9 Health Benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Lion’s mane mushrooms are large, white, shaggy mushrooms that resemble a lion’s mane as they grow. They contain bioactive substances that have many beneficial effects on the body, especially the brain, heart, and gut.

1. Could protect against dementia

Lion’s mane mushrooms contain compounds that stimulate brain cell growth and protect them from damage caused by Alzheimer’s disease

2. Helps relieve mild symptoms of depression and anxiety

Studies suggest that lion’s mane mushrooms may help relieve mild symptoms of anxiety and depression

3. May speed recovery from nervous system injuries

Rat studies have found that lion’s mane extract can speed up recovery from nervous system injuries, but research involving humans is lacking.

4. Protects against ulcers in the digestive tract

Ulcers can form anywhere along the digestive tract, including the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.

Two major factors typically cause stomach ulcers: overgrowth of the bacteria H. pylori and damage to the mucous layer of the stomach that’s often due to long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Lion’s mane extract may protect against the development of stomach ulcers by inhibiting the growth of H. pylori and protecting the stomach lining from damage

5. Reduces risk of heart disease

Animal and test-tube studies suggest that lion’s mane extract can reduce the risk of heart disease in several ways

6. Helps manage diabetes symptoms

Lion’s mane mushroom can help lower blood sugar and reduce diabetic nerve pain in mice, but more studies are needed to determine whether it might be a good therapeutic option in humans.

7. May help fight cancer

Animal and test-tube studies show that lion’s mane extract can kill cancer cells and slow the spread of tumors, but studies involving humans are still needed.

8. Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress

Lion’s mane mushroom contains powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce the impact of chronic illness.

9. Boosts the immune system

Lion’s mane mushrooms have been shown to have immune-boosting effects in rodents, but much more research is needed.

Safety and side effects

Animal studies suggest that lion’s mane mushroom and its extracts are very safe, even at high doses. However, allergic reactions in humans have been reported, so anyone with a known mushroom allergy should avoid it.

Note: This does not constitute medical advice, always consult your GP if you are concerned about your health.