Cognitive Mushroom Supplements: Science Behind Brain-Boosting Herbs
The UK Mushroom Supplements used in these supplements aren’t typically sold as food, but rather as dietary supplements or medicinal herbs. They contain unique, bioactive molecules that promote immune health and enhance cognitive function. Mushrooms, including lion’s mane and turkey tail, have antioxidant properties, which help fight the effects of chronic inflammation on the body by neutralizing unstable molecules called free radicals.
Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus, also known as hu tou gu or yamabushitake) is one of the most popular mushroom supplements on the market. It has been shown to support brain health, and in particular, improve memory. This is due to its compounds that have been shown to inhibit oxidative damage and promote nerve cell growth.
One study on humans found that those who took lion’s mane extract performed better on a task that requires multitasking. In addition, the researchers found that participants’ blood markers indicated lower levels of depression.
Top UK Mushroom Supplements for Mind and Body
Further, a small study on Meniere’s disease—a condition that causes ringing in the ears and hearing loss—found that those who took turkey tail mushroom for two months experienced improvements in mood, tinnitus, hearing loss, and oxidative stress levels compared to the control group.
Another type of mushroom, hericienones and erinacines, have been studied for their ability to encourage the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which plays a vital role in maintaining and repairing nerve cells. While these studies have been promising, further research is needed in order to determine the exact way these mushrooms benefit brain health.