The unusual appearance gives it its name: the lion’s mane mushroom is an edible mushroom whose cap is divided into numerous whitish fibers. But it is not only visually outstanding. This mushroom also has a special effect.
The lion’s mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus), also known as the hedgehog’s mane or monkey’s head mushroom, is found in temperate latitudes and also in Europe. It usually grows on dead trunks, tree stumps or weakened trunks of deciduous trees such as oaks or beeches. It gets its typical appearance because the cap of its fruiting body, which stands on a short, thick stalk, is divided into many hair-like, partially branched offshoots.
The edible mushroom is mainly cultivated in Asia and grown for consumption. In traditional Chinese medicine, the lion’s mane mushroom has been considered beneficial for thousands of years. Among other things, it is said to help against cancer, stomach problems and also with nervous disorders and dementia. Scientists from the University of Queensland have now examined in more detail what effects this fungus actually has on brain function.
They were able to find out that Hericium erinaceus has an active ingredient that improves the growth of nerve cells and strengthens memory. “Using high-resolution microscopy, we were able to determine that the active substances in the fungus increase the size of the growth cones. These are important for brain cells to perceive their environment and to make new connections with other neurons,” explains Frederic Meunier from the Queensland Brain Institute.
In the future, this discovery could be of great importance for the treatment and protection against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. “Our idea was to find bioactive compounds from a natural source that could reach the brain and regulate the growth of neurons,” explains Ramon Martinez-Marmol, co-author of the study. “This could then lead to improved memory formation.”