A reason why we function is because of our brain. Without it, we would never be able to function. We use it to store memories, process information, and trigger the production of necessary hormones needed for our organs to function.
One thing we take for granted is that our brain is an organ that also ages over time. As we age, our cognitive ability degrades the same way an old computer wouldn’t be able to keep up with a modern one.
Have you ever found yourself going into a room, but forgetting what you were supposed to do there? Have you misplaced your mobile phone only to find them resting in your pocket? Have you mixed up the names of friends and family?
All of these, including other awkward situations, usually point to a decline of cognitive ability and usually comes with aging. Although aging is a natural phenomenon, the aging of the brain can be moderated with the help of nootropics.
Nootropics are dietary supplements that decrease the effects of cognitive degradation. Among the number of nootropics in the market, lion’s mane superfoods australia is a frequent choice.
What is Lion’s Mane?
Lion’s mane is a wild edible and medicinal mushroom native to Asia, Europe, and North America. It is typically found growing as clumps of long, dangling spines on the surface of hardwoods. They get the name lion’s mane because of the way the dangling spine resembles the shaggy mane of a lion. Its other names include bearded tooth, monkey head, bearded hedgehog, and satyr’s beard.
Wild lion’s mane can be eaten raw, cooked, dried and even made into tea. Specialist from Superfoods Australia have been reviewing studies on the fungus and have listed a number of the benefits one could get out of the medicinal mushroom:
Immune System Booster
Our immune system is responsible for protecting our bodies from infectious disease such as the flu. Different vitamins and minerals extracted from the food we eat help boost our immune system. If we don’t take care to keep our immune systems up, we expose ourselves to catching bacterial and viral infections which can make us sick. In worse cases, a simple cough or cold can send us rushing into the hospital!
A chemical compound found in Lion’s mane can help boost the immune system by helping our intestines make the most of the food we ingest and extract the necessary vitamins and minerals that keep us in tip-top shape.
Minimize the Effects of Aging
The brain, in a way, is just like a muscle. The less we use it, the weaker it gets. In the case of brains, not keeping your brain sharp with the help of books and a proper diet can lead to cognitive decline.
While we’re young, our brains create new connections that are responsible for the different bodily functions as well as the retention and recollection of stored memory. However, aging will slowly wear at these connections and it takes our body a lot more to recreate these connections.
Chemical compounds found in lion’s mane, namely Hericenones and Erinacines, have been found to have an enhancing effect on the regulation of growth, maintenance, production, and survival of neurons.
Decreases Oxidative Stress
Free radicals are atoms that can damage cells in the body. They usually cause illness and aging. Common sources of free radicals are pollution and diet. Antioxidants are chemical compounds found in foods such as vegetables, fruits, and eggs which terminate the reaction of oxidation caused by free radicals.
According to a study, lion’s mane is a good source of antioxidants when ingested frequently.
Can Relieve Mild Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression
Over the last few decades, anxiety and depression have been affecting millions of people globally. They are usually caused by overexposure to stress, physical and mental trauma, unbalanced diets, among other things. They can affect and interfere with a person’s day-to-day if left unchecked and can lead to other complications.
A major contributing factor to anxiety and depression which recent studies have shown is chronic inflammation. Research of Lion’s Mane has also shown that it has anti-inflammatory properties which help alleviate chronic inflammation.
Scientists have also observed the fungus when ingested increases activity in the hippocampus which may reduce anxious and depressive behavior.
One Note About Lion’s Mane
While these studies performed on small animals were promising, there is little evidence that the same results present themselves in humans. The studies may show that lion’s mane mushrooms can ease the mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, but more research is needed in order to shed some light on the correlation.
We may think that dietary supplements can improve our health in general, but they are by no means the cure to disease. Should you feel ill or any irregularity in your body, it would be best to book an appointment with the proper professional.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
