mushroom?
Lions mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is a delectable fungus found in the wild and cultivated for consumption and medicinal purposes. It belongs to the tooth fungus family, due to its “shaggy” cascade of white spines. Ready to harvest from 1- 2 months, it has a mild, seafood-like flavor.
What are the Health Benefits?
The compounds found in lions mane mushroom can have powerful effects on our bodies. For starters, its therapeutic qualities can help protect the brain from neurological disease. This is due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powers. Furthermore, preliminary research suggests lions mane mushroom may stimulate healing in the body, fight against cancer, and reduce anxiety and depression. It’s even thought to lower the risk of heart disease.
In terms of digestive health, lions mane mushroom can promote nutrient absorption, fend off gastrointestinal issues, and is a natural source of probiotics. When it comes to the immune system, the Beta-Glucans found in lions mane mushroom can help to increase resistance to bacterial and viral infections.
How Can You Introduce Lions Mane Mushroom Into Your Diet?
Lions mane mushroom can be found fresh, dried, canned, and in supplement form. Dried and powdered mushrooms are particularly easy to add to smoothies or create flavorful tea. You can even stir-fry, deep-fry, sauté, or bake them for a flavor-packed meal. Additionally, products that contain lions mane mushroom extract or powder such as capsules, tablets, and tinctures are available.
FAQ
Q: Can lions mane mushroom enhance cognitive performance?
A: Yes, studies suggest that the compounds in lions mane mushroom can improve cognitive performance, particularly memory recall.
Q: Is lions mane mushroom safe to consume?
A: Absolutely! While a few people have reported mild side effects, lions mane mushroom is generally considered a safe and nutritious food.
Q: Is there a difference between lions mane mushroom powder and extract?
A: Yes. Lions mane mushroom powder is a dry, grounded form of the mushroom, which includes the entire mushroom. An extract is a concentrated form of lions mane mushroom, produced by boiling it down to obtain the most potent parts – usually the fruiting body and/or mycelium.