mercredi 22 août 2012

Nerve Regeneration by Wild Mushroom Hericium erinaceus

By Dr. Markho Rafael


The unique flavor of the gourmet mushroom Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is often compared to either lobster or shrimp. And modern science is now discovering that not only is it a culinary delicacy but it may also possess some unique medicinal properties, with its ability to stimulate nerve and myelin regeneration. (150, 151) In the book Mycelium Running, foremost American medicinal mushroom expert Paul Stamets suggests this may make Hericium erinaceus useful in a large number of neurological conditions, from multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy to Alzheimer's and dementia. (134)

Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane) is known to grow in Europe, North America, Japan and China. It can be found on many broad leaf trees, from oaks, maples and sycamores to beeches and walnuts.

The active compounds that have received the most attention for their nerve regenerating properties are named erinacines, a series of low molecular weight molecules that are able to pass through the blood brain barrier - an essential attribute for any medicinal compound expected to be able to effect healing on myelin or nerve tissue. (152, 153, 154)

There are currently two Japanese patents on different extracts of Hericium erinaceus. One was filed in the 1990's for an extract named "Nerve Growth Stimulant Factor." (150, 151) The other, filed in 2004, is for a water extraction process, yielding a product that is likewise used for nerve and myelin healing. (155)

Although recent research on Hericium erinaceus extract has focused on its powerful effect on healing nerve tissue, in Traditional Chinese Medicine Lion's Mane Mushroom was used primarily for stomach conditions and cancers of the digestive organs.

Modern science has provided some support for this traditional use of Hericium erinaceus extract. One study conducted in 1985 reported positive results for treating atrophic gastritis. Another, published in 1995, presented findings that Hericium erinaceus helped extend the average life expectancy for patients with hepatoma. (156)

Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Never use any medicinal mushroom or herb without prior approval by medical doctor.

Credit to Paul Stamets for research and source material.




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