One of the most researched fungi in the UK & most other global regions is the Lions Mane mushroom. As our understanding of wellbeing & nutrition continues to grow, one of the most popular findings is the power of natural fungi. Recognizable for their shaggy exterior & their wellness-boosting interior.
Similarly to other fungi, lion's mane mushroom is packed with bioactive compounds that may influence the processes within our bodies & brains. Popular research has been carried out to test its impact on neurological illnesses, depression, digestive illnesses & nerve cell damage.
What is Lions Mane Mushroom UK?
Lions mane is a form of fungus, scientifically identified as Hericium erinaceus. They are native to many locations throughout the northern hemisphere, including Asia, North America & Europe.
Lions mane mushroom typically grows on dying or dead trees & logs. They have a distinctive, shaggy white exterior that looks like a small pom-pom or a cauliflower.
Studies have shown that lions mane mushroom is dense with bioactive compounds that may provide various benefits. One of the more notable benefits is the possibility of stimulating crucial cell growth in the brain. This has led to popular research of lions mane mushroom to treat neurologic diseases like Alzheimer’s & Dementia.
More traditionally, it has been used for its perceived benefits relating to gut health. Research has been carried out to measure the impact of lions mane in strengthening stomach lining against harmful bacteria.
Where is Lions Mane Mushroom from?
This mushroom is generally easy to be grown in Asia, Northern America & Europe. Growing it is generally popular in western culture.
Although like many other herbs, the earliest knowledge of lions mane mushroom is heavily linked to ancient regions of Asia, particularly China. It is believed that Buddhists monks would use the mushroom to make tea.
Uses
The growing popularity of lions mane mushroom in the UK (& other regions) has led to it being used for various purposes. Similarly to the Buddhists monks, it has become a popular ingredient for tea.
The flavour & texture of the mushroom had often been compared to lobster or crab. For this reason, it’s often used in cooking. Some common dishes include soups, broths, curries, sauces, fried mushrooms & more. You can practically cook lion’s mane as you would any other mushroom.
Unfortunately, using lion’s mane in cooking or as a tea doesn’t extract its full power. In traditional Chinese medicine, and now popular wellbeing supplements, ground lion’s mane powder is the go to. Extracting the powder using hot water or alcohol ensures that all the powerful bioactive compounds are extracted too.
What are the benefits of powdered lions mane?
The popularity of this mushroom is with good reason. Although whilst research findings are positive, it should be repeated that scientific backing is currently inconclusive. Some of the most common reported benefits are:
- Improving brain function
- Strengthening the nervous system
- Improving gut health
The close link between lions mane mushroom & improvements of brain health are mainly down to two bioactive compounds. They are known as hericenones & erinacines. Studies have suggested that these compounds can play a major role in promoting brain cell growth.
These studies led to testing the impact of lions mane on neurological illnesses linked to memory loss & brain function. One clinical study found that consistent supplementation may improve cognitive function. But effects would fade once supplementation stopped.
Other studies also suggest that it’s not just brain cells that lions mane has an impact on, but the nervous system too. By stimulating the nervous system, the research proposes that this may lead to the repair & growth of essential nerve cells. This may be a major benefit to athletes who rely on fast recovery after strenuous exercise.
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