History, tradition and use of lion's mane

Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus), also known in French as “Crinière de lion” or “Hydne hérisson”, is a medicinal and edible mushroom that has a long history of use, mainly in Asia. Here is a look at its history, discovery, early uses, and how it has evolved over time.

Origin and Discovery

Lion's Mane is native to temperate forests in the Northern Hemisphere, including Asia (China, Japan, Korea), Europe, and North America. It typically grows on dead or decaying trees, such as beech and oak.

Although it is difficult to pinpoint a precise date for its discovery, the first mentions of Hericium hedgehog date back to ancient China, several centuries ago. This mushroom has been recognized in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) since ancient times. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) dates back more than 2,500 years, although it is probably older in terms of informal practices, as before that healing practices in China were passed down orally from generation to generation.

First Uses

Lion's Mane has been used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine primarily for its body strengthening and mental health supporting properties.

In China, it is known as "Houtou" (猴头菇), which literally means "monkey head mushroom." Lion's Mane has been used to treat various gastrointestinal disorders, to support the immune system, and to improve cognitive functions, such as memory and concentration.

Traditionally, it was consumed as a tea, decoction, or incorporated into cooked dishes. It could also be dried and then transformed into powder and mixed with food or drinks.

Medicinal Properties and Traditional Uses

In addition to being consumed for its delicate, seafood-like flavor, it was prized for its medicinal properties. It was considered a digestive tonic and was used to treat gastric ulcers and other gastrointestinal conditions. Lion's Mane was also used for its beneficial effects on the nervous system, including its purported ability to stimulate nerve regeneration. In Chinese medicine, it was often prescribed to the elderly or those with cognitive problems, as it was believed to promote longevity and prevent mental decline.

Evolution of usage over time

Initially, it was mainly used for its digestive and neuroprotective properties. Buddhist monks in China are said to have used it to improve concentration during meditation.

Known as *Yamabushitake* in Japan, this mushroom has also been used for centuries in traditional Japanese medicine. The monks of the Yamabushi sect, who were known for their intense meditation practices, used it to improve mental focus and spiritual clarity.

It was not until the 20th century that Lion's Mane gained the attention of the Western scientific and medical community. Modern studies have confirmed some of the traditional medicinal properties, including its ability to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which is essential for neuron health.

Currently, Lion's Mane is used in a variety of forms, including powder, capsules, liquid extracts, and of course, as food. In the West, it is particularly popular in dietary supplements for its purported benefits on cognition, memory, and nerve regeneration, often in connection with the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

Modern and Scientific Uses

Neuroprotection and Cognition : Recent research, mainly conducted in Asia and Europe, has suggested that bioactive compounds in Lion's Mane, such as hericenones and erinacines , promote neuronal health. These compounds stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) , which has reinforced its role in treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

Immune Support : It contains polysaccharides and antioxidants that are being studied for their potential effects on strengthening the immune system .

Gastrointestinal support : Its anti-inflammatory properties and its beneficial effects on the digestive mucosa continue to be recognized, particularly for the management of ulcers and inflammation of the digestive system.

Growing popularity in the West

Lion's Mane has gained popularity in Western countries in recent decades, particularly as part of the functional medicine and superfood movement. It is increasingly being used in supplement formulas aimed at supporting brain function, improving mood, and promoting focus.

Besides extracts and dietary supplements, it is often incorporated into herbal drinks, mushroom coffees, herbal teas, and even energy bars.

Conclusion

Lion's Mane, although discovered and used primarily in Asia, has seen its use evolve over time. It has gone from being a traditional remedy primarily used for digestive and cognitive disorders to a popular medicinal mushroom in the West, with recent scientific studies confirming its benefits for neurological and immune health. Its ability to adapt to various forms of use while maintaining its medicinal properties has made it a mainstay of modern herbal medicine.