Lion's Mane Mushroom: How the fungus can help in nerve repair and development

More often than not, we found ‘superfoods’ in nature itself. They are not processed, and there are no added preservatives - only nature’s goodness in them. Like berries. Or fish like salmon, tuna, and many more. Or even greens like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and avocado.

Joining them is a type of mushroom with a regal name and more potent health benefits.


Read on to discover more about the Lion’s Mane Mushroom.


What is Lion’s Mane Mushroom?

Hericium erinaceus , commonly known as lion's mane, yamabushitake, bearded tooth fungus, or bearded hedgehog, is a species of tooth fungus. It tends to grow in a single clump with dangling spines longer than 1 centimetre. It can be mistaken for other Hericium species that grow in the same areas.



Why is it called Lion’s Mane?

Lion's mane mushrooms have a unique, fluffy, and white texture with many long, downward-pointing "spines" or teeth that resemble a lion's mane. Specifically, the mushroom's large, white, shaggy, and pom-pom-like structure with dangling, icicle-like spikes, which are called teeth, closely resembles the mane of a lion.

Due to its appearance, Lion's Mane is also known by other names like hedgehog mushroom, monkey's head mushroom, and pom-pom mushroom.


Benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushroom:

Lion’s mane mushrooms contain bioactive substances that have many beneficial effects on the body, especially the brain, heart, and gut. They have both culinary and medicinal uses in Asian countries like China, India, Japan, and Korea, and have a long history in Native American healing practices.



Amongst all the health benefits, its ability to repair nerves is one of the most vital ones. Lion’s mane mushrooms contain chemicals that might promote the growth, survival, and function of both new and mature nerve cells in the brain and elsewhere. Studies suggest that these compounds, unlike some experimental treatments, are able to get from the bloodstream into the brain, crossing the so-called blood-brain barrier.

Non-human studies show that lion’s mane mushrooms have compounds that stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which helps grow brain cells and may enhance memory and focus.

Lab research also suggests that lion’s mane may help grow and repair nerve cells after a traumatic brain injury (TBI), like a stroke.

Here's a more detailed look:

Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) Stimulation:

Lion's mane contains compounds like erinacines that may stimulate the production of NGF. NGF is crucial for nerve cell growth, survival, and function, as well as for the repair of damaged nerves.

Potential for Nerve Repair :

Some studies in animals have shown that lion's mane may promote nerve regeneration and help repair damage after a traumatic brain injury. One study found that lion's mane extracts could enhance neuron projections and connections in cultured brain cells, suggesting a potential for improved brain cell growth and function.

Neuroprotection and Cognitive Enhancement :

Lion's mane may also offer neuroprotective effects, helping to shield nerve cells from damage and potentially improving cognitive function. Some research suggests it may be beneficial for conditions like Alzheimer's and dementia, as it can influence processes that may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases.

Limitations and Future Research:

While animal studies show promise, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of lion's mane on humans. More research is needed to confirm these effects in humans, and lion's mane is being explored for its potential to improve cognitive function and protect against neurodegenerative diseases.


What does Lion’s Mane Mushroom taste like?


Lion's Mane mushrooms have a mildly sweet flavor and a texture that many describe as similar to seafood, especially crab or lobster. They are often used as a seafood alternative in dishes like mock Crab Louie salads or as a pan-seared "steak".

One can eat these mushrooms raw, dried, or cooked. They also come as a supplement in capsule, liquid, and powder forms, so one can simply sprinkle them in their soup or add them to their morning cup of smoothie. There are even lion’s mane capsules and gummies for added convenience.


Where do you find them?

Native to North America and Eurasia, the mushrooms are common during late summer and autumn on hardwoods, particularly American beech and maple. Usually, H. erinaceus is considered saprophytic, as it mostly feeds on dead trees. It can also be found on living trees, usually in association with a wound.