Hericium erinaceus and Alzheimer’s: science confirms the neuroprotective potential of the “lion’s mane mushroom”

In recent years, there has been much discussion about Hericium erinaceus, the mushroom also known as "Lion’s Mane." Traditionally used in Eastern medicine, this mushroom is now attracting the attention of modern science as well. But what does the research really say?

An important review published in 2024 on Nutrition Research Reviews is available on PubMed (39988819) sheds light on the potential of Hericium as an ally in the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's.

🧬 The mechanisms behind the power of the mushroom

The article analyzes in depth the key active ingredients present in Hericium erinaceusthe erinacine and the hericenoni, two classes of neuroactive compounds capable of stimulating the synthesis of the Nerve Growth Factor (NGF)NGF is a crucial protein for the survival, development, and regeneration of neurons, whose deficiency has been linked to cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.

The study highlights that Hericium:

• Stimulate the neurogenesis (neurogenesis)
  
  

• Modulate the immune system and inflammation cerebral
  
  

• Activate the lane Nrf2 antioxidant, reducing oxidative stress
  
  

• Interacts with the intestinal microbiota, suggesting a synergistic action on the gut-brain axis
  
  

One of the most innovative aspects examined is precisely the link between gut health and cognitive function. According to researchers, Hericium not only acts directly on the brain but also improves the balance of the gut flora, which in turn can influence mood, memory, and neuroinflammation.

🧪 Clinical evidence: promising results

The work reviews several preclinical and clinical studies that show the positive effects of Hericium on cognitive function:

• In animal modelsThe intake of Hericium improved spatial memory, reduced β-amyloid plaques (typical of Alzheimer's), and increased NGF levels in the brain.
  
  

• In human beingssome clinical studies have reported significant improvements in memory, concentration, and psychological well-being after weeks of supplementation with Hericium extracts, even in individuals with mild cognitive impairments.

• Acute effectsEven a single dose can temporarily improve attention and reduce subjective stress.
  
  

• Regular employment (up to 12 weeks): associated with significant improvements in memory and executive function in healthy subjects.
  
  

• Patients with MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment)superior cognitive benefits compared to placebo, with minimal side effects.
  
  

Furthermore, the enriched extract in erinacina A – a particularly powerful form – has been shown to increase the biodiversity of the gut microbiota and to slow cognitive decline.

🧠 Alzheimer: a challenge that begins before symptoms

One of the key messages of the article is that Alzheimer's begins long before obvious symptoms appear. The disease develops silently for years, and taking preventive action is essential.

Hericium erinaceus, thanks to its multifunctional profile (neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, prebiotic), could represent one of the most promising strategies to prevent or slow down age-related cognitive decline.

🌿 Nature at the service of the mind

The beauty of this mushroom lies in the fact that its potency is natural. It is not a synthetic drug, but a functional food that can be safely incorporated into the daily diet.

✨ At JUN, we believe in the power of Hericium

For this reason, we created pure Hericium erinaceus extract capsules, standardized to ensure the highest concentration of active ingredients such as erinacines and hericenones.

👉 If you want to support your memory, protect your brain, and invest in your cognitive future, visit our shop:
🔗 www.junlei.it

🧠 Hericium erinaceus is not just a mushroom. It is a promise for the future of our brain.