Lion's mane: a mushroom that shows promise for the brain

Hericium erinaceous: the hedgehog with the evocative name

Lion's mane owes its name to its unusual appearance: a white mass of long, hanging prickles resembling a wild mane.

This mushroom belongs to the Hericiaceae family and grows naturally on decaying tree trunks, mainly in East Asia, North America and Europe.

It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine, where it is reputed to have anti-infection and nerve-boosting properties (1).

These traditions provide an interesting basis for modern research, which is exploring the possible effects of this mushroom on the brain and nervous system.

The potential benefits of lion's mane for the brain

Studies suggest that lion's mane may have positive effects on memory, concentration and neuroplasticity (2). However, it is important to note that these observations remain preliminary for the time being, based mainly on in vitro studies, animal studies or small clinical trials.

1. Potential support for memory and concentration

Research indicates that certain compounds extracted from lion's mane may help to improve cognitive performance and mood.

These effects are thought to be linked to a stimulation of neurogenesis, i.e. the formation of new neurons, as well as an improvement in synaptic functions, which are essential for the transmission of information between nerve cells (3).

2. Possible action on cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders

In addition to its effects on memory, some experimental data suggest that lion's mane may have a protective role against neurodegenerative disorders. The mushroom appears to be able to act on several key mechanisms involved in neuronal degeneration.

A recent study showed that certain extracts of Hericium erinaceus could help limit oxidative stress and inflammation in brain cells (4), two factors known to promote cognitive decline.

Finally, a small study of patients with mild cognitive impairment showed a temporary improvement in cognitive function, which suggests that further research is needed into neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).

For those wishing to explore the possible benefits of lion's mane, several food supplements based on this mushroom are now available.

It's worth noting that powdered Hericium has a subtle, light taste, similar to that of seafood, particularly lobster or scallops. So don't be surprised!

Discover the Lion's Mane supplement, formulated to support nervous functions and cerebral well-being.

The action of lion's mane on neurogenesis and neuroprotection

The beneficial potential of lion's mane for the cognitive sphere is based on several bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, hericenones and erinacins.

These molecules are at the heart of current research into how this mushroom might influence the brain.

Nerve growth factor (NGF): the driving force behind neurogenesis

A major discovery is lion's mane's supposed ability to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF).

NGF is a protein that is thought to promote the survival, growth and differentiation of neurons, particularly in the hippocampus, a key region for memory and learning.

A study published in Biomedical Research in 2008 (5) showed that extracts of Hericium erinaceus could induce NGF synthesis in cell cultures, suggesting a neurotrophic effect.

This stimulation of NGF could partly explain the observations of improved cognitive capacity in treated subjects.

Polysaccharides and neuroprotective effects

The polysaccharides contained in lion's mane are also thought to play an important role.

The study by He et al. (2017) (6) describes the polysaccharides present in lion's mane, detailing their chemical composition and their various actions observed at the cellular level.

These compounds appear to play a role in modulating oxidative stress and inflammation, two processes often linked to brain ageing. They could also influence the immune system.

A possible effect on blood sugar regulation

Lion's mane could also play a role in regulating metabolism.

A recent study identified several compounds present in the mushroom, including erinacenols A to D, capable of inhibiting the activity of the enzyme α-glucosidase (7).

This enzyme is thought to be involved in the digestion of carbohydrates and the regulation of blood sugar levels. These results suggest a potential beneficial effect in the treatment of diabetes and metabolic disorders, to be confirmed by in vivo research.

To date, more than 70 bioactive compounds have been identified, but further research is essential to better understand their potential against chronic and neurological diseases.

Among these compounds, the action on nerve growth factor appears to be one of the greatest potential benefits of lion's mane. The mushroom is also thought to have an interesting function in cases of anxiety and depression (8).

Good to know: It is better to consume lion's mane at the start of the day to optimise its effects on the nervous system and its adaptogenic properties.