Lion’s mane is a type of mushroom that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It is now gaining popularity in the Western world as a natural way to improve cognitive function and reduce inflammation.
Some people also believe that it can help boost energy levels, improve digestion, and protect against neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. However, there is still much research to be done in order to confirm all of these potential benefits.
Health Benefits of Lion’s Mane
1. Boosts cognitive function. One of the most well-known potential benefits of consuming lion’s mane is its effect on cognitive function. Some studies have shown that this mushroom can help improve memory and concentration, as well as reduce the symptoms of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia.
2. Reduces inflammation. Inflammation is a normal immune response that helps protect the body from infection and injury. However, chronic inflammation can lead to a number of serious health conditions, such as heart disease, arthritis, and cancer. Lion’s mane contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
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- Enhances energy levels. Although more research is needed, some preliminary studies suggest that lion’s mane may help improve energy levels by regulating fat metabolism and increasing oxygen utilization in cells.
- Aids in digestion. This mushroom is a rich source of fiber, which is important for keeping the digestive system regular. Additionally, lion’s mane contains compounds that may help protect the lining of the stomach from damage caused by ulcers or excessive acid production.
Why not combine lion’s mane health benefits with dessert?
- protects against neurological diseases. Several studies have shown that compounds in a lion’s mane can help protect nerve cells from damage and promote nerve regeneration. These properties may make this mushroom a promising treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurological disorders characterized by nerve cell death or deterioration.
Side Effects of Lion’s Mane
Additionally, little is known about any possible side effects of consuming lion’s mane. Many would argue that there are none for the average person in good health. Side effects may be more common for those on medications.
Therefore, it is always best to speak with an Eastern Chinese healthcare professional, as they have the most knowledge about lion’s mane from using it for centuries in practice. Conventional Western medicine has very little experience using it, so conventional Western doctors may be reluctant to recommend it or not recommend it based on a lack of knowledge and experience with nootropics.
If you are reading this, you are likely open to learning about healthcare outside of and in addition to Western practices. Centuries-old healthcare practices of the Chinese and Indian cultures have a good amount of data and authority.
Although side effects are rare, some people may experience an allergic reaction after coming into external contact with lion’s mane mushrooms or products made from them. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, itching, hives, shortness of breath, wheezing, swelling of the face or throat, and dizziness or lightheadedness.
Even rarer is an allergic reaction from ingesting lion’s mane mushrooms. Animal studies show that ingesting lion’s mane mushrooms fresh or in dried powder form is very safe, even at high doses. Lion’s mane mushroom is considered a superfood, not a drug.
If you experience any of these symptoms after taking lion’s mane supplements or eating foods containing this mushroom, stop using them immediately and seek medical attention if necessary. Often, there are other biological factors occurring as well.
Want to consume fresh lion’s mane mushrooms? If you are lucky enough to come across them at your local farmer’s market or grocery store, here’s how to cook and prepare them:
Concluding Thoughts
Lion’s mane mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine with few reported side effects. Nowadays, they are gaining popularity in the Western world as a natural way to improve cognitive function, reduce inflammation throughout the body, enhance energy levels, aid in digestion, and protect against neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s .
However, much more research needs to be done in order to confirm all of these potential benefits. It is good to keep in mind that scientific studies are expensive and, typically, the companies that can afford them will only conduct studies if they can get a return on their investment. This return on investment often comes from having secured a patent. Natural foods cannot be patented.
