Experience These Brain & Health Benefits of Lion’s Mane Extract
Mixing mushrooms into supplements might sound like a crazy idea, but if we want to remember better, age slower, and supercharge our brain cells, this powerful nootropic may be the way to go!
Lion’s Mane Mushrooms are powerful nootropics used to enhance memory or other cognitive functions. As the many science-backed benefits of lion’s mane became known, many people began incorporating it into their daily routines.
From mixing powders into a morning cup of coffee to popping a few capsules before bed, here’s everything you should know about this potent neuroprotective mushroom, including how to incorporate them into your lifestyle.
Protect Against Mental Decline: As we age, our brain’s ability to form new connections begins to decline. However, some studies have found that lion’s mane extracts have been shown to reduce symptoms of memory loss in mice. As well, these studies noticed reduced damage caused by amyloid-beta plaques, a chemically "sticky" protein that is linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
Improve Mood & Focus: Other animal studies have found that lion’s mane extract may improve hippocampus function, helping to regenerate brain cells in areas necessary for processing memories and emotional responses. Improved functioning of the hippocampus may help reduce anxious and depressive behaviors in mice given these extracts.
Speed Nervous System Recovery: The brain, spinal cord, and other nerves travelling throughout the body make up the nervous system. They work together to send and transmit signals regarding movement, recovery, and injuries. Lion’s mane mushroom extract has been shown to reduce recovery time from nervous system injuries by 23–41% when given to rats.
Reduce Inflammation & Oxidative Stress: At the root of many modern illnesses, such as cancer and autoimmune disorders, lies chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. This is essentially an imbalance between of oxygen in the body, causing an inappropriate immune system response. However, research shows that lion’s mane contains powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds to reduce the impact of these illnesses.
Boost the Immune System: Animal research shows that lion’s mane mushroom can boost immunity by increasing the activity of the gut microbiome. This intestinal immune system protects the body from pathogens that might enter the gut through the mouth or nose.
Incorporating Lion’s Mane Into Your Day
While it’s fine to add lion’s mane mushroom to that morning cold brew, it has a distinctly earthy, fishy flavor that might not pair all that well. However, this potent nootropic can be prepared just as any other meaty mushroom. When cooked, it’s flavor and texture are similar to that of crab or lobster.
Unless you live near a farmers market or specialty store, though, it may be difficult to find these mighty shrooms. For this reason is why we created lion’s mane in supplemental form into our energy supplement Helios Hybrid.
When first introducing lion’s mane to the body, start with half a serving and slowly increase the dosage based on how the body responds. As with any supplement, the most benefits are found when taken consistently.
Safety & Side Effects
While no human studies have examined the side effects of lion’s mane, they appear to be very safe as no adverse effects have been seen in rats. Lion’s mane may help protect against dementia, reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression, and help repair nerve damage.
This potent mushroom also has strong anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting abilities, helping to lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes in animals. While the current research is promising, more human studies are needed. Always talk to a health care provider for medical advice before adding them in.