But, how do we take the functionality of our brain to the next level, such that we can think more creatively and remember things more easily. Well, as it turns out, nootropic supplements can help. And one of such nootropics is Huperzine A.

So, what is Huperzine A, how does it work and why should you care? These and many more will be addressed in this article. So, sit back and relax as I take you through everything you need to know about this brain-unlocking nootropic supplement.

What is Huperzine A?

Huperzine A is a purified plant extract that is obtained from Chinese Club Moss, scientifically known as Huperzia serrata. The Chinese Club Moss is predominantly found in Southeast Asia (aren’t they all!), and its use is very prominent in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Interestingly, the Chinese have used the Huperzia serrata plant to treat mental conditions such as schizophrenia. But it has also been used to treat muscle problems, skin conditions, fever, and inflammation.

Huperzine A is a water-soluble alkaloid, that is extracted from the Huperzia serrata plant. And no, the two are not the same thing (more on that later). For one thing, Huperzine A is purer and more specific in its action.

Speaking of action, what exactly does Huperzine A do the Brain? Let’s take a look.

How Does Huperzine A Work?

Okay, so there are a couple of ways Huperzine A works its magic in the brain. Let’s get into it:

1. It prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine:

Alright… listen up — there’s this neurotransmitter called acetylcholine (which is like the brain’s errand boy) and the brain needs it to pass information from one point to the other.

But there’s this bad guy called acetylcholinesterase (AChE) — an enzyme that normally breaks down acetylcholine. And whenever acetylcholine is broken down, it somewhat affects brain functions such as memory and learning… which is obviously bad.

But how do we remedy the situation? This is where Huperzine A comes to the rescue. Huperzine A is an inhibitor for AChE (the bad guy). So, whenever you take it, it hinders the enzyme from doing its unsolicited work.

This means AChE is unable to breakdown our precious neurotransmitter (acetylcholine), thereby making it more available in the brain. This, in return, leads to a significant improvement in memory and learning… more on that in a moment.

2. Huperzine A acts a neuroprotector:

Okay, so the brain is made up of billions of neurons, which are basically the functional units, through which the brain performs its activities. Huperzine A boosts the brain function by protecting the neurons against glutamate-induced toxicity.

Say what? Alright, let’s break this down. So, there’s this amino acid called glutamate and it sometimes causes the death of neurons (so… yeah, in this context, it’s a bad guy). Of course, when this happens, the functioning of the brain gets significantly affected.

So, how does our magic pill help? Well, it simply casts a “shield” around the neurons, to protect them from the toxic effect of glutamate. It also protects the hippocampus — the part of the brain responsible for emotion and memory.

But that’s not all — Huperzine A also promotes the growth of new dendrites. If you don’t know what that is, dendrites are like the limbs with which the neurons perform their activity.

So, by protecting the neurons and inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Huperzine A is able to boost brain functioning significantly. Let’s take a look at just how cool this is.

What is Huperzine A used for?

Okay… so Huperzine A is a nootropic… which means it’s a supplement designed to boost the functionality of the brain. If you’re having trouble concentrating, remembering stuff or learning in general, then Huperzine A might be right for you.

Specifically, here are a few things Huperzine A is used for:

• To improve memory and make learning easier.
• To improve brain function.
• To protect the brain

While still on the topic, let’s take a look at a few benefits of Huperzine A.

Amazing Benefits of Huperzine A

Huperzine A comes with a plethora of benefits ranging from neuroprotection to memory enhancement. Let’s take a look at some of them.

Huperzine A may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease

Okay, this may sound like a bogus claim, but hear me out.

Remember acetylcholine and its nemesis acetylcholinesterase (AChE)? Great! Whenever AChE succeeds in breaking down acetylcholine, it causes memory loss — and that is the basis for Alzheimer’s disease.

Interestingly, almost all FDA-approved drugs for treating Alzheimer’s disease work by inhibiting AChE. Know what else does this? Yeah… you guessed it — Huperzine A. The ability of Huperzine A to inhibit AChE and boost acetylcholine production makes it a great potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.

Interestingly, for some years now, various research studies have been investigating the potential therapeutic effects of Huperzine A on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.

And based on existing evidence, not only may Huperzine A slow down Alzheimer,s disease, it may also be able to prevent it. Don’t take my word for it, though… let’s check out what science has to say.

In a 2013 study where some researchers examined the efficacy of Huperzine A as a possible treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, they discovered something interesting. After dividing the 1,823 Alzheimer’s patients into 20 random clinical trials, they noticed that patients who received Huperzine A enjoyed a significantly improved cognitive function.

Huperzine A protects your brain 

Okay — so, another amazing benefit of this nootropic is that it protects your brain from so many bad processes. But how does it do this? Well, one way is by protecting the neurons from glutamate toxicity and we’ve talked about that already.

But that’s not all.

Huperzine A is also a powerful antioxidant, which means it protects the brain from oxidative damage. It achieves this by activating the mTOR and BDNF-dependent pathways. Yeah… yeah, that all sounds like gibberish. But the point is — Huperzine A protects your brain.

Huperzine A can make you smarter

Alright, to be clear, this isn’t a magic pill that will turn you into an overnight genius like Eddie Morra in the 2011 sci-fi movie, Limitless. That said, it can improve your memory, focus, and overall brain functioning. That’s why it’s such a popular study supplement.

According to a study that examined the effect of Huperzine A in 34 pairs of adolescent school students, who had memory and learning problems, it was reported that a daily oral intake of Huperzine A significantly improved memory and learning abilities in students who took it.

But this isn’t limited to students, several research studies have also reported the memory-enhancing benefits of Huperzine A… especially in aging populations. So, if you need help remembering things, Huperzine A might just be your best bet.

Huperzine A helps to fight depression

Okay… so, depression is a really big topic these days… and we certainly need all the help we can get. As it turns out, Huperzine A can help. How… you may ask? Well, it has something to do with its ability to inhibit Acetylcholinesterase (AChE).

AChE is one of the culprits responsible for the cognitive impairments associated with major depressive disorders. So, by inhibiting AChE, Huperzine A helps to boost cognitive functioning, which consequently helps to reduce the symptoms of depression.

Pretty cool… right?

Huperzine A aids the growth of neural cells

We’ve already established that Huperzine A helps to protect the neurons against glutamate-induced toxicity. But that’s not all Huperzine-A has to offer. Studies have shown that it also stimulates the growth of neuronal cells… especially in the hippocampus.

So, by promoting the growth of neurons and protecting them from damage, Huperzine A may help to ward off neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s, autism and ALS.

It can improve your energy

If you’re looking for a caffeine-free way to increase your energy level on the job, Huperzine A might be all you need. If there’s one thing nootropics such as Huperzine A are notoriously popular for, it is their ability to help the brain function maximally… with little effort. And this can greatly help to reduce stress and fatigue.

Here’s how that helps — reduced fatigue often means an increase in energy. It also results in better physical and mental endurance. This is probably why most people who take Huperzine A report a general increase in focus and energy. So if you easily doze off or lose focus on the job, Huperzine A might be a lifesaver.

Is Huperzine A the Same as Huperzia Serrata?

Short answer — no! Huperzia serrata is another name for the Chinese Club Moss (i.e., the entire plant). On the other hand, Huperzine A is a standardized extract obtained from the Huperzia serrata plant.

So, what’s the difference? Well, you see… Huperzia serrata contains a whole lot of things (both useful and useless) and Huperzine A is just one of them. The implication is that when you take Huperzia serrata, you can’t really keep track of how much Huperzine A you’re getting and that can reduce its positive effects.

In essence, you’re better off taking Huperzine A as an extract, because it is pure and standardized. This means you know exactly how much of it you’re getting and you can more easily control your dosage. So, read the labels carefully and make sure it specifically contains Huperzine A before spending a dime on the supplement.

Got it? Great! Now that we’ve got all that out of the way, let’s take a look at how much Huperzine A you should actually take.

Huperzine A Dosage: How Much Do You Need? 

Okay… listen up  — when it comes to nootropics, it’s always best to start with the lowest possible dose. Trust me — less is definitely more. Taking high doses too quickly can sometimes result in undesired side effects, so you should definitely go slow.

Huperzine A tablets (or capsules) can come in 50, 100 or 200 micrograms (mcg), depending on the manufacturer. So, you need to pay keen attention to the specifications on the product label before swallowing your first pill.

Typically recommended doses can range between 50 – 200 (mcg) per day. So, you can start off by taking 50 mcg per day and see if it produces the desired effects. If it doesn’t, you can slowly crank it up until you hit the perfect dose.

That said, before you try a new supplement, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor… especially if you’re already on other medications. Better safe than sorry.

Is Huperzine A Dangerous?

No! Under normal circumstances, Huperzine A is considered very safe. That said, too much of everything (even the good stuff) can be bad, so you need to proceed with caution.

Some minor side effects of Huperzine A include:

• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Diarrhea
• Blurred vision
• Appetite loss
• Upset stomach and
• Increased blood pressure.

Okay, that all sounds scary. But before you run away, you should probably know that these side effects are very rare and usually manifest when you take too much Huperzine A.

That said, if you’re a pregnant or breastfeeding woman, you should probably stay away from Huperzine A unless you get the OK from your doctor.

Can I Take Other Supplements with Huperzine A?

Yes, you can… you just need to be careful. Nootropics like Huperzine A usually work fine on their own, but when you pair them with other great nootropics, the benefits can go through the roof.

For instance, ginkgo biloba has been shown to work synergistically with Huperzine A to prevent the degeneration of neurons. Similar studies have also shown that green tea can help to increase the availability of acetylcholine when taken together with Huperzine A.

So, yeah… you can totally experiment with different combinations. Just be mindful of maintaining a low dosage in order to avoid unwanted side effects. Also, avoid taking Huperzine A separately, if you’re already taking a nootropic stack that lists Huperzine A as one of its ingredients.

How Long Does Huperzine A Last?

Huperzine A can last for 14-24 hours in the body. It quickly passes through the blood-brain barrier within a few minutes of taking it and instantly increases the availability of acetylcholine.

Although its effect usually peaks within 1-2 hours of ingestion, it can stay active in the body for almost a whole day. So, it might be a good idea to take it every two days (or even twice a week), if you don’t want it to be in your system constantly.

Do I Need to Take Huperzine A with Food?

No!

I mean… you can, but you don’t have to. Unlike some other nootropics, Huperzine A is hydrophilic (water-soluble). That means you can take it alone (without adding food) and it would still enter the gut, get dissolved and absorbed.

After taking it, Huperzine A quickly passes through the wall of the gut and is absorbed into the bloodstream. The blood then carries it to the brain, where it does its magic.

On a Final Note

If you’re looking for a nootropic that will improve your memory, supercharge your brain functioning and offer neuroprotective capabilities, then look no further than Huperzine A. Its unique capabilities makes it a great choice for students who need a study aid, as well as working professionals seeking to make the most of each day.

But as cool as all that is, don’t forget to go easy on the supplement. Start off on a lower dose. If it isn’t working, crank up the dosage gradually until you discover your perfect dose. That said, it is always best to talk to your doctor before taking Huperzine A… especially if you’re currently taking other strong medications.

Similarly, if you’re a pregnant or lactating (breastfeeding) woman, Huperzine A is probably not for you. Its effects on pregnancy and lactation are still unclear, so unless it is prescribed by your doctor, you’re probably better off staying away from it.

Generally speaking, though, Huperzine A is a powerful and safe nootropic supplement that is worth every cent you spend on it. So, why not give it a shot? It might just be the lifesaver you desperately need.

Richard Adefioye

Richard is a freelance writer with a unique passion for health and fitness. His work has appeared on Lifehack, Livestrong, ThriveGlobal and other popular publications. When he’s not helping clients grow their businesses, he works out, plays the violin and has fun by all means necessary. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.

The post Huperzine A: Everything You Need to Know About This Brain-Unlocking Nootropic appeared first on Nootropics Resources.

So, it comes as no surprise, really, that sleeping pills have become commonplace among Americans. And while some of these pills are okay, others come with negative long-term effects, But there’s one sleep aid that has been gaining popularity for a while, and it’s called melatonin.

But what exactly is melatonin, how does it work and how do you know whether this popular nootropic supplement right for you? This article answers these questions and many others. So, sit back, relax and follow this article till the end, okay?

What Is Melatonin… Really?

Unlike most other sleep drugs, melatonin is actually produced naturally by the body. It is a hormone that is secreted in the brain’s pineal gland. Melatonin is commonly referred to as the sleep hormone because, you know… it helps you sleep. But that isn’t all it does — more on that in a moment.

Okay, so if melatonin is produced in the human body, where do they get the supplements? Well, that’s just the thing — melatonin production isn’t exclusive to humans, it is also produced by animals and plants.

Specifically, melatonin can be found in meat, eggs and fish, as well as plant products like seeds and leaves. Plants, in particular, are a good source of melatonin, as they need it to combat environmental and oxidative stress.

Thus, melatonin is extracted mostly from plants and packaged into supplements to meet all your sleep-hacking needs.

Melatonin is available as an over-the-counter (OTC) supplement in the United States, which means you can just walk into a drug store and get it. But in countries like Australia, you’re going to need a doctor’s prescription before you can lay your hands on it.

How Melatonin Works

Although it is commonly referred to as a sleep drug, melatonin itself won’t knock you out. All melatonin does is to inform your body that it’s dark and you need to rest. And this makes it easier for your body to relax and drift off to sleep.

Sounds complicated? It really isn’t.

Here’s how it works — melatonin controls your body’s internal clock, (a.k.a., the circadian rhythm) and this clock controls your sleeping and waking up. Melatonin does this by reacting to the amount of natural light available.

Here’s what I mean.

During nighttime (dark conditions) melatonin production increases and it is released into the brain by the pineal gland. This gives your body the sleep signal. Conversely, light suppresses the production of melatonin, therefore melatonin level drops drastically, during daytime. This helps you stay awake.

Got it? Great!

Although it isn’t entirely clear how melatonin induces sleep, here’s what we do know:

• To help you sleep, melatonin binds to receptors in the brain to reduce nerve activity. This reduces wandering thoughts and promotes relaxation.
• It also works on the eyes where it reduces the level of dopamine (the wakefulness hormone), in an attempt to get your eyes shut.
• In addition, melatonin helps to regulate blood pressure, body temperature and hormone levels.

All these factors interplay to promote relaxation and initiate sleep.

Okay, now that we’ve got all that mumbo-jumbo out of the way, let’s take a look at how melatonin can help you.

Benefits of Melatonin

Okay, apart from helping you get a good night’s sleep, melatonin comes with a plethora of other health benefits. Let’s take a look at some of them.

1. It helps to reset your internal clock:

If you’re a shift worker, then you probably know how frustrating it can be to get a good night’s sleep after days of pulling night shifts. The same is true of the jet lag that accompanies moving to a new time zone.

Either way, melatonin can be a life saver for you. Melatonin has been shown to reduce symptoms of jet lag and shift worker syndrome by synchronizing your internal clock with the time change.

According to a recent study that examined the effect of melatonin on people who travelled through multiple time zones, melatonin was incredibly effective at reducing jet lag, both at lower and higher doses.

2. It supports eye health

Melatonin doesn’t only help you doze off, it also have a positive effect on the eyes. How so? Well, melatonin is a powerful antioxidant — which means it protects against certain unfavorable processes.

This protective effect could help reduce the chances of coming down with eye-diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Sounds unbelievable? Well, it’s true.

According to a study involving 100 participants with AMD, a 3 mg dose of melatonin, taken daily for 6-24 months, protected the retinas and delayed further damage from AMD.

3. It may help with heartburn and stomach ulcers

Remember how melatonin is an antioxidant? Well this protective ability also allows it to alleviate heartburn and stomach ulcers.

Yeah, yeah… I know it sounds far fetched, but just hear me out.

According to a 2010 study involving 36 people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) — which is just a fancy name for advanced heartburn — melatonin effectively reduced the symptoms of heartburn. And this effect was even stronger when it was combined with omeprazole (a medication used to treat GERD).

4. It may help combat seasonal depression

Ever experienced winter blues? Yep, that’s just a cool name for seasonal depression and it isn’t an uncommon thing in the US. In fact, research shows that about 20% of adults come down with it at some point.

Interestingly, seasonal depression has been linked with unhealthy changes in light and sleep cycles. And that’s where melatonin comes in!

Researchers now believe that melatonin’s ability to stabilize the sleep cycle can prove effective in the treatment of seasonal depression.

5. It reduces the symptoms of tinnitus

Tinnitus is medical condition accompanied by a persistent ringing in the ears. Although that may not sound like a big deal when you’re at the train station, but all alone in the middle of the soundless night, it really can drive sleep from you.

Interestingly, research has shown that by taking melatonin, you can successfully decrease the symptoms of tinnitus and finally get some precious sleep.

For instance, in a 2011 study involving over 60 tinnitus patients, it was reported that a 3 mg daily intake of melatonin successfully reduced the symptoms of tinnitus and also improved sleep quality significantly.

How to Make the Most of Melatonin

Okay, listen up — melatonin isn’t a magic sleep pill, so if you want it to work for you, you need to use it under the right conditions. As effective as melatonin supplement is, some people still come out and say it doesn’t work for them.

In many of these cases, it’s usually due to mistakes on their part. So, here are a few tips that will help you obtain maximum benefits from melatonin.

1. Set and keep a regular bedtime:

Remember how melatonin controls your internal clock? Well, you can help it’s work by maintaining a regular bedtime. This way your internal clock with adjust quickly and you may no longer need melatonin supplements after some time.

2. Keep the electronics at bay

As stated earlier, light disrupts the production of melatonin and promotes wakefulness. So, to obtain maximum benefits from melatonin, you should stay away from bright light close to bedtime.

Blue light, produced by gadgets like TVs, laptops and phones is particularly guilty of affecting sleep quality, so stay away from it. But if you must use these devices, keep it to mo sooner than two hours before bedtime.

3. Keep the temperature cool

Temperature is important for sleep. No matter how many tabs of melatonin you take, if you’re sleeping in an excessively warm room, you won’t enjoy your sleep. So, keep the temperature nice and cool.

4. Establish a bedtime routine

Believe it or not, establishing a bedtime routine can help you to sleep better… even without a sleeping aid.

So create some relaxing pre-sleep activities (like massage, light reading etc.) and do them every night before bed. Soon your body will associate these activities with sleep and once you finish them, you’ll fall right asleep.

5. Take a shower

Never underestimate the relaxing power of an old-fashioned shower. Research has shown that taking a bath 1-2 hours before bed can improve relaxation and sleep quality.

Do this in addition to your melatonin boost and you might just have the most refreshing sleep of your life yet.

How Much Melatonin should You Take?

When it comes to melatonin dosage, there’s no one-size-fits-all recommendation, it all depends on the individual. Various factors such as age, weight and sex all play a role in determining how much melatonin you’ll need to achieve the desired effect.

But if there’s one thing experts agree on, it’s that you should start off on a lower dose and gradually work your way up to higher doses. According to a study by MIT, a dosage of 0.3 mg, is usually enough to improve sleep quality in adults.

However if this doesn’t seem to help, then you can gradually crank up the dosage up to 5 mg. Just bear in mind that melatonin is a hormone, which means the body needs it small amounts. So, aim at the lowest possible dose at which it works for you.

Taking higher doses, doesn’t make it more effective. In fact, according to the MIT study, not only are higher doses less effective, it can trigger some unwanted side effects.

Wait, what? I thought melatonin had no side effects. Well… not quite. Let’s take a look.

What Happens When You Take Too Much Melatonin?

Okay, let’s get something clear — melatonin is largely considered safe. And contrary to the belief that taking melatonin supplements may reduce your body’s ability to naturally produce the hormone, studies have shown that the opposite is true.

That said, too much of anything — even the good stuff — can be bad. This is certainly true for melatonin. However, melatonin’s side effects are mostly mild and not life threatening. They include:

• Day-time dizziness and grogginess
• Nausea
• Headache
• Mild tremor
• Irritability
• Low blood pressure
• Stomach cramps
• Temporary feelings of depression

You should also probably note that most melatonin studies have examined its effect in the short term, and it’s still unclear what effects supplementation might have on the long term. So, find your lowest effective dose and go easy on it, okay?

When To Take Melatonin

Alright, listen up — the effectiveness of melatonin isn’t only dependent on the dosage… when you take it matters too. In fact, some experts believe that the time of administration is even more important than how much melatonin you take.

When melatonin is taken as a supplement, it reaches its maximum concentration in the blood after about 30 minutes. So if you’re having trouble sleeping (a case of insomnia), then you’re better off taking it 30 minutes before hitting the bed.

However, if you’re trying to correct your circadian rhythm, as a result of shift work or jet lag, then it’s advisable to take melatonin about 2 hours before your desired bedtime. So if you’d like to sleep by 10 PM, you should take it by 8 PM. Also, don’t forget to maintain a regular bedtime.

Who Shouldn’t Take Melatonin?

Okay listen up — melatonin isn’t for everyone. Although melatonin itself is considered safe, it can interact with other medications to produce undesired effects. So, if you’re in any of the following categories, you’re probably better off staying away from melatonin. Or at the very least, talk to your doctor before taking it.

• Patients currently on a blood thinning medication, antidepressants, antibiotics, sedatives, antihistamines or blood pressure medications.
• Diabetic patients
• People with seizure disorders
• People on immuno-suppressant drugs
• People with bleeding disorders e.g., hemophilia.

Is Melatonin Addictive?

Short answer — no!

Unlike some other sleep medications (like Ambien and Lunesta), melatonin has been proven to be safe and non-addictive. This means there are no withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. And that is one of its major perks.

Melatonin for Kids: Does It Work?

According to a 2013 study, about 75% of school-aged kids don’t get sufficient sleep at night. So, it comes as no surprise that parents want to try out sleep aids such as melatonin on their kids.

But does it work? Well, as far as research studies are concerned, yes… it does! Melatonin has been proven effective for children, including those with autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other neurological conditions.

For instance, in an analysis of 35 studies in autistic children, the researchers reported that melatonin supplements helped the kids to sleep faster and longer. A similar study conducted on kids with neurological conditions also yielded similar results.

Interestingly, these results have also been observed in healthy kids and teens. According to a study which examined the effects of melatonin in children and adolescents with insomnia, over 90% of the participants experienced an improvement in their sleep problems after taking melatonin.

So, does it work for kids? Heck, yeah… it does!

Is Melatonin Safe for Kids?

Okay, so, we’ve established the fact that melatonin works for kids. But is it safe? Well, most research studies have come to the conclusion that melatonin is safe for kids… at least in the short-term.

That said, when it comes to kids, it’s always best to consult your doctor before introducing any new medication. Furthermore, while melatonin is considered safe for kids in the short-term, experts are still unsure of its long-term effects.

So, if your kid has some trouble sleeping, be sure to talk to your doctor first. Once appropriate diagnosis has been made, the doctor can then decide whether or not your child needs melatonin.

The Bottom Line

Melatonin is an amazing sleep aid that doesn’t only help you get a great night’s sleep, but also does your body a world of good… all without any serious side effects.

Just remember to stick to the lowest possible dose that works for you, because with melatonin, less is definitely more. Start off with 0.3-1 mg, but if that doesn’t work, you can crank it up to 3-5 mg.

Also, don’t forget to keep an eye on other medications you’re currently on. And if in doubt, be sure to talk to your doctor before swallowing your first melatonin pill.

Finally, keep calm, relax, create the right atmosphere, and stick to the right dosage. With melatonin, you can finally say goodbye to jet lag and insomnia.

Happy Sleep Day!

Richard Adefioye

Richard is a freelance writer with a unique passion for health and fitness. His work has appeared on Lifehack, Livestrong, ThriveGlobal and other popular publications. When he’s not helping clients grow their businesses, he works out, plays the violin and has fun by all means necessary. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.

The post Melatonin: Everything You Need To Know About the Natural Sleeping Pill appeared first on Nootropics Resources.

Well, as it turns out, lion’s mane mushrooms do possess kickass benefits for your brain and entire body. And in this article, we’ll take a look at some of these benefits and answer pretty much every question you have about lion’s mane mushrooms.

So, sit back and relax as I take you through everything you need to know about this powerful nootropic supplement.

What are Lion’s Mane Mushrooms?

Okay… so, lion’s mane is a fungus by definition and it is scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus. There’s something weird about lion’s mane, though… unlike other regular mushrooms, it has no cap and stem. Instead it has long, flowing, white tendrils that look like the mane of a lion… hence its name.

Lion’s mane is a versatile parasite that grows off both living and dead trees. It is native to Europe, Southeast Asia and North America (so you could easily pick one in your backyard).

Although it grows naturally in many continents, the widespread popularity of lion’s mane is probably owed to its intense use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

However, lion’s mane isn’t only used as medicine in China and other Asian countries, it is also considered a delicacy. In fact, some liken its taste to that of seafoods like crab or lobster.

Although lion’s mane can be harvested and consumed raw, cooked, dried or added to tea and coffee, you’ll probably benefit most from it when you take it as a supplement… more on that in a moment.

Other common names for lion’s mane include monkey’s head, pom pom blanc, hedgehog mushroom, bearded tooth, and satyr’s beard.

Okay, now that we’ve got all that out of the way, let’s take a look at how lion’s mane works.

What Does Lion’s Mane Do to the Brain?

Although research is still ongoing to fully understand how lion’s mane influences the brain, we already know a couple of things about its activity.

1. It promotes the growth of NGF and BNDF:

The first activity of lion’s mane has to do with something called the nerve growth factor (NGF), and its counterpart, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). NGF and BNDF are proteins that help in the maintenance and regeneration of neurons.

The brain contains billions of neurons and it needs NGF and BNDF to keep every single one strong and healthy. This is where lion’s mane comes in.

Studies have shown that lion’s mane helps in the production of NGF and BNDF. For instance, in a 2013 study, researchers showed that lion’s mane extract induced the synthesis (production) of NGF and promoted neurite growth.

2. It improves the functioning of the hippocampus:

The second activity of lion’s mane has to do with a part of the brain called the hippocampus. The hippocampus is responsible for emotional responses (happiness, sadness, anger, anxiety, etc.) and processing of memories.

Although human studies are still very limited in this regard, animal studies have shown that lion’s mane promotes the functioning of the hippocampus. This improved functioning is believed to play a role in the reduction of anxiety and depression… more on that in a moment.

What Are the Benefits of Lion’s Mane?

Lion’s mane mushrooms come with a plethora of health benefits that go way beyond helping your brain function properly. Here’s a video exploring some of these benefits.

Okay, let’s take a closer look at these benefits.

1. It may protect against dementia

Remember NGF and NBDF? Great! Here’s the thing — the natural production of these growth factors decrease as we grow older, or in the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases. And consequently, brain function also reduces. This is why your grandpa’s brain isn’t quite as sharp as yours.

This condition is known as dementia and lion’s mane may be able to help with it. Research has shown that lion’s mane contains hericenones and erinacines — two compounds that help to stimulate brain cell growth. And an improvement in the growth and regeneration of brain cells ultimately helps to improve brain function.

In animal studies, lion’s mane has been shown to protect against Alzheimer’s disease — a condition that causes progressive memory loss. Although this hasn’t been directly replicated in human studies, other similar studies have shown that lion’s mane supplementation helps to promote mental functioning.

For instance, in one study involving seniors with mild cognitive impairment, the researchers reported that a daily supplementation of 3 grams of lion’s mane for four months significantly improved mental functioning. Interestingly, this benefit disappeared when they stopped taking lion’s mane.

2. It may help reduce anxiety and depression

Anxiety and depression are major problems these days. In fact, one out of every three people living in developed countries exhibit symptoms of anxiety and depression at some point.

The good news? Lion’s mane can help!

Studies have shown that lion’s mane has strong anti-depressant properties. For instance, in a study conducted on 30 Japanese women, the researchers reported that lion’s mane helped to significantly reduce depression and anxiety.

In another study published in Biomedical Research, it was reported that by eating cookies containing lion’s mane mushroom every day for a month, menopausal women enjoyed a reduction in depression and anxiety.

3. It may protect against ulcers

Okay, ulcers are never fun. If you’ve ever had one, then you understand what I mean.

Ulcers can be formed anywhere in the digestive tract, including the stomach and intestines and it is usually caused by a bacteria called H. pylori.

Interestingly, lion’s mane hinders the growth of H. pylori. It has also been shown to protect the lining of the stomach from damage. These attributes make it a very promising option for the prevention of stomach ulcers.

Although human studies are still on-going in this regard, animal studies have shown great promise. In one study conducted on rats, it was reported that lion’s mane extract was even more effective in preventing stomach ulcers than regular acid-reducing drugs.

4. It may help to manage diabetes

Diabetes occurs when the body is no longer able to control blood sugar levels, resulting in consistently high levels. Diabetes also causes nerve pain in the hands and feet and this makes it very unpleasant.

But the good news is that lion’s mane mushroom may be able to help. It has been shown to improve blood sugar control and this may help greatly with managing diabetes.

Although human studies are still limited for now, a few studies in mice reported that lion’s mane significantly lowered blood sugar levels in both diabetic and normal mice, even at low doses.

As if that wasn’t enough, lion’s mane may also reduce diabetic nerve pain in the limbs. According to a 2015 study in diabetic rats, the researchers reported that a daily supplementation of lion’s mane extract helped to reduce pain significantly.

Although more research is still required to further investigate the effect of lion’s mane on diabetes management, the initial evidence certainly shows promise.

5. It promotes proper heart functioning

Another perk of lion’s mane mushroom is that it helps to keep your heart in tip-top condition. One of the major things that predispose people to heart diseases is a high level of triglycerides in the blood. But lion’s mane can lower it.

According to a 2013 study published in Mycobiology, a daily supplementation of lion’s mane extracts resulted in lower levels of triglyceride and improved fat metabolism in rats that had been fed a high-fat diet.

As if this isn’t enough — lion’s mane also contains something called hericenone B. This is a compound that reduces the rate at which blood clots, while also helping to reduce the risk of developing a heart attack or stroke.

Sounds amazing? It really is.

6. It may help to fight cancer

I know this sounds like a bogus claim, but hear me out. Recent studies have suggested that lion’s mane extract may possess cancer-fighting abilities due to various unique compounds it contains.

According to a 2011 study published in Food & Function, lion’s mane extract caused human cancer cells to die faster in a test tube. Interestingly, this has been proven true for various types of cancer such as colon, stomach, liver and blood cancers.

Apart from killing cancer cells, lion’s mane also helps to prevent the spread of cancer cells… in mice, at least. And as research continues on this application, it’s just a matter of time before we figure out how to use it to treat human cancers as well.

7. It reduces inflammation and oxidative stress

Okay, listen up — inflammation and oxidative stress are a big deal. In fact, research has revealed that it is to blame for most chronic illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders.

But here’s the thing — lion’s mane mushroom has very strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which makes it a potent remedy for these unwanted complications. In fact, one study of 14 mushrooms ranked it as the fourth most powerful source of antioxidants.

This has been proven by several studies, too. In one 2014 study, the researchers reported that lion’s mane extract helped to significantly lower inflammatory markers in rats when used at 300 mg/kg.

8. It promotes recovery from nervous system injuries

The nervous system comprises of the brain, the spinal cords and myriads of nerves, which work in harmony to control pretty much every bodily function. So, an injury to this system can be pretty are nasty… resulting in loss of mental coordination and sometimes, paralysis!

Nervous system injuries don’t heal quickly, too and that’s probably the most frustrating part.

But here’s good news — lion mane can help. Studies have shown that lion’s mane extract can help to speed up recovery time by fast-tracking the repair of the damaged nerve cells. In fact, one study showed that it can help to shorten recovery time by as much as 41 percent.

But that’s not all — some studies have also shown that it can help to reduce stroke-induced brain damage by up to 44 percent. Although the bulk of these results have been from animal studies, it certainly shows a lot of promise for human application. So, it doesn’t hurt to try, does it?

9. It boosts the immune system

Okay, listen up — if you want to live a healthy and disease-free life, then you need to take care of your immune system. The immune system is your body’s defense mechanism against pathogens (disease-causing organisms) like viruses and bacteria.

Now, listen to this — lion’s mane can boost your immune system. Various studies have shown that lion’s mane helps to increase the activity of the intestinal immune system, which protects against pathogens that enter the body through the mouth or nostrils.

So, if you’re looking to super-charge your immune system, lion’s mane mushroom might just be all you need.

Alright… now that it’s crystal clear that lion’s mane does your body a world of good, let’s check out how safe it is.

Is Lion’s Mane Safe?

Short answer — yes!

Lion’s mane has been reported to be very safe by various research studies… even at high doses. And although most of these studies were on animals, the same should be true for humans. People have been eating lion’s mane mushrooms in Asia for decades and have reported no issues.

However, due to limited human studies involving lion’s mane supplements, you should probably exercise caution when taking it as a supplement. Even the good stuff can be abused sometimes.

Also, if you have a history of allergic reactions to mushrooms, then you should definitely proceed with caution. So, start small and see how your body responds.

Does Lion’s Mane Have Side Effects?

Well, a little… yes.

Lion’s mane is largely considered safe and non-toxic. However, there have been reports of itchy skin when it’s used at very high dosages. But in most cases, side effects are just the product of an allergic reaction.

So, if you notice symptoms like digestive problems, breathing difficulty and itchiness after taking the supplement, stop taking it and seek help. If you’re unsure whether lion’s mane is okay for you, please consult your doctor. Better safe than sorry.

How To Take Lion’s Mane

Okay, listen — lion’s mane is a mushroom, which means you can pick one on your adventure through the woods or literally just grown some in your backyard. So, you eat it raw or cooked. You could even dry it and add it to your coffee or tea.

But there’s a drawback with these methods — you can’t regulate the dosage or determine how much nutrient you’re actually getting. This is why it’s best to take lion’s mane as a supplement.

Lion’s mane supplements are usually made from its extracts, which makes it more potent and reliable. These may be sold as capsules, powders or tablets, depending on the manufacturer.

How Much Lion’s Mane Should I Take?

Okay, when it comes to supplements, less is always more, so try to start with the lowest dose. That said, the dosage can vary wildly, depending on the concentration of the extract.

Some manufacturers recommend taking 500-1000 mg, 1-3 times daily. Other manufacturer recommendations can range from 300 – 3000 mg, taken 1-3 times per day. So, check the recommended dose the manufacturer stated on the label and start with the lower limit. See how your body reacts and adjust accordingly.

When Should I Take Lion’s Mane

You can take lion’s mane at any time of the day. However, since it’s a nootropic (brain-boosting) supplement, it’s probably best to take it early in the morning.

That said, everyone is different. So, feel free to experiment with different times of the day to see what works best for you.

The Bottom Line

Lion’s mane is amazing! Not only does it help to supercharge your brain, it also benefits your heart, gut and pretty much every system in your body. And to top it all, it has little-to-no side effects.

But before you gobble down the supplement, be sure you’re not allergic to mushrooms. Also, remember to start off at a lower dosage and work your way up until you find the dosage that works best for you.

Bottom line? Lion’s mane will make your brain and body roar with energy and vitality. So, what are you waiting for?

Richard Adefioye

Richard is a freelance writer with a unique passion for health and fitness. His work has appeared on Lifehack, Livestrong, ThriveGlobal and other popular publications. When he’s not helping clients grow their businesses, he works out, plays the violin and has fun by all means necessary. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.

The post Lion’s Mane Mushrooms – All You Need to Know About the Brain-Boosting Fungus appeared first on Nootropics Resources.