Hericium erinaceus is currently at the forefront of neuroscience research due to its unique properties in supporting the central and peripheral nervous systems. This page explores the mechanisms through which its bioactive compounds, specifically hericenones and erinacines, cross the blood-brain barrier to stimulate the synthesis of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). The studies presented here highlight its potential for enhancing cognitive functions, managing emotional stress (anxiety, depression), and protecting against neurodegenerative processes. Within an integrative health framework, Hericium stands as a major biological resource for promoting neuroplasticity and neuronal regeneration.

Hericium erinaceus in Neurodegenerative Diseases: From Bench to Bedside and Beyond, How Far from the Shoreline?
Federico Brandalise & Al., Milano
Experiment: in vitro (cell cultures), in vivo (mouse) and clinical studies
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Summary: This comprehensive systematic review analyzes over 120 of the most significant scientific publications on Hericium erinaceus. The authors confirm that the mushroom’s bioactive compounds exert marked neuroprotective and procognitive effects. The study documents the transition from laboratory evidence to clinical applications, highlighting promising therapeutic potential against the mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s) and mood disorders. This synthesis positions Hericium erinaceus as a key player in modern cognitive health and integrative neurology.

Nerve Growth Factor-Inducing Activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1 Human Astrocytoma Cells – Koichiro MORI & Al.
Experiment: in vitro (cell culture) and in vivo (mouse)
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Summary: This comparative study analyzed the impact of several edible mushrooms on Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) production. The results demonstrate that only Hericium erinaceus possesses the ability to significantly increase the genetic expression of NGF. Researchers observed a direct stimulation of neurite outgrowth (neuron extensions) and elevated NGF levels in the hippocampus of in vivo models. This biological specificity confirms the importance of Hericium as a major neuro-regeneration agent within integrative neurology protocols.

Effects of erinacine A-enriched Hericium erinaceus on elderly hearing-impaired patients: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial  – Yin-Ching Chan & Al.
Experiment: clinical study
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Summary: This clinical trial evaluated the impact of Hericium erinaceus supplementation (enriched with erinacine A) on age-related hearing loss (presbycusis). After eight months, patients receiving the extract showed significant improvements in speech recognition and high-frequency perception. The study also highlighted an increase in BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) in subjects over 65 years old. These findings confirm the role of Hericium in supporting neuro-sensory functions and its potential as a neuroprotective agent to counteract cognitive and sensory decline related to aging.

Prevention of Early Alzheimer’s Disease by Erinacine A-Enriched Hericium erinaceus Mycelia Pilot Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study – I.Chen Li & Al.
Experiment: clinical study
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Summary: This clinical trial investigated the impact of long-term supplementation with Hericium erinaceus mycelia (rich in erinacine A) in patients with mild Alzheimer-type cognitive decline. After 49 weeks, the treated group showed significant improvements in cognitive scores, visual acuity, and daily living activities. The study is particularly noteworthy as it documents positive changes in blood biomarkers and brain imaging. These findings highlight Hericium’s potential in active neuroprotection and preventing the progression of early neurodegenerative disorders.

Improvement of cognitive functions by oral intake of Hericium erinaceus – Yuusuke Saitsu & Al.
Experiment: clinical study
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Summary: This Japanese study demonstrated that regular oral intake of Hericium erinaceus leads to a significant improvement in overall cognitive functions. Researchers suggest that hericenones, along with other bioactive compounds in the mushroom, work by optimizing neural networks and promoting brain plasticity. The findings highlight that Hericium is a safe, practical, and natural method for the prevention of cognitive decline and dementia, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone in promoting long-term brain health.

Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake – Mayumi Nagano & Al.
Experiment: clinical study
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Summary: This study investigated the influence of Hericium erinaceus consumption on symptoms of depression and anxiety. The results demonstrate a significant reduction in irritability and anxious states after only four weeks of intake. Researchers suggest that Hericium operates through a biological mechanism distinct from simple NGF synthesis, thus offering a natural pathway to improve sleep quality and emotional balance. These findings reinforce the value of Hericium as a complementary support in managing stress and mood disorders.

Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial – Koichiro Mori & Al.
Experiment: clinical study
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Summary: This pioneering clinical trial evaluated the efficacy of Yamabushitake (the Japanese name for Hericium) on patients aged 50 to 80 with mild cognitive impairment. The results showed a steady and significant increase in cognitive function scores throughout the supplementation period. A crucial point in the study revealed that scores decreased again four weeks after stopping the intake, confirming the mushroom’s direct action on brain performance. This study validates the use of Hericium erinaceus as a safe and effective approach for supporting memory and executive functions.

Hericerin derivatives activates a pan-neurotrophic pathway in central hippocampal neurons converging to ERK1/2 signaling enhancing spatial memory. – Ramón Martínez-Mármol & Al.
Experiment: in vitro (cell cultures)
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Summary: This cutting-edge study identified two new active compounds isolated from Hericium erinaceus: NDPIH and hericene A. Researchers demonstrated that these molecules activate a “pan-neurotrophic” pathway (promoting neuron survival and growth) by converging on ERK1/2 signaling. This mechanism induces a massive increase in neurite outgrowth and neuronal complexity within the hippocampus, a key area for spatial memory. These recent findings validate Hericium as a major biotechnological resource for developing neuro-regeneration strategies.

Lion’s Mane, Hericium erinaceus and Tiger Milk, Lignosus rhinocerotis (Higher Basidiomycetes) Medicinal Mushrooms Stimulate Neurite Outgrowth in Dissociated Cells of Brain, Spinal Cord, and Retina: An In Vitro Study – Snehlata Samberkar & Al.
Experiment: in vitro (cell cultures)
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Summary: This study tested the efficacy of Hericium erinaceus on various tissues of the nervous system. The results are remarkable: the mushroom extracts stimulate neurite outgrowth not only in brain cells but also in those of the spinal cord and the retina. This ability to promote neuronal regeneration across diverse nervous tissues confirms Hericium’s potential as a systemic neuro-repair agent, opening interesting perspectives for supporting visual functions and spinal health.

Neuroregenerative potential of lion’s mane mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. (higher Basidiomycetes), in the treatment of peripheral nerve injury (review) – Kah-Hui Wong & Al.
Experiment: in vivo (ratus norvegicus – rat)
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Summary: This study evaluated the efficacy of an aqueous extract of Hericium erinaceus on peripheral nerve repair following injury. The results show that treated subjects regained motor capacity (walking) significantly faster than the control group. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed increased regeneration of nerve fibers and associated muscle tissues, as well as high expression of proteins promoting cell survival. These data suggest that Hericium is a valuable ally in accelerating peripheral neuro-regeneration and functional recovery after nerve trauma.

Natural Compounds Such as Hericium erinaceus and Coriolus versicolor Modulate Neuroinflammation, Oxidative Stress and Lipoxin A4 Expression in Rotenone-Induced Parkinson’s Disease in Mice – Marika Cordaro & Al.
Experiment: in vivo (Mus musculus – Mouse)
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Summary: This study demonstrated that the combination of Hericium erinaceus and Coriolus versicolor works synergistically to modulate neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. The results show significant protection of dopaminergic neurons and a reduction in the accumulation of alpha-synuclein (a marker protein of Parkinson’s). Researchers observed improvements in motor disorders and activation of lipoxin A4, a key mediator in resolving inflammation. These data suggest that this combined approach is a promising strategy in integrative neurology to slow down degenerative processes.

The Monkey Head Mushroom and Memory Enhancement in Alzheimer’s Disease – Yanshree & Al.
Esperimento: literature review in vitro, in vivo et clinical studies
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Summary: This scientific publication evaluates the consistency of evidence regarding the use of Hericium erinaceus in the context of Alzheimer’s disease. The review confirms a strong correlation between preclinical and clinical results: the mushroom’s bioactive extracts significantly improve cognitive functions and reduce behavioral deficits. The study highlights that Hericium acts on multiple therapeutic targets to restore memory and protect neuronal structures. In conclusion, this mushroom is validated as a major therapeutic resource for supporting patients with neurodegenerative disorders.

High molecular weight of polysaccharides from Hericium erinaceus against amyloid beta-induced neurotoxicity – Jai-Hong Cheng & Al.
Experiment: in vitro (cell culture)
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Summary: This research focused on high molecular weight polysaccharides extracted from Hericium erinaceus. The results demonstrate that these compounds provide robust protection against neurotoxicity induced by amyloid-beta protein (responsible for the formation of senile plaques). By activating cellular antioxidant mechanisms, these polysaccharides reduce neuronal death and oxidative stress. This study suggests that mushroom extracts represent a serious preventive strategy to counter the cellular damage associated with Alzheimer’s pathology.

Effects of Hericium erinaceus on amyloid β(25-35) peptide-induced learning and memory deficits in mice – Koichiro Mori & Al.
Experiment: in vivo (Mus musculus – mouse)
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Summary: This landmark study evaluated the ability of Hericium erinaceus to prevent learning and memory impairments induced by the beta-amyloid protein. Mice fed a diet enriched with Hericium for 23 days showed significant protection against disruptions in short-term memory and visual recognition memory. The results indicate that regular consumption of this mushroom can act as a biological shield, preserving cognitive abilities against the neurodegenerative processes characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease.

Dietary Supplementation of Hericium erinaceus Increases Mossy Fiber-CA3 Hippocampal Neurotransmission and Recognition Memory in Wild-Type Mice – Federico Brandalise & Al.
Experiment: in vivo (Mus musculus – Mouse)
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Summary: This study demonstrates that Hericium erinaceus supplementation is not limited to pathological contexts. In healthy subjects, it induces a significant increase in neurotransmission within the hippocampus, specifically at the “mossy fiber-CA3” synapse. This optimization of excitatory currents results in a measurable improvement in recognition memory. The findings confirm that Hericium acts as a powerful cognitive enhancer, capable of strengthening neuronal capacities and baseline synaptic plasticity.

Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial – Koichiro Mori & Al.
Experiment: clinical study
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Summary: This landmark clinical trial evaluated the efficacy of Yamabushitake (the Japanese name for Hericium) on patients aged 50 to 80 with mild cognitive impairment. Cognitive function scores increased significantly throughout the 16-week supplementation period. A key finding of the study revealed that scores decreased again four weeks after treatment ceased. This study not only validates the mushroom’s efficacy for memory but also demonstrates the necessity of continuous consumption to maintain the acquired neuronal benefits.

Anti-fatigue activities of polysaccharides extracted from Hericium erinaceus – Jianqing Liu & Al.
Experiment: in vivo (Mus musculus – Mouse)
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Summary: This study demonstrated the significant anti-fatigue properties of Hericium erinaceus polysaccharides (HEP). The results prove that supplementation significantly increases endurance by prolonging swimming time to exhaustion. Biologically, Hericium works by reducing fatigue markers (lactic acid, urea nitrogen) and increasing glycogen stores (muscle energy). Furthermore, it strengthens antioxidant defenses, protecting tissues against exercise-induced oxidative stress. These findings validate Hericium’s potential as a cutting-edge supplement for sports performance and recovery.

Potential Antidepressant Effects of Scutellaria baicalensis, Hericium erinaceus and Rhodiola rosea  – Fiona Limanaqi & Al.
Experiment: Literature review – in vitro, in vivo et clinical studies
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Summary: This review examines how Hericium erinaceus, often combined with other adaptogenic herbs, targets the biochemical imbalances associated with depression. The study demonstrates that Hericium mimics the mechanisms of action of conventional antidepressants by stimulating neurogenesis (creation of new neurons) and enhancing synaptic plasticity. It also acts as a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, protecting neuronal mitochondria. These findings suggest that Hericium offers a highly tolerated natural alternative or complement for stabilizing mood and combating mental disorders.

Therapeutic Potential of Hericium erinaceus for Depressive Disorder – Pit Shan Chong & Al.
Experiment: Literature review in vitro, in vivo et clinical srudies
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Summary: This major review analyzes the potential of Hericium erinaceus as an alternative or adjuvant to conventional antidepressants, which are often limited by side effects. The study identifies three primary mechanisms of action: stimulation of neuronal growth (via NGF factor), reduction of neuroinflammation, and modulation of neurotransmitters. The mushroom’s bioactive compounds act as neuroprotective agents capable of restoring brain circuits altered by chronic stress. This research positions Hericium as a promising natural solution for improving mental health with excellent biological tolerance.

Hericium erinaceus Extract Reduces Anxiety and Depressive Behaviors by Promoting Hippocampal Neurogenesis in the Adult Mouse Brain  – Sun Ryu & Al.
Experiment: in vivo (Mus musculus – mouse)
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Summary: This study demonstrates that daily administration of Hericium erinaceus extracts significantly reduces anxiety and depressive behaviors. The primary mechanism identified is crucial: the mushroom activates proliferation and enhances the survival of neural progenitor cells in the hippocampus (adult neurogenesis). By promoting the creation of new neurons, Hericium helps the brain “repair” emotional circuits damaged by stress. These findings confirm the mushroom’s role as an active neurogenesis agent for supporting mental health.

Erinacine A-Enriched Hericium erinaceus Mycelium Produces Antidepressant-Like Effects through Modulating BDNF/PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β Signaling in Mice – Chun-Hung Chiu & Al.
Experiment: in vivo (Mus musculus – mouse)
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Summary: This study demonstrates that Hericium erinaceus mycelium enriched with erinacine A reverses the effects of chronic stress. Administration of HE restored levels of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, while reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α). At the molecular level, the mushroom activates the BDNF/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, which is essential for neuron survival, and blocks NF-κB inflammatory signals. These findings validate the use of enriched mycelium as a potent therapeutic agent against stress-related depressive disorders.

Effects of amycenone on serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-10, and depression-like behavior in mice after lipopolysaccharide administration – Wei Yao & Al.
Experiment: in vivo (Mus musculus – mouse)
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Summary: This study focused on amycenone, a specific compound extracted from Hericium erinaceus. The results show that amycenone acts as a powerful regulator of systemic inflammation: it blocks the rise of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α) while stimulating the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10). Behaviorally, this immune regulation suppressed depression-like behaviors in the test subjects. These findings suggest that Hericium is a top-tier supplement for preventing and treating depression rooted in “silent inflammation” of the nervous system.

Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake – Mayumi Nagano & Al.
Experiment: clinical study
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Summary: This study evaluated the impact of Hericium erinaceus intake on a group of women, focusing particularly on menopause symptoms, sleep quality, and mood disorders. After 4 weeks of consumption (via enriched cookies), participants reported a significant reduction in anxiety, irritability, and depressive symptoms. The researchers highlight a fascinating point: these beneficial effects on mental well-being may stem from a specific mechanism of action, distinct from the simple stimulation of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), suggesting a direct action on the brain’s emotional centers.