TL; DR Summary:
The myelin sheath is a layer of fatty tissue that surrounds your neurons. Neurons are the cells that transmit information in form of chemical or electrical impulses, which are needed for bodily functions like thinking, feeling, and moving. The myelin sheath helps the neuron transmit these impulses more quickly and efficiently by insulating it with a protective fat wrap around its axon (the long part of the neuron). Lion’s Mane benefits your brain’s myelin sheaths by increasing the production of Nerve Growth Factors and other proteins that stimulate the repair, protection, and growth of your healthy brain cells. What’s more, Lion’s Mane Mushroom also helps to counteract the build-up of “beta-amyloid” proteins, which are known for building up in the brain around myelin sheaths and blocking brain cell signaling.
What is Lion’s Mane?
Lion’s Mane Mushroom is a fungus that can grow up to 18 inches long. It has an orange-tan color and its stem is usually covered with short, thick warts. Lion’s Mane Mushroom can be found in North America, Europe, and Asia.
It grows in the fall when the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius and can be found near hardwood trees or coniferous forests near cold water sources such as rivers or creeks.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom can also be confused with other similar species of mushrooms such as Omphalotus olivaceous and Hericium americanum – both of which are edible but should not be consumed.
How Does Lion’s Mane Work in The Human Brain?
Lion’s mane mushroom is one of the most potent mushrooms in the world. It has been used for centuries to help with memory, focus, and concentration.
- The lion’s mane mushroom contains a set of compounds called hericenones and erinacines which are thought to be responsible for its cognitive benefits.
The benefits of this supplement include reduced anxiety levels, increased attention span, mental clarity, improved memory and mood as well as increased lifespan. It also helps with symptoms of depression, bipolar disorders, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia.
Lion’s Mane is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. People who take Lion’s mane often report that their mental performance is boosted and they feel sharper.
How does Lion’s Mane Benefit Myelin Sheaths?
Lion’s mane affects myelin sheath by providing the body with an abundance of compounds that are beneficial for brain health. It provides nerve cells with GABA and NMDA which help in restoring healthy function to the central nervous system. Lion’s Mane also has a protective effect on your myelin sheath. It helps to block the build-up of something known as “beta-amyloid” plaque, in the brain which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Lion’s Mane also has a significant impact on your immune system, helping your body to fight off infections and damage to your healthy nerve tissue – myelin sheaths included.
Lion’s Mane Dosage for Benefitting Myelin Sheath
Lion’s Mane mushroom has been shown to be effective with an optimal dosage of 100-250 mg per day. Lion’s Mane Mushroom is rich in polysaccharides, which are known to increase our brain’s nerve growth factors. The nerve growth factor helps to support the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is responsible for higher brain functions like focus and memory.