The Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus), this mushroom with such a peculiar appearance, never ceases to amaze us. While its benefits for memory and concentration are increasingly known, its impact on myelination, an essential process for the health of our nervous system, is generating growing interest. So, what do the studies reveal about this hidden potential of the Lion's Mane? French Mush takes you to the heart of myelin and shows you how the Lion’s Mane could be a valuable ally for our brain!
Myelin and the Myelination Process: What Can We Learn?
Have you ever wondered how information travels so quickly in your body? The answer lies largely in myelin! This somewhat mysterious substance plays a crucial role in the speed and efficiency of our nervous system. So, let's dive together into the discovery of this fascinating mechanism!
Myelin: An Insulating Sheath for Our Neurons
Myelin is a protective membrane, rich in lipids (fats) and proteins, that wraps around the axons, the long extensions of neurons (the latter transmit electrical signals).
This myelin sheath is formed by specialized cells:
● the oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and
● Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system (the nerves that connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body).
These different cells wrap around the axons to form multiple layers of myelin!
Myelination: An Essential Process for the Body
Myelination is the process of forming this myelin sheath around the axons. It begins during embryonic life and continues through childhood, even into adulthood! This process is very important because it significantly accelerates the speed of nerve signal transmission. Without myelin, electrical signals would propagate much more slowly, making our movements, thoughts, and sensations much less efficient.
So, the next time you perform a quick action or have a lightning-fast thought, think about myelin. It plays a very important role in optimal nerve communication!
What to take away from research on the effects of Lion’s Mane on myelination?
You may be wondering how Lion's Mane can influence this crucial process of myelination? Recent research provides exciting answers.
The works of Kolotushkina and her collaborators
A fascinating study conducted by the Kolotushkina team examined the influence of Lion's Mane extract (Hericium erinaceus) on cerebellar cells and the myelination process in the laboratory (in vitro). Their findings are encouraging to say the least!
The researchers observed that Lion's Mane extract promoted normal growth of nerve and glial cells, without causing toxic or pathological effects. Even better, the ultrastructure of the cells remained intact, similar to that observed in a living organism (in vivo).
But the most interesting thing is that the Lion's Mane extract seemed to accelerate the myelination process! In the presence of the extract, myelination started earlier and proceeded at a faster rate compared to the control cells. In conclusion, this study suggests that the Lion's Mane extract promotes the normal development of cultured cerebellar cells and exerts a regulatory effect on myelin formation in vitro.
Other works go even further…
Several animal studies (the works of Spelman & al) have also highlighted the ability of Lion's Mane to facilitate nerve growth and remyelination after a brain injury. Their results suggest that this mushroom could play a role in the repair of damaged nerves.
Another study (Koichiro & al) also revealed a significant improvement in cognitive function in adults suffering from mild cognitive impairment after 16 weeks of Lion's Mane consumption. Other research (Mayumi & al) simultaneously demonstrated a significant reduction in anxiety and depression in perimenopausal women after only four weeks of using Lion’s Mane supplements.
These potential benefits are linked to the richness of Lion's Mane in bioactive compounds, such as hericenones and erinacines, which have the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and support neuroregeneration. This mushroom is also capable of stimulating the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein essential for the survival and development of neurons."
French Mush: Our commitment to providing you with optimal health
At French Mush, we are convinced that the health of your nervous system is essential to your overall well-being. That's why we provide you with natural and effective solutions to enhance myelination and promote optimal nerve communication.
Our Lion's Mane Bio, cultivated according to organic farming principles, is a valuable source of bioactive compounds, including hericenones and erinacines. Thanks to our gentle ultrasonic extraction method, we ensure maximum bioavailability of these precious nutrients, so your body can use them effectively to support the health of your nervous system.
By incorporating Lion's Mane capsules or Lion’s Mane powder for example into your daily routine, you provide your brain with the support it needs to function optimally. Our vegan capsules, made from pine cone, also allow you to fully enjoy the benefits of this exceptional mushroom, with ease and safety. So, ready to boost your nervous system with French Mush?
Source :
The influence of Hericium erinaceus extract on myelination process in vitro
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12675022/
Natural Therapies to Support Myelin Health
https://restorativemedicine.org/digest/natural-therapies-support-myelin-health/
Neurological Activity of Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
https://restorativemedicine.org/journal/neurological-activity-lions-mane-hericium-erinaceus/?utm_source=ojs&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=journal