Looking for natural ways to improve your wellbeing and haven’t heard of Hericenones and Erinacines? These two compounds are found in specific mushrooms and have been discovered to have potential therapeutic benefits. In this article, we’ll cover what Hericenones and Erinacines are, their health benefits, and how to incorporate them into your diet.

Introduction to Hericenones and Erinacines

Hericenones and Erinacines are two types of compounds found primarily in hericium erinaceus or better known as Lion’s Mane Mushroom. These compounds are known for their ability to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the brain. NGF is a protein that plays a crucial role in the growth, maintenance, and survival of nerve cells. By increasing NGF levels, Hericenones and Erinacines may have a positive impact on cognitive function, nerve cell regeneration, and may be a possible solution for many neurological disorders.

Hericenones are a class of benzaldehydes that are found in the fruiting bodies of Lion’s Mane. The fruiting bodies of a mushroom is what it sounds like, the mushroom itself. Hericenones are responsible for the distinct aroma and taste of Lion’s Mane. Erinacines, on the other hand, are a group of compounds found primarily in the mycelium of Lion’s Mane. Mycelium is the root network of a collection of mushrooms, typically you will not see it due to it being under substrate or in this case with Lion’s Mane typically it’s under tree bark or inside dead tree logs. Erinacines are similar in structure to Hericenones but have been shown to have a more potent effect on NGF production.

The Health Benefits of Hericenones and Erinacines

The potential health benefits of Hericenones and Erinacines are vast and varied. Research has shown that these compounds may have a positive impact on nerve cell regeneration, cognitive function, and other various health benefits. Here are some of the benefits that have been discovered so far:

Nerve Growth Factor

As mentioned earlier, Hericenones and Erinacines are known for their ability to stimulate NGF production in the brain. NGF is essential for the growth and survival of nerve cells, and its levels tend to decline with age. By increasing NGF levels, Hericenones and Erinacines may help to protect and repair damaged nerve cells, leading to improved cognitive function and nerve cell regeneration. Of the two compounds, erinacines seem to be more effective at stimulating NGF whereas hericenones seem to be lacking. Current research suggests of the 15 types of erinacines found in Lion’s Mane that specifically Erinacine A seems to be the most effective. Erinacine A and S are currently the only two that can cross the blood-brain-barrier, this suggests their ability to be treatments for various neurological diseases to be promising.

Mental Function

Studies have shown that Hericenones and Erinacines may have a positive impact on cognitive function, memory, and overall brain health. One study found that Lion’s Mane mushroom extract improved cognitive function in seniors with mild cognitive impairment. Another study showed that Lion’s Mane extract improved memory and concentration in adults with general cognitive decline.

Immune Function

Research has also suggested that Hericenones and Erinacines may have immune-boosting properties. One study found that Lion’s Mane mushroom extract increased the activity of natural killer cells, which are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system’s defense against viruses and cancer cells.

Antiplatelet

Hericenone B specifically has been found to have antiplatelet activity. This means it can help to prevent blood clots from forming, this could possibly be useful in preventing certain heart attacks and strokes.

How to Incorporate Hericenones and Erinacines into Your Diet

The best way to get Hericenones and Erinacines would be to simply eat Lion’s Mane mushrooms. There are several supplement products on the market in forms of dried powders, tinctures, and more if you’d rather not eat them.

If you do plan to eat them the taste and texture is described to be like crab or lobster. Many have recommended it as a good meat substitute for vegan dishes. Regardless if you’re vegan or not there are plenty of delicious recipes out there. You can also steep the mushrooms and make tea with them or go through a process of extracting to make your own tinctures!

The Lion’s Mane mushroom has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive issues, inflammation, and anxiety. Find out more about Lion’s Mane here.

Conclusion: The Future of Hericenones and Erinacines in Health Research

Hericenones and Erinacines are two compounds found primarily in Lion’s Mane mushrooms that have been shown to have a variety of potential health benefits, particularly their ability to improve cognitive function and nerve cell regeneration. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these benefits, and which exact compounds are effective, the future looks promising for these compounds and more importantly for Lion’s Mane Mushroom as a whole.

Try Lion’s Mane Mushrooms today!