Mushrooms have been trending in the health industry for a while now, but headlines about the medicinal mushroom boom may focus on psychedelic types of mushrooms that experts say can be used to “improve negative thought patterns.” However, other types of mushrooms may be beneficial to us as well.
Among them is Lion’s Mane, a large, bushy “shroom” at the forefront of the “functional fungi” movement, which is trending high on Google as so many people search for associated benefits. It has become a term for “Lion’s mane has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for many years, but it is becoming increasingly popular in Western countries as its benefits extend beyond nutrition,” explains nutritionist Maz Packham of Nourishful Nutrition. To do.
What is a lion’s mane?
At first glance, you might not think that a lion’s mane is a mushroom, since the traditional poisonous mushroom shape is covered with thin, thin threads. However, it belongs to the same fungi.
“It looks like a fluffy white pom-pom or lion’s mane (hence the name) and has a rich, meat-like texture, making it ideal for use as a meat substitute,” Packham said. added.
But much of the hype is about launching lion’s mane supplements, not about putting lion’s mane on your plate every day. “In supplement form, the dosage of the active ingredient is standardized, so you know how much bioactive compound you are ingesting. This means that mushrooms can be used therapeutically to support specific health concerns. This is particularly useful if you are using
Is lion’s mane good for you?
So why would anyone choose to eat or take lion’s mane? “Medicinal mushrooms contain bioactive compounds such as beta-glucan, polysaccharides, and antioxidants, which help our It is thought to have many health benefits,” says Packham. “In particular, lion’s mane is known for its ability to support the immune system, digestive system, and brain.”
Although research on lion’s mane is still in its infancy, animal research and traditional medicine have shown that lion’s mane has important benefits, including:
immunity
“Lion’s mane helps reduce inflammation and regulate the immune system,” says Packham. A 2017 study published in Frontiers in Immunology investigated how lion’s mane affects the immune system of mice and found that it has “potent anti-inflammatory and immune-suppressing effects, and may be associated with IBD, “It may be possible to reduce the risk of cancer and even use it to treat tumors.”
gut health
One reason for this may be due to the effect mushrooms have on the intestines. The same 2017 study reported that the diversity of beneficial gut bacteria increased after treatment with lion’s mane.
“The polysaccharides in lion’s mane have prebiotic effects that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut that support a diverse microbiome. “It helps improve the health of people,” Packham added.
mental health
Another benefit of supporting your gut is improved cognitive function. “Lion’s mane has been studied for its neuroprotective effects and may support the production of nerve growth factors, which support nerve cells and are critical for optimal brain health, focus and memory,” says Packham. he says.
In fact, a Taiwanese study showed that consuming 200 mg of lion’s mane per kilogram of body weight per day helped reverse stress-induced depression-like behavior in mice, and the Journal of Medicinal foods have published studies that have found anti-anxiety and anti-depressant-like effects. The lion’s mane has faded as a result of improved functioning of the hippocampus, the part of the brain that processes memory and emotion.
Where can I buy lion’s mane mushrooms?
Many people find it much easier to take lion’s mane in supplement form than as food. “You don’t often find these mushrooms in your local supermarket, but you might find them at some farmers markets,” Packham says. But eating it is a great way to get extra nutrients and makes for a satisfying plant-based meal.
“Eating whole mushrooms means getting fiber. Mushrooms are like sponges and easily absorb harmful chemicals from the environment and the soil in which they are grown, so buy organic.” It’s important to do that,” says Packham.
Quality is important when choosing supplements. “When choosing a medicinal mushroom supplement, whether in capsule, tincture, or powder format, always choose a high-quality organic brand that has been third-party tested for purity and potency.” advises Packham.
She recommends Hifas da Terra’s Mico-Leo supplement (£64.90), which is a 100% organic lion’s mane extract with excellent research ongoing into its ingredients and other areas such as oncology, or contains the following ingredients: We recommend The Nue Co’s Multi Mushroom Complex (£26). Other medicinal mushrooms such as lion’s mane and reishi mushrooms. For mushroom drinkers, she recommends trying Dirtea Lion’s Mane Powder (£39.99).
Moosh is another brand that harnesses the natural power of mushrooms in a range of gummies designed for a variety of concerns, from hair health to improving concentration.
“The amount you should take depends on variables such as the reason for taking it, the desired health effect, and your health and nutritional status. Supplements and powders are typically designed to be taken daily, but always follow the dosage guidelines on the product label. Follow the instructions or consult a health care professional if you are unsure.
Some people should avoid the lion’s mane. Among them: “People who are taking blood-thinning medications should be careful because they can worsen blood thinning.Also, people who are taking immunosuppressants should consult a health care professional.” It is worth checking first whether the mushroom is a medicinal mushroom, if you are under guidance. Like lion’s mane, it has immunomodulatory effects. It is also not recommended for consumption during pregnancy or breastfeeding,” says Packham.
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