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The Medicinal Mushroom that stimulates cognitive activities, mental clarity, logic and memory

BY DR. FRANCESCA ARDIGÒ
Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane): The brain-boosting Medicinal Mushroom for the mind

In ancient oriental medicine it was considered an elixir of long life. Today modern science confirms it: Hericium erinaceus, also known as "Lion's Mane", is one of the most promising natural remedies for the brain and mental health. As a psychologist, I recognize not only its scientific potential, but also its role in supporting cognitive performance.

What is Hericium erinaceus?

Hericium erinaceus is a unique Medicinal Mushroom for the mind. It grows naturally on tree trunks and has a distinctive appearance from which the English name "Lion's Mane" derives. Used for centuries in Traditional Chinese and Japanese Medicine, today it is the subject of many scientific studies for its effects on the brain, nervous system and gastrointestinal tract.

Medicinal Mushrooms for brain health: what science says

Numerous scientific studies have investigated the neuroprotective and regenerative effect of Hericium. Its uniqueness lies in its ability to stimulate neurogenesis and support brain plasticity, two key processes for memory, concentration and mental clarity.

  1. Stimulation of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF)
    Hericium is able to activate a protein, which is found in the neuron, in the nerve cell, called nerve growth factor (NGF). Medicinal Mushroom Hericium for the mind stimulates this nerve growth factor and promotes the physiological process of repairing the damaged parts of nervous tissue (Wong et al., 2012 and 2014; Thongbai et al., 2015). In practice, the damaged parts of nervous tissue are eliminated and replaced with new healthy parts. Two groups of researchers - Wong 2012 and Thongbai - have demonstrated that this fundamental process of safeguarding the nervous tissue occurs thanks to two molecules present in Hericium, which are called hericenone and erinacine. Up to now only these two molecules have been shown to be able to activate this process of healing the nervous tissue because they are the only substances, scientifically known, able to cross the blood-brain barrier. Any natural remedy or drug to reach and act on the central nervous system must cross the blood-brain barrier. This barrier, however, is extremely selective because it must protect the central nervous system from toxins or infectious agents: it therefore allows the passage only of very small molecules such as glucose, which is very small and composed of only six carbon atoms, exactly like hericenone and erinacine.
    In practice: better neuronal health leads to better functionality, better exchange of information between brain cells, which determines greater mental clarity, better memory, faster reasoning and improved logic.
  1. Improved memory and cognitive function
    A Japanese study published in Phytotherapy Research (2009) showed that older adults with mild cognitive impairment, treated with this Medicinal Mushroom for brain health for 16 weeks, showed significant improvements in cognitive function compared to the placebo group. When the intake was stopped, the benefits decreased, suggesting a progressive and sustained effect over time.
    Psychological advice: integrating Hericium can support logical functions and problem-solving skills both in daily challenges and in preparing for exams or intense work performance.
  1. Potential support for mental performance
    Hericium promotes neuronal health and clarity in decision-making. In fact, this brain-boosting Medicinal Mushroom is prized not only in the medical field, but also among entrepreneurs, creatives, and high-performing students.
    Psychological advice: including Hericium tablets in a morning routine helps maximize productivity and focus.
  1. Neurodegenerative protection
    Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make this Medicinal Mushroom for the mind a potential ally in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. In vitro and animal model studies have shown a significant reduction in neuronal damage and an improvement in cognitive functions.
    Please note: may be associated with conventional medications in use.

Phenomenal side benefits: gut, stomach and immune system

The brain does not work alone. Gut health is strongly connected to mental well-being, through the gut-brain axis. The Medicinal Mushroom Hericium that stimulates cognitive activities also shows beneficial effects on the gastrointestinal tract:

  • Protective action on the gastric and intestinal mucosa: it is very useful in cases of dysbiosis, SIBO and leaky gut.
  • Useful in case of gastritis, ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome.
  • Immunomodulatory activity: it is of great support in periods of physical and mental stress.

A balanced intestine improves not only the digestion, but also the ability to concentrate and manage stress.

How to take Medicinal Mushroom for the mind: available lines and methods

In our e-commerce website you can find two formulations suitable for different needs:

  • Basic Line: 4 tablets per day
  • Plus Line: 3 tablets per day

For a synergistic effect, we recommend combining the intake of medicinal mushrooms with our Rosa Canina Vitamin C, which promotes absorption making the effects faster and more evident.

Conclusion

In a world that increasingly demands mental clarity, quick reflexes and rapid decision-making skills, Hericium erinaceus is a precious natural resource within everyone's reach. For students, professionals, and anyone aiming for clearer thought and enhanced presence, incorporating this brain-boosting Medicinal Mushroom daily offers a simple but potent way to cultivate a more vital and agile mind.

Bibliography

Thongbai B, Rapior S, Hyde KD, Wittstein K, Stadler M. (2015): "Hericium erinaceus, an amazing medicinal mushroom." Mycological Progress, 14(10): 1-23.

Wong KH, Naidu M, David RP, Bakar R, Sabaratnam V. (2012): "Neuro-regenerative potential of lion's mane mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers.(Higher Basidiomycetes), in the treatment of peripheral nerve injury (Review)." International journal of medicinal mushrooms, 14(5): 427-446.

Wong KH, Kanagasabapathy G, Naidu M, David P, Sabaratnam V. (2014): "Hericium erinaceus (Bull.:Fr.) Pers., a medicinal mushroom, activates peripheral nerve regeneration." Chinese journal of integrative medicine, 1-9: 427-446.

  1. integratori-Hericium Basic
    Basic Line
    Hericium Basic
    Classic formula in tablets
    €34.99
  2. integratori-Hericium Organic Powder
    Organic Powder Line
    Hericium Organic Powder
    Formula in organic powder
    €31.99
  3. integratori-Hericium Plus
    Plus Line
    Hericium Plus
    Enhanced formula in tablets for maximum benefit
    €44.99