Hericium erinaceus (HE), commonly known as Lion's Mane mushroom, has a rich history rooted in traditional medicine, recognized for its potential health benefits. Dating back to ancient times, HE has been revered as a medicinal mushroom with purported cognitive-enhancing properties. In a groundbreaking study, researchers conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel-group comparative study to evaluate the effects of supplements containing the fruiting body of Hericium erinaceus on cognitive function over a span of 12 weeks. This means that neither the researchers nor the participants knew who received the supplement or the placebo, minimizing bias in the results. Through comprehensive assessments using tests like the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Benton visual retention test, and Standard verbal paired-associate learning test (S-PA), they observed significant enhancements in cognitive function, particularly evident in the MMSE results. These tests evaluate various aspects of cognitive function, such as memory and learning ability. These findings suggest that oral intake of HE may not only enhance cognitive functions but also prevent deterioration, possibly attributed to the diverse chemical compounds, including hericenones, present in the mushroom. Furthermore, the study validates the safety and convenience of HE intake as a potential method for dementia prevention.
Additionally, another study explored the association between frailty, a syndrome linked to both locomotor (movement) and cognitive decline in the elderly, and cognitive impairment during aging. Frailty is a condition characterized by weakness, low energy, and vulnerability to health problems. Researchers integrated motoric and cognitive evaluations to develop an integrated frailty index based on both phenotypic (observable characteristics) and recognition memory performances. Notably, their investigation into HE revealed its potential to improve recognition memory in mice. Recognition memory is the ability to recognize previously encountered stimuli, which is essential for learning and memory processes. Through rigorous analyses, including HPLC-UV-ESI/MS (high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with ultraviolet detection and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry), researchers standardized key compounds like erinacine A and hericenones C and D in HE extracts. This technique allows for precise identification and quantification of specific compounds in the mushroom extracts. Remarkably, two-month oral supplementation with HE reversed age-related declines in recognition memory, as supported by immunohistochemistry findings indicating a positive effect on neurogenesis in frail mice. Neurogenesis is the process by which new neurons are generated in the brain, crucial for cognitive function and brain health.
The findings in these studies hold promise for the future of cognitive health and aging populations. The discovery that HE supplementation can significantly improve cognitive function and potentially prevent deterioration presents a promising avenue for dementia prevention and cognitive enhancement. Moreover, the identification and standardization of key compounds in HE extracts provide a foundation for future research and development of targeted cognitive health interventions. The demonstrated reversal of age-related declines in recognition memory and the positive effect on neurogenesis observed in frail mice offer hope for combating cognitive decline associated with frailty. These findings underscore the potential of HE supplementation as a safe and effective strategy for enhancing cognitive health and quality of life in aging populations, paving the way for further exploration and application in clinical settings.
Read more:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6521003/
https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/biomedres/40/4/40_125/_pdf/-char/en