Used in Asian medicinal cuisine, Hericium erinaceus is surprising for its unique texture and flavor, but also for its health benefits.
All over the world, this protected species is given various names which are very rare in the wild.
According to experts, its active molecules act in the prevention and support of numerous pathologies.
The Hericium erinaceus Attractive in more ways than one. Present throughout the Northern Hemisphere, the lion’s mane or hedgehog hydrangea mushroom is one of the most widely used mushrooms in the world, especially in Asian countries. It grows on stumps of dead trees, preferably ash, walnut, beech and maple. Taste-wise, this edible variety is known for its taste that resembles some seafood, from lobster to crab or scallops, depending on your sensitivity. It also has a unique appearance, with white fibers 3 to 5 cm long, soft and dangling, reminiscent of a Chinese noodle dish or the mane of a wild animal.
It is also called “monkey head” or “yamabushitake” in Japan, referring to the warrior monks who lived in the mountains. In addition to folklore, this wild mushroom is on the IUCN list of species threatened with extinction, especially due to the degradation of its habitat: that is why it is strongly recommended not to pick it in the wild. While hedgehog hydrangea has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for its digestive properties, numerous studies have shown it to have multiple properties for the nervous system and immune system.
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What are the mechanisms of action of Hericium erinaceus?
This mushroom, which typically fruits in late summer and fall, contains dietary prebiotics and active molecules that help alleviate certain intestinal disorders. It is particularly involved in the restoration of gastric and intestinal mucous membranes by helping to reduce inflammation. Researchers have also revealed its ability to inhibit Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria that thrives in the stomach and is responsible for ulcers, gastritis and stomach cancer, citing higher health authorities. Due to its high antioxidant potential and bioactive compounds, Hericium erinaceus It is used for the management of metabolic disorders, especially for the treatment of diabetes, other scientists argue in published studies on this. Science Direct.
Promising potential for neurovascular prevention
Even more surprising: many researchers agree that lion’s mane mushrooms improve brain function. Indeed, it is associated with improved anxiety and cognition. In detail, its bioactive compounds would be involved in the treatment or at least prevention of a wide range of brain pathologies such as Alzheimer’s disease, depression, Parkinson’s disease or even spinal cord lesions, although clinical trials have yet to prove that. , we read on thisInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences MDPI. Its scope of action does not stop there, as it is an adaptogenic mushroom. Understand: Its high content of minerals and antioxidants strengthens the immune system and helps the body resist various types of stress, whether environmental or physical. Dose related, theHericium erinaceus Can be taken as a treatment several times a day in tablet form, or in powder form, preferably mixed with a glass of warm water.
