“I am currently unsupervised; I know it freaks me out too But the possibilities are endless!”
Lions Mane
Houtou- Chinese name
Neuritis-search –Tacrine-hexane fraction-
linoleate, ethyl palmitate, ethyl oleate and ethyl stearate. In the fatty acid form, linoleic acid and oleic acid have been reported to play an important role in the neurological system noleic acid is an essential fatty acid which is the starting material for the biosynthesis of arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid was shown to play important roles in the maintenance of the hippocampal neuron membrane fluidity in the brain (Fukaya et al., 2007), enhancement of the stimulation of neurite outgrowth by activating the plasma membrane protein, syntaxin 3 (Darios and Davletov, 2006) and protection against oxidative stress in the brain (Wang et al., 2006). Oleic acid showed decrease in the content of the saturated very long chain fatty acids level in vitro and in vivo (Rizzo et al., 1986; 1987). Therefore, it might be useful in the treatment of adrenoleukodystrophy, a neurological disease that leads to the damage of brain and adrenal gland due to the accumulation of the saturated very long chain fatty acids level.
4-(3’,7’-dimethyl-5’-oxo-2’,6’- octadienyl)-2-formyl-3-hydroxy-5-methoxylbenzyl oleate and another unidentified compound with molecular weight of 148 were first reported present in H. erinaceus. Therefore, the ability of these compounds to stimulate neurite outgrowth still remained unknown. It is highly probable that other compounds in the respective subfraction maybe responsible for the meurite stimulation activity.
According to Banks (2009), lipid soluble compounds with molecular weight less than 600 Da are able to cross blood-brain barrier by transmembrane diffusion. Therefore, the identified compounds that cross the blood-brain barrier and stimulate NGF synthesis in brain might be responsible in stimulating the neurons to regrow. Due to the limitation of NGF to pass through the blood-brain barrier, it can be considered that compounds with a low molecular weight that elicit stimulatory activity on NGF synthesis are much more useful and practical for therapeutic purposes. Neurodegenerative diseases are always correlated with the neuronal cell death caused by the production of free radicals and reactive oxygen species (Halliwell et al., 1999; Lee et al., 2003). Thus, it is reasonable to suspect molecules which are able to attenuate the production or scavenge the free radicals and reactive oxygen species might reduce the risk of gaining the neurodegenerative diseases. Linoleic acid, the fatty acid form of ethyl linoleate, is an essential fatty acid required for biological processes. According to Ismail et al. (2004) and Kirmizigul et al. (2007), a positive correlation between essential fatty acid and antioxidant was found. The identified phenols (hericenone C and its isomer, 4-(3’,7’-dimethyl-5’-oxo-2’,6’- octadienyl)-2-formyl-3- hydroxy-5-methoxylbenzyl oleate and its isomer) might have antioxidant activity as several studies which reported a highly positive relation between phenolic content and antioxidant activity in plants and fruits (Tabart et al., 2009; Sim et al., 2010; Mandana et al., 2012). Besides that, Li et al. (2012) proved that phenolic compounds present in H. erinaceus exhibited strong antioxidant activity.
Japanese Name - Yamabu****ake Chinese Name - Hou Tou Gu (Monkey Head Mushroom) English Name - Lion's Mane Mushroom / Hedgehog Mushroom This delicious mushroom has been referred to as 'Nature's Nutrient for the Neurons' on account of its ability to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF)1,2. NGF plays an essential role in the differentiation and survival of several nerve cell populations in the central and peripheral nervous system and lower than normal levels of NGF have been shown to be linked to early stages of both alzheimers disease and dementia3-8. Although therapeutic interest has largely focusssed on its importance for neurological function, NGF has a much wider role in maintaining homoeostasis in the body9,10. It is known to have insulinotropic, angiogenic, and antioxidant properties and reduced plasma levels of NGF have been associated with cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndromes, including type 2 diabetes11,12. It has been shown to accelerate wound healing and there is also evidence that it could be useful in the treatment of skin and corneal ulcers13. Animal studies have shown NGF to have a profound effect on airway inflammation and asthma-related symptoms with increased NGF levels observed in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum from patients with asthma14. NGF also has a dynamic relationship with the immune system. Production of NGF is increased after brain injury, in part due to cytokines produced by immune cells. At the same time cells of the immune system express receptors for NGF, which is involved in immune modulation15. Two families of cyathane derivatives from H. erinaceus have been identified as being active in the stimulation of NGF production: the hericenones (isolated from the fruiting body) and the erinacines (isolated from the mycelium). Critically these molecules are small enough to pass through the blood-brain barrier. There is also evidence that they can increase myelination1,16,17. In China the mycelium is used to make Hericium erinaceus Pills to treat gastric and duodenal ulcers, chronic gastritis, gastric and oesophageal cancer. Dementia - In controlled studies H. erinaceus supplementation showed beneficial effects in patients with mild dementia. In one study 6 out of 7 patients showed improvement in functional capacity (understanding, communication, memory etc.) while all 7 showed improved Functional Independence Scores (eating, dressing, walking etc.), after consuming 5g H. erinaceus fruiting body daily in soup1. In another study, 30 patients aged 50-80 with mild dementia were randomised into treatment and control groups. H. erinaceus was given as tablets at 3g/day for 16 weeks and produced significant increases in cognitive function in the treatment group. However, four weeks after the conclusion of the trial, cognitive function scores decreased17. MS - H. erinaceus fruiting body extract has been shown to improve the myelination process in mature myelinating fibers with possible benefits for MS patients18,19. NGF has also been shown to have a protective effect on axons and myelin by suppressing the immune-mediated inflammatory processes responsible for chronic brain destruction in neurodegenerative disorders such as MS by switching the immune response to an anti-inflammatory, suppressive mode in a brain-specific environment13. Neuropathy - NGF plays a role in pain sensitivity and low NGF levels have been linked to sensory neuropathy in both in vivo and in vitro studies10. Enhanced NGF production has been shown to protect sensory function in diabetic rats and NGF reduction has been shown to cause cardiac sensory neuropathy21,22. Clinical studies with recombinant human nerve growth factor indicate benefit in patients with diabetic polyneuropathy23 and NGF has also been reported to reduce pain in patients with HIV associated sensory neuropathy24,25. However, ability to promote regeneration of sensory neurons has yet to be demonstrated26,27. Nerve Damage - Rats given aqueous extract of H. erinaceus fruiting bodies showed faster recovery from nerve injury, suggesting potential for application of H. erinaceus in the early stages of nerve regeneration28. MRSA - Extracts of both fruiting body and mycellium exhibit anti-MRSA activity with erinacines identified as active compounds. In clinical tests in Japan MRSA is reported to have disappeared in a percentage of patients whose diet was supplemented with H.erinaceus29. GASTRITIS - One of the traditional indications for H. erinaceus, it appears likely that its beneficial effects in this regard are also a function of the antibacterial action of its cyathane derivatives, with Helicobacter pylori now known to be a major cause of chronic gastritis30-32.
CLINICAL
SUMMARY Main Therapeutic Application - Dementia, Alzheimers and Nerve Damage. May have benefit for MS but clinical evidence lacking. Key Component - Cyathane derivatives including hericenones and erinacines Dose - Clinical trials support the use of dried fruiting body at a dose of 3-5g/day for increasing NGF production while animal studies on the use of H. erinaceus for gastric ulcers produced the best results with a daily intake of 500mg/kg, which equates to the dosage prescribed in the Chinese Phamacopoeia of 25- 50g/day32,33. It is likely that similar doses would be required in cases of
MRSA. High in-vitro NGF promoting activity of mycellial extracts and the fermentation broth also indicates potential use of biomass products in this regard34,35. Caution - Asthma and other allergic conditions. Erinacine E is a potent agonist of the Kappa opioid receptor with potential hallucinogenic properties36.
1. The anti-Dementia effect of Lion's Mane mushroom and its clinical application. Kawagishi H, Zhuang C,
Shnidman E. Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients, 2004 2. Kawagishi H, Shimada A, Hosokawa S, Mori H, Sakamoto H, Ishiguro Y, Sakemi S, Bordner J, Kojima N, Furukawa S. Erinacines E, F, and G,
stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF)-synthesis, from the mycelia of Hericium erinaceum. Tetra Lett. 1996 37(41):7399-402. 3. Erinacine A increases catecholamine and nerve growth factor content in the central nervous system of rats. Nutrition Research. ;25(6):617-623M. Shimbo, H. Kawagishi, H. Yokogoshi 4. NGF and BDNF: from nerves to adipose tissue, from neurokines to metabokines. Chaldakov
G.N, Tonchev A.B, Aloe L. Riv Psichiatr. 2009;44(2):79-87. 5. Development of a non invasive NGF-based
therapy for Alzheimer's disease. Covaceuszach S, Capsoni S, Ugolini G, Spirito F, Vignone D, Cattaneo A.
Curr Alzheimer Res. 2009;6(2):158-70. 6. Neurotrophins: from pathophysiology to treatment in Alzheimer's
disease. Schulte-Herbrüggen O, Jockers-Scherübl M.C, Hellweg R. Curr Alzheimer Res. 2008;5(1):38-44. 7.
One hundred years after the discovery of Alzheimer's disease. A turning point for therapy? Giacobini E,
Becker R.E. J Alzheimers Dis. 2007;12(1):37-52. 8. Neurotrophic factors--a tool for therapeutic strategies in
neurological, neuropsychiatric and neuroimmunological diseases? Schulte-Herbrüggen O, Braun A,
Rochlitzer S, Jockers-Scherübl M.C, Hellweg R. Curr Med Chem. 2007;14(22):2318-29. Review. 9. Levi-
Montalcini R (2004). "The nerve growth factor and the neuroscience chess board". Prog. Brain Res. 146:
525–7. 10. Neurotrophin presence in human coronary atherosclerosis and metabolic syndrome: a role for
NGF and BDNF in cardiovascular disease?. Prog Brain Res. Chaldakov G.N, Fiore M, Stankulov I.S, Manni L, Hristova M.G, Antonelli A, Ghenev PI, Aloe L. 2004;146:279–89.
11. Reduced plasma levels of NGF and BDNF in patients with acute coronary syndromes. Int J Cardiol. Manni L, Nikolova V, Vyagova D, Chaldakov G.N, Aloe L. 2005;102(1):169–71.
12. Homo obesus: a metabotrophin-deficient species. Pharmacology and nutrition insight. Curr Pharm Des. Chaldakov G.N, Fiore M, Tonchev A.B, Dimitrov D, Pancheva R, Rancic G, Aloe L. 2007;13(21):2176–9. 13.
Nerve growth factor and wound healing. Prog Brain Res. Kawamoto K, Matsuda H. 2004;146:369–84 14.
Expression of nerve growth factor in the airways and its possible role in asthma. Freund V, Frossard N. Prog
Brain Res. 2004;146:335–46. 15. Role of nerve growth factor and other trophic factors in brain
inflammation". Villoslada P, Genain C.P. Prog Brain Res. 2004;146:403–14. 16. Nerve growth factor-
inducing activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells. Mori K, Obara Y, Hirota M,
Azumi Y, Kinugasa S, Inatomi S, Nakahata N. Biol Pharm Bull. 2008;31(9):1727-32. 17. Improving effects of
the mushroom Yamabu****ake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo- controlled clinical trial. Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, Azumi Y, Tuchida T. Phytother Res. 2009;23(3):367-
72. 18. The influence of Hericium erinaceus extract on myelination process in vitro. Kolotushkina E.V,
Moldavan M.G, Voronin K.Y, Skibo G.G. Fiziol Z.H. 2003;49(1):38-45. 19. Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.)
Pers. extract effect on nerve cells. Grygansky A.P, Moldavan M.G, Kolotushkina O.V, Skibo G.G. Int J Med
Mushr. 2001;3(2-3):152 20. Haploinsufficiency of the nerve growth factor beta gene in a 1p13 deleted
female child with an insensitivity to pain. Fitzgibbon G.J, Kingston H, Needham M, Gaunt L. Dev Med Child Neurol. 2009;51(10):833-7.
21. Protection of sensory function in diabetic rats by Neotrofin. Calcutt N.A, Freshwater J.D, Hauptmann N, Taylor E.M, Mizisin A.P. Eur J Pharmacol. 2006;534(1-3):187-93.
22. Nerve growth factor is critical for cardiac sensory innervation and rescues neuropathy in diabetic hearts. Ieda M, Kanazawa H, Ieda Y, Kimura K, Matsumura K, Tomita Y, Yagi T, Onizuka T, Shimoji K, Ogawa S, Makino S, Sano M, Fukuda K. Circulation. 2006 ;114(22):2351-63.
23. Recombinant human nerve growth factor in the treatment of diabetic polyneuropathy. S. C. Apfel et al. Neurology. 1998;51:695-702 24. Long-term treatment with recombinant nerve growth factor for HIV-
associated sensory neuropathy. G. Schifitto et al. Neurology. 2001;57:1313-1316 25. A phase II trial of nerve growth factor for sensory neuropathy associated with HIV infection. J. C. McArthur et al. Neurology. 2000;54:1080-1088 26. Regeneration of primary sensory neurons. Donnerer J. Pharmacology. 2003;67(4):169-81.
27. Nerve growth factor and diabetic neuropathy. Pittenger G, Vinik A. Exp Diabesity Res. 2003;4(4):271-85. Review.
28. Functional recovery enhancement following injury to rodent peroneal nerve by Lion's Mane mushroom,
Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae). Wong K.H, Naidu M, David R.P, Abdulla M.A, Abdullah N, Kuppusamy U.R, Sabaratnam V. Int J Med Mushr. ;11(3):20 29. Anti-MRSA compounds of Hericium erinaceous. Kawagishi H et al. Int J Med Mushr. 2005;7(3):350
30. A double-blind study of effectiveness of hericium erinaceus pers therapy on chronic atrophic gastritis. A preliminary report. Xu C.P, Liu W.W, Liu F.X, Chen S.S, Liao F.Q, Xu Z, Jiang L.G, Wang C.A, Lu X.H. Chin Med J (Engl). 1985;98(6):455-6.
31. Cytoprotective effects of Hericium erinaceus on gastric mucosa in rats. Yu C.G, Xu Z.M, Zhu Q.K et al. Chinese J Gastrent. 1999-02
32. Effect of culinary-medicinal Lion's Mane mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae), on Ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats. Abdulla M.A, Noor S, Sabaratnam V,
Abdullah N, Wong K.H, Ali H.M. Int J Med Mush. 2008;10(4):325-330 33. Chinese Pharmacopoeia, 2010.
Beijing:Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Publishing House 34. Activity of aqueous extracts of Lion's Mane mushroom Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae) on the neural cell line NG108-15. Wong K.H, Vikineswary S, Abdullah N, Naidu M, Keynes R. Int J Med Mushr. 2007;9(1):57-
65 35. Neurotropic and trophic action of Lion's Mane mushroom Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae) extracts on nerve cells in vitro. Moldavan M.G, Grygansky A.P, Kolotushkina O.V, Kirchhoff B, Skibo G.G, Pedarzani P. Int J Med Mush. 2007;9(1): 36. Erinacine E as a kappa opioid receptor
agonist and its new analogs from a basidiomycete, Hericium ramosum. Saito T, Aoki F, Hirai H, Inagaki T, Matsunaga Y, Sakakibara T, Sakemi S, Suzuki Y, Watanabe S, Suga O, Sujaku T, Smogowicz AA, Truesdell SJ, Wong JW, Nagahisa A, Kojima Y, Kojima N. J Antibiot (Tokyo). 1998 Nov;51(11):983-90.
LION'S MANE
(Hericium erinaceus)
extracted by tincture in food grade alcohol
Plant Description/History: Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is an edible mushroom and/or medicinal mushroom in the tooth fungus group also referred to as Bearded Tooth Mushroom, Hedgehog Mushroom, Bearded Hedgehog Mushroom, Pom Pom Mushroom, or Bearded Tooth Fungus.
Historical Notation:
Lion's Mane has been used traditionally in China and Japan for hundreds of years, and also known there as Bear's Head or Monkey's Head. Commonly prescribed for stomach ailments and for cancer prevention, this mushroom was once reserved only for the palates of the royal families. Currently, you may find this mushroom in Chinese vegetarian cuisine, used to replace pork or lamb.
Research:
In traditional Chinese medicine this mushroom has long been considered a
medicinal mushroom and a study on rats in 2005 showed that some
compounds in the mushroom, like threitol, D-arabinitol, and palmitic acid may have antioxidant effects, may regulate blood lipid levels and reduce blood glucose levels. Ying (1987) reports that pills of this mushroom are used in the treatment of gastric and esophageal carcinoma. Scientists have investigated this mushroom for possible anti-dementia compounds. Primary research has demonstrated that it stimulated animal nerve cells, stimulated nerve growth factor in an in vitro experiment with human astrocytoma cells and stimulated myelination in another study. A double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trial showed improved cognitive ability.
Recently a group of Japanese researchers have patented an extraction process which isolates a NGSF (Nerve Growth Stimulant Factor). They found a compound in Hericium erinaceus which causes brain neurons to regrow, a feat of great significance in potentially helping senility, repairing neurological degradation, increasing intelligence and improving reflexes. Studies also confirm many of its traditional uses, supporting the digestive system, and acting as a tonic for the nervous system.
Constituents - Chemicals & Nutrients: Hericenone A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H, Xylan, Heteroxylan, Heteroglucan, Proteoglycan
Indications: Used to aid in digestion, stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) in the central and peripheral nervous system,repair neurological degradation from senility, improve cognitive function and memory loss, and improve reflexes.
Dosage: To stimulate nerve cell growth, take 1 teaspoon twice a day.
Lyme Disease Use: For application in the case of Lyme Disease, you can find information about Stephen Buhner’s protocol at Only registered and activated users can see links., Click Here To Register.... There is much to know about how Lions Mane is used for treating spirochaete bacteria in the brain caused by Lyme Disease. Lions Mane can pass through the blood brain barrier, unlike Teasel, thus releasing spirochaetes into the blood stream to eradicate the bacteria. This calls up a bulk of work for the immune system, therefore, it is recommended that a regiment for immune system support be implemented as part of an overall treatment plan.
Warnings: Do not use during pregnancy or breast feeding, or if you are
allergic to mushrooms or derivatives of fungi. If you are using Lions Mane for the treatment of Lyme Disease, what is known as the Herx Reaction may cause a notable amount of discomfort from the spirochaete bacteria release.
Hericium Erinaceus (Lion's Mane Mushroom, Yamabu****ake, 山伏茸, 猴头菇)
Another name for Hericium Erinaceus is Hedgehog Mushroom. It is also referred to as Satyr’s Beard or the Bearded Tooth Fungus or the Bearded Tooth Mushroom. This mushroom was first discovered in North America. Its spine projects outwards from a group unlike other species of mushrooms whose spines project from a branch. The spines are usually longer than one centimeter.
It prefers growing on hard woods during summer and can therefore be easily confused with another Hericium species. Among the hard woods, it likes the American beech tree best.
If eaten when young, its texture is like seafood and the Chinese include it in their cuisine in place of lamb or even pork.
Medicinal Value
Traditional medicine has always been very popular with the Chinese ever since 2000 BC. And this mushroom is quite popular among their cures. A research on this mushroom was conducted on rats in 2005. The findings unearthed several medicinal substances present in Hericium Erinaceus. The substances included Palmitic acid, Threitol and D-arabinitol. In the research, these substances were found responsible for reducing blood sugar and regulating lipid levels in blood. It was also evident that there was an antioxidant present in the mushroom.
In studies being done today, scientists are trying to ascertain the impact this mushroom has on dementia. There has been evidence of nerve cells stimulation and enhancement of cognitive abilities. Growth of nerves was also enhanced too even when astrocytoma cells from humans were used. Myelination was also enhanced.
Studies have indicated that the mushroom Hericium Erinaceus can be used to lull inflammation and cool down ulcers. The ulcers alluded to here are the gastric kind as well as those of the oesophagus. Usually a person suffering gastric ulcers will experience pain in the abdomen. This intense pain can trigger other conditions such as weight loss or insomnia. Sometimes there is indication that digestion is not carrying on as it should. Other symptoms of Gastric ulcers include vomit with blood traces and or stool with blood traces too. A person suffering gastric ulcers can also experience fatigue. These are the symptoms that the mushroom Hericium Erinaceus clears.
Ulcers of the Oesophagus are usually caused by Gastrooesophageal reflux disease commonly shortened to GERD. The patient finds it painful to swallow food or drinks and there is prevalence of abdominal pains and vomiting. The patient also loses weight too. It is medically advisable for the patient to begin treatment before the ulcers deteriorate to the point of narrowing the tract. If it gets to that stage, the ulcer is referred to as Barret Ulcer.
The mushroom also treats Pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is a medical condition where one’s pancreas becomes inflamed. It is caused by digestive enzymes performing their duty in the wrong location - the pancreas instead of the small intestine. This results in gradual corrosion of the pancreas and subsequent acute pain.
Crohn’s disease is can also be treated by the Hericium Erinaceus mushroom. The disease is characterized by the inflammation of the gut walls. A part of the gut can be inflamed or the whole gut can be inflamed making it look like patchwork. However, the ileum seems to be the most vulnerable.
The mushroom also helps in reducing Hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels at the bottom of the rectum around the anus. Although sometimes not painful, their existence is usually known due to the presence of blood smears during bowel movement. If there are blood clots in the enlarged veins, then sharp pain is inevitable.
People have particularly embraced this mushroom due to its tendencies to fight various cancers. The cancers include intestinal and pancreatic cancers
and stomach cancers. The mushroom also fights esophageal cancer. When a person takes Hericium Erinaceus in the course of chemotherapy, it has been observed to significantly reduce the sometimes horrible side effects associated with chemotherapy. This makes it bearable for the patient to undergo complete chemotherapy without feeling fatigued, sick or nauseous.
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Myco Essentials
Hericium (Lion's Mane) For Cognitive Improvement & Neuronal Protection
by Dr. Frank Merante, M.Sc, PhD - 22 November, 2013
Table 1. Representative publications detailing the cognitive and neuronal effects of Hericium erinaceus - the Lion's Mane mushroom
Investigated Effect
References
Cognitive improvement
6, 9, 10
Nerve growth factor modulator
2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 14
Reduced anxiety and depression
2
Myelination augmentation
1, 7
Nerve cell modulator
13
In jar cultivated Hericium (Lion's Mane mushroom) – both mycelium (bottom) and mushroom (top) are growing completely within the sterile environment of a glass jar. The mushroom mycelium completely colonizes and consumes the organic rye food substrate and subsequently produces the mushroom (fruit body).
Cognitive improvement by oral administration of Hericium (Lion’s Mane mushroom)
In vitro studies are a wonderful tool which allow observations to be made in relatively simple and tightly controlled system such as nerve cell culture, but the obvious question that always remains is: “Does the same effect occur in vivo, or more precisely, what happen if people ingest this mushroom or mycelium?”
This query was addressed by Mori and his research team9. The investigators provided the equivalent of approximately 1 gram of dried Lion’s Mane mushroom (roughly ten grams of fresh mushroom; i.e., 4 x 250 mg tablets) three times a day for four weeks to a group of fifteen volunteers who ranged in age from 50 – 80 years. The mushroom was dried at 60°C overnight, powdered and made into tablets containing 90% mushroom powder and 10% binder. The study participants exhibited mild cognitive impairment as assessed by a cognitive function questionnaire. A second, similarly matched number of individuals acted as the control group and were given tablets made to look similar (placebo) to the mushroom supplement. Neither the volunteers nor the people administering the tablets knew how the groups were divided – a double blind study in other words – since neither the receiver nor the administrator knew who was receiving the real test substance. After approximately eight weeks, the Lion’s Mane group showed significantly improved cognitive functional scores relative to the control. Just as important, no undesirable or adverse effects were observed throughout the study9.
This significant and important observation demonstrates that the desirable, bioactive, hercinone constituents could be derived by simply eating Hericium as part of a healthy diet or utilizing Hericium (Lion’s Mane mushroom) supplements. This among the other properties described make Hericium a functional food which confers both nutritional and medicinal benefits!
An even earlier study performed by Kasahara and Colleagues in 2001 showed a similar finding, the results of which were summarized by Kawagishi and Shnidman (2004). In this study, the participants were 100 elderly patients suffering from various age associated diseases. Half of the group (50 patients) were given 5 grams/day of dried Hericium in their soup (oral intake) for a period of 6 months. The remaining 50 patients acted as controls. Within the experimental group, seven patients had dementia and were the focus of the Kawagishi/Shnidman review6.
After this test period, all patients were evaluated relative to their previously obtained Functional Independence Measures (FIMs). All seven of the patients with dementia showed improved FIM scores (100%), and 6 out of 7 (86%) has improved perceptual capacities! Also notable in this study was the fact that all patients were elderly and had established disease, yet improvement was seen from oral ingestion of Hericium6. The amount of Hericium used in Mori’s study (1 g/day x 3) was lower than that used by Kasahara (5 g), but Mori still demonstrated significant improvements over a shorter period of time (4 weeks)! It was anticipated that further studies should better define dosage and better stratify patients to assess the full spectrum of benefits derived from Hericium.
Hericium and Alzheimer’s disease
A recent publication specifically addressed the potential beneficial role of Hericium for improving Alzheimer’s disease in an animal model10, 14. In this experimental design, amyloid-peptide impaired learning and memory were evaluated following the oral addition of Hericium erinaceus to the daily diet of mice (5% w/w) for 21 days. The study
concluded that Hericium “prevented the cognitive deficits” induced by the administration of amyloid peptide9. Most notable was the revelation that Hericium contains additional lipid-soluble, biologically active, compounds in addition to the hericenones!
Hericium and reduction of anxiety and depression
The effects of Hericium on cholinergic neurons is expected because of its NGF modulation activity. As such, measurable parameters relating to depression and sleep quality were investigated by Nagano et al., 2010. A thorough series of neurophysiological indices were utilized to show that the oral ingestion of 500 mg of Hericium four times a day (2 g total) for four weeks statistically improved scores for a variety of parameters assessed, including anxiety, irritability and concentration11. One of the key items to note in this study was the oral effectiveness of the Hericium supplement and the fact that each of the 500 mg dose was delivered in the form of a cookie. This illustrates that the active components could withstand the heating associated with the baking process!
Additional Neuronal cell Protection Molecules
An interesting report by Nagaia et al. (2006) indicated that a compound present in Hericium, dilinoleoyl-phosphatidyl-ethanolamine, protected neuronal cells from stress induced cell death. It was speculated that this mechanism was mediated by protecting a key intracellular network responsible for the proper transport and folding of cellular proteins11.
Peripheral nerve regeneration and healing
A recent publication showed that water soluble components of Hericium, when administered orally, can improve peripheral nerve regeneration following a crush injury. In this instance, Hericium fruit bodies were boiled in water at 1:1 ratio for 30 minutes and then cooled for 30 minutes. Test animals were given either 10 or 20 mL/kg body weight per day for 14 days. After the test period, the Hericium group exhibited improved rate of recovery without the side effects associated with currently used medication of these types of injuries15.
Collectively the studies summarized unanimously indicate that Hericium contains a variety of factors which can improve cognitive function, improve mood and reduce anxiety and confer neuron protection when administered orally. Certainly a portion of these molecules are heat stable, withstanding temperatures associated with baking, and are able to cross the blood-brain barrier to act on the central nervous system and can also exhibit desirable effects on peripheral nerves.
This article is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or cure disease. In addition, although the products described herein are regarded as functional-natural-foods, it is advisable that before consuming any food supplement, health food or other natural product or extract, one consult their health care professional. This is particularly encouraged if one requires regular medication, is pregnant or has been diagnosed with a particular acute or chronic illness. One should not consume mycological products if they are allergic to mushrooms, fungi or derivatives thereof. Finally, any implied medicinal benefit of the products describe, or preparations thereof, have not been validated by the United States Food and Drug Administration or by Health Canada. The reader is encouraged to further research the information provided before implementing mycological products into their health conscientious life style.
References
1. Dusanka S. S., Rujuan D., Vaagn L. Z. and Zhou W. 2008 Autoimmune-induced preferential depletion of myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) is genetically regulated in relapsing EAE (B6 × SJL) F1 mice. Molecular Neurodegeneration 3:7
2. Kawagishi H, Ando M, Sakamoto H, Yoshida S, Ojima F, Ishiguro Y, et al. 1991. Hericenones C, D and E, stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF)–synthesis, from the mushroom Hericium erinaceum. Tetrahedron Lett 32:4561-4564
3. Kawagishi H, Shimada A, Shirai R, Okamoto K, Ojima F, Sakamoto H, et al. 1994. Erinacine A, B and C, strong stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF)–synthesis from the mycelia of Hericium erinaceum. Tetrahedron Lett 35:1569 - 72
4. Kawagishi H, Shimada A, Shizuki K, Mori H, Okamoto K, Sakamoto H, et al. 1996a. Erinacine D, a stimulator of NGF-synthesis, from the mycelia of Hericium erinaceum. Heterocycl Commun. 2:51 -4
5. Kawagishi H, Shimada A, Hosokawa S, Mori H, Sakamoto H, Ishiguro Y, et al. 1996b. Erinacines E, F and G, stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF)–synthesis, from the mycelia of Hericium erinaceum. Tetrahedron Lett 37:7399- 402
6. Kawagishi, H and Shnidman, E. 2004 Lion’s Mane: The anti- dementia effect of Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) and its clinical application. Townsend letters for Doctors and Patients 54- 56.
7. Kolotushkina EV, Moldavan MG, Voronin KY, Skibo GG. 2003. The influence of Hericium erinaceus extract on myelination process in vitro. Fiziol Zh. 49:38-45
8. Mori K, Obara Y, Hirota M, Azumi Y, Kinugasa S, Inatomi S, Nakahata N. 2008. Nerve growth factor-inducing activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells. Biol Pharm Bull. 31:1727-32
9. Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, Azumi Y, Tuchida T. 2009. Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabu****ake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res. 23:367-72.
10.Mori K, Obara Y, Moriya T, Inatomi S and Nakahata N. 2011. Effects of Hericium erinaceus on β-amyloid (25-35) peptide-induced learning and memory deficits in mice. Biomedical Research 32(1):67-72
11.Nagaia, K, Chibab, A., Nishinoa, T., Kubotaa, T., and Kawagishib, H. 2006.Dilinoleoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine from Hericium erinaceum protects against ER stress-dependent Neuro2a cell death via protein kinase C pathway. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry 17: 525–530
12.Nagano M, Shimizu K, Kondo R, Hayashi C, Sato D, Kitagawa K, Ohnuki K. 2010. Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomed Res. 31(4):231-7
13.Park YS, Lee HS, Won MH, Lee JH, Lee SY, Lee HY. 2002. Effect of an exo-polysaccharide from the culture broth of Hericium erinaceus on enhancement of growth and differentiation of rat adrenal nerve cells. Cytotechnology 39:155-62
14.Shimbo, M., Kawagishib, H., and Yokogoshi, H. 2005. Erinacine A increases catecholamine and nerve growth factor content in the central nervous system of rats Nutrition Research 25:617–623
15. Wong K-H, Naidu M, David P, Abdulla MA, Abdullah N, Kuppusamy UR and Sabaratnam V. 2011. Peripheral Nerve Regeneration Following Crush Injury to Rat Peroneal Nerve by Aqueous Extract of Medicinal Mushroom Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae) Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Article ID 580752
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The mushroom is also known to positively counter with osteoporosis. This condition normally comes with advancing age. The bones, particularly those of the spine, begin to corrode and become weak. This can sometimes cause pain especially if the person is exposed to pressure. Hericium Erinaceus slows down the rate at which the bones corrode and encourage a sort of repair process. It also lulls the pain and gives back some peace to the patient.
The mushroom is also recommended for people who are interested in shedding weight or to keep their weight in check especially since it lacks saturated fats. As the mushroom wades off infection, it strengthens the person’s immunity and promotes overall bodily health.
Mushrooms provide a vast array of potential medicinal compounds. Many mushrooms -- such as portobello, oyster, reishi and maitake -- are well- known for these properties, but the lion's mane mushroom, in particular, has drawn the attention of researchers for its notable nerve-regenerative properties.
Lion's mane mushrooms are not your classic looking cap-and-stem variety. These globular-shaped mushrooms sport cascading teeth-like spines rather than the more common gills. From these spines, white spores emerge. Lion's mane mushrooms also have other common names: sheep's head, bear's head and the Japanese yamabu****ake. I like the clever name "pom pom blanc" -- a reference to their resemblance to the white pom-poms cheerleaders use. The Latin name for lion's mane is Hericium erinaceus; both names mean "hedgehog."*
Lion's mane mushrooms are increasingly sold by gourmet food chains. This nutritious mushroom is roughly 20 percent protein, and one of the few that can taste like lobster or shrimp (Stamets, 2005). Lion's mane is best when caramelized in olive oil, deglazed with saké wine, and then finished with butter to taste. Lion's mane can be bitter if not cooked until crispy along the edges. It takes some practice to elicit their full flavor potential.
Lion's mane mushrooms are increasingly studied for their neuroprotective effects. Two novel classes of Nerve Growth Factors (NGFs) -- molecules stimulating the differentiation and re-myelination of neurons -- have been discovered in this mushroom so far. These cyathane derivatives are termed "hericenones" and "erinacines." The levels of these compounds can vary substantially between strains, based on the measurements our team has conducted.
About a dozen studies have been published on the neuroregenerative properties of lion's mane mushrooms since 1991, when Dr. Kawagishi first identified NGFs in Japanese samples. Since his original discovery, in vitro and in vivo tests have confirmed that hericenones and erinacines stimulate nerve regeneration. In 2009, researchers at the Hokuto Corporation and the Isogo Central and Neurosurgical Hospital published a small clinical study. Giving lion's mane to 30 Japanese patients with mild cognitive impairment resulted in significant benefits for as long as they consumed the mushrooms:
"The subjects of the Yamabu****ake group took four 250 mg tablets containing 96 percent of Yamabu****ake dry powder three times a day for 16 weeks. After termination of the intake, the subjects were observed for the next four weeks. At weeks eight, 12 and 16 of the trial, the Yamabu****ake group showed significantly increased scores on the cognitive function scale compared with the placebo group. The Yamabu****ake group's scores increased with the duration of intake, but at week four after the termination of the 16 weeks intake, the scores decreased significantly." (Mori, 2009)
Recently, mice were injected with neurotoxic peptides in an experiment to assess the effects of lion's mane on the type of amyloid plaque formation seen in Alzheimer's patients. The mice were then challenged in a standard "Y" maze, designed for testing memory. Mice fed with a normal diet were compared to those supplemented with lion's mane mushrooms. As the peptide-induced plaque developed, the mice lost the ability to memorize the maze. When these memory-impaired mice were fed a diet containing 5 percent dried lion's mane mushrooms for 23 days, the mice performed significantly better in the Y maze test. Interestingly, the mice regained another cognitive capacity, something comparable to curiosity, as measured by greater time spent exploring novel objects compared to familiar ones.
The reduction of beta amyloid plaques in the brains of mushroom-fed mice vs. the mice not fed any mushrooms was remarkable. The formation of amyloid plaques is what many researchers believe is a primary morphological biomarker associated with Alzheimer's. Plaques linked to beta amyloid peptide inflame brain tissue, interfere with healthy neuron transmission, and are indicated in nerve degeneration.
The medical community is bracing for an increase of patients with Alzheimer's and senile dementia as the baby boomer population ages. Mortality trends related to Alzheimer's are outpacing death rates of many other diseases. This makes preventive and curative treatments of age-related cognitive diseases hot subjects of research. In the past 10 years, deaths from Alzheimer's disease have surged roughly 66 percent, while deaths from other primary diseases have generally declined.
The influence of lion's mane influence on neurological functions may also have other added benefits -- making you feel good. In another small clinical study (n=30), post-menopausal women who consumed lion's mane baked into cookies vs. those without showed less anxiety and depression yet improved in their ability to concentrate (Nagano et al., 2010).
Dusty Yao with lion's mane cultivated three months from the time the wild specimen, featured in photograph, was collected.
Is this data conclusive thus far? No.
Is this data suggestive of positive outcomes? Absolutely.
In another small Japanese study with a randomized sample of 30 women, ingesting lion's mane showed that "HE intake has the possibility to reduce depression and anxiety, and these results suggest a different mechanism from NGF-enhancing action of H. erinaceus." (Nagano et al. 2010).
In light of the numerous diseases related to neurodegeneration, lion's mane deserves more clinical attention. If lion's mane enhances memory and is an antidepressant, can consuming this mushroom alter the course of Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases? Could this mushroom help Parkinson's patients or those with multiple sclerosis, or maybe maintain your mental acumen as you age? Lion's mane is a relatively inexpensive,
Easily-cultivated fungal food that may prove to be therapeutic in ways beyond being tasty.
Lion's mane may be our first "smart" mushroom. It is a safe, edible fungus that appears to confer cognitive benefits on our aging population. Unfortunately, lion's mane is not available in most grocery stores. But you can buy kits to grow them at home, and organic lion's mane supplements are available at some health food stores. If you are skilled enough and looking for adventure, you can forage for them by hunting in the hardwood forests of North America, Europe and Asia during the summer and fall.**
Left: Fresh, organically grown lion's mane ready for sale. Right: Close up of spore-producing spines.
*Hedgehog is a name more commonly associated with Hydnum species, specifically the edible Hyndum repandum.
**Before consuming any wild mushroom, make positively sure that it is accurately identified. For a list of mycological societies, which may be able to help you, go to the North American Mycological Association website: Only registered and activated users can see links., Click Here To Register....
References:
Kawagishi, H., Ando, M., Sakamoto, H., Yoshida S., Ojima, F., Ishiguro, Y., Ukai, N., Fukukawa, S. 1991. "Hericenone C, D and E, stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis from the mushroom Hericium erinaceum." Tetrahedron Lett 32, 4561-4564.
Ma, Bing-Ji , Jin-Wen Shen, Hai-You Yu, Yuan Ruan, Ting-Ting Wu & Xu Zhao, 2010. "Hericenones and erinacines: stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF) biosynthesis in Hericium erinaceus." Mycology: An International Journal on Fungal Biology. 1(2): 92-98.
Mori, K., Inatomi, S., Ouchi, K. Azumi, Y and Tuchida T. 2009. "Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabu****ake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double blinded, placebo controlled clinical trial." Phytother Res. 23:367-372.
Mori, K., Obara, Y., Moriya, T., Inatomi, S., Nakahata, N. 2011. "Effects of Hericium erinaceus on amyloid β(25-35) peptide-induced learning and memory deficits in mice." Biomed Res. 32(1):67-72.
Nagano, M., Shimizu, K., Kondo, R., Hayashi, C., Sato, D., Kitagawa, K., Ohnuki, K. 2010. "Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake." Biomed Res. 31(4):231-7.
Stamets, P., "Notes on nutritional properties of culinary-medicinal mushrooms." International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms. 2005; 7:109- 116.
Thal, L.J., Kantarci, K., Reiman, E.M., Klunk, W.E., Weiner, M.W., Zetterberg, H., Galasko, D., Praticò, D., Griffin, S., Schenk, D., Siemers, E. 2006. "The role of biomarkers in clinical trials for Alzheimer disease." 20(1):6-15.
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Conclusion
Hematological and immunological alterations are common in patients with malignant neoplasms. Scientific evidence has shown that dietary supplementation with medicinal fungi is capable of significantly improving the physiological condition and prognosis of patients with cancer because of their effects on red blood cells and the immune system (Fortes et al., 2006; Sullivan et al., 2006). Current research on the immune modulation exerted by mushrooms has gone beyond the mechanisms involved in their antitumor activities. One of the risks of radiation and chemotherapy in the treatment of cancer patients is the development of leukopenia, which substantially increases the risk of infections. Hence, several recent studies have addressed the question of whether mushroom extracts or constituents can enhance hematopoiesis by exploring optimum dosing, efficacy and safety, alone or in combination with chemotherapy/radiotherapy, by which they might do so. Collectively, the literature published supports the concept that certain mushrooms and mushroom extracts may have potent antiangiogenesis, antipromotion, and antiprogression actions. The structures and bioactivities of numerous substances, including various polysaccharides and triterpenoids isolated from mushrooms have been identified. Accumulating evidence from in vitro and clinical studies has indicated that mushrooms exhibit cancer-
preventive and anticancer activity, which might be ascribed to its antioxidative and radical-scavenging effects, inhibition of metabolic activation and enhancement of detoxification of carcinogens, direct cytotoxicity, antiproliferation, and modulation of signaling transduction molecules, induction of cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis, and enhancement of host immune function. Prerequisition for a use as drug, nutraceutical or other purpose is the continuous production of mushrooms (fruiting bodies or mycelium) in high amounts and in a standardized quality. There is a need in the field for detailed information on the extraction procedure and, if at all- possible, a thorough analysis of the chemical composition of the extract under investigation. This would not only enhance reproducibility, but would eventually make it possible to correlate specific chemical constituents or combinations of constituents with particular biological activities. Natural products have been major molecular structural resources for drug discovery. Antibiotics, penicillin, the analgesic and antipyretic drug aspirin, the anticancer drug taxol, the anti- malarial drug artemisinin, and the anti- Alzheimer‘s disease drug huperzine A are typical, successful examples. The reservoir of natural products contains an abundance of chemical novelty and diversity: about 40% of the chemical scaffolds of the published natural products are unique and have not been made by synthetic chemistry. Another advantage is their chiral center. Most natural products are chiral and occur as single enantiomers; and many modern drugs are chiral and have their biological activity associated with only one of the enantiomers. Therefore, using natural products as enantiomerically pure starting materials is a good solution to this problem. Today, it becomes increasingly difficult to synthesize or discover new and interesting lead compounds. However, with the aid of techniques like high- throughput screening assays, 3-D protein–ligand models, virtual screening, computer assisted rational drug design, and the expanding knowledge of the molecular basis of tumorigenesis and metastasis, it seems feasible to harness the natural pool and discover novel compounds that rationally target the abnormal molecular and biochemical signals leading to cancer. Thus, the immediate goal must be to identify the pharmaceutical activities of mushrooms and their constituents aimed at improving their potency, selectivity, bioavailability, as well as pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and explore their potential synergy with other pharmaceutical compounds available for combating cancer.
Lions Mane
Houtou- Chinese name
Neuritis-search –Tacrine-hexane fraction-
linoleate, ethyl palmitate, ethyl oleate and ethyl stearate. In the fatty acid form, linoleic acid and oleic acid have been reported to play an important role in the neurological system noleic acid is an essential fatty acid which is the starting material for the biosynthesis of arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid was shown to play important roles in the maintenance of the hippocampal neuron membrane fluidity in the brain (Fukaya et al., 2007), enhancement of the stimulation of neurite outgrowth by activating the plasma membrane protein, syntaxin 3 (Darios and Davletov, 2006) and protection against oxidative stress in the brain (Wang et al., 2006). Oleic acid showed decrease in the content of the saturated very long chain fatty acids level in vitro and in vivo (Rizzo et al., 1986; 1987). Therefore, it might be useful in the treatment of adrenoleukodystrophy, a neurological disease that leads to the damage of brain and adrenal gland due to the accumulation of the saturated very long chain fatty acids level.
4-(3’,7’-dimethyl-5’-oxo-2’,6’- octadienyl)-2-formyl-3-hydroxy-5-methoxylbenzyl oleate and another unidentified compound with molecular weight of 148 were first reported present in H. erinaceus. Therefore, the ability of these compounds to stimulate neurite outgrowth still remained unknown. It is highly probable that other compounds in the respective subfraction maybe responsible for the meurite stimulation activity.
According to Banks (2009), lipid soluble compounds with molecular weight less than 600 Da are able to cross blood-brain barrier by transmembrane diffusion. Therefore, the identified compounds that cross the blood-brain barrier and stimulate NGF synthesis in brain might be responsible in stimulating the neurons to regrow. Due to the limitation of NGF to pass through the blood-brain barrier, it can be considered that compounds with a low molecular weight that elicit stimulatory activity on NGF synthesis are much more useful and practical for therapeutic purposes. Neurodegenerative diseases are always correlated with the neuronal cell death caused by the production of free radicals and reactive oxygen species (Halliwell et al., 1999; Lee et al., 2003). Thus, it is reasonable to suspect molecules which are able to attenuate the production or scavenge the free radicals and reactive oxygen species might reduce the risk of gaining the neurodegenerative diseases. Linoleic acid, the fatty acid form of ethyl linoleate, is an essential fatty acid required for biological processes. According to Ismail et al. (2004) and Kirmizigul et al. (2007), a positive correlation between essential fatty acid and antioxidant was found. The identified phenols (hericenone C and its isomer, 4-(3’,7’-dimethyl-5’-oxo-2’,6’- octadienyl)-2-formyl-3- hydroxy-5-methoxylbenzyl oleate and its isomer) might have antioxidant activity as several studies which reported a highly positive relation between phenolic content and antioxidant activity in plants and fruits (Tabart et al., 2009; Sim et al., 2010; Mandana et al., 2012). Besides that, Li et al. (2012) proved that phenolic compounds present in H. erinaceus exhibited strong antioxidant activity.
Japanese Name - Yamabu****ake Chinese Name - Hou Tou Gu (Monkey Head Mushroom) English Name - Lion's Mane Mushroom / Hedgehog Mushroom This delicious mushroom has been referred to as 'Nature's Nutrient for the Neurons' on account of its ability to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF)1,2. NGF plays an essential role in the differentiation and survival of several nerve cell populations in the central and peripheral nervous system and lower than normal levels of NGF have been shown to be linked to early stages of both alzheimers disease and dementia3-8. Although therapeutic interest has largely focusssed on its importance for neurological function, NGF has a much wider role in maintaining homoeostasis in the body9,10. It is known to have insulinotropic, angiogenic, and antioxidant properties and reduced plasma levels of NGF have been associated with cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndromes, including type 2 diabetes11,12. It has been shown to accelerate wound healing and there is also evidence that it could be useful in the treatment of skin and corneal ulcers13. Animal studies have shown NGF to have a profound effect on airway inflammation and asthma-related symptoms with increased NGF levels observed in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum from patients with asthma14. NGF also has a dynamic relationship with the immune system. Production of NGF is increased after brain injury, in part due to cytokines produced by immune cells. At the same time cells of the immune system express receptors for NGF, which is involved in immune modulation15. Two families of cyathane derivatives from H. erinaceus have been identified as being active in the stimulation of NGF production: the hericenones (isolated from the fruiting body) and the erinacines (isolated from the mycelium). Critically these molecules are small enough to pass through the blood-brain barrier. There is also evidence that they can increase myelination1,16,17. In China the mycelium is used to make Hericium erinaceus Pills to treat gastric and duodenal ulcers, chronic gastritis, gastric and oesophageal cancer. Dementia - In controlled studies H. erinaceus supplementation showed beneficial effects in patients with mild dementia. In one study 6 out of 7 patients showed improvement in functional capacity (understanding, communication, memory etc.) while all 7 showed improved Functional Independence Scores (eating, dressing, walking etc.), after consuming 5g H. erinaceus fruiting body daily in soup1. In another study, 30 patients aged 50-80 with mild dementia were randomised into treatment and control groups. H. erinaceus was given as tablets at 3g/day for 16 weeks and produced significant increases in cognitive function in the treatment group. However, four weeks after the conclusion of the trial, cognitive function scores decreased17. MS - H. erinaceus fruiting body extract has been shown to improve the myelination process in mature myelinating fibers with possible benefits for MS patients18,19. NGF has also been shown to have a protective effect on axons and myelin by suppressing the immune-mediated inflammatory processes responsible for chronic brain destruction in neurodegenerative disorders such as MS by switching the immune response to an anti-inflammatory, suppressive mode in a brain-specific environment13. Neuropathy - NGF plays a role in pain sensitivity and low NGF levels have been linked to sensory neuropathy in both in vivo and in vitro studies10. Enhanced NGF production has been shown to protect sensory function in diabetic rats and NGF reduction has been shown to cause cardiac sensory neuropathy21,22. Clinical studies with recombinant human nerve growth factor indicate benefit in patients with diabetic polyneuropathy23 and NGF has also been reported to reduce pain in patients with HIV associated sensory neuropathy24,25. However, ability to promote regeneration of sensory neurons has yet to be demonstrated26,27. Nerve Damage - Rats given aqueous extract of H. erinaceus fruiting bodies showed faster recovery from nerve injury, suggesting potential for application of H. erinaceus in the early stages of nerve regeneration28. MRSA - Extracts of both fruiting body and mycellium exhibit anti-MRSA activity with erinacines identified as active compounds. In clinical tests in Japan MRSA is reported to have disappeared in a percentage of patients whose diet was supplemented with H.erinaceus29. GASTRITIS - One of the traditional indications for H. erinaceus, it appears likely that its beneficial effects in this regard are also a function of the antibacterial action of its cyathane derivatives, with Helicobacter pylori now known to be a major cause of chronic gastritis30-32.
CLINICAL
SUMMARY Main Therapeutic Application - Dementia, Alzheimers and Nerve Damage. May have benefit for MS but clinical evidence lacking. Key Component - Cyathane derivatives including hericenones and erinacines Dose - Clinical trials support the use of dried fruiting body at a dose of 3-5g/day for increasing NGF production while animal studies on the use of H. erinaceus for gastric ulcers produced the best results with a daily intake of 500mg/kg, which equates to the dosage prescribed in the Chinese Phamacopoeia of 25- 50g/day32,33. It is likely that similar doses would be required in cases of
MRSA. High in-vitro NGF promoting activity of mycellial extracts and the fermentation broth also indicates potential use of biomass products in this regard34,35. Caution - Asthma and other allergic conditions. Erinacine E is a potent agonist of the Kappa opioid receptor with potential hallucinogenic properties36.
1. The anti-Dementia effect of Lion's Mane mushroom and its clinical application. Kawagishi H, Zhuang C,
Shnidman E. Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients, 2004 2. Kawagishi H, Shimada A, Hosokawa S, Mori H, Sakamoto H, Ishiguro Y, Sakemi S, Bordner J, Kojima N, Furukawa S. Erinacines E, F, and G,
stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF)-synthesis, from the mycelia of Hericium erinaceum. Tetra Lett. 1996 37(41):7399-402. 3. Erinacine A increases catecholamine and nerve growth factor content in the central nervous system of rats. Nutrition Research. ;25(6):617-623M. Shimbo, H. Kawagishi, H. Yokogoshi 4. NGF and BDNF: from nerves to adipose tissue, from neurokines to metabokines. Chaldakov
G.N, Tonchev A.B, Aloe L. Riv Psichiatr. 2009;44(2):79-87. 5. Development of a non invasive NGF-based
therapy for Alzheimer's disease. Covaceuszach S, Capsoni S, Ugolini G, Spirito F, Vignone D, Cattaneo A.
Curr Alzheimer Res. 2009;6(2):158-70. 6. Neurotrophins: from pathophysiology to treatment in Alzheimer's
disease. Schulte-Herbrüggen O, Jockers-Scherübl M.C, Hellweg R. Curr Alzheimer Res. 2008;5(1):38-44. 7.
One hundred years after the discovery of Alzheimer's disease. A turning point for therapy? Giacobini E,
Becker R.E. J Alzheimers Dis. 2007;12(1):37-52. 8. Neurotrophic factors--a tool for therapeutic strategies in
neurological, neuropsychiatric and neuroimmunological diseases? Schulte-Herbrüggen O, Braun A,
Rochlitzer S, Jockers-Scherübl M.C, Hellweg R. Curr Med Chem. 2007;14(22):2318-29. Review. 9. Levi-
Montalcini R (2004). "The nerve growth factor and the neuroscience chess board". Prog. Brain Res. 146:
525–7. 10. Neurotrophin presence in human coronary atherosclerosis and metabolic syndrome: a role for
NGF and BDNF in cardiovascular disease?. Prog Brain Res. Chaldakov G.N, Fiore M, Stankulov I.S, Manni L, Hristova M.G, Antonelli A, Ghenev PI, Aloe L. 2004;146:279–89.
11. Reduced plasma levels of NGF and BDNF in patients with acute coronary syndromes. Int J Cardiol. Manni L, Nikolova V, Vyagova D, Chaldakov G.N, Aloe L. 2005;102(1):169–71.
12. Homo obesus: a metabotrophin-deficient species. Pharmacology and nutrition insight. Curr Pharm Des. Chaldakov G.N, Fiore M, Tonchev A.B, Dimitrov D, Pancheva R, Rancic G, Aloe L. 2007;13(21):2176–9. 13.
Nerve growth factor and wound healing. Prog Brain Res. Kawamoto K, Matsuda H. 2004;146:369–84 14.
Expression of nerve growth factor in the airways and its possible role in asthma. Freund V, Frossard N. Prog
Brain Res. 2004;146:335–46. 15. Role of nerve growth factor and other trophic factors in brain
inflammation". Villoslada P, Genain C.P. Prog Brain Res. 2004;146:403–14. 16. Nerve growth factor-
inducing activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells. Mori K, Obara Y, Hirota M,
Azumi Y, Kinugasa S, Inatomi S, Nakahata N. Biol Pharm Bull. 2008;31(9):1727-32. 17. Improving effects of
the mushroom Yamabu****ake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo- controlled clinical trial. Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, Azumi Y, Tuchida T. Phytother Res. 2009;23(3):367-
72. 18. The influence of Hericium erinaceus extract on myelination process in vitro. Kolotushkina E.V,
Moldavan M.G, Voronin K.Y, Skibo G.G. Fiziol Z.H. 2003;49(1):38-45. 19. Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.)
Pers. extract effect on nerve cells. Grygansky A.P, Moldavan M.G, Kolotushkina O.V, Skibo G.G. Int J Med
Mushr. 2001;3(2-3):152 20. Haploinsufficiency of the nerve growth factor beta gene in a 1p13 deleted
female child with an insensitivity to pain. Fitzgibbon G.J, Kingston H, Needham M, Gaunt L. Dev Med Child Neurol. 2009;51(10):833-7.
21. Protection of sensory function in diabetic rats by Neotrofin. Calcutt N.A, Freshwater J.D, Hauptmann N, Taylor E.M, Mizisin A.P. Eur J Pharmacol. 2006;534(1-3):187-93.
22. Nerve growth factor is critical for cardiac sensory innervation and rescues neuropathy in diabetic hearts. Ieda M, Kanazawa H, Ieda Y, Kimura K, Matsumura K, Tomita Y, Yagi T, Onizuka T, Shimoji K, Ogawa S, Makino S, Sano M, Fukuda K. Circulation. 2006 ;114(22):2351-63.
23. Recombinant human nerve growth factor in the treatment of diabetic polyneuropathy. S. C. Apfel et al. Neurology. 1998;51:695-702 24. Long-term treatment with recombinant nerve growth factor for HIV-
associated sensory neuropathy. G. Schifitto et al. Neurology. 2001;57:1313-1316 25. A phase II trial of nerve growth factor for sensory neuropathy associated with HIV infection. J. C. McArthur et al. Neurology. 2000;54:1080-1088 26. Regeneration of primary sensory neurons. Donnerer J. Pharmacology. 2003;67(4):169-81.
27. Nerve growth factor and diabetic neuropathy. Pittenger G, Vinik A. Exp Diabesity Res. 2003;4(4):271-85. Review.
28. Functional recovery enhancement following injury to rodent peroneal nerve by Lion's Mane mushroom,
Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae). Wong K.H, Naidu M, David R.P, Abdulla M.A, Abdullah N, Kuppusamy U.R, Sabaratnam V. Int J Med Mushr. ;11(3):20 29. Anti-MRSA compounds of Hericium erinaceous. Kawagishi H et al. Int J Med Mushr. 2005;7(3):350
30. A double-blind study of effectiveness of hericium erinaceus pers therapy on chronic atrophic gastritis. A preliminary report. Xu C.P, Liu W.W, Liu F.X, Chen S.S, Liao F.Q, Xu Z, Jiang L.G, Wang C.A, Lu X.H. Chin Med J (Engl). 1985;98(6):455-6.
31. Cytoprotective effects of Hericium erinaceus on gastric mucosa in rats. Yu C.G, Xu Z.M, Zhu Q.K et al. Chinese J Gastrent. 1999-02
32. Effect of culinary-medicinal Lion's Mane mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae), on Ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats. Abdulla M.A, Noor S, Sabaratnam V,
Abdullah N, Wong K.H, Ali H.M. Int J Med Mush. 2008;10(4):325-330 33. Chinese Pharmacopoeia, 2010.
Beijing:Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Publishing House 34. Activity of aqueous extracts of Lion's Mane mushroom Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae) on the neural cell line NG108-15. Wong K.H, Vikineswary S, Abdullah N, Naidu M, Keynes R. Int J Med Mushr. 2007;9(1):57-
65 35. Neurotropic and trophic action of Lion's Mane mushroom Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae) extracts on nerve cells in vitro. Moldavan M.G, Grygansky A.P, Kolotushkina O.V, Kirchhoff B, Skibo G.G, Pedarzani P. Int J Med Mush. 2007;9(1): 36. Erinacine E as a kappa opioid receptor
agonist and its new analogs from a basidiomycete, Hericium ramosum. Saito T, Aoki F, Hirai H, Inagaki T, Matsunaga Y, Sakakibara T, Sakemi S, Suzuki Y, Watanabe S, Suga O, Sujaku T, Smogowicz AA, Truesdell SJ, Wong JW, Nagahisa A, Kojima Y, Kojima N. J Antibiot (Tokyo). 1998 Nov;51(11):983-90.
LION'S MANE
(Hericium erinaceus)
extracted by tincture in food grade alcohol
Plant Description/History: Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is an edible mushroom and/or medicinal mushroom in the tooth fungus group also referred to as Bearded Tooth Mushroom, Hedgehog Mushroom, Bearded Hedgehog Mushroom, Pom Pom Mushroom, or Bearded Tooth Fungus.
Historical Notation:
Lion's Mane has been used traditionally in China and Japan for hundreds of years, and also known there as Bear's Head or Monkey's Head. Commonly prescribed for stomach ailments and for cancer prevention, this mushroom was once reserved only for the palates of the royal families. Currently, you may find this mushroom in Chinese vegetarian cuisine, used to replace pork or lamb.
Research:
In traditional Chinese medicine this mushroom has long been considered a
medicinal mushroom and a study on rats in 2005 showed that some
compounds in the mushroom, like threitol, D-arabinitol, and palmitic acid may have antioxidant effects, may regulate blood lipid levels and reduce blood glucose levels. Ying (1987) reports that pills of this mushroom are used in the treatment of gastric and esophageal carcinoma. Scientists have investigated this mushroom for possible anti-dementia compounds. Primary research has demonstrated that it stimulated animal nerve cells, stimulated nerve growth factor in an in vitro experiment with human astrocytoma cells and stimulated myelination in another study. A double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trial showed improved cognitive ability.
Recently a group of Japanese researchers have patented an extraction process which isolates a NGSF (Nerve Growth Stimulant Factor). They found a compound in Hericium erinaceus which causes brain neurons to regrow, a feat of great significance in potentially helping senility, repairing neurological degradation, increasing intelligence and improving reflexes. Studies also confirm many of its traditional uses, supporting the digestive system, and acting as a tonic for the nervous system.
Constituents - Chemicals & Nutrients: Hericenone A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H, Xylan, Heteroxylan, Heteroglucan, Proteoglycan
Indications: Used to aid in digestion, stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) in the central and peripheral nervous system,repair neurological degradation from senility, improve cognitive function and memory loss, and improve reflexes.
Dosage: To stimulate nerve cell growth, take 1 teaspoon twice a day.
Lyme Disease Use: For application in the case of Lyme Disease, you can find information about Stephen Buhner’s protocol at Only registered and activated users can see links., Click Here To Register.... There is much to know about how Lions Mane is used for treating spirochaete bacteria in the brain caused by Lyme Disease. Lions Mane can pass through the blood brain barrier, unlike Teasel, thus releasing spirochaetes into the blood stream to eradicate the bacteria. This calls up a bulk of work for the immune system, therefore, it is recommended that a regiment for immune system support be implemented as part of an overall treatment plan.
Warnings: Do not use during pregnancy or breast feeding, or if you are
allergic to mushrooms or derivatives of fungi. If you are using Lions Mane for the treatment of Lyme Disease, what is known as the Herx Reaction may cause a notable amount of discomfort from the spirochaete bacteria release.
Hericium Erinaceus (Lion's Mane Mushroom, Yamabu****ake, 山伏茸, 猴头菇)
Another name for Hericium Erinaceus is Hedgehog Mushroom. It is also referred to as Satyr’s Beard or the Bearded Tooth Fungus or the Bearded Tooth Mushroom. This mushroom was first discovered in North America. Its spine projects outwards from a group unlike other species of mushrooms whose spines project from a branch. The spines are usually longer than one centimeter.
It prefers growing on hard woods during summer and can therefore be easily confused with another Hericium species. Among the hard woods, it likes the American beech tree best.
If eaten when young, its texture is like seafood and the Chinese include it in their cuisine in place of lamb or even pork.
Medicinal Value
Traditional medicine has always been very popular with the Chinese ever since 2000 BC. And this mushroom is quite popular among their cures. A research on this mushroom was conducted on rats in 2005. The findings unearthed several medicinal substances present in Hericium Erinaceus. The substances included Palmitic acid, Threitol and D-arabinitol. In the research, these substances were found responsible for reducing blood sugar and regulating lipid levels in blood. It was also evident that there was an antioxidant present in the mushroom.
In studies being done today, scientists are trying to ascertain the impact this mushroom has on dementia. There has been evidence of nerve cells stimulation and enhancement of cognitive abilities. Growth of nerves was also enhanced too even when astrocytoma cells from humans were used. Myelination was also enhanced.
Studies have indicated that the mushroom Hericium Erinaceus can be used to lull inflammation and cool down ulcers. The ulcers alluded to here are the gastric kind as well as those of the oesophagus. Usually a person suffering gastric ulcers will experience pain in the abdomen. This intense pain can trigger other conditions such as weight loss or insomnia. Sometimes there is indication that digestion is not carrying on as it should. Other symptoms of Gastric ulcers include vomit with blood traces and or stool with blood traces too. A person suffering gastric ulcers can also experience fatigue. These are the symptoms that the mushroom Hericium Erinaceus clears.
Ulcers of the Oesophagus are usually caused by Gastrooesophageal reflux disease commonly shortened to GERD. The patient finds it painful to swallow food or drinks and there is prevalence of abdominal pains and vomiting. The patient also loses weight too. It is medically advisable for the patient to begin treatment before the ulcers deteriorate to the point of narrowing the tract. If it gets to that stage, the ulcer is referred to as Barret Ulcer.
The mushroom also treats Pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is a medical condition where one’s pancreas becomes inflamed. It is caused by digestive enzymes performing their duty in the wrong location - the pancreas instead of the small intestine. This results in gradual corrosion of the pancreas and subsequent acute pain.
Crohn’s disease is can also be treated by the Hericium Erinaceus mushroom. The disease is characterized by the inflammation of the gut walls. A part of the gut can be inflamed or the whole gut can be inflamed making it look like patchwork. However, the ileum seems to be the most vulnerable.
The mushroom also helps in reducing Hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels at the bottom of the rectum around the anus. Although sometimes not painful, their existence is usually known due to the presence of blood smears during bowel movement. If there are blood clots in the enlarged veins, then sharp pain is inevitable.
People have particularly embraced this mushroom due to its tendencies to fight various cancers. The cancers include intestinal and pancreatic cancers
and stomach cancers. The mushroom also fights esophageal cancer. When a person takes Hericium Erinaceus in the course of chemotherapy, it has been observed to significantly reduce the sometimes horrible side effects associated with chemotherapy. This makes it bearable for the patient to undergo complete chemotherapy without feeling fatigued, sick or nauseous.
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Myco Essentials
Hericium (Lion's Mane) For Cognitive Improvement & Neuronal Protection
by Dr. Frank Merante, M.Sc, PhD - 22 November, 2013
Table 1. Representative publications detailing the cognitive and neuronal effects of Hericium erinaceus - the Lion's Mane mushroom
Investigated Effect
References
Cognitive improvement
6, 9, 10
Nerve growth factor modulator
2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 14
Reduced anxiety and depression
2
Myelination augmentation
1, 7
Nerve cell modulator
13
In jar cultivated Hericium (Lion's Mane mushroom) – both mycelium (bottom) and mushroom (top) are growing completely within the sterile environment of a glass jar. The mushroom mycelium completely colonizes and consumes the organic rye food substrate and subsequently produces the mushroom (fruit body).
Cognitive improvement by oral administration of Hericium (Lion’s Mane mushroom)
In vitro studies are a wonderful tool which allow observations to be made in relatively simple and tightly controlled system such as nerve cell culture, but the obvious question that always remains is: “Does the same effect occur in vivo, or more precisely, what happen if people ingest this mushroom or mycelium?”
This query was addressed by Mori and his research team9. The investigators provided the equivalent of approximately 1 gram of dried Lion’s Mane mushroom (roughly ten grams of fresh mushroom; i.e., 4 x 250 mg tablets) three times a day for four weeks to a group of fifteen volunteers who ranged in age from 50 – 80 years. The mushroom was dried at 60°C overnight, powdered and made into tablets containing 90% mushroom powder and 10% binder. The study participants exhibited mild cognitive impairment as assessed by a cognitive function questionnaire. A second, similarly matched number of individuals acted as the control group and were given tablets made to look similar (placebo) to the mushroom supplement. Neither the volunteers nor the people administering the tablets knew how the groups were divided – a double blind study in other words – since neither the receiver nor the administrator knew who was receiving the real test substance. After approximately eight weeks, the Lion’s Mane group showed significantly improved cognitive functional scores relative to the control. Just as important, no undesirable or adverse effects were observed throughout the study9.
This significant and important observation demonstrates that the desirable, bioactive, hercinone constituents could be derived by simply eating Hericium as part of a healthy diet or utilizing Hericium (Lion’s Mane mushroom) supplements. This among the other properties described make Hericium a functional food which confers both nutritional and medicinal benefits!
An even earlier study performed by Kasahara and Colleagues in 2001 showed a similar finding, the results of which were summarized by Kawagishi and Shnidman (2004). In this study, the participants were 100 elderly patients suffering from various age associated diseases. Half of the group (50 patients) were given 5 grams/day of dried Hericium in their soup (oral intake) for a period of 6 months. The remaining 50 patients acted as controls. Within the experimental group, seven patients had dementia and were the focus of the Kawagishi/Shnidman review6.
After this test period, all patients were evaluated relative to their previously obtained Functional Independence Measures (FIMs). All seven of the patients with dementia showed improved FIM scores (100%), and 6 out of 7 (86%) has improved perceptual capacities! Also notable in this study was the fact that all patients were elderly and had established disease, yet improvement was seen from oral ingestion of Hericium6. The amount of Hericium used in Mori’s study (1 g/day x 3) was lower than that used by Kasahara (5 g), but Mori still demonstrated significant improvements over a shorter period of time (4 weeks)! It was anticipated that further studies should better define dosage and better stratify patients to assess the full spectrum of benefits derived from Hericium.
Hericium and Alzheimer’s disease
A recent publication specifically addressed the potential beneficial role of Hericium for improving Alzheimer’s disease in an animal model10, 14. In this experimental design, amyloid-peptide impaired learning and memory were evaluated following the oral addition of Hericium erinaceus to the daily diet of mice (5% w/w) for 21 days. The study
concluded that Hericium “prevented the cognitive deficits” induced by the administration of amyloid peptide9. Most notable was the revelation that Hericium contains additional lipid-soluble, biologically active, compounds in addition to the hericenones!
Hericium and reduction of anxiety and depression
The effects of Hericium on cholinergic neurons is expected because of its NGF modulation activity. As such, measurable parameters relating to depression and sleep quality were investigated by Nagano et al., 2010. A thorough series of neurophysiological indices were utilized to show that the oral ingestion of 500 mg of Hericium four times a day (2 g total) for four weeks statistically improved scores for a variety of parameters assessed, including anxiety, irritability and concentration11. One of the key items to note in this study was the oral effectiveness of the Hericium supplement and the fact that each of the 500 mg dose was delivered in the form of a cookie. This illustrates that the active components could withstand the heating associated with the baking process!
Additional Neuronal cell Protection Molecules
An interesting report by Nagaia et al. (2006) indicated that a compound present in Hericium, dilinoleoyl-phosphatidyl-ethanolamine, protected neuronal cells from stress induced cell death. It was speculated that this mechanism was mediated by protecting a key intracellular network responsible for the proper transport and folding of cellular proteins11.
Peripheral nerve regeneration and healing
A recent publication showed that water soluble components of Hericium, when administered orally, can improve peripheral nerve regeneration following a crush injury. In this instance, Hericium fruit bodies were boiled in water at 1:1 ratio for 30 minutes and then cooled for 30 minutes. Test animals were given either 10 or 20 mL/kg body weight per day for 14 days. After the test period, the Hericium group exhibited improved rate of recovery without the side effects associated with currently used medication of these types of injuries15.
Collectively the studies summarized unanimously indicate that Hericium contains a variety of factors which can improve cognitive function, improve mood and reduce anxiety and confer neuron protection when administered orally. Certainly a portion of these molecules are heat stable, withstanding temperatures associated with baking, and are able to cross the blood-brain barrier to act on the central nervous system and can also exhibit desirable effects on peripheral nerves.
This article is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or cure disease. In addition, although the products described herein are regarded as functional-natural-foods, it is advisable that before consuming any food supplement, health food or other natural product or extract, one consult their health care professional. This is particularly encouraged if one requires regular medication, is pregnant or has been diagnosed with a particular acute or chronic illness. One should not consume mycological products if they are allergic to mushrooms, fungi or derivatives thereof. Finally, any implied medicinal benefit of the products describe, or preparations thereof, have not been validated by the United States Food and Drug Administration or by Health Canada. The reader is encouraged to further research the information provided before implementing mycological products into their health conscientious life style.
References
1. Dusanka S. S., Rujuan D., Vaagn L. Z. and Zhou W. 2008 Autoimmune-induced preferential depletion of myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) is genetically regulated in relapsing EAE (B6 × SJL) F1 mice. Molecular Neurodegeneration 3:7
2. Kawagishi H, Ando M, Sakamoto H, Yoshida S, Ojima F, Ishiguro Y, et al. 1991. Hericenones C, D and E, stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF)–synthesis, from the mushroom Hericium erinaceum. Tetrahedron Lett 32:4561-4564
3. Kawagishi H, Shimada A, Shirai R, Okamoto K, Ojima F, Sakamoto H, et al. 1994. Erinacine A, B and C, strong stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF)–synthesis from the mycelia of Hericium erinaceum. Tetrahedron Lett 35:1569 - 72
4. Kawagishi H, Shimada A, Shizuki K, Mori H, Okamoto K, Sakamoto H, et al. 1996a. Erinacine D, a stimulator of NGF-synthesis, from the mycelia of Hericium erinaceum. Heterocycl Commun. 2:51 -4
5. Kawagishi H, Shimada A, Hosokawa S, Mori H, Sakamoto H, Ishiguro Y, et al. 1996b. Erinacines E, F and G, stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF)–synthesis, from the mycelia of Hericium erinaceum. Tetrahedron Lett 37:7399- 402
6. Kawagishi, H and Shnidman, E. 2004 Lion’s Mane: The anti- dementia effect of Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) and its clinical application. Townsend letters for Doctors and Patients 54- 56.
7. Kolotushkina EV, Moldavan MG, Voronin KY, Skibo GG. 2003. The influence of Hericium erinaceus extract on myelination process in vitro. Fiziol Zh. 49:38-45
8. Mori K, Obara Y, Hirota M, Azumi Y, Kinugasa S, Inatomi S, Nakahata N. 2008. Nerve growth factor-inducing activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells. Biol Pharm Bull. 31:1727-32
9. Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, Azumi Y, Tuchida T. 2009. Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabu****ake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res. 23:367-72.
10.Mori K, Obara Y, Moriya T, Inatomi S and Nakahata N. 2011. Effects of Hericium erinaceus on β-amyloid (25-35) peptide-induced learning and memory deficits in mice. Biomedical Research 32(1):67-72
11.Nagaia, K, Chibab, A., Nishinoa, T., Kubotaa, T., and Kawagishib, H. 2006.Dilinoleoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine from Hericium erinaceum protects against ER stress-dependent Neuro2a cell death via protein kinase C pathway. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry 17: 525–530
12.Nagano M, Shimizu K, Kondo R, Hayashi C, Sato D, Kitagawa K, Ohnuki K. 2010. Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomed Res. 31(4):231-7
13.Park YS, Lee HS, Won MH, Lee JH, Lee SY, Lee HY. 2002. Effect of an exo-polysaccharide from the culture broth of Hericium erinaceus on enhancement of growth and differentiation of rat adrenal nerve cells. Cytotechnology 39:155-62
14.Shimbo, M., Kawagishib, H., and Yokogoshi, H. 2005. Erinacine A increases catecholamine and nerve growth factor content in the central nervous system of rats Nutrition Research 25:617–623
15. Wong K-H, Naidu M, David P, Abdulla MA, Abdullah N, Kuppusamy UR and Sabaratnam V. 2011. Peripheral Nerve Regeneration Following Crush Injury to Rat Peroneal Nerve by Aqueous Extract of Medicinal Mushroom Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae) Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Article ID 580752
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The mushroom is also known to positively counter with osteoporosis. This condition normally comes with advancing age. The bones, particularly those of the spine, begin to corrode and become weak. This can sometimes cause pain especially if the person is exposed to pressure. Hericium Erinaceus slows down the rate at which the bones corrode and encourage a sort of repair process. It also lulls the pain and gives back some peace to the patient.
The mushroom is also recommended for people who are interested in shedding weight or to keep their weight in check especially since it lacks saturated fats. As the mushroom wades off infection, it strengthens the person’s immunity and promotes overall bodily health.
Mushrooms provide a vast array of potential medicinal compounds. Many mushrooms -- such as portobello, oyster, reishi and maitake -- are well- known for these properties, but the lion's mane mushroom, in particular, has drawn the attention of researchers for its notable nerve-regenerative properties.
Lion's mane mushrooms are not your classic looking cap-and-stem variety. These globular-shaped mushrooms sport cascading teeth-like spines rather than the more common gills. From these spines, white spores emerge. Lion's mane mushrooms also have other common names: sheep's head, bear's head and the Japanese yamabu****ake. I like the clever name "pom pom blanc" -- a reference to their resemblance to the white pom-poms cheerleaders use. The Latin name for lion's mane is Hericium erinaceus; both names mean "hedgehog."*
Lion's mane mushrooms are increasingly sold by gourmet food chains. This nutritious mushroom is roughly 20 percent protein, and one of the few that can taste like lobster or shrimp (Stamets, 2005). Lion's mane is best when caramelized in olive oil, deglazed with saké wine, and then finished with butter to taste. Lion's mane can be bitter if not cooked until crispy along the edges. It takes some practice to elicit their full flavor potential.
Lion's mane mushrooms are increasingly studied for their neuroprotective effects. Two novel classes of Nerve Growth Factors (NGFs) -- molecules stimulating the differentiation and re-myelination of neurons -- have been discovered in this mushroom so far. These cyathane derivatives are termed "hericenones" and "erinacines." The levels of these compounds can vary substantially between strains, based on the measurements our team has conducted.
About a dozen studies have been published on the neuroregenerative properties of lion's mane mushrooms since 1991, when Dr. Kawagishi first identified NGFs in Japanese samples. Since his original discovery, in vitro and in vivo tests have confirmed that hericenones and erinacines stimulate nerve regeneration. In 2009, researchers at the Hokuto Corporation and the Isogo Central and Neurosurgical Hospital published a small clinical study. Giving lion's mane to 30 Japanese patients with mild cognitive impairment resulted in significant benefits for as long as they consumed the mushrooms:
"The subjects of the Yamabu****ake group took four 250 mg tablets containing 96 percent of Yamabu****ake dry powder three times a day for 16 weeks. After termination of the intake, the subjects were observed for the next four weeks. At weeks eight, 12 and 16 of the trial, the Yamabu****ake group showed significantly increased scores on the cognitive function scale compared with the placebo group. The Yamabu****ake group's scores increased with the duration of intake, but at week four after the termination of the 16 weeks intake, the scores decreased significantly." (Mori, 2009)
Recently, mice were injected with neurotoxic peptides in an experiment to assess the effects of lion's mane on the type of amyloid plaque formation seen in Alzheimer's patients. The mice were then challenged in a standard "Y" maze, designed for testing memory. Mice fed with a normal diet were compared to those supplemented with lion's mane mushrooms. As the peptide-induced plaque developed, the mice lost the ability to memorize the maze. When these memory-impaired mice were fed a diet containing 5 percent dried lion's mane mushrooms for 23 days, the mice performed significantly better in the Y maze test. Interestingly, the mice regained another cognitive capacity, something comparable to curiosity, as measured by greater time spent exploring novel objects compared to familiar ones.
The reduction of beta amyloid plaques in the brains of mushroom-fed mice vs. the mice not fed any mushrooms was remarkable. The formation of amyloid plaques is what many researchers believe is a primary morphological biomarker associated with Alzheimer's. Plaques linked to beta amyloid peptide inflame brain tissue, interfere with healthy neuron transmission, and are indicated in nerve degeneration.
The medical community is bracing for an increase of patients with Alzheimer's and senile dementia as the baby boomer population ages. Mortality trends related to Alzheimer's are outpacing death rates of many other diseases. This makes preventive and curative treatments of age-related cognitive diseases hot subjects of research. In the past 10 years, deaths from Alzheimer's disease have surged roughly 66 percent, while deaths from other primary diseases have generally declined.
The influence of lion's mane influence on neurological functions may also have other added benefits -- making you feel good. In another small clinical study (n=30), post-menopausal women who consumed lion's mane baked into cookies vs. those without showed less anxiety and depression yet improved in their ability to concentrate (Nagano et al., 2010).
Dusty Yao with lion's mane cultivated three months from the time the wild specimen, featured in photograph, was collected.
Is this data conclusive thus far? No.
Is this data suggestive of positive outcomes? Absolutely.
In another small Japanese study with a randomized sample of 30 women, ingesting lion's mane showed that "HE intake has the possibility to reduce depression and anxiety, and these results suggest a different mechanism from NGF-enhancing action of H. erinaceus." (Nagano et al. 2010).
In light of the numerous diseases related to neurodegeneration, lion's mane deserves more clinical attention. If lion's mane enhances memory and is an antidepressant, can consuming this mushroom alter the course of Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases? Could this mushroom help Parkinson's patients or those with multiple sclerosis, or maybe maintain your mental acumen as you age? Lion's mane is a relatively inexpensive,
Easily-cultivated fungal food that may prove to be therapeutic in ways beyond being tasty.
Lion's mane may be our first "smart" mushroom. It is a safe, edible fungus that appears to confer cognitive benefits on our aging population. Unfortunately, lion's mane is not available in most grocery stores. But you can buy kits to grow them at home, and organic lion's mane supplements are available at some health food stores. If you are skilled enough and looking for adventure, you can forage for them by hunting in the hardwood forests of North America, Europe and Asia during the summer and fall.**
Left: Fresh, organically grown lion's mane ready for sale. Right: Close up of spore-producing spines.
*Hedgehog is a name more commonly associated with Hydnum species, specifically the edible Hyndum repandum.
**Before consuming any wild mushroom, make positively sure that it is accurately identified. For a list of mycological societies, which may be able to help you, go to the North American Mycological Association website: Only registered and activated users can see links., Click Here To Register....
References:
Kawagishi, H., Ando, M., Sakamoto, H., Yoshida S., Ojima, F., Ishiguro, Y., Ukai, N., Fukukawa, S. 1991. "Hericenone C, D and E, stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis from the mushroom Hericium erinaceum." Tetrahedron Lett 32, 4561-4564.
Ma, Bing-Ji , Jin-Wen Shen, Hai-You Yu, Yuan Ruan, Ting-Ting Wu & Xu Zhao, 2010. "Hericenones and erinacines: stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF) biosynthesis in Hericium erinaceus." Mycology: An International Journal on Fungal Biology. 1(2): 92-98.
Mori, K., Inatomi, S., Ouchi, K. Azumi, Y and Tuchida T. 2009. "Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabu****ake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double blinded, placebo controlled clinical trial." Phytother Res. 23:367-372.
Mori, K., Obara, Y., Moriya, T., Inatomi, S., Nakahata, N. 2011. "Effects of Hericium erinaceus on amyloid β(25-35) peptide-induced learning and memory deficits in mice." Biomed Res. 32(1):67-72.
Nagano, M., Shimizu, K., Kondo, R., Hayashi, C., Sato, D., Kitagawa, K., Ohnuki, K. 2010. "Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake." Biomed Res. 31(4):231-7.
Stamets, P., "Notes on nutritional properties of culinary-medicinal mushrooms." International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms. 2005; 7:109- 116.
Thal, L.J., Kantarci, K., Reiman, E.M., Klunk, W.E., Weiner, M.W., Zetterberg, H., Galasko, D., Praticò, D., Griffin, S., Schenk, D., Siemers, E. 2006. "The role of biomarkers in clinical trials for Alzheimer disease." 20(1):6-15.
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Conclusion
Hematological and immunological alterations are common in patients with malignant neoplasms. Scientific evidence has shown that dietary supplementation with medicinal fungi is capable of significantly improving the physiological condition and prognosis of patients with cancer because of their effects on red blood cells and the immune system (Fortes et al., 2006; Sullivan et al., 2006). Current research on the immune modulation exerted by mushrooms has gone beyond the mechanisms involved in their antitumor activities. One of the risks of radiation and chemotherapy in the treatment of cancer patients is the development of leukopenia, which substantially increases the risk of infections. Hence, several recent studies have addressed the question of whether mushroom extracts or constituents can enhance hematopoiesis by exploring optimum dosing, efficacy and safety, alone or in combination with chemotherapy/radiotherapy, by which they might do so. Collectively, the literature published supports the concept that certain mushrooms and mushroom extracts may have potent antiangiogenesis, antipromotion, and antiprogression actions. The structures and bioactivities of numerous substances, including various polysaccharides and triterpenoids isolated from mushrooms have been identified. Accumulating evidence from in vitro and clinical studies has indicated that mushrooms exhibit cancer-
preventive and anticancer activity, which might be ascribed to its antioxidative and radical-scavenging effects, inhibition of metabolic activation and enhancement of detoxification of carcinogens, direct cytotoxicity, antiproliferation, and modulation of signaling transduction molecules, induction of cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis, and enhancement of host immune function. Prerequisition for a use as drug, nutraceutical or other purpose is the continuous production of mushrooms (fruiting bodies or mycelium) in high amounts and in a standardized quality. There is a need in the field for detailed information on the extraction procedure and, if at all- possible, a thorough analysis of the chemical composition of the extract under investigation. This would not only enhance reproducibility, but would eventually make it possible to correlate specific chemical constituents or combinations of constituents with particular biological activities. Natural products have been major molecular structural resources for drug discovery. Antibiotics, penicillin, the analgesic and antipyretic drug aspirin, the anticancer drug taxol, the anti- malarial drug artemisinin, and the anti- Alzheimer‘s disease drug huperzine A are typical, successful examples. The reservoir of natural products contains an abundance of chemical novelty and diversity: about 40% of the chemical scaffolds of the published natural products are unique and have not been made by synthetic chemistry. Another advantage is their chiral center. Most natural products are chiral and occur as single enantiomers; and many modern drugs are chiral and have their biological activity associated with only one of the enantiomers. Therefore, using natural products as enantiomerically pure starting materials is a good solution to this problem. Today, it becomes increasingly difficult to synthesize or discover new and interesting lead compounds. However, with the aid of techniques like high- throughput screening assays, 3-D protein–ligand models, virtual screening, computer assisted rational drug design, and the expanding knowledge of the molecular basis of tumorigenesis and metastasis, it seems feasible to harness the natural pool and discover novel compounds that rationally target the abnormal molecular and biochemical signals leading to cancer. Thus, the immediate goal must be to identify the pharmaceutical activities of mushrooms and their constituents aimed at improving their potency, selectivity, bioavailability, as well as pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and explore their potential synergy with other pharmaceutical compounds available for combating cancer.
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