Botanical Name
- Hericium erinaceus
Common Names
- Lion's Mane
- Monkey Head Mushroom
- Yamabushitake
- Hedgehog Mushroom
Flavor
- Umami
Herbal Energetics
- Neutral-Warming, Moistening
Herbal Actions
- Nervine: Supports the nervous system, promoting nerve regeneration and cognitive health.
- Neuroprotective: Protects nerve cells from damage and supports the repair and regeneration of nervous tissue.
- Adaptogen: Helps the body adapt to stress, promoting overall balance and resilience.
- Digestive Tonic: Supports digestive health, particularly by soothing and healing the stomach lining.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, especially in the digestive tract and nervous system.
- Immunomodulatory: Balances and supports the immune system, enhancing the body's ability to fight infections and diseases.
Organ Affinities
- Nervous System: Strongly supports the brain and nervous system, promoting cognitive function, memory, and nerve health.
- Digestive System: Soothes and heals the digestive tract, particularly the stomach lining, and supports overall digestive health.
- Immune System: Enhances immune function, making it effective for boosting overall immunity.
Uses
- Cognitive Health: Used to enhance memory, focus, and overall cognitive function, particularly in age-related cognitive decline.
- Neurodegenerative Disorders: Supports nerve regeneration and may be beneficial in conditions like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and multiple sclerosis.
- Nerve Damage: Assists in the recovery of damaged nerves and supports overall nerve health.
- Digestive Health: Used to soothe and protect the stomach lining, making it beneficial for conditions like gastritis and ulcers.
- Stress and Anxiety: Acts as an adaptogen to help the body cope with stress, reducing anxiety and promoting mental clarity.
- Immune Support: Used to boost and balance the immune system, making it useful in preventing and fighting infections.
Preparation and Dosage
- Powder: Take 1-3 grams of Lion's Mane powder daily, mixed into smoothies, teas, or other beverages.
- Tincture: Take 1-2 ml of a double-extracted tincture, 2-3 times daily.
- Decoction: Boil and simmer dried Lion's Mane in water for 30-45 minutes. Drink 1-3 cups daily for digestive or cognitive support.
- Culinary Use: Lion's Mane can be cooked and eaten as a food, adding it to soups, stir-fries, or other dishes.
Contraindications
- Allergies: Individuals with mushroom allergies should avoid using Lion's Mane.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Those with autoimmune conditions should use caution, as Lion's Mane may stimulate the immune system.
Materia magica
- Wisdom and Insight: Lion's Mane is associated with enhancing wisdom, intuition, and mental clarity, making it valuable in rituals aimed at increasing knowledge or spiritual insight.
- Protection: It is used for protection, particularly of the mind and spirit, guarding against negative energies and influences.
- Spiritual Growth: Lion's Mane is often used to support spiritual growth and the development of psychic abilities.
- Courage: Associated with the strength and courage of a lion, it can be used in rituals to boost confidence and bravery.
- Planet: Mercury - Lion's Mane is governed by Mercury, reflecting its associations with the mind, communication, and cognitive function.
- Element: Air - Corresponding to the element of Air, it enhances mental clarity, intellect, and communication.
- Zodiac Sign: Gemini - Resonates with Gemini, emphasizing its role in communication, learning, and mental agility.