Recommended Dose: Most studies have given 1 gram (half a kilo) of dried mushroom given twice a day. When used for culinary purposes, the mushroom has a mild flavor that allows it to be mixed with various meals and can be used as a plant-based meat substitute or as a complementary powder mixed into coffee or tea.

The powder is also used in savory dishes in sweet drinks such as hot chocolate.

Lion's mane is an herb that has been used for centuries for its many medicinal purposes, says Trista Best, a registered dietitian who specializes in environmental health.

The potential benefits of lion's mane mushroom are many and cover physical, cognitive and mental health. The mushroom is a source of natural bioactive compounds, which are health-promoting chemicals found in certain foods and plants. As a result, it exhibits disease-fighting properties, including anti-cancer, antimicrobial and antioxidant activity.

Research also suggests that lion's mane may protect nerves from disease or degeneration, according to a 2015 study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. The same study concludes that the mushroom exhibits additional health-promoting benefits, including:

~ Regulates blood sugar

~ Reduces high blood pressure

~ Promotes healthy energy levels and fights fatigue

~ Helps prevent excessive accumulation of lipids in the blood

~ Protects heart health

~ Slows down biological aging

~ Protects liver health

~ Protects kidney health

Possible alternative treatment for depression

The mushroom may be a potential alternative treatment for depression, according to a 2020 abstract in the Journal of Molecular Science. The summary points to three ways lion's mane can relieve symptoms of depression:

~ Helps ensure adequate neurotransmitters are present

~ Reduction of nerve growth loss caused by stressful situations

~ Minimize inflammation associated with depression[3].

Additionally, research shows that people living with major depressive disorder may have lower nerve growth factor than non-depressed people, according to a 2015 analysis in Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment. Nerve growth factor helps nerve cells to specialize, grow and stay healthy, which are important aspects of mood regulation.

A number of studies show that lion's mane increases nerve growth factor, according to Lexi Watson, a doctor of pharmacology, functional medicine and founder of Oakley Wellness, a practice specializing in brain health and optimal aging.

It can benefit brain health

The mushroom's effect on nerve growth factor levels may allow it to help protect against cognitive decline disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.

Lion's mane is a type of nootropic, meaning it contains compounds that improve brain health and function.

It can help the recovery of brain injuries

A 2021 study in Antioxidants offers a lot of promising hope for people who have suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study found that both lion's mane mushroom and coriolus versicolor (another type of mushroom also known as turkey tail) exhibit neuroprotective effects against inflammation and oxidative stress often associated with brain damage.

It reduces anxiety and stress

It can help relieve stress, and a 2010 study in Biomedical Research provides some evidence to support this theory. The study examines the mushroom's effects on brain function and concludes that participants who consumed cookies containing 0.5 grams of powdered lion's mane (specifically the mushroom or fruiting body) for four weeks reported less anxiety than those who consumed cookies placebo. The study authors believe that the nerve growth effect of the lion's mane mushroom contributes to its anti-anxiety effect.

Supports the health of the gastrointestinal system

The lion's mane mushroom has an ulcer-inhibiting effect, which according to research may be due to its effect on the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Helicobacter pylori can cause stomach problems, including ulcers, according to a study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology

If you have a medical condition or a history of asthma or allergies, consult your doctor before trying lion's mane.

The mushroom is generally well tolerated, but there can be side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea and skin rash,” says Dr. Watson.

If you experience side effects, stop eating the mushroom until you talk to a health care provider. Hives, swelling, diarrhea and abdominal pain were symptoms of a potentially serious allergic reaction to lion's mane mushroom, according to a 2022 case study in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

Avoid taking lion's mane during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as there is not enough research to determine its safety. As with any supplement, talk with your healthcare provider to determine if lion's mane is right for you and determine the right dosage for your health needs.

Source: Forbes Health