The edible mushroom that improves memory: lion’s mane

The edible lion’s mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) grows on dead wood. Not only its appearance is unique, but also its healthy properties, especially its unique ability to repair neurons and protect memory.

Why the lion’s mane mushroom improves memory

Myelin is a sheet structure that surrounds the axons of neurons and speeds up the transmission of electrical signals. That it is in good condition is, therefore, essential for the neurons to allow us to develop motor skills and intellectual abilities.

The consequences of damage to the myelin sheath are manifested in diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and senile dementia. In all these diseases there is a lack of regeneration of the myelin sheath of neurons.

In the case of Alzheimer’s, the deterioration of the myelin sheath is accompanied by the formation of so-called beta-amyloid plaques, that hinder communication between neurons and can even kill them.

Well, the lion’s mane fungus, through its effect on myelin, mitigates the effects of these diseases and even can improve cognitive abilities, such as learning and memory, in healthy people. In addition, regular intake keeps the circulatory system in good condition and prevents stroke.

How does the fungus do that?

A recent study, carried out at the University of Queensland (Australia), has shown that the active principles present in lion’s mane (hericenones and erinacin) can stimulate the generation of neurons and the communication between them in laboratory cultures, which could improve memory. The authors believe that lion’s mane could be used to protect and treat Alzheimer’s disease.

According to Professor Frederic Meunier of the Queensland Brain Institute, the mushroom extract and its active compounds greatly increase the size of growth cones, which are important for brain cells to sense their environment and establish new connections with other neurons in the brain. brain. The researchers explain that the fungus has demonstrated its ability to stimulate “nerve growth factor”, which promotes the synthesis of new neurons and the construction of the myelin sheath.

Furthermore, regardless of the effect on the myelin sheath, the fungus protects nerve cells from death by accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques and other stressors through a substance called dilinoleoyl-phosphatidyl-ethanolamine.

Previous studies had already tested the effect of lion’s mane on intellectual abilities. For example, a double-blind, placebo-controlled study showed that participants with mild cognitive impairment given mushroom powder capsules for 16 weeks showed significantly improved mental abilities.

How to take lion’s mane to prevent memory loss

Lion’s mane can be used preventively to prevent the degeneration of neurons and to improve memory and learning ability.

What is the recommended dosage?

According to studies, daily intake is sufficient 3 to 5 grams of the dried mushroom to increase NGF. Therefore, this mushroom not only helps people suffering from neurological disorders, but it can also prevent and even reverse age-related cognitive decline.

Unlike most drugs prescribed by the pharmaceutical industry for cognitive function, lion’s mane has no known side effects. It can be taken every day without any risk of adverse consequences.

The lion’s mane in the kitchen

The lion’s mane mushroom can be enjoyed fresh and cooked or through the powdered extract. Many people describe its taste as similar to shellfish and it is often compared to crab or lobster.

Can be cooked and served in dishes such as risotto, pasta or soup. The powder form can be mixed with hot water, tea, coffee, a smoothie, or other beverages. It can also be added to soups, stews, or sauces.

Other properties of the lion’s mane mushroom

Apart from the amazing effects on the brain, the mushroom can do much more.

Reduces inflammation of the digestive system

In traditional Chinese medicine, it is used for all kinds of inflammatory stomach and intestinal problems, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

lion’s mane promotes the regeneration of mucous membranes damaged cells and regulates acid production.

In addition, the erinacines in particular also seem inhibit the growth of bacteria Helicobacter pylori,related to ulcers and stomach cancer, and yeasts such as Candida albicans in the intestine that are involved in a variety of diseases, including the development of gastric ulcers and gastric cancer.

stimulates immunity

The fungus also has a strengthening effect of the immune system, especially when there is an immunodeficiency, thanks to its polysaccharides and polypeptides.

There is evidence that hericenones and erinacines stimulate the production of immune cells.

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