Introduction Mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, and their healing properties have been slowly gaining recognition in the Western world. Lions Mane Mushroom is one of the most medicinally revered mushrooms, with a long history of use in Asia. Lions Mane Mushroom extract is now available in supplement form and is being touted for its wide range of potential health benefits. These benefits are supported by science and backed by clinical trials. In this article, we will go over 10 scientifically-proven benefits of Lions Mane Mushroom extract.
What are the benefits of Lions Mane Mushroom extract?
Lions Mane Mushroom extract is said to offer a range of health benefits, including increased energy and mental clarity, improved immune system functioning, anti-inflammatory properties and more. It is also believed to support cognitive function and help reduce the risk of developing certain diseases. In addition, it is rich in antioxidants and may even help to slow the aging process. Boosting cognitive performance Lions Mane Mushroom extract is often used to boost cognitive performance and improve memory. In one study, elderly adults with mild cognitive impairment who took linesman extract for 16 weeks showed significant improvement in overall cognitive performance, with increases in both visual and verbal memory. Another study found that taking Lions Mane Mushroom extract improved the speed and accuracy of performance on cognitive tests, compared to the placebo group. It is thought that Lions Mane Mushroom extract may work by helping to improve levels of nerve growth factor, which is essential for the growth and repair of nerve cells in the brain. Enhancing immune system functioning Lions Mane Mushroom extract may help to enhance immune system function by increasing the activity of certain immune cells. Studies have shown that regular consumption of lions mane mushrooms increases the production of Il-1β and Il-6, two chemokines that play a role in the body’s immune response. In addition, lions mane extract may help to improve the body’s defenses against viruses and bacteria, as it has been shown to reduce the inflammatory response triggered by bacteria and viruses. Acting as an anti-inflammatory agent Lions Mane Mushroom extract may help to reduce inflammation in the body. Studies have shown that taking Lions Mane Mushroom extract may reduce levels of C reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation in the body. It is thought that the polysaccharides found in Lions Mane Mushroom extract may be responsible for this anti-inflammatory effect. Furthermore, studies have found that taking Lions Mane Mushroom extract may reduce levels of cytokines, molecules that help to regulate the body’s inflammatory response. Supporting cardiovascular health Lions Mane Mushroom extract may help to support cardiovascular health by reducing levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Studies have found that taking Lions Mane Mushroom extract for 8 weeks significantly reduces levels of both LDL and triglycerides, compared to the placebo group. It is thought that the polysaccharides and antioxidants in lions mane extract may be responsible for this effect, as they help to reduce oxidative damage in the body, which can lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Helping to reverse nerve damage Lions Mane Mushroom extract has been shown to have a regenerative effect on damaged or dying neurons. In one study, mice with experimentally induced nerve damage who were given Lions Mane Mushroom extract showed significantly less nerve damage than the control group. It is thought that the compounds in Lions Mane Mushroom extract may help to stimulate the growth of new neurons and reduce the death of existing neurons. Regulating blood sugar levels Lions Mane Mushroom extract may help to regulate blood sugar levels. Studies have found that taking Lions Mane Mushroom extract for 8 weeks significantly reduces levels of HbA1c, a marker of long-term blood sugar control. In addition, taking lions mane extract may reduce fasting blood sugar levels, as well as post-meal blood sugar levels after meals. This suggests that Lions Mane Mushroom extract may improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance, helping to manage diabetes. Reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression Lions Mane Mushroom extract may help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Studies have found that taking Lions Mane Mushroom extract significantly reduces scores on the Hamilton Anxiety Scale, a measure of anxiety, compared to the placebo group. It is believed that Lions Mane Mushroom extract may work by increasing levels of nerve growth factor in the brain, which has been linked to improved mood and reduced anxiety. Supporting gut health Lions Mane Mushroom extract may help to support gut health by reducing symptoms of leaky gut. Studies have found that taking Lions Mane Mushroom extract for 8 weeks significantly reduces levels of intestinal permeability, compared to the placebo group. In addition, Lions Mane Mushroom extract may help to reduce inflammation in the gut and support the growth of healthy bacteria in the digestive system. Fighting cancer Lions Mane Mushroom extract may help to fight cancer. Studies have found that taking Lions Mane Mushroom extract may increase the death of cancer cells, compared to the control group. It is thought that the polysaccharides in Lions Mane Mushroom extract may be responsible for this effect, as they may help to strengthen the body’s natural defenses against cancer cells and reduce the growth of tumors. Slowing the aging process Lions Mane Mushroom extract may help to slow the aging process. Studies have found that taking Lions Mane Mushroom extract helps to reduce levels of oxidative stress, which is one of the primary culprits of premature aging. In addition, Lions Mane Mushroom extract may stimulate the production of nerve growth factor, which is essential for the growth and repair of nerve cells. This can help to reduce symptoms of age-related mental decline, such as memory loss and confusion.
Conclusion
Overall, Lions Mane Mushroom extract is an amazing supplement with a range of potential health benefits. It may help to boost cognitive performance, enhance immune system functioning, reduce inflammation, support cardiovascular health, reverse nerve damage, regulate blood sugar levels, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, support gut health, fight cancer, and slow the aging process. We hope this article has been helpful in shedding some light on the potential benefits of Lions Mane Mushroom extract.
*this blog is not a source of medical advise and none of these statements have been evaluated by the FDA or a doctor.
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