Learn
About Lion's Mane
Most of us have heard about lion's mane by now, however there is still so much mystery that surrounds these fungi. What is lion's mane? What does lion's mane do? How does lion's mane work? Has it been scientifically tested? How much do I need to take? All that and more are answered below.
The Science
Benefits
Memory
Immune support
Creativity
Neural health
Skill development
How does lion's mane work?
Lion's mane stimulates the production of neural growth factor (NGF)
The positive cognitive effects associated with the brain including creativity, skill development, memory and neural health stem from the impact lion's mane has on NGF. A growing body of literature is supporting this hypothesis, with the latest major development coming out of the University of Queensland:
“Pre-clinical testing found the lion’s mane mushroom had a significant impact on the growth of brain cells and improving memory.
Laboratory tests measured the neurotrophic effects of compounds isolated from lion’ mane (Hericium erinaceus) on cultured brain cells, and surprisingly we found that the active compounds promote neuron projections, extending and connecting to other neurons.
Using super-resolution microscopy, we found the mushroom extract and its active components largely increase the size of growth cones, which are particularly important for brain cells to sense their environment and establish new connections with other neurons in the brain.” - University of Queensland, 2023
What is NGF?
NGF facilitates learning, neural regeneration, adaption, & creativity
NGF is a facilitator of the process known as neuroplasticity, which governs our ability to acquire new skills, recover from nerve injuries, adapt to new environments, and enhance creativity. Whenever you engage in any of these activities, you are actively participating in the neuroplasticity process.
For neuroplasticity to occur, new nerve cells must be generated through a process called neurogenesis, which relies on the production of NGF. NGF plays a crucial role in ensuring the survival of these neurons during the process of neurogenesis and throughout their lifetime. Therefore, the more NGF is produced in your system, the greater your capacity for neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. The result? An increased ability to learn, absorb, and retain new information.
What does this mean?
Looking to increase your cognitive function? Try following our lion's mane protocol below
Although this is promising preliminary evidence, nothing is for certain until a larger clinical study has been conducted. However, pleasingly this forms a part of a growing body of literature that is supporting the purported health benefits ascribed
To test how lion's mane affects your cognitive function, we have set out a protocol based on the clinical evidence to date below.
Recommended Protocol
250 to 350mg
Start with this dosage and slowly increase if needed. However, this should be enough for most people. One serving (10 grams) of the Lion's Mane Blend has 280mg of lion's mane.
Daily
For best results, take lion's mane daily. That's why we have conveniently infused it directly into your cup, so you won't have to change your morning routine.
Morning to early afternoon
Although the timing is not critical, consider taking this earlier in the day (to ensure the caffeine does not interfere with your sleep). For bonus points, take this just prior to a period of intense focus.
Try it for yourself!
Curious? Learn More
Neurological activity of lion’s mane
Hericium erinaceus, most commonly known as lion’s mane, is an edible fungus, with a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The mushroom is abundant in bioactive compounds...
Neurohealth properties of hericium erinaceus mycelia enriched with erinacines
Hericium erinaceus, an ideal culinary-medicinal mushroom, has become a well-established candidate in promoting positive brain and nerve health-related activities...
Prospecting medicinal properties of lion's mane mushroom
Hericium erinaceus (Bull.) Persoon, a popular medicinal edible mushroom, owns a long history of usage in traditional Chinese medicine and also in other oriental countries..
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