What exactly are lion’s mane mushrooms, and what makes them so useful? Let’s dive in and find out.
Where does lion’s name get its name from?
Lion’s mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus) are a type of edible mushroom native to North America and Asia. They get their name from their long, shaggy spines that resemble a lion’s mane. These mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for their medicinal properties.
Can lion’s mane boost cognitive function?
The answer is, perhaps. One of the most discussed potential benefits of lion’s mane mushrooms is their reported ability to boost cognitive function. Some studies have shown that consuming lion’s mane mushrooms may potentially improve memory, concentration, and overall brain health.
This is believed to be due to the presence of compounds called hericystin and erinacine, which have been shown in studies to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the brain. NGF is a protein that plays a crucial role in the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons.
Are lion’s mane mushrooms a good source of antioxidants?
Lion’s mane mushrooms are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage our cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases. By neutralizing these harmful molecules, antioxidants can potentially help to protect our bodies and maintain good health.
Is lion’s mane anti-inflammatory?
In addition to their cognitive and antioxidant benefits, lion’s mane mushrooms have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of various health problems. Consuming lion’s mane mushrooms may help to reduce inflammation in the body and improve overall health.
The benefits of lion’s mane, recapped
So, what is the lion’s mane mushroom good for? It turns out, quite a lot! Whether you’re looking to boost your brain health, protect your cells from damage, or reduce inflammation, lion’s mane mushrooms can potentially help you reach your goals.
If you’re interested in adding lion’s mane mushrooms to your life, you can find them in a variety of forms including dried, powdered, in capsule form and of course in our drinks.
They can also be found fresh at some specialty grocery stores and farmer’s markets. When preparing lion’s mane mushrooms, it’s important to cook them thoroughly as raw lion’s mane mushrooms may cause digestive upset.
Do you love our Lion’s Mane in a can as much as we do? Let us know in the comments below.