Out of the kitchen, into the pharmacy, the gourmet mushroom Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) with its unique flavor resembling lobster or shrimp appears to also possess likewise unique medicinal properties. It has been found to stimulate nerve and myelin regeneration, which may be beneficial in many neurological conditions. World renowned medicinal mushroom expert Paul Stamets suggests its potential application in conditions such as Alzheimer's, dementia, multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy. (134)
Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane) is known to grow in Europe, North America, Japan and China. It can be found on many broad leaf trees, from oaks, maples and sycamores to beeches and walnuts.
The specific medicinal compounds under scientific scrutiny are called erinacines, which are relatively small organic molecules that can pass through the blood brain barrier. Of course, passing through the blood brain barrier is essential in order to effect healing on nerve tissue or myelin sheaths. (152, 153, 154)
Two Japanese patents exist relating to Hericium erinaceus extracts; one from the 1990's for an extraction process of these compounds yielding an extract known as "Nerve Growth Stimulant Factor." (150, 151) A more recent one from 2004 is for a water extract of Hericium erinaceus, also used for its nerve regenerating properties. (155)
In addition to its effect on nerve regeneration, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) also prescribes Hericium erinaceus extract for stomach and digestive conditions, as well as cancers of the digestive tract and related organs.
Two modern studies have confirmed this ancient wisdom. One done in 1985 showed positive results for treating atrophic gastritis. Another conducted a decade later, in 1995, showed some ameliorating effect on hepatoma, with a marked life extension of treated patients. (156)
Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Never use any herb (or mushroom) except as advised by a licensed medical practitioner.
Credits: Thank you, Paul Stamets, for research references.
Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane) is known to grow in Europe, North America, Japan and China. It can be found on many broad leaf trees, from oaks, maples and sycamores to beeches and walnuts.
The specific medicinal compounds under scientific scrutiny are called erinacines, which are relatively small organic molecules that can pass through the blood brain barrier. Of course, passing through the blood brain barrier is essential in order to effect healing on nerve tissue or myelin sheaths. (152, 153, 154)
Two Japanese patents exist relating to Hericium erinaceus extracts; one from the 1990's for an extraction process of these compounds yielding an extract known as "Nerve Growth Stimulant Factor." (150, 151) A more recent one from 2004 is for a water extract of Hericium erinaceus, also used for its nerve regenerating properties. (155)
In addition to its effect on nerve regeneration, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) also prescribes Hericium erinaceus extract for stomach and digestive conditions, as well as cancers of the digestive tract and related organs.
Two modern studies have confirmed this ancient wisdom. One done in 1985 showed positive results for treating atrophic gastritis. Another conducted a decade later, in 1995, showed some ameliorating effect on hepatoma, with a marked life extension of treated patients. (156)
Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Never use any herb (or mushroom) except as advised by a licensed medical practitioner.
Credits: Thank you, Paul Stamets, for research references.
About the Author:
Dr. Rafael has been engaged in the natural health field since finishing Chiropractic College in 1996. He currently specializes in medicinal mushrooms, including Lion's Mane Extract, in partnership with the U.S. company Cordyceps Reishi Extracts, LLC. To find the research references for this article, use this link to Lions Mane page and click on any number indicating a reference.
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