Already gaining attention for its mental health and weight-loss benefits, lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) is now back in the spotlight for its potential nerve-repairing properties. Added to that, it’s believed this humble mushroom could also help to reduce blood clots.
So, can lion’s mane help to repair nerve damage? Can it help to reduce blood clots? Is there nothing it can’t do..?
What is lion’s mane?
Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a species of tooth fungus or mushroom. This edible variety is native to Asia, Europe, and North America, and tends to grow in a single clump with dangling spines longer than 1 centimetre (1⁄2 inch).
It gets the name ‘lion’s mane’ from its large, white, shaggy appearance, which resembles a lion’s mane.
Can lion’s mane repair nerve damage?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than three billion people worldwide are living with a nervous system (neurological) condition. And there’s currently no known cure. So, could lion’s mane help to repair nerve damage and help to alleviate the burden?
“One of the most exciting aspects of lion’s mane is its potential ability to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF),” says Elliot Webb, founder of Urban Farm-It. “Nerve growth factor is essential for maintaining and repairing nerves, which means lion’s mane may help with recovery from nerve damage or even in reducing the risk of cognitive decline.”
And while this is not a guaranteed solution, it’s believed to be a significant area of interest for researchers.
Can lion’s mane reduce blood clots?
Another exciting area of interest for researchers looking into the benefits of lion’s mane is its ability to reduce blood clots.
“Research suggests that compounds like hericenone B, found in lion’s mane, could reduce the process of platelets sticking together to form clots,” says Webb. “This may help lower the risk of serious conditions such as strokes or heart attacks.”
This new understanding of the potential benefits of lion’s mane will serve to boost the already-powerful ‘food as medicine’ trend.
“Lion’s mane may offer natural support for cardiovascular health,” says Webb.
However, experts are quick to highlight that medical advice should be sought before an individual incorporates lion’s mane into their diets, if they are already prescribed blood thinners.
“While lion’s mane shows potential as a natural blood thinner, it’s important to approach its use carefully,” says Webb. “Blood-thinning medication, combined with lion’s mane could increase the risk of bruising or bleeding.”
What does this mean for food and beverage manufacturers?
The growing understanding of the benefits of lion’s mane is quickly pushing it to the top of the functional ingredient priority list for consumers. And manufactures are catching on just as fast, with the launch of lion’s mane protein powders, meal-replacement drinks, coffee, and even chocolate already hitting the shelves.
Global demand for lion’s mane products is reaching fever pitch, leading to a strong market value of $27.81m and an even stronger projected CAGR of 19.84% over the next four years, according to Technavio.
“In the last five to 10 years, there has been a surge in interest around the lion’s mane mushroom,” says a spokesperson for Merryhill Mushrooms.
And the trend is accelerating, with social conversations about lions mane increasing by 18.31% over the past year, according to Tastewise.
But it’s not just food and beverage manufacturers getting involved. The service sector is also catching on, with 0.42% (4 616) of UK restaurants now offering lions mane on their menus.
However, while brands have been quick to capitalise on the popularity of lion’s mane, with a sharp rise in new products development, there are still huge opportunities available to food and beverage manufacturers.
“Lion’s mane mushroom is a versatile ingredient that can be easily incorporated into various dishes, adding a unique and earthy flavour,” says Merryhill Mushrooms.
In other words, there’s really no product it can’t be incorporated into.
And it’s not just the health benefits, which are attracting consumers, lion’s mane is winning on flavour too.
“The unique taste and texture of lion’s mane have contributed to its growing popularity as a culinary ingredient, particularly as a seafood substitute,” says O’Sulivan.
