As soon as the leaves start to turn a golden orange and the first Autumn showers descend on our 87-acre woodland, we start to turn our attention to the array of Fungi that can be found in our Nomadic Woodland.

One of these is Lion’s Mane Mushroom, also known as Hericium erinaceus, which is a type of edible mushroom that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It is also commonly found in North America, Europe, and Asia.

This mushroom is especially known for its cognitive-enhancing properties, making it a popular supplement for those seeking to improve their brain function. Here’s what you need to know about Lion’s Mane Mushroom and its benefits:

Benefit 1:

It has been known to improve memory and cognitive function. A study conducted on older adults with mild cognitive impairment found that those who took Lion’s Mane Mushroom supplements for 16 weeks showed significant improvements in their cognitive function compared to those who took a placebo. Another study found that Lion’s Mane Mushroom can also help improve focus and attention.

Benefit 2:

Studies have shown that Lion’s Mane Mushroom can help protect against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. This is due to the fact that it contains compounds that can stimulate the growth of new brain cells and protect existing ones. It has also been shown to reduce inflammation in the brain, which can contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases.

Benefit 3:

Boosting the immune system is always important as the weather turns colder. Lion’s Mane Mushroom contains beta-glucans, which are compounds that can help with this. Beta-glucans work by activating the immune cells in the body and increasing their ability to fight off infections and diseases.

Benefit 4:

Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can lead to a number of health problems, including heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. Lion’s Mane Mushroom has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and protect against these diseases.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom can be consumed fresh or dried but is most commonly taken as a supplement in the form of capsules or powder. It is generally considered safe and has few side effects, although those with allergies to other types of mushrooms should avoid it.