Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) and Nerve Regeneration

By Dr. Markho Rafael


Out of the kitchen, into the pharmacy, the gourmet mushroom Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) with its unique flavor resembling lobster or shrimp appears to also possess likewise unique medicinal properties. It has been found to stimulate nerve and myelin regeneration, which may be beneficial in many neurological conditions. World renowned medicinal mushroom expert Paul Stamets suggests its potential application in conditions such as Alzheimer's, dementia, multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy. (134)

Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is known in the wild from North America, Europe, China and Japan. It grows on many species of deciduous trees, in particular oak, walnut, beech, maple and sycamore.

"Erinacines" is the name of the medicinal compounds from Hericium erinaceus that are being researched for their neurological health benefits. They are small enough to pass through the blood brain barrier, which or course is a requirement in order to effect any healing on the myelin sheaths or neurons. (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)

Although recent research on Hericium erinaceus extract has focused on its powerful effect on healing nerve tissue, in Traditional Chinese Medicine Lion's Mane Mushroom was used primarily for stomach conditions and cancers of the digestive 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.




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