Botanical Overview
Hericium erinaceus, commonly known as Lion’s Mane Mushroom, Bearded Tooth Mushroom, or Pom Pom Blanc, belongs to the family Hericiaceae. It is primarily native to Asia, North America, and Europe. The parts used medicinally are the fruiting bodies and mycelium of the fungus.
Energetics
This mushroom is considered energetically neutral in temperature with moistening properties. It has a mild, sweet, and umami taste profile with an ascending directionality. It is tonifying, supporting the body’s qi and shen (spirit) energy.
Primary Actions
- Neuroprotective
- Cognitive enhancer
- Nervine
- Immunomodulatory
- Anti-inflammatory
Indications
Western
- Mild cognitive impairment
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Gastric ulcers
- Neuropathy
Syndromes
- Neurodegenerative conditions
- Gastric mucosal inflammation
- Peripheral neuropathy
TCM
- Spleen Qi deficiency
- Poor memory
- Fatigue
Syndromes
- Qi deficiency
- Shen (spirit) disturbance
- Spleen and stomach weakness
Ayurveda
No specific indications documented.
Unani
No specific indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Hericium erinaceus contains bioactive compounds such as hericenones, erinacines, polysaccharides (notably beta-glucans), sterols, and phenols. These contribute to its neurotrophic, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Capsules standardized to erinacines and hericenones 500-1000 mg daily
- Powdered fruiting body 1-3 g daily
- Tincture 1:5 20-40% ethanol 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
The mushroom is generally well tolerated with minimal adverse effects. Mild allergic reactions may occur, especially in individuals allergic to mushrooms. Use during pregnancy and lactation is not well studied and is best avoided. Potential additive effects with anticoagulants warrant caution.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers have been identified for Hericium erinaceus.
Selected References
- Neurotrophic effects of Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane) mushrooms on nerve growth factor synthesis and release
- Medicinal Mushrooms: A Clinical Guide – Martin Powell (2016)
- Plants For A Future – Hericium erinaceus
- Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane) and its neuroprotective properties: A review – Ryu SY et al. (2019)