Lion’s mane — a natural antidepressant for supporting the brain and nervous system

26 April 2024

Lion's Mane Mushroom against Depression

Lion's Mane Mushroom - Natural Support in the Fight Against Depression

Depression is a common mental disorder characterized by persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities that previously brought pleasure, feelings of hopelessness, and other symptoms. It is a serious health problem that affects millions of people worldwide.

Factors of Depression:

The development of depression is associated with an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. These substances are responsible for regulating mood, emotions, sleep, and appetite. A decrease in their levels can lead to the onset of depressive symptoms.

In addition, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes the growth and survival of neurons, plays an important role in the pathogenesis of depression. A decrease in BDNF content in the brain is also associated with the development of depressive disorders.

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The Role of Lion's Mane Mushroom in Fighting Depression:

Lion's Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is an edible medicinal mushroom that has long been used in traditional Eastern medicine. Modern research shows that extracts of this mushroom have potent antidepressant properties.

Studies on animal models of depression have shown that administration of Lion’s mane extract enriched with the bioactive compound erinacine A leads to positive changes.

Read also: Lion's Mane mushroom - the longevity mushroom!

Mechanisms of the antidepressant action of erinacine A from Lion’s mane

1. Restoration of monoamine neurotransmitter levels (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine) in the hippocampus - a region of the brain responsible for emotions and memory.

2. Suppression of inflammatory processes in the brain by reducing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Neuroinflammation is considered one of the factors in the development of depression.

3. Activation of BDNF/TrkB/PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β signaling pathways, leading to increased expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This promotes neurogenesis (formation of new nerve cells in the brain), improves neuroplasticity (the ability of neurons to change their structure and function in response to various stimuli, which underlies learning and memory processes), and enhances neuronal survival (protects nerve cells from damage and death).

The results of animal studies are supported by clinical observations. For example, in elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment, taking Lion's Mane extract for 16 weeks improved cognitive function and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Lion's Mane mushroom demonstrates a multifaceted positive effect on the brain in depressive disorders. Its active components are able to restore the balance of neurotransmitters, counteract neuroinflammation, and stimulate neurotrophic factors. This makes extracts of this mushroom a promising natural remedy for prevention and support in the complex treatment of depression.

Also, take a look at: Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): Benefits and Uses

Buy Lion’s mane mushrooms and extracts for whole-body health in our store!

This information is provided for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
The article is based on a scientific study from the journal Molecular Sciences 2018, 19, 341. We can provide our regular customers with a printout of the article translation upon request.