Alzheimer’s disease is one of the greatest challenges of modern medicine, affecting millions of people worldwide. This is particularly important in the context of demographic changes and the aging population. In the search for effective methods to support patients, increasing attention is being paid to natural products such as Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus). Research suggests that this remarkable mushroom may offer support for cognitive functions and nervous system protection, making it a promising remedy in the context of Alzheimer’s disease.
What is Lion's Mane?
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), known as Lion's Mane, is a mushroom with a distinctive appearance resembling a lion’s mane. Used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, it has gained recognition for its health benefits.
Modern studies identify key bioactive compounds in it:
- Hericenones and erinacines: Present in the fruiting body and mycelium, these compounds are known for their neuroprotective and neurotrophic properties, supporting the health of the nervous system.
- NDPIH and hericen A: Newly discovered compounds that may stimulate the growth of nerve projections in hippocampal neurons, potentially improving cognitive functions.
- Meroterpenoids: A group of compounds, including hericenones, hericerins, and erinacerins, exhibiting strong antioxidant and neuroregenerative properties.
Alzheimer's disease - what does it involve?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder leading to gradual memory loss, cognitive impairment, and behavioral changes. It is characterized by the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain, which lead to neuronal death and cognitive decline.
It is the most common cause of dementia in older adults, posing a significant challenge for patients, their families, and healthcare systems. Currently, there is no effective cure for Alzheimer’s disease, and available therapies only alleviate symptoms without halting the disease’s progression.
Read also: Adaptogenic mushrooms and herbs – what are they and how do they work?
Mechanisms of action of Lion's Mane in the context of Alzheimer's disease
Studies on the properties of Lion’s Mane indicate several mechanisms through which it may support brain health and counteract neurodegenerative processes.
- Synthesis of nerve growth factor (NGF): Hericenones and erinacines stimulate the production of NGF, which is crucial for the survival, growth, and differentiation of neurons. Increased NGF levels may support cognitive functions and slow down neuronal degeneration.
- Activation of neurotrophic pathways: Compounds found in Lion’s Mane may activate pathways related to brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), supporting neuron survival, nerve projection growth, and dendritic branching, which is essential for cognitive health and memory.
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects: The bioactive compounds in Lion’s Mane exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, protecting neurons from oxidative stress and inflammation, which play a role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Neuroprotection and neuroregeneration: Studies suggest that compounds from Lion’s Mane may protect against neurotoxicity and support nerve cell regeneration, which is beneficial in conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Scientific research - Lion’s Mane and Alzheimer's disease
Studies on the effects of Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) on Alzheimer’s disease provide promising results, indicating its potential neuroprotective properties. In one experiment conducted on human nerve cells, it was shown that polysaccharides extracted from Lion’s Mane (HEPS) effectively protect neurons from the toxic effects of beta-amyloid (Aβ), a key factor in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. HEPS significantly reduced levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), limited neuronal death, and improved cell viability, suggesting strong antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. Additionally, cells treated with Lion’s Mane extract showed greater resistance to oxidative stress, which is a crucial factor in combating neurodegenerative disease progression.
Further scientific analyses confirmed that extracts from Lion’s Mane can not only protect neurons but also influence immune processes in the brain. It was found that polysaccharides in Lion’s Mane improve the ability of cells to neutralize free radicals and reduce damage caused by beta-amyloid.
Other studies suggest that Lion’s Mane may support brain regeneration by stimulating the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which is essential for the proper functioning and repair of neurons. It has been shown that under the influence of the extract, the balance between NGF and its precursor (proNGF) improves, promoting nerve cell regeneration. Additionally, the extract reduced levels of inflammation in the brain by decreasing the number of excessively activated immune cells. This suggests that Lion’s Mane may support repair processes in the nervous system and slow down neuronal degeneration associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
The most promising results come from clinical studies in which patients with mild Alzheimer’s disease took capsules containing Lion’s Mane extract for nearly a year. Compared to the placebo group, those taking the supplement showed better results in cognitive function tests assessing memory, concentration, and the ability to perform daily tasks. Importantly, in the placebo group, there was a significant decline in key biomarkers related to brain function, whereas in those taking Lion’s Mane, no such negative changes were observed. Additionally, brain imaging studies showed that in patients using the extract, there was no deterioration in white matter structure, suggesting stabilization of neurodegenerative processes.
Lion’s Mane shows great potential in Alzheimer’s therapy – it acts neuroprotectively, supports neuron regeneration, and may slow disease progression. Of course, further research is needed to fully confirm its effectiveness and safety, but the potential contained in Lion’s Mane is immense.
Why choose Ollywell?
Ollywell is a guarantee of the highest quality and safety. Adaptogen extracts from Ollywell come from local crops, are standardized, and, thanks to modern extraction methods, retain the full spectrum of bioactive compounds.
Each batch undergoes rigorous quality testing. By choosing Ollywell, you opt for natural health support that works effectively every day.
See also: Ollywell – quality you can trust