Multiple Sclerosis and Lions Main

Around the world, these mushrooms are enjoyed for their culinary uses. They’re an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, and they’re also a heart-healthy food thanks to their low amounts of sodium, fats, and cholesterol.

And, in the case of Hericium erinaceus—commonly referred to as lion’s mane mushrooms for their interesting shaggy appearance—they might just be brain food, too.

In an article from The University of Queensland, Australia, researchers from The University of Queensland have discovered the active compound from this edible mushroom that boosts nerve growth and enhances memory.

Professor Frederic Meunier from the Queensland Brain Institute said the team had identified new active compounds from the mushroom, Hericium erinaceus.

“Extracts from these so-called ‘lion’s mane’ mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine in Asian countries for centuries, but we wanted to scientifically determine their potential effect on brain cells,” Professor Meunier said.

Lions Mane mushroom, also known as Hericium erinaceus, is believed to have potential benefits for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) due to its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties.

“Pre-clinical testing found the lion’s mane mushroom had a significant impact on the growth of brain cells and improving memory.”

Professor Meunier also said, “Laboratory tests measured the neurotrophic effects of compounds isolated from Hericium erinaceus on cultured brain cells, and surprisingly we found that the active compounds promote neuron projections, extending and connecting to other neurons.

“Using super-resolution microscopy, we found the mushroom extract and its active components largely increase the size of growth cones, which are particularly important for brain cells to sense their environment and establish new connections with other neurons in the brain.”

These are known benefits!

1. Compounds: Lions Mane mushroom contains compounds that have been shown to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production in the brain. NGF is a protein that plays a key role in the growth, maintenance, and survival of certain neurons. By promoting NGF production, Lions Mane may help protect and support the health of nerve cells in people with MS.

2. Anti-inflammatory effects: Chronic inflammation is believed to play a role in the progression of MS. Lions Mane mushroom has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the central nervous system and alleviate symptoms of MS.

3. Cognitive benefits: MS can affect cognitive function, including memory, attention, and information processing speed. Lions Mane mushroom has been suggested to have cognitive-enhancing effects, such as improving memory and cognitive function. This may be particularly beneficial for individuals with MS who experience cognitive impairment.

4. Immune modulation: MS is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, a protective covering of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. Lions Mane mushroom has been shown to modulate immune function, potentially helping to regulate the immune response in individuals with MS.

Overall, while more research is needed to fully understand the effects of Lions Mane mushroom on MS, its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, cognitive-enhancing, and immune-modulating properties make it a promising natural supplement for individuals living with this condition.