Lion’s Mane Mushroom- From Culinary to Medicine

Abstract

Lion's Mane, a distinctive mushroom found across the Northern Hemisphere, has captivated the world with its unique appearance and potential health benefits. This article explores the diverse facets of Lion's Mane, from its taxonomy and habitat to its rich nutritional composition, including proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and an array of biologically active compounds, notably polysaccharides and phenolic compounds. Lion's Mane is emerging as a potent dietary supplement, with research highlighting its positive impact on brain health, nerve recovery, mood stabilization, gastric health, heart health, blood sugar regulation, cancer prevention, and immunity enhancement. While Lion's Mane offers promising health benefits, it is essential to recognize its role as a complementary dietary addition rather than a substitute for medical treatments. Fortunately, Lion's Mane is generally considered safe for prolonged consumption, with minimal reported side effects. As research continues to unveil the multifaceted potential of the Lion's Mane, it stands as a fascinating and versatile natural resource with the promise of contributing to improved well-being and longevity.

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Literature Review
Lion’s Mane Mushroom- From Culinary to Medicine
Dr. Gilbert David1,* Jessica Williams2
1 Platinum Medical Center, Wellington, UK; 2 Golders Green Outpatients and Diagnostics Centre, Wellington,
UK;
* Correspondence: dgilbertuk87@gmail.com
https://doi.org/10.59652/aim.v1i2.55
Abstract: Lion's Mane, a distinctive mushroom found across the Northern Hemisphere, has captivated
the world with its unique appearance and potential health benefits. This article explores the diverse
facets of Lion's Mane, from its taxonomy and habitat to its rich nutritional composition, including
proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and an array of biologically active compounds, notably
polysaccharides and phenolic compounds. Lion's Mane is emerging as a potent dietary supplement,
with research highlighting its positive impact on brain health, nerve recovery, mood stabilization, gas-
tric health, heart health, blood sugar regulation, cancer prevention, and immunity enhancement. While
Lion's Mane offers promising health benefits, it is essential to recognize its role as a complementary
dietary addition rather than a substitute for medical treatments. Fortunately, Lion's Mane is generally
considered safe for prolonged consumption, with minimal reported side effects. As research continues
to unveil the multifaceted potential of Lion's Mane, it stands as a fascinating and versatile natural re-
source with the promise of contributing to improved well-being and longevity.
Keywords: lion’s mane, polyphenols, polysaccharides, medicine uses, nutraceuticals
Introduction
Mushrooms are delicate, beautiful and provided humans with one of the first antibiotics,
penicillin. Some are toxic, and most are consumable. Yet, they are wonderful in the way that
they have their kingdom. They are neither plant nor animal – they are entirely different beings.
The whole body of the mushroom, together with fruit (mushroom) and root (mycelium), is
called fungi. So, yes, all mushrooms are essentially fungi residing in their distinct class. Fungi
emerged as separate unicellular organisms in the Precambrian period (from 4.6 billion to 541
million years ago)[1]. So, mushrooms are distant relatives of humans in some ways. How-
ever, they continued their distinct journey of evolution in the Cambrian period.
Humans have consumed mushrooms since they were hunters and gatherers. They
learned about their nourishing properties, realized their medicinal value. People also knew
that some could be used for recreation, while other mushrooms are toxic. Despite such an
old relationship with mushrooms, we are just starting to explore their health benefits fully. In
fact, the situation is so absurd that experts are even unsure of how many species of fungi are
there in the world. Though estimates vary, but researchers think that there are few million
species of fungi. It also means that there are few thousand types of edible and medicinal
mushrooms that are widely used[2]. This article explores one such mushroom that is both
edible and has many health effects. It is nutritious, and can be source of remedies.
Lion’s Mane, a mushroom of many names
Lion’s Mane (also called “bearded tooth”) grows in most parts of the Northern Hemi-
sphere, except in tropical or arctic regions. Thus, it has a different name in each language. It
is commonly called Lion’s Mane due to its appearance. It is called Hericium Erinaceus in
Latin. “Shishigashira” or “Houtou” in China, and the Japanese call it “Yamabushitake”[3].
Received: 15 Sep 2023
Accepted: 25 Sep 2023
Published: 26 Sep 2023
Copyright: © 2023 by the authors.
Submitted for open access publication
under the terms and conditions of the
Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY)
license
(https://creativecommons.org/licenses/b
y/4.0/).

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Although it is present in most of Europe, it is among the rare mushrooms in the wilder-
ness. It is more common in North America, China, and Japan. It has a long history of use in
traditional medicine in China. China is also among the leading growers of mushrooms glob-
ally[4].
Those looking to find these fungi in a natural environment should be careful. It has a
protected status in many European nations. Its picking is prohibited in England and Wales[5].
Fungi can be big and small
All fungi are made up of a thread-like filament called hyphae. However, these hyphae
combine in different ways to produce so many different fungi. Fungi are further divided into
lower fungi (smaller in size) and higher fungi (larger in size). Higher fungi can grow in large
as their filament or hyphae are divided into multiple compartments with the help of a wall-
like structure called septa[1].
Lion’s Mane is a higher fungus or macro-fungi. There are known 14000 species of higher
fungi, and out of them, 350 are consumed by humans[6].
Lion’s Mane grows mainly on dead and decaying trees
Experts would call it a saprophyte, a kind of mushroom that grows on dead and decaying
trees. However, in rare cases, it may be parasitic and grow on living trees[7]. It mostly grows
on dying deciduous trees. In some countries like China, people also cultivate it.
It propagates in nature through spores. Its spores are pretty resistant to various climatic
conditions and can survive for up to 7 years.
It appears to love warmth, but not heat. It grows pretty well in temperatures of 25 to
30°C. It may also grow well in lower temperatures like 20°C, but not in freezing conditions.
Its sporulation stops at temperatures between 31-33°C. It explains why it is mainly found in
Europe in later summer or Autumn. But, it cannot grow in tropical or sub-tropical regions.
Moreover, it does not appear to like very high humidity[7].
Lion’s mane constituents
Mushrooms are the best example of food as a medicine. Various varieties of mushrooms
are consumed as a food, including Lion’s Mane. However, people are significantly more in-
terested in its various biologically active compounds as they are responsible for its numerous
health benefits[7–9].
Composition of Lion’s Mane:
 20-22% proteins
 57-67% carbohydrates
 2.8-3.5% fats
 Numerous vitamins (like tocopherols) and minerals (trace elements)
 Biologically active compounds
Lion’s Mane is definitely quite nutritious and can be an excellent source of proteins for
vegans. However, people are more interested in the content of biologically active compounds
that confer health benefits.
Most of the compounds responsible for health benefits are polysaccharides (complex
carbs) and phenolic compounds. Researchers are particularly interested in polysaccharides
other than glucose: ribose, arabinose, xylose, galactose, and mannose. Polysaccharides like

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xylans, galactoxyloglucans, heteroxyloglucans, glucoxylans, erinacines, and hericenones have
numerous health benefits. However, it is vital to understand that this list is not comprehen-
sive, as researchers have identified hundreds of bio-active compounds[7,9,10].
Some bioactive compounds and their action[7]:
Bioactive compounds Some known health effects
Polysaccharides Anti-
inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anticancer,
antimicrobial, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective,
glucose-lowering, cholesterol-lowering
Hericenones A-B Anticancer or cytotoxic, reduces platelet aggregation
Hericenones C-
H, erinacines
A-I
Neuroprotection, prevention of neurodegenerative
disorders
Hericirine Anti-inflammatory
Polyphenols Antioxidants
Lion’s mane health benefits
Lion’s mane extract is often used as a health supplement. Researchers are studying its
numerous health benefits. It is especially regarded to be good for nerve health. However, it is
worth understanding that health supplements cannot claim to diagnose or treat disease con-
ditions.
Brain health/Nootropic/Memory support
Neurodegenerative disorders like dementia are now a significant health threat in the UK.
A healthy lifestyle may lower dementia’s risk[11]. Adding Lion’s Mane to the diet may have
certain benefits. Experimental studies suggest synergistic interaction between Lion’s mane
extract and nerve growth factor (NGF). Lion’s many also appear to help with memory. One
of the systemic reviews found that mushroom extracts like that of Lion’s Mane have a positive
impact on cognition[12–15].
In practice, it means that Lion’s Mane is good for brain health. Its regular consumption
may be one of the ways of lowering cognitive decline. However, it is not a treatment for brain
diseases.
Accelerate recovery from nerve injury
Lion’s Mane is also proposed to be good for nerve health. Peripheral nerves may get
damaged due to physical injury, toxins, anticancer treatment, or more commonly, diabetes. In
experimental studies, Lion’s mane extract appears to promote nerve recovery and growth.
Thus, it may have a role as a health supplement in preventing neuropathies[13,16,17].
It helps counter mild anxiety and depression
Chronic ingestion of Lion’s mane extract promotes nerve growth and modulates the
activity of certain neurohormones. Thus, it may exert a mood-stabilizing effect, help prevent
anxiety, lower the risk of depression. It may help on regular use for 4 weeks or more. Thus,
it may be used as one of the ways of preventing mood disorders. However, it should not be
used as a monotherapy for the treatment of severe mood disorders[18–20].

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Gastric health
Traditional Chinese medicine regards Lion’s Mane as good for gastric health. Modern
experimental studies show that it may help prevent damage to gastric cells caused by ethanol.
It also suppresses the activity of H. Pylori, a bacteria frequently responsible for gastric ulcers.
Thus, regular use of Lion’s Mane may help prevent gastric issues[21–23].
Heart health and cholesterol control
Mushrooms are naturally low in fats and do not contribute to hypercholesteremia. Ad-
ditionally, certain mushrooms like Lion’s Mane have compounds that suppress lipid oxidation
and exert an antihyperlipidemic effect. Thus, Lion’s Mane is regarded as good for cardiovas-
cular health[24,25].
Lower blood sugar levels
Mushrooms can be safely consumed by those living with diabetes, as they are low in
glycemic index. Additionally, some mushrooms like Lion’s Mane contain compounds that
may help lower the risk of metabolic disorders. For example, lion’s Mane appears to exert an
inhibitory effect on α-amylase and α-glucosidase, thus helping keep blood glucose levels in
check[26,27].
Cancer prevention
A balanced diet and the right lifestyle choices may lower cancer risk. Polysaccharides and
aromatic compounds in Lion’s Mane show anticancer properties in lab studies. Researchers
have identified numerous mechanisms of action. Lion’s mane extract may suppress the
growth of various cancer cells like lung cancer, breast cancer. Researchers are exploring its
role as an adjuvant in cancer management[28–30].
Potential Immunity enhancer
Polysaccharides, hericirine, polyphenols, and other compounds in Lion’s Mane help sup-
press inflammation, exert an antioxidant effect, and modulate immune responses. Thus, its
prolonged use may help support the immune system[31–33].
Safety and toxicity
Lion’s Mane is relatively safe for prolonged use. Quite like other herbal extracts, it may
sporadically cause gastrointestinal issues or allergies. Toxicological studies could not identify
any severe side effects of the mushroom and concluded it safe for prolonged use[34]. How-
ever, there is still a need for more studies regarding its safety. Like most mushrooms, data is
limited. Nevertheless, most preliminary data is highly encouraging.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lion's Mane, a mushroom known by many names across different re-
gions, holds a special place in the world of fungi. Its unique appearance and widespread dis-
tribution, especially in North America, China, and Japan, have earned it recognition not only
for its culinary uses but also for its potential health benefits. As a member of the higher fungi
category, Lion's Mane is just one among thousands of fungal species. Yet, it stands out due
to its remarkable constituents, including proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and
a plethora of biologically active compounds. These compounds, notably polysaccharides and
phenolic compounds, have garnered significant attention for their potential health-promoting
effects.
Lion's Mane offers a range of health benefits, from supporting brain health and memory
to aiding in nerve recovery and growth. It may also contribute to mood stabilization, gastric
health, heart health, cholesterol control, and blood sugar regulation. Moreover, ongoing re-
search suggests its potential role in cancer prevention and immunity enhancement. While Li-
on's Mane extract is commonly used as a health supplement, it's important to emphasize that
it cannot replace medical treatments for diseases. It should be seen as a complementary dietary
addition to promote overall well-being.

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Fortunately, Lion's Mane is generally considered safe for extended consumption, with
few reported side effects. Like any dietary supplement, some individuals may experience mild
gastrointestinal issues or allergies, but toxicological studies have not revealed any significant
concerns. Intriguing and versatile, Lion's Mane continues to captivate researchers and health
enthusiasts alike, offering a promising avenue for natural health support. As our understand-
ing of this remarkable mushroom deepens, it may become an even more valuable addition to
our quest for improved well-being and longevity.
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