It is available over the counter in different forms ranging from teas and tinctures to capsules and powders.
Lion’s mane is so-named because of its shaggy appearance.
It has a long history in complementary and alternative medicine, includingtraditional Chinese medicine.
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Even so, research supporting the health claims of lion’s mane is lacking.
Neurotrophins are proteins that help nerve cells survive, grow, and differentiate.
It is also thought to exert adaptogenic effects and reduceinflammation in the brainwhich can also influence moods.
Several small studies offer evidence of a benefit.
The lack of a control group (meaning a group of matched individuals given aplacebo) limited the interpretations.
Another small study conducted in 2015 involved female undergraduate students with anxiety and sleep problems.
Human studies investigating the use of lion’s mane for dementia are limited.
One of these is the storage and release ofglucose (sugar)into the bloodstream when needed.
Research in humans is needed to better evidence these claims.
This suggests that lion’s mane may protect against liver damage, includingcirrhosis, in heavy alcohol users.
However, there is no evidence that it can repair any damage already done.
pyloriin test tubes, suggesting that it may help improve antibiotic therapy.
Cancer
Lion’s mane is one of several medicinal mushrooms that may have anti-cancer effects.
The agents thought to prevent cancer are the same that protect against dementia (hericenones and erinacines).
It is often part of a mushroom mix or blend of medicinal mushrooms, including reishi and chaga.
There are no official guidelines for lion’s mane supplementation.
Most supplements will come with their own set of suggested directions for use.
As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label.
You should discuss prolonged use with your healthcare provider.
Side Effects and Interactions
Lion’s mane supplements are well-tolerated and generally regarded as safe.
Side effects, if any, tend to be mild and include stomach upset, diarrhea, and nausea.
Side effects are most common with prolonged use.
Lion’s mane also had mildhemagglutinatingeffects, meaning that it may promote blood clotting.
The same applies if you are on anymedications for diabetes, includinginsulin.
Lion mane’s glucose-lowering effect may increase the risk of severe hypoglycemic events.
The evidence supporting these benefits is mainly limited to animal or lab studies.
Research in humans is lacking.
Speak with your healthcare provider before using lion’s mane to prevent or treat any medical condition.
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