Lion's Mane 500mg extract - 100 capsules

Lion's Mane, known scientifically as Hericium erinaceus , is an edible mushroom that has been traditionally used in Chinese and Japanese medicine for its medicinal and therapeutic properties. It is often recognized by its unique appearance, resembling a lion's mane, and is found growing on tree trunks in regions of Asia, North America, and Europe.

Why is it considered a nootropic? It is considered a nootropic due to its beneficial properties for brain function. The active compounds in Lion's Mane, specifically erinacin and hericenone derivatives, have shown promise in promoting neural health and cognitive improvement.

Mechanism of action: Lion's Mane works by stimulating the synthesis of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that plays critical roles in the maintenance, survival and regeneration of neurons in the brain.

1. Cognitive Enhancement :
   • Improved Neuroplasticity : Lion's mane contains compounds that can increase the neuroplasticity of the brain. This improved adaptability can translate into better adaptation to new tasks and learning.
   • Neuroprotection : Beyond simply enhancing function, there is evidence that lion's mane may offer neuroprotective properties, defending the brain against external factors and oxidative stress.
   • Reduced Mental Fatigue : Some users report a clearer mind and a reduction in feelings of mental fatigue when using lion's mane supplements.
2. Mental health :
   • Reduction of Depressive Symptoms : Lion's mane may influence the concentration of mood-related neurotransmitters, possibly offering a stabilizing effect on fluctuating moods.
   • Stress Resilience : There is some evidence to suggest that this mushroom may aid in stress resilience, possibly by mitigating some of the body's negative responses to chronic stress.
3. Nervous Health :
   • Promoting Myelination : Aside from simply promoting nerve regeneration, there is some evidence to suggest that lion's mane may promote myelination, a process essential for proper nerve function.
4. Immune system :
   • Immune Strengthening : Lion's mane has properties that can help boost immune function, preparing the body to fight infections.
5. Digestive Health :
   • Natural Prebiotic : Some studies have shown that lion's mane can act as a prebiotic, nourishing beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can improve digestive health and nutrient absorption.
6. Anti-aging :
   • Reducing Oxidative Damage : Lion's mane has antioxidants that can reduce oxidative damage in the body, a key factor in the aging process.
   • Skin Health : Thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, lion's mane may have benefits for skin health, protecting it from damage and promoting its regeneration.

These benefits, based on research and anecdotes, have led to a growth in the popularity of lion's mane in the health and wellness community. However, it is always important to remember that while supplements may offer benefits, they should not be used as substitutes for a holistic approach to health that includes a balanced diet, exercise, and proper medical care.

Absorption: Lion's Mane is best absorbed when consumed in extract form, as this allows for greater bioavailability of its active compounds. Although it can be consumed fresh or in dried powder form, extracts, especially those that are soluble in water and alcohol, tend to be more potent.

Adverse Effects and Contraindications: While Lion's Mane is generally considered safe for consumption, some people may experience adverse effects such as skin rashes, difficulty breathing, or itching. It is essential to start with a small dose to evaluate tolerance. Additionally, those with mushroom allergies should proceed with caution. As with any supplement, it is essential to consult a doctor or health professional before incorporating Lion's Mane into your routine, especially if you are already taking medications or have an existing medical condition.

More information about Lion's Mane and its dosage: https://nootropicsexpert.com/lions-mane/

References on studies:

[i] Conner JM et. Al. “NGF Is Essential for Hippocampal Plasticity and Learning” The Journal of Neuroscience 2 September 2009, 29(35): 10883-10889 ( source )

[ii] Lai PL, Naidu M., Sabaratnam V., Wong KH, David RP, Kuppusamy UR, Abdullah N., Malek SN “Neurotrophic properties of the Lion's mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia.” International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms . 2013;15(6):539-54. ( source )

[iii] Nagano M., Shimizu K., Kondo R., Hayashi C., Sato D., Kitagawa K., Ohnuki K. “Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake.” Biomedical Research . 2010 Aug;31(4):231-7. ( source )

[iv] Kelly A., Conroy S., Lynch MA “Evidence that nerve growth factor plays a role in long-term potentiation in the rat dentate gyrus.” Neuropharmacology . 1998 Apr-May;37(4-5):561-70. ( source )

[v] Kawagishi H., et. Al. “Erinacines A, B and C, strong stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF)-synthesis, from the mycelia of Hericium erinaceum” Tetrahedron Letters Volume 35, Issue 10, 7 March 1994, Pages 1569–1572 ( source )

[vi] Mori K., Inatomi S., Ouchi K., Azumi Y., Tuchida T. “Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.” Phytotherapy Research . 2009 Mar;23(3):367-72. ( source )

[vii] Mori K., Obara Y., Moriya T., Inatomi S., Nakahata N. “Effects of Hericium erinaceus on amyloid β(25-35) peptide-induced learning and memory deficits in mice.” Biomedical Research . 2011 Feb;32(1):67-72. ( source )

[viii] Mori K., et. Al. “Nerve Growth Factor-Inducing Activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1 Human Astrocytoma Cells” Biology Pharmaceutical Bulletin September 2008 31(9) 1727—1732 (2008) ( source )

[ix] Wong KH, Naidu M., David P., Abdulla MA, Abdullah N., Kuppusamy UR, Sabaratnam V. “Peripheral Nerve Regeneration Following Crush Injury to Rat Peroneal Nerve by Aqueous Extract of Medicinal Mushroom Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: “Fr) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae).” Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine . 2011;2011:580752. ( source )

[x] Sabaratnam V., Kah-Hui W., Naidu M., David PR “Neuronal Health – Can Culinary and Medicinal Mushrooms Help?” Journal of Traditional and Complimentary Medicine 2013 Jan-Mar; 3(1): 62–68. ( source )