ANCIENT WISDOM
LION'S MANE
(Hericium erinaceus)
Lion’s Mane is a striking mushroom native to Asia, North America, and Europe. Its unique properties are due to two families of compounds that it produces - the erinacines and hericoenones, which as well as having strong anti-bacterial activity, help stimulate the generation of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). Celebrated for centuries for its wide-ranging health benefits, it has recently gained attention in clinical research for its potential neuroregenerative properties.
Human studies suggest that Lion’s Mane offers nootropic effects, such as enhancing memory, focus, and mood. Additionally, there is compelling evidence indicating that regular consumption may protect against age related cognitive decline.
Its benefits extend beyond brain health, as the mushroom contains various beta-glucans and other cell wall polymers that traditional use has emphasised the support of digestive health, including relief from chronic gastritis and duodenal ulcers, gastric and oesophageal cancer. These compounds, combined with its anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, antioxidant, and immunological activity, contribute to its impressive therapeutic profile.
LEGEND & FOLKLORE
Lion's Mane is a saprophytic mushroom celebrated for its rich history in traditional medicine and culinary uses – it’s perhaps little wonder to have significance to East Asian Zen Buddhist and Shaolin monks as well as scholars. This revered functional mushroom has been treasured for thousands of years.
Its numerous benefits have been explored and continually validated through generations of study and use. Its unique appearance and restorative properties earned it a reputation as a symbol of wisdom and vitality, aligning with its nickname as a "mushroom for the mind". Historically it has gone by many names, including "Yamabushitake" (Mountain Priest) in Japan, "Pom Pom Blanc" (White Pom Pom) in France and "Hóu Tóu Gū" (Monkey Head Mushroom) in China.
SCIENCE INFORMATION REVIEW
LION’S MANE
(Hericium erinaceus)
Welcome to the Fung Shui Lion's Mane scientific research page which connects you to our ever evolving library of research and peer-reviewed papers. Where a reference is provided, you can find the corresponding number in the research references towards the bottom of the page in the 'peer reviewed papers and articles' section.
MENTAL SHARPNESS, MEMORY RETENTION, PEAK BRAIN PERFORMANCE.
Lion’s Mane is well known for its neuroprotective and neuroregenerative capacities and comprises two active compounds – hericenones and erinacines, which is said to support enhanced memory, focus, and mental clarity [8][9]. These stimulate and promote Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which is crucial for maintaining and protecting nerve cells, including brain cells, meaning healthy neurons and support for your brain’s functions. Lion’s Mane has demonstrated the ability to enhance brain function in double-blind, placebo-controlled studies [10]. In one study, participants with mild cognitive impairment took four 250 mg tablets of Lion’s Mane three times daily, resulting in significant improvements in cognitive function.
A 2019 study [11] found that participants who consumed Lion’s Mane mushroom cookies for 12 weeks showed improved cognitive function and reduced short-term memory deterioration.
NGF also plays an important role in pain sensitivity and low levels of NGF have been linked to neuropathy. Clinically Lion's Mane is said to be beneficial for a variety of issues, inlcuding multiple sclerosis [24][25]
ANTI-AGEING
The two compounds in Lion’s Mane, hericenones and erinacines are said to protect our brains from the cognitive effects that are linked to ageing [10]. They also instigate the production of myelin, which is a fatty sheath that surrounds our neurons that allows the electrical impulses within our brain to be emitted efficiently. Pretty much all adults can experience the decaying of myelin sheath. Research into the bioactive compounds in Lion’s Mane suggests that they may help to remyelinate neurons.[3]
PROTECTION AGAINST ANXIOUS & DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS
H. erinaceus mycelia enriched with erinacines,which are involved in the creation of the neurotrophic factors, are hypothesized to play a role in depression. Results indicate that H.erinaceus mycelia could be an attractive agent for the treatment of depressive disorders through the modulation of monoamine neurotransmitters and proinflammatory cytokines as well as the regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) pathways. [20,21,22,23]
Hericium erinaceus has shown potential to improve mood by reducing depression and anxiety [12]. In a study, women consuming Lion’s Mane for four weeks exhibited significantly lower scores on the CES-D and ICI scales compared to the placebo group, indicating enhanced emotional well-being and reduced indefinite complaints.
A study by Vigna et al demonstrated that after 8 weeks of orally taking Lion’s mane, the study group showed decreased levels of depression, anxiety and sleep disorders [4]. Other research emerging suggests Lion’s Mane may help with anxiety and mood [6][7].
1. Neurogenesis and Neuroprotection
Nerve Growth Factor (NGF): Lion's Mane compounds, hericenones and erinacines, stimulate NGF production, promoting the repair and growth of neurons. This supports brain resilience, which is often compromised in anxiety and depression. [34]
Neuroinflammation Reduction: Chronic inflammation in the brain can contribute to anxiety and depressive symptoms. Lion's Mane has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects that may mitigate this process. [31]
2. Modulation of Neurotransmitters
Serotonin and Dopamine: Studies suggest Lion's mane may influence levels of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters critical for mood regulation. Dysregulation of these systems is closely linked to anxiety and depression. [32]
HPA Axis Regulation: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, involved in the body’s stress response, is modulated by Lion’s Mane, potentially reducing symptoms of stress-induced anxiety and depression. [32]
3. Gut-Brain Axis Support
Prebiotic Effects: Polysaccharides in Lion’s Mane enhance gut microbiota health. A balanced microbiome influences mood through the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and neurotransmitter precursors. [30]
Mucosal Barrier Integrity: By strengthening the gut lining and reducing inflammation, Lion's Mane may prevent systemic inflammation that exacerbates depressive symptoms. [35]
4. Clinical Evidence
A 2010 study found that participants consuming Lion’s Mane-enriched cookies experienced reduced anxiety and depression scores after four weeks. [32]
Emerging animal studies also show reductions in stress-related behaviors, attributed to its neuroprotective and microbiota-modulating properties. [30]
In summary, Lion's Mane provides a multifaceted approach to supporting
mental health, addressing both neurobiological and gut-related factors linked to anxiety and depression.
MENOPAUSE HELP
According to Martin Powell, biochemist and lecturer at the University of Westminster, Lion's mane's ability to help generate NGF may account for the clinical observation of Lion's mane benefitting menopausal individuals including significant improvements in sleep disturbance, hot flashes and anxiety. [27]. See other sections relating to Mood improvement, cognitive function and depression.
SUPPORT GUT-BRAIN AXIS
Lion’s Mane balances gut health, contributing to an increase in beneficial bacteria and therefore an improved microbiome. Lion’s Mane supports gut health by inhibiting the growth of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium linked to gastritis and also ulcers. Studies show its ethanol extracts have strong bacteriostatic effects on H. pylori, suggesting a direct antibacterial mechanism in addition to its immunomodulating properties.[13]
Lion's Mane supports the gut-brain axis through its bioactive compounds and their effects on neural health, inflammation, and the gut microbiome.
Hericenones and Erinacines: These compounds stimulate nerve growth factor
(NGF), essential for neuron repair, maintenance, and brain plasticity. This
supports cognitive function, a core part of the gut-brain connection.[30]
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Lion's Mane reduces neuroinflammation, which can disrupt the gut-brain axis.[31]
Reduction in Stress and Anxiety
HPA Axis Regulation: Lion’s Mane modulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, reducing anxiety by influencing serotonin and dopamine levels.[32]
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Its anti-inflammatory properties also reduce systemic stress that impacts the gut-brain axis.[31]
Bidirectional Communication is improved via:
Vagus Nerve Stimulation: Lion's Mane indirectly enhances vagus nerve signalling by reducing gut and brain inflammation. [33]
Immune Modulation: Its immune-balancing properties promote healthier interactions between the gut and brain. [34]
Gut Health and Microbiota Modulation
include:
Prebiotic Effects: Polysaccharides in Lion's Mane act as prebiotics, fostering the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy microbiome is essential for gut-brain communication. [35]
Mucosal Barrier Support: Studies show
Lion's mane enhances gut lining integrity, preventing "leaky gut," which is linked to mood disorders, inflammation and auto immune disorders. [36]
ENHANCES IMMUNE SYSTEM
Research indicates that Lion’s Mane contains bioactive compounds, notably polysaccharides like β-glucans, which can modulate the immune system. These compounds have been shown to enhance both cell-mediated and humoral immunity. In practical terms, this means they can improve the body’s ability to fight off pathogens by increasing the activity of immune cells such as macrophages (which engulf and digest foreign substances) and natural killer (NK) cells (which target virus-infected and tumor cells). Additionally, Lion’s Mane has been found to boost the secretion of secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) in the intestines, strengthening the gut’s immune defense. [36] 
Potential Health Benefits:
1. Protection Against Infections: By stimulating various immune cells, Lion’s Mane may enhance the body’s defense against bacterial and viral infections, potentially reducing the severity and duration of illnesses.
2. Anti-Cancer Properties: Some studies suggest that Lion’s Mane can inhibit the spread of cancer cells, particularly in the lungs. In mouse models, extracts from this mushroom reduced the migration of colon cancer cells to the lungs by approximately 66-69%. This effect is believed to be due to the downregulation of proteins involved in cancer cell invasion. [37] 
3. Gut Health and Ulcer Prevention: Lion’s Mane has been shown to protect the digestive tract by inhibiting the growth of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium linked to stomach ulcers. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also aid in managing inflammatory bowel diseases, contributing to overall gut health. [38]
Conclusion
In summary, Lion’s Mane mushroom exhibits promising immunomodulatory effects, enhancing the body’s natural defenses and offering potential therapeutic benefits against infections, certain cancers, and digestive disorders.
NERVE REGROWTH
The bioactive compounds in Lion's Mane have been shown to be beneficial in many cases of nerve damage from injuries - helping to facilitate faster regrowth of nerves. [26]
It has been shown to stimulate the production of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), a protein essential for the growth, maintenance, and survival of nerve cells. 

Mechanism of Action
NGF plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of the nervous system. By stimulating NGF production, Lion’s Mane may enhance the growth and branching of nerve cells, facilitating the repair of damaged neurons and the formation of new neural connections. [39] 
Potential Benefits for Neurological Conditions
Peripheral Nerve Injury: Animal studies have demonstrated that oral administration of Lion’s Mane extract can promote the regeneration of injured nerves, leading to improved functional recovery. 

While preliminary findings are promising, most research to date has been conducted in animal models or in vitro. More rigorous human clinical trials are necessary to confirm the efficacy and safety of Lion’s Mane for nerve regeneration and its potential therapeutic applications.
ANTI-BACTERIAL and MRSA
The Erinacines and hericenones compounds are known for their potent anti-microbial activity and effectiveness against MRSA and have been reported by both laboratory testing and clinical studies. [28][29]
PROTECTION AGAINST DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMERS
Collectively, the findings in these papers [16,17,18,19] raise the possibility that prevention with erinacine A-enriched H. erinaceus mycelia could be an effective therapeutic strategy for managing Alzheimer's disease.
One study [9] finds that Hericium erinaceus, displays various pharmacological activities in the prevention of dementia in conditions such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. According to Martin Powell, a biochemist at the University of Westminster, patients with dementia have lower than normal levels of NGF and the ability of Lion’s Mane compounds to increase NGF makes it a suitable supplement for people with mild dementia.
BOOST ENERGY AND MOOD
Balances gut health, contributing to an increase in beneficial bacteria and therefore an improved microbiome. Lion’s Mane supports gut health by inhibiting the growth of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium linked to gastritis and also ulcers. Studies show its ethanol extracts have strong bacteriostatic effects on H. pylori, suggesting a direct antibacterial mechanism in addition to its immunomodulating properties. [13]
PROTECTION AGAINST PARKINSONS
Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder that is characterised by the progressive loss of dopaminergic cells in the brain, which results in motor problems including resting tremor, rigidity, and postural instability [14]. In one study, the neuroprotective effect of erinacine A enriched H. erinaceus mycelia was assessed in the MPTP-induced Parkinsons Disease model. Results showed that dopaminergic lesions and oxidative stress in the brain were significantly improved after pretreatment erinaceus mycelia for 25 days [39]. Furthermore, the mycelia could reverse MPTP- associated motor deficits having a neuroprotective effect. It has been demonstrated that erinaceus mycelia have the potential to be a new therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of Parkinsons Disease. [1][2]
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