For thousands of years, exotic mushrooms have served as functional foods and potent medicines, offering a pathway to balance, longevity, and protection against diseases.

Among these unusual fungi, the lion's mane mushroom is a renowned variety with well-established benefits. Its cascading white spines, resembling a lion's majestic mane, have captivated the attention of researchers. Other exotic varieties, such as Hericium novae-zealandiae, commonly known as New Zealand Lion's Mane, hold the potential to transform our well-being. As our global population continues to grow, viruses and other pathogenic diseases mutate, posing increased risks to our health. To navigate this evolving landscape, strengthening our immune systems and harnessing the tremendous benefits of these mushrooms becomes paramount.

In this blog post, we will embark on a journey to explore the captivating world of lion's mane mushrooms, focusing on the renowned Hericium erinaceus and its lesser-known counterpart, Hericium novae-zealandiae. We will delve into their unique properties, from cognitive enhancement to immune support, while also recognising the vast potential offered by other exotic mushroom varieties. By uncovering their secrets, we can empower ourselves with the tools to harmonise our bodies, promote longevity, and protect against the ever-changing landscape of diseases, including potential future pandemics.

The history of Lion's Mane

The consumption of lion's mane mushrooms dates back centuries, with early records tracing their use to ancient civilisations. In traditional Chinese medicine, lion's mane mushrooms have been revered for their potential to promote vitality and enhance cognitive function. The lion's mane was believed to be reserved for emperors and royalty due to its precious nature and esteemed properties.

Interestingly, Buddhist monks were also known to consume lion's mane mushrooms to improve focus during meditation. The mushroom's ability to enhance concentration and clarity made it a valuable tool for spiritual practices.

Beyond Asia, indigenous cultures in North America recognized the importance of lion's mane mushrooms as well. Native American tribes held these fungi in high regard for their medicinal properties, often incorporating them into traditional remedies.

Hericium novae-zealandiae, commonly known as New Zealand Lion's Mane, holds a special place in the culinary traditions of the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand who named it pekepekekiore. This native mushroom has been valued and consumed by local communities for generations. Its unique flavour and potential health benefits have made it an integral part of their traditional cuisine. The rich cultural heritage surrounding the consumption of New Zealand Lion's Mane highlights its significance as a local culinary treasure.

There is limited knowledge regarding H. novae-zealandiae, Previous studies have explored the water extract of H. novae-zealandiae and identified it as a good source of nucleoside compounds. Additionally, bioactivities were observed in three polysaccharide fractions extracted from this species. The ethanol extract of H. novae-zealandiae demonstrated notable anti-proliferative and antioxidant activities, along with a weak inhibitory effect on AChE (acetylcholinesterase). Lipid-soluble compounds were also identified in the ethanol extract.

The New Zealand native mushroom is a valuable natural source of ergosterol and hericene B, comprising nearly 7% of its dry weight. Ergosterol is a primary sterol present in the fungal cell membrane and serves as a precursor to vitamin D. When exposed to UV light, ergosterol can be converted into vitamin D. Ergosterol has been associated with various pharmacological activities, such as alleviating inflammation-induced pain, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, inhibiting the cyclooxygenase enzyme, and exhibiting antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticomplementary, and antitumor properties.

Hericene B, present in both H. erinaceus and H. novae-zealandiae, has been a subject of research for its potential to promote nerve growth factor (NGF) activity. Furthermore, hericene B has demonstrated moderate protective effects against stress-induced cell death. H. novae-zealandiae and H. erinaceus belong to the same genus, it is possible that their chemical profiles share similarities. Therefore, it is plausible that unique compounds found in H. erinaceus may also be present in H. novae-zealandiae.

The allure of lion's mane mushrooms has continued to captivate the modern world, where scientific research has shed light on their potential benefits. The discovery of bioactive compounds, such as hericenones and erinacines, has further piqued the interest of researchers and health enthusiasts alike.

Today, the popularity of lion's mane mushrooms extends beyond cultural traditions, with a growing appreciation for their potential cognitive enhancement, immune support, and overall well-being. As our understanding of these mushrooms deepens, more and more individuals are incorporating lion's mane into their diets and supplement routines.

In recent years, the availability of lion's mane mushroom supplements has made it easier than ever to harness the potential benefits of this fascinating fungi. With options ranging from capsules to powders, individuals can conveniently incorporate lion's mane into their daily wellness practices.

Comparing Lion's Mane vs New Zealand Lion's mane

Hericium erinaceus (international Lion's Mane) vs Hericium novae-zealandiae (New Zealand Lion’s Mane) based on some key characteristics

While lion's mane mushrooms have a rich historical background and a growing scientific understanding, it is essential to note that further research is needed to unlock the full spectrum of their potential benefits. As with any supplement or dietary change, it is advisable to consult with healthcare professionals to ensure that it aligns with your needs and health circumstances.

Conclusion

In the realm of mushroom supplements, the power of lion's mane mushrooms shines brightly. Whether you choose the renowned Hericium erinaceus or the intriguing Hericium novae-zealandiae, these mushrooms offer many benefits that can enhance your well-being.

By combining the unique properties of lion's mane with the nutritional richness of other mushrooms, you can create a potent synergy of health benefits. Shiitake mushrooms, known for their immune-boosting properties and potential anti-cancer effects, and oyster mushrooms, with their abundance of vitamins and minerals, complement the cognitive and immune support provided by lion's mane. Together, these mushrooms create a powerful blend that can further amplify the benefits of mushroom supplements.

As the popularity of mushroom supplements continues to grow, more and more people are discovering the immense advantages of incorporating lion's mane and other mushroom varieties into their daily routines. From supporting cognitive function and nerve health to boosting the immune system, these supplements offer a natural and holistic approach to well-being.

Read more about Lion’s Mane

1. Chen, Z., Buchanan, P., & Quek, S. Y. (2022). Identification and determination of compounds unique to Hericium in an edible New Zealand mushroom Hericium novae-zealandiae. Food Analytical Methods, 15(1), 67-74.
2. Chen, Z. G., Bishop, K. S., Tanambell, H., Buchanan, P., Smith, C., & Quek, S. Y. (2019). Characterization of the bioactivities of an ethanol extract and some of its constituents from the New Zealand native mushroom Hericium novae-zealandiae. Food & function, 10(10), 6633-6643.
3. Mori, K., Obara, Y., Hirota, M., et al. (2008). Nerve growth factor-inducing activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 31(9), 1727-1732.
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7. Lee, K. F., Chen, J. H., Teng, C. C., et al. (2014). Protective effects of Hericium erinaceus mycelium and its isolated erinacine A against ischemia-injury-induced neuronal cell death via the inhibition of iNOS/p38 MAPK and nitrotyrosine. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 15(9), 15073-15089.
8. Kawagishi, H., Shimada, A., Hosokawa, S., et al. (1991). Erinacines A, B and C, strong stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF)-synthesis, from the mycelia of Hericium erinaceum. Tetrahedron Letters, 32(35), 4561-4564.