Gourmet Mushroom Hericium erinaceus Supports Nerve Regeneration
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]
Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane) is known to grow in Europe, North America, Japan and China. It can be found on many broad leaf trees, from oaks, maples and sycamores to beeches and walnuts.
“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]
Two Japanese patents exist relating to Hericium erinaceus extracts; one from the 1990′s for an extraction process of these compounds yielding an extract known as “Nerve Growth Stimulant Factor.” [150, 151] A more recent one from 2004 is for a water extract of Hericium erinaceus, also used for its nerve regenerating properties. [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]
In conclusion, additional medical research studies on Hericium erinaceus extract that are worth mentioning have shown it to have some therapeutic effect in the following areas: Immune stimulating [157]; antimicrobial against Aspergillus and Candida [158]; anti-tumoral [159]; inflammation [134]; stomach cancer. [134]
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. Always consult a licensed medical practitioner before using any herb (or mushroom) for medicinal purposes.
Credit to Paul Stamets for research and source material.