If you want to increase your problem-solving abilities and neuro-acrobatics, you may want to consider adding lion’s mane mushroom to your daily regimen. Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) is roaring to the top of cognitive function-support category.
The potential benefits of lion’s mane mushroom are numerous and span physical, cognitive and mental health.
As we age, the brain’s neuroplasticity tends to subside; neuroplasticity the ability of the brain to adapt and change effectively, fluidly, and swiftly. Lion’s mane has unique terpenoids, hericenones and erinacines, that cross the blood-brain barrier and provide neuroprotective effects. For example, erinaceus may help the brain produce nerve growth factor, while lion’s mane mycelia (the underground network of “roots’) also stimulated brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Both help protect neuroplasticity.
Studies have demonstrated that lion’s mane supplementation provided significant improvements in cerebral function and mental health. One 16-week study found enhancements in adults with mild cognitive impairment; another study found improvements in depression and anxiety in menopausal women. Additionally, lion’s mane polysaccharides have strong antioxidant ability in the brain; they are shown to dramatically reduce reactive oxygen species by up to 80 percent.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) or free radicals are often produced by stress, which impacts cognitive abilities in healthy adults. Life is abundant in stressors but lion’s mane can help simultaneously calm and reduce stress as well as increase cognitive acuity. One study tested the mushroom in people aged 18 to 45. Participants performed tasks more quickly after only one-hour post-supplementation. And after 28 days, most reported a significant reduction in stress.
Lion’s mane mushroom may support the stress-mood aspect in overweight individuals beginning a fresh lifestyle reset to lose pounds and gain wellness. Researchers found that overweight subjects had reduced depression, anxiety, and greater BDNF levels.
Don’t think too much about it –- lion’s mane mushroom supports brain wellness, especially memory, acuity, and focus.
Some of our favorite lion’s mane mushroom products:
#1
Lion’s Mane Mushroom Crumble (Big Mountain Foods)
Lion’s Mane Mushroom Crumble (Big Mountain Foods): This plant-based ground meat alternative features lion’s mane blended with portobello and shiitake mushrooms.
2 Lion’s Mane Liquid (Lions Mane Extracts): This fast-acting tincture using fruiting bodies only is handcrafted in small batches. Just 2 droppers once daily can support clearer thinking and quicker memory.
3 Real Mushroom’s Lion’s Mane (Real Mushrooms): This powder may be added to coffees, teas and smoothies to enhance mood and cogitation as well as digestion and immune support.
4 Host Defense Lion’s Mane (Host Defense): For supporting the nervous system and memory function, this mild-flavored powder uses both fruiting body and mycelium.
5 Odyssey Elixir Energy & Focus (Odyssey Elixir): An energy beverage infused with lion’s mane for concentration and cordyceps for energy, this beverage is offered in dragon fruit-lemonade flavor.
