The lion’s mane mushroom – indigenous to both North America and East Asia is a superfood that is gaining popularity due to its potential to improve brain function. It has been long known for its healthful benefit, being used in forms of traditional medicine for centuries. Recent studies suggest that the lion’s mane mushroom is a powerful health booster, capable of benefiting everything from gut health, to aiding in the reduction of inflammation and boosting the immune system. But most importantly, the lion’s mane mushroom demonstrates powerful potential for improving cognitive function.
What Exactly is Lion’s Mane Mushroom?
Lion’s mane mushroom is a white and fluffy fungus that looks like a large ruff of mane taken from a lion’s neck. It is scientifically referred to as Hericium erinaceus and grows off of dead logs and stumps in the Northern Hemisphere. Lion’s mane mushroom is prized in alternative circles for its ability to influence an individual’s cognitive function, and some reports state that it is even capable of repairing damaged nerve cells.
What Are the Benefits Of Consuming Lion’s Mane Mushroom?
The unique and potent compounds that make up lion’s mane mushroom have a wide variety of benefits. For starters, the mushroom works as a natural anti-inflammatory. Lion’s mane mushroom is also known to promote cardiovascular health, reduce cholesterol levels, and has been shown to be anti-cancerous as well. On top of this, the mushroom is has been linked to improved cognitive function.
How Does Lion’s Mane Mushroom Improve Brain Function?
Recent studies have suggested a direct and positive correlation between consumption of the lion’s mane mushroom and an increase in cognitive ability. It is believed that the mushroom contains two unique compounds that act directly on the brain: hericerin and erinacine. These compounds encourage the growth of myelin and new neurons in the brain. Myelin is a fatty substance that acts as a protective shield around neurons and allows them to properly transmit signals in the brain. The increased growth of myelin has a noticeable effect on energy, creativity, memory, and overall well-being.
IN addition to the neurological benefits listed above, the mushroom also contains B Vitamins, amino acids, and Omega-3s that support better brain health.
How Can I Incorporate Lion’s Mane Mushroom Into My Diet?
The most common way to incorporate Lion’s mane mushroom into your diet is to buy it in a supplement form. The supplements are available in several forms, including capsules, tinctures, tea, and powder. All of these forms are capable of delivering several therapeutic bioactive compounds and providing the same benefits. Additionally, Lion’s mane mushroom can be found in some specialty stores and health food stores in its whole form, and can be cooked and eaten.
FAQs
Q: Can anyone benefit from consuming lion’s mane mushroom?
A: Yes, lion’s mane mushroom is beneficial for everyone. Whether you are looking for a natural anti-inflammatory, want to improve cardiovascular health, reduce cholesterol, or improve cognitive function, the mushroom has a plethora of beneficial qualities.
Q: What forms of lion’s mane mushroom are best?
A: The best form of the mushroom is the one which contains two compounds: hericerin and erinacine. These compounds are the main contributors to increased cognitive function and nerve cell growth. Any form will still provide other benefits such as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous, but for cognitive function the two previously mentioned are best.
Q: Can I cook and eat lion’s mane mushroom?
A: Yes, lion’s mane mushroom can be cooked and eaten. It is available in some specialty stores and health food stores, and can be made into a delicious soup or stir fry. Just remember not to over consume, as consuming too much can lead to digestive issues.
Overall, lion’s mane mushroom is a superfood that is gaining fame due to its potential to improve brain function. It has traditionally been used in forms of medicine for centuries and recent studies suggest that it is capable of reducing inflammation, adding to overall better health, and improving cognitive function. There are various forms of the mushroom that can be incorporated into your diet, so be sure to research and see which form will work best for you.