Hericium erinaceus, also known as Lion’s Mane, stands as a cornerstone of mycotherapy for digestive health, acting with precision from the stomach to the colon. This page synthesizes research demonstrating its triple role: protecting the gastric mucosa against ulcers and Helicobacter pylori bacteria, regulating intestinal inflammation (IBD), and acting as a powerful prebiotic for the microbiota. Its polysaccharides and lipophilic compounds promote epithelial regeneration and selective apoptosis of precancerous cells, while stimulating natural antioxidant defenses (SOD, HSP70). In an integrative health approach, Hericium represents a strategic resource for restoring the integrity of the intestinal barrier and soothing chronic inflammatory disorders.

Extracts from Hericium erinaceus relieve inflammatory bowel disease by regulating immunity and gut microbiota  – Chen Diling & Al.
Experiment: in vivo (ratus norvegicus – rat)
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Summary: This in vivo study evaluated the impact of Hericium erinaceus extracts on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Researchers observed that the administration of Hericium extracts promotes a significant reduction in enzymatic inflammatory markers (MPO) and an increase in regulatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines (Foxp3, IL-10). The results also highlight a beneficial modulation of the gut microbiota, encouraging the growth of protective bacteria. As a modulator of both the immune system and the microbiota, Hericium stands out as a prime biological resource for managing chronic digestive inflammatory disorders.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ethanol Extract of Lion’s Mane Medicinal Mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Agaricomycetes), in Mice with Ulcerative Colitis – Mingming Qin & Al.
Experiment: in vivo (mus musculus – mouse)
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Summary: This in vivo study conducted on ulcerative colitis models demonstrates that the ethanolic extract of Hericium erinaceus possesses significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Researchers observed that the administration of this extract promotes a marked reduction in pro-inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) while stimulating protective enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD). The findings suggest an overall improvement in intestinal mucosal integrity, a reduction in bleeding, and better weight recovery. As a modulator of oxidative stress and inflammation, Hericium stands out as a potential therapeutic support for epithelial regeneration and gut comfort.

In Vitro and In Vivo Inhibition of Helicobacter pylori by Ethanolic Extracts of Lion’s Mane Medicinal Mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Agaricomycetes) – Ge Wang & Al.
Experiment: in vivo (mus musculus – mouse) et in vitro (cell cultures)
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Summary: This study, combining both in vitro and in vivo approaches, examined the efficacy of Hericium erinaceus extracts against Helicobacter pylori, the primary bacteria responsible for gastric ulcers. Researchers identified two specific organic compounds capable of inhibiting bacterial growth by directly damaging the cell membrane of H. pylori. The findings confirm that these extracts promote a reduction in bacterial load and support the protection of the gastric mucosa. As a targeted natural antibacterial agent, Hericium stands out as a valuable alternative or support in managing gastric infections and preventing ulcers.

A Polysaccharide Isolated from Mycelia of the Lion’s Mane Medicinal Mushroom Hericium erinaceus (Agaricomycetes) Induced Apoptosis in Precancerous Human Gastric Cells – Mingxing Wang & Al.
Experiment: in vitro (cell cultures)
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Summary: This in vitro study investigated the effect of a specific polysaccharide isolated from Hericium erinaceus mycelium on human gastric cells. Researchers found that this compound promotes selective apoptosis (programmed cell death) in precancerous cells while preserving the integrity of healthy cells. The mechanism of action is based on the modulation of regulatory genes (Bax, Bcl-2) and the activation of caspases. These findings suggest that polysaccharides from Hericium mycelium represent a major biological resource for preventing gastric tumor progression and supporting mucosal health.

Anti-Helicobacter pylori activity of bioactive components isolated from Hericium erinaceus – Jian-Hui Liu & Al.
Experiment: in vitro (cell cultures)
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Summary: This in vitro study validated the antibacterial potential of Hericium erinaceus extracts against Helicobacter pylori. Researchers isolated two specific organic acids capable of inhibiting bacterial growth by directly altering the pathogen’s cell membrane. The results confirm the effectiveness of the extracts (specifically lipid fractions) in reducing the bacterial load associated with gastric ulcers. As a digestive support agent, Hericium stands out as a targeted natural solution to protect the gastric mucosa and limit unwanted bacterial proliferation.

Anti-Gastric Ulcer Activity of Polysaccharide Fraction Isolated from Mycelium Culture of Lion’s Mane Medicinal Mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) – Mingxing Wang & Al.
Experiment: in vivo (mus musculus – mouse) et in vitro (cell culture)
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Summary: This study, conducted both in vivo and in vitro, evaluated the protective efficacy of polysaccharides derived from Hericium erinaceus mycelium against gastric ulcers. Researchers demonstrated that the targeted administration of these polysaccharides significantly and dose-dependently reduces the surface area of ulcer lesions (specifically those induced by ethanol). The findings confirm that the polysaccharide fraction of the mycelium is the major active agent responsible for gastroprotection and cellular regeneration. As a mucosal support, Hericium stands out as a key biological resource for the prevention and management of acute or chronic gastric lesions.

Gastroprotective Effects of Lion’s Mane Mushroom Hericium erinaceus (Bull.:Fr.) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae) Extract against Ethanol-Induced Ulcer in Rats  – Jing-Yang Wong & Al.
Experiment: in vivo (Ratus norvegicus – rat)
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Summary: This in vivo study analyzed the gastroprotective effects of an aqueous extract of Hericium erinaceus on ethanol-induced gastric lesions. The results demonstrate a significant and dose-dependent reduction in ulcer size. At the molecular level, the extract prevents the depletion of antioxidant enzymes and reduces oxidative stress (lowering MDA levels). Furthermore, Hericium promotes the expression of the protective protein HSP70 while inhibiting the pro-apoptotic protein BAX. Acting as a cellular shield, this mushroom actively protects the integrity of the gastric mucosa against chemical and oxidative aggression.