Lion's Mane
Lion's Mane, Hericium erinaceus
What is it?
Lion’s Mane mushroom is an aptly named big white mushroom with long shaggy-like “hair“ that grows off the sides of old or dead trees.
It's a culinary mushroom commonly used in asian cuisine. Not only is it delicious to eat, it has a long history of use in traditional medicine.
Today it is quickly becoming famous as THE mushroom for brain health!
This mushroom naturally produces bioactive compounds that show undeniable benefits for our brain and our second brain (the gut).
We created potent extractions of this mushroom to include in our 11:11 blend.
We were so impressed by Lion's Mane that we think it deserved it’s own spotlight.
For those looking for enhanced focus, a mood boost and a little extra protection for the big mass of nerve cells in our head, this tincture is for you.
History
Historically, Lion’s Mane has been used to fortify the spleen (major lymphatic organ), nourish the gut and fight cancer.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Lion’s Mane is thought to be nutritious for the five internal organs: heart, liver, spleen, lungs & kidneys.
It has been used as a treatment for ulcers in the gut and promoting good digestion and general vigor.
In TCM when Qi (life force) is deficient, Lion’s Mane is used to restore strength.
What does the science say?
Fast forward to today, and some of the most exciting scientific research is coming out about this mushroom and its beneficial effects on the brain and role in protecting against neurodegeneration.
The main players are two potent bioactive compounds found in Lion’s Mane.
1. Hericenones
2. Erinacines
These compounds are small enough to cross the blood-brain barrier (most things can't!) and have the ability to stimulate the synthesis of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the brain.
NGF plays an essential role in the central and peripheral nervous system by promoting the growth and protection of nerve cells! (lower than normal levels of NGF are linked to dementia disorders)
Hericenones and Erinacines also have been shown to improve nerve axon myelination. This process is key for communication in the brain between nerve cells and a loss of myelination can be a hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases.
What do we see in scientific studies?
1. Nerve & Brain health
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Lion’s Mane enhances cognitive function including improved memory, focus and concentration.
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Lion’s Mane extracts have been shown to have significant anti-depressant-like effects, and can alleviate sleep disorders and symptoms of anxiety.
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It may help prevent against cognitive decline and treat neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia.
2. Immune Health
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Lion's Mane increases the activity of the immune system in our GI tract stimulating beneficial changes to our gut bacteria (nerve cells aren't the only cells with receptors for NGF! Our immune cells respond to NGF too).
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Lion's Mane also contains powerful antioxidants.
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Taking Lion’s Mane extracts have been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
Learn more about how medicinal mushrooms support the immune system
3. Gut health
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Several studies confirm that Lion's Mane compounds display anti-bacterial action again the overgrowth of H. pylori a type of bacteria that lives in our gut and can be responsible for gastritis and ulcers
Learn more about fungi and your gut health
If you're looking to optimize your brain power not only today, but for your future self as well, Lion’s Mane is your new best friend.
Our dual-extracted tincture is made from Canadian grown Lion’s Mane fruiting body for ultimate potency.
