What is Lion’s Mane?
Lion’s Mane is a funny looking mushroom that has been known for its medicinal properties and has been used in Chinese Medicine for centuries…predominantly by Buddhist Monks. It has gained more popularity in recent years as people are becoming more aware of the healing power of medicinal mushrooms. Lion’s Mane is a tool that can be used in your arsenal to become the best version of yourself which is known as Biohacking. Lions Mane is known for its benefits for supporting and preventing cognitive decline (known as neuroprotection). It is also known to aid in mental focus, concentration, reducing feelings related to anxiety/depression. I can’t think of one person I know that can’t use that! So how does Lion’s Mane do all of these things? Let’s get into it a little deeper…
What is biohacking?
It is the desire to understand the body and mind that you have been given and using everything at your disposal including experimenting with sleep patterns, diets, cutting edge technology, tools, and science to become the best version of yourself.
How does Lion’s Mane protect the brain?
Lion’s Mane’s neuroprotective properties are due in part to two compounds found in the mushroom called hericenones and erinacines. Studies have shown these two compounds have the ability to stimulate a neurotransmitter in the brain called Nerve Growth Factor or NGF.
What is NGF?
NGF is a protein or neuropeptide that plays a very big role in maintaining the health of the neurons in the brain. These neurons are like messengers, sending, and processing information from the brain to the rest of the body. NGF is produced by the Hippocampus. The Hippocampus is responsible for forming, organizing, and storing memories. Have you ever heard a song or smelled a specific scent that triggered a memory and an emotion from the past? This is the work of the Hippocampus in making these connections. Studies also show Lion’s Mane has the ability to stimulate brain cell growth which in turn improves the function of the hippocampus. This is why Lions Mane is an exciting potential supplement for the positive effects it has on the brains of people diagnosed with cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s, and dementia.
Importance of Antioxidants for Brain Fog:
Studies have shown that Lions Mane is also very high in antioxidants. This is important because many people complain of “Brain Fog” which can be described as difficulty in focusing, trouble making decisions, lack of energy, hard to concentrate, low energy, and irritability. Does this sound familiar? Many people can relate to that description but what they don’t realize is that Brain Fog is actually inflammation of the brain. What causes inflammation in the brain? A few of the many factors include chronic stress, anxiety, prolonged sadness, and depression. These all have long term effects on our physical health due to the chemical reactions that it created within our bodies that weaken our immune systems and actually cause chronic inflammation which in turn does major long term damage to not only our bodies but our brains as well. The good news is that it is possible to reverse. Consuming foods and supplements that are high in antioxidants is a great way to combat inflammation Other things that are super important are the things we all have heard a million times but I’ll say it again… a healthy diet that cuts out as much processed food and refined sugar as possible, getting proper sleep, exercise, and doing some sort of mediation/positive affirmations.
Studies show that taking Lion’s Mane as a daily supplement is the way to see the best results. Lion’s Mane is one of the main ingredients in our newest product, The Mentalert Formula. This formula is a combination of Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Gotu Kola, Ashwagandha, Rosemary, and
Ginko. As I always say, mental health is just as important as physical health and adding things to your daily routine that works in a way that you are taking control of your health and wellness is always the best way to go!