Lion's Mane and Brain Health: Research Breakthrough

Lion's Mane: From Mushroom to "Brain Food"

Lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus) is an edible mushroom used in East Asian traditional medicine for centuries. In recent years, this mushroom extract has captured the attention of researchers and health enthusiasts thanks to its unique bioactive compounds and their potential effects on brain health.

Key Compounds: Hericenones and Erinacines

Lion's mane contains two unique groups of compounds not found in other mushrooms:

Hericenones

• Found in the fruiting body of the mushroom
• Stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) synthesis in vitro
• Low-molecular-weight compounds

Erinacines

• Found in the mycelium
• Also stimulate NGF synthesis in vitro
• Can cross the blood-brain barrier (in animal studies)

NGF is a protein that plays a critical role in the growth, maintenance and repair of neurons. Stimulating NGF production has been the central theme of lion's mane research.

Key Studies

Mori et al. (2009): Improved Cognitive Function Scores

This double-blind, placebo-controlled trial is one of the most cited studies on lion's mane (Mori et al., 2009).

• Participants: 30 Japanese older adults (50–80 years) with mild cognitive impairment
• Dose: 250 mg lion's mane extract three times daily (750 mg total), 16 weeks
• Results: Cognitive function scores improved significantly in the lion's mane group
• Important note: Scores declined 4 weeks after discontinuation, suggesting ongoing supplementation may be needed

Li et al. (2018): Review of Neuroprotective Properties

This comprehensive review article compiled data from multiple animal and in vitro studies (Li et al., 2018):

• Lion's mane extracts showed neuroprotective properties in animal models
• NGF synthesis stimulation confirmed in laboratory settings
• Promotion of myelin regeneration observed in animal studies
• Authors stressed the need for more human trials

Additional Research Directions

Scientific interest in lion's mane extends beyond cognitive function:

• Mood and anxiety: Nagano et al. (2010) found that 4 weeks of lion's mane supplementation reduced anxiety and irritability symptoms in Japanese women
• Digestive health: Lion's mane has traditional use supporting digestive tract health
• Immune system: Some studies suggest immunomodulatory properties

A Growing Market

The functional mushroom market is expanding rapidly:

• Functional mushroom market projected to exceed $20 billion by 2028
• Lion's mane is one of the fastest-growing segments
• Rising interest in "nootropic" supplements
• Consumers seeking natural alternatives to support cognitive function

What You Should Know

Limitations of Current Evidence

While the research is promising, important limitations exist:

1. Few human studies — most data comes from animal and in vitro studies
2. Small sample sizes — existing human studies involve dozens, not hundreds, of participants
3. Standardisation issues — different products contain different compound profiles
4. EFSA has not approved health claims for lion's mane

Quality Varies Between Products

Quality differs greatly among lion's mane supplements:

• Fruiting body extract vs mycelium on grain — compound profiles differ
• Extraction method — hot water extract vs alcohol extract vs dual extract
• Beta-glucan content — indicator of a quality product
• Third-party testing — provides assurance of content and purity

Practical Summary

Lion's mane is a fascinating area of research backed by intriguing science. The NGF stimulation mechanism is unique, and clinical trials have shown promising results. However, more and larger human studies are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.

If you want to try lion's mane, choose a quality extract from a reputable manufacturer and consult a healthcare professional if needed.

Read more:

• Lion's mane products at MaxFit

References

1. Mori, K., Inatomi, S., Ouchi, K., Azumi, Y., & Tuchida, T. (2009). Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytotherapy Research, 23(3), 367–372.
2. Li, I. C., Lee, L. Y., Tzeng, T. T., Chen, W. P., Chen, Y. P., Shiao, Y. J., & Chen, C. C. (2018). Neurohealth properties of Hericium erinaceus mycelia enriched with erinacines. Behavioural Neurology, 2018, 5802634.
3. Nagano, M., Shimizu, K., Kondo, R., Hayashi, C., Sato, D., Kitagawa, K., & Ohnuki, K. (2010). Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomedical Research, 31(4), 231–237.
4. Lai, P. L., Naidu, M., Sabaratnam, V., Wong, K. H., David, R. P., Kuppusamy, U. R., ... & Malek, S. N. A. (2013). Neurotrophic properties of the lion's mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, 15(6), 539–554.

Disclaimer

Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. The research findings presented do not constitute approved health claims.