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 potential, may 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 possible relief from chronic gastritis and duodenal ulcers, gastric and oesophageal uncontrolled cell growth. These compounds, combined with its potential for inflammation, anti-microbial, antioxidant, and immunological activity, contribute to its impressive therapeutic potential.
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. This is not medical advice.
MENTAL SHARPNESS, MEMORY, BRAIN PERFORMANCE.
Lion’s Mane is has been researched for its potential neuroprotective and neuroregenerative capacities and comprises two active compounds – hericenones and erinacines, which have been studied for their role in supporting enhanced memory, focus, and mental clarity [8][9]. Studies indicate these may stimulate and promote Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which is crucial for maintaining and protecting nerve cells, including brain cells, meaning potentially healthy neurons and support for brain’s functions. Lion’s Mane has also been found to demonstrate 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 may also play an important role in pain sensitivity and low levels of NGF have been linked to neuropathy. Studied have indicated Lion's Mane to be potentially beneficial for a variety of issues, including multiple sclerosis [24][25]
ADHD
Researched for it's role in possibly helping with ADHD by boosting nerve growth factor (NGF), which supports brain cell repair and improves communication between neurons. Human studies [40] suggest it may improve focus, memory, and processing speed, while also potentially reducing stress and anxiety—common ADHD symptoms. In one trial, people who took lion’s mane daily for 4 weeks performed better on attention tests and reported feeling calmer. [41][42]
AGEING
The two compounds in Lion’s Mane, hericenones and erinacines have been studied for their potential role in protecting the brain from the cognitive effects that are linked to ageing [10]. Studies also indicate it can 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]
ANXIOUS & DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS
One study shows 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, potentially stimulate NGF production, promoting the repair and growth of neurons. This may support 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 been researched for its potential to demonstrate an ability to support a balanced inflammatory response which may mitigate this contribution. [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: Studies show polysaccharides in Lion’s Mane may help 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 possible reductions in stress-related behaviors, attributed to its neuroprotective and microbiota-modulating properties. [30]
In summary, Lion's Mane may well provide a multifaceted approach to supporting
mental health, addressing both neurobiological and gut-related factors linked to anxiety and depression.
MENOPAUSE
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.
GUT-BRAIN AXIS
Lion’s Mane may balance gut health, which would contribute to an increase in beneficial bacteria and therefore an improved microbiome. Research indicates Lion’s Mane would support 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 potential antibacterial mechanism in addition to its immunomodulating properties.[13]
Lion's Mane may support the gut-brain axis through its bioactive compounds and their effects on neural health, inflammation, and the gut microbiome.
Hericenones and Erinacines: Research indicates these compounds may stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), essential for neuron repair, maintenance, and brain plasticity. This can support cognitive function, a core part of the gut-brain connection.[30]
Balanced Inflammatory Response support: Research indicates Lion's Mane may play a role in reducing neuroinflammation, which can disrupt the gut-brain axis.[31]
Potential Reduction in Stress and Anxiety
HPA Axis Regulation: Lion’s Mane has the potential to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which would reduce anxiety by influencing serotonin and dopamine levels.[32]
Possible Effects on Inflammation: Its potential properties to support a balanced inflammatory response may also reduce systemic stress that impacts the gut-brain axis.[31]
Bidirectional Communication may be improved via:
Vagus Nerve Stimulation: Lion's Mane may indirectly enhances vagus nerve signalling by reducing gut and brain inflammation. [33]
Immune Modulation: Its immune-balancing properties are studied for their potential to promote healthier interactions between the gut and brain. [34]
Gut Health and Microbiota Modulation:
Prebiotic Effects: Research suggests polysaccharides in Lion's Mane may 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 has potential to enhance gut lining integrity which could prevent "leaky gut," which is linked to mood disorders, inflammation and auto immune disorders. [36]
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 potentially enhance both cell-mediated and humoral immunity. In practical terms, this means they may 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 potentially boost the secretion of secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) in the intestines, strengthening the gut’s immune defence. [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. Oncological research: Some studies suggest that Lion’s Mane can inhibit the spread of tumors, particularly in the lungs. In mouse models, extracts from this mushroom reduced the migration of uncontrolled colon cells to the lungs by approximately 66-69%. This effect is believed to be due to the downregulation of proteins involved in uncontrolled cell growth invasion. [37] 
3. Gut Health and Ulcer Prevention: Lion’s Mane has been shown to potentially protect the digestive tract by inhibiting the growth of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium linked to stomach ulcers. Its potential to support a balanced inflammation response may also aid in managing inflammatory bowel diseases, contributing to overall gut health. [38]
Conclusion
In summary, research indicates that Lion’s Mane mushroom has significant potential to exhibit promising immunomodulatory effects, enhancing the body’s natural defenses and offering potential therapeutic benefits against infections, certain oncological circumstances, and digestive disorders.
NERVE GROWTH
Studies suggest that the bioactive compounds in Lion's Mane may be beneficial in many cases of nerve damage from injuries which would help to facilitate faster regrowth of nerves. [26]
It has shown potential 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, potentially 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 may 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.
BACTERIA and MRSA
The Erinacines and hericenones compounds are studied for their potent anti-microbial activity and effectiveness against MRSA and have been reported by both laboratory testing and clinical studies. [28][29]
DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMERS
Collectively, the findings in these papers [16,17,18,19] may 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 Parkinsons and Alzheimers 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 potentially suitable supplement for people with mild dementia.
ENERGY AND MOOD
Research indicates Lions mane may balance gut health, contributing to an increase in beneficial bacteria and possibly an improved microbiome. It indicates Lion’s Mane may support 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]
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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