Used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine to support cognitive function and digestive health. Based on extensive research available, here is a comprehensive list of the well-known and emerging benefits of Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus).

Well-Known Benefits

1. Cognitive Enhancement

Lion's Mane is known for its potential to enhance cognitive function and protect against neurodegenerative diseases. Studies have shown its ability to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production, which supports the growth and maintenance of neurons.

2. Neuroprotective Effects

Lion's Mane has neuroprotective properties that can help protect the brain from damage and promote recovery after injuries. It is particularly noted for its potential in treating conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

Emerging Benefits

4. Cardiovascular Health

Emerging research suggests that Lion's Mane may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol levels and preventing blood clots.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Lion's Mane has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation throughout the body, potentially benefiting conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

Selection of Studies

A great resource for more studies visit:
https://mushroomreferences.com/category/lions-mane/

1a. Immune System Enhancement

Mori et al., 2009: Found that Lion's Mane significantly improved cognitive function in a group of elderly Japanese men and women diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment.

Nagano et al., 2010: Demonstrated that oral administration of Lion's Mane improved recognition memory and prevented neuronal cell death induced by amyloid-beta peptides.

Wong et al., 2021: Reviewed the neuroprotective effects of Lion's Mane and highlighted its potential in promoting cognitive health and treating neurodegenerative diseases (Study Link).

2a. Antioxidant Properties

"Turkey Tail Medicinal Mushroom, Trametes versicolor (Agaricomycetes), Crude Exopolysaccharides with Antioxidative Activity" (Dunja Miletić et al., 2020) - Highlights antioxidant properties.

"Anti-Toxoplasma gondii activity of Trametes versicolor (Turkey tail) mushroom extract" (Homa Nath Sharma et al., 2023) - Discusses antioxidative effects.

"Extracellular Polysaccharopeptides from Fermented Turkey Tail Medicinal Mushroom, Trametes versicolor (Agaricomycetes), Mitigate Oxidative Stress, Hyperglycemia, and Hyperlipidemia in Rats with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus" (Hui-Chen Lo et al., 2020) - Explores antioxidant benefits in a diabetic model.

3a. Antimicrobial Properties

"Anti-Toxoplasma gondii activity of Trametes versicolor (Turkey tail) mushroom extract" (Homa Nath Sharma et al., 2023) - Highlights antimicrobial activity.

"Turkey Tail Medicinal Mushroom, Trametes versicolor (Agaricomycetes), Crude Exopolysaccharides with Antioxidative Activity" (Dunja Miletić et al., 2020) - Explores antimicrobial properties.

"The mycelium of the Trametes versicolor synn. Coriolus versicolor (Turkey tail mushroom) exhibit anti-melanoma activity in vitro" (Rocky Lowenthal et al., 2023) - Discusses antimicrobial effects.

4a. Anti-Cancer Properties

"The mycelium of the Trametes versicolor synn. Coriolus versicolor (Turkey tail mushroom) exhibit anti-melanoma activity in vitro" (Rocky Lowenthal et al., 2023) - Highlights anti-cancer properties.

"Extracellular Polysaccharopeptides from Fermented Turkey Tail Medicinal Mushroom, Trametes versicolor (Agaricomycetes), Mitigate Oxidative Stress, Hyperglycemia, and Hyperlipidemia in Rats with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus" (Hui-Chen Lo et al., 2020) - Explores anti-cancer and antioxidative activities.

"Turkey Tail Medicinal Mushroom, Trametes versicolor (Agaricomycetes), Crude Exopolysaccharides with Antioxidative Activity" (Dunja Miletić et al., 2020) - Discusses anti-cancer properties.