With a unique flavor alternately described as lobster or shrimp, the gourmet mushroom Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) with its out-of-this-world showy display of cascading ‘teeth’ also possesses singular medicinal properties – stimulating myelin and nerve regeneration (150, 151) – which upon further study may prove beneficial in a whole series of neurological conditions. Paul Stamets suggests the possible usefulness of Hericium erinaceus extract in conditions such as Alzheimer’s, muscular dystrophy, M.S. and dementia. (134)
In the wild, Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) grows on hardwood trees, especially oak, sycamore, maple, walnut and beech. It can be found throughout the temperate areas of the world, from North America and Europe to Japan and China.
The active compounds that have received the most attention for their nerve regenerating properties are named erinacines, a series of low molecular weight molecules that are able to pass through the blood brain barrier – an essential attribute for any medicinal compound expected to be able to effect healing on myelin or nerve tissue. (152, 153, 154)
There are currently two Japanese patents on different extracts of Hericium erinaceus. One was filed in the 1990′s for an extract named “Nerve Growth Stimulant Factor.” (150, 151) The other, filed in 2004, is for a water extraction process, yielding a product that is likewise used for nerve and myelin healing. (155)
In addition to its effect on nerve regeneration, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) also prescribes Hericium erinaceus extract for stomach and digestive conditions, as well as cancers of the digestive tract and related organs.
Modern studies have affirmed the validity of this traditional application of Hericium erinaceus extract. One paper published in 1985 reported positive findings in the treatment of atrophic gastritis. Another from 1995 concluded that Hericium erinaceus had an ameliorating effect on hepatoma with an increased life expectancy for treated patients. (156)
Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Never use any medicinal mushroom or herb without prior approval by medical doctor.
Credit: Thank you to Paul Stamets for source material.
Dr. Rafael has been engaged in the natural health field since finishing Chiropractic College in 1996. His current focus is medicinal mushrooms, including Hericium erinaceus (more), in partnership with the U.S. company Cordyceps Reishi Extracts, LLC. To find the research references for this article, use this link to Lions Mane page and click on any number indicating a reference.
Source: www.thehealthdirectoryonline.com
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