Lion's Mane - Adaptogen for focus & concentration

Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is an adaptogenic mushroom that is also known as Hedgehog's Spiny Beard or Yamabushitake. Power mushrooms such as Chaga, Reishi or Cordyceps sinensis have already been very well known vital mushrooms that contain many minerals and trace elements. However, Lion's Mane offers benefits beyond that, as this adaptogenic mushroom has two unique compounds that may stimulate brain cell growth: Hericenone and Erinacine. For this reason, Lion's Mane is a so-called nootropic and may help improve cognitive abilities.

Lion’s Mane at a glace

Lion's Mane consists of many minerals and trace elements, such as iron, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus and selenium. The vital mushroom also contains so-called adaptogens. They are known for their unique ability to adapt their function to the specific needs of the body. Adaptogens stimulate the body's hormonal activity to improve bodily functions and overall health. They help our bodies fight the effects of stressors, reducing oxidative stress. This makes Hericium erinaceus (aka Lion's Mane) a true multi-talent. In addition, it is said to have many other health-promoting effects on your body, such as possible protection against dementia, relieving mild symptoms of depression and anxiety, speeding recovery from injuries to the nervous system, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and strengthening the immune system. 

The effect and benefits of Lion's Mane

As mentioned before, the vital mushroom Lion's Mane is an adaptogen containing numerous trace elements and minerals. Furthermore, it has a favorable amino acid balance. As such, the mushroom contains almost all of the essential protein building blocks that your body cannot produce on its own and which must be ingested through your diet. 

One of the building blocks that keep your body running is phenylalanine. It is needed for your body to produce the neurotransmitter dopamine, also known as the happiness hormone. Dopamine not only helps you feel happier, but also plays a significant role in processing information. This is why many people have difficulty focusing when dopamine levels are low. You can learn more about the interaction of dopamine and melatonin in our NOUMEN Journal.

Another reason why Lion's Mane may help to increase your concentration and performance are the substances Hericenon and Erinacin. They are responsible for the release of the protein beta-NGF, also called nerve growth factor, and play an important role in enabling you to reach your mental potential. 

Numerous benefits of Lion's Mane have already been proven. However, many clinical studies have only tested the powerful mushroom on a relatively small number of participants. Further and more extensive studies are needed to prove the benefits of Hericium erinaceus, especially in the long run.

5 benefits of Lion's Mane:

1. Better mental performance 😌

The aforementioned compounds of Hericenone and Erinacine are likely responsible for Lion's Mane's ability to stimulate brain cell growth. Studies in adults have shown that taking Lion's Mane for four months improved mental and intellectual performance.

2. Relieve mild symptoms of depression and anxiety 💆‍♂️

There are many underlying factors for the development of depression and anxiety. For long-lasting changes, habits play a particularly important role here. However, chronic inflammation is another reason why men's mental health may suffer. Lion's Mane can help reduce these inflammations through its anti-inflammatory effects. In addition, studies have shown that the vital mushroom can also help regenerate nerve cells and improve the function of the hippocampus. This brain region is responsible for processing memories and emotional responses. Therefore, researchers believe that improved hippocampal function may explain the reduction in anxious and depressive behavior.

3. Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress 💪

According to recent scientific findings, chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are the cause of many diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders. Research shows that Lion's Mane contains powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that may help reduce the effects of these diseases.

4. Reduces the risk of heart disease ❤️

Obesity, high triglycerides, large amounts of oxidized cholesterol, and an increased tendency to form blood clots are among the risk factors for heart disease. Studies found that Lion's Mane may influence some of these factors and reduce the risk of heart disease. In preliminary studies, for example, scientists found that Hericon B, a compound found in the mushroom, may lower blood clotting rates and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Nevertheless, further, larger-scale studies are needed to substantiate these findings.

5. Strengthens the immune system 🦠

We all know how essential a strong immune system is for our body. It protects us from bacteria, viruses and other disease-causing pathogens. Preliminary studies have shown that Hericium Erinaceus (Lion's Mane) can strengthen the immune system by increasing the activity of the intestinal immune system, which protects the body from pathogens. These effects may be due partially to positive changes in intestinal bacteria that stimulate the immune system. Lion's Mane extract may protect against the development of stomach ulcers by inhibiting the growth of H. pylori and protecting the stomach lining from damage.

The correct dosage of Lion's Mane (NRV)

Neither Lion's Mane nor the compounds Hericenone and Erinacine contained therein are currently listed as essential nutrients, therefore there is no nutrient reference value (NRV) for these substances. 

Lion's Mane is predominantly known for its positive effect on our mental performance and should therefore be taken in the morning or at midday. 

As an important ingredient, Lion's Mane is included in our NOUMEN Brain Supplement to support your concentration and performance. Due to its adaptogenic effect and assistance in combating stress factors and oxidative stress, Lion's Mane can also be found in our De-stressing Selfcare products.