Oriveda Lion's Mane Mushroom Supplements: A Closer Look

An In-Depth Look at Oriveda Lions Mane

Lions mane mushroom has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its purported health benefits. Oriveda is one company that sells lion's mane mushroom supplements and extracts. But what exactly is lion's mane, and what effects does the Oriveda brand specifically have?

What is Lion's Mane Mushroom?

Lion's mane mushroom, also known by its scientific name Hericium erinaceus, is an edible mushroom native to North America, Europe and Asia. It gets its name from its long cascading tendrils that are said to resemble a lion's mane.

This mushroom can be eaten fresh or dried. But it is also commonly taken as a supplement in powder or extract form. Proponents believe lions mane mushroom offers a variety of health benefits, but more research is still needed.

Bioactive Compounds in Lion's Mane

Scientists have identified a number of bioactive substances in lions mane mushroom that may be responsible for its effects:

• Polysaccharides - Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates that may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Hericenones - Hericenones are compounds that can stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production. NGF is important for neuron health and function.
• Erinacines - Erinacines found in lions mane my also help stimulate NGF synthesis in the brain.

Potential Benefits of Lion's Mane

Early cell, animal and human research suggest lion's mane mushroom may offer certain health benefits. However, larger scale human studies are still needed.

Supports Cognitive Function

Some of the most promising research involves lions mane and brain health. In animal studies, lions mane extract improved memory and cognitive function by enhancing NGF levels in the hippocampus.

Small human studies have found lions mane supplementation can improve subjective measures of cognitive decline and mild impairment in older adults. However, these need to be replicated in larger controlled trials.

Protects Against Neurodegeneration

The potential NGF-boosting effects of lions mane may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and Parkinsons disease. Animal models show lions mane improved neuron health and reduced oxidative damage.

More high-quality human research is necessary to determine if it can reliably prevent neurodegeneration in humans as well.

Reduces Anxiety and Depression

A few studies in mice and humans suggest lions mane extract may help reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms. One study found it reduced irritability and anxiety in women taking lion's mane extract compared to placebo.

The mushroom's anti-inflammatory effects and ability to potentially improve neuron health may underlie these neuropsychiatric benefits. But larger randomized trials are needed.

Relieves Mild Neuropathic Pain

Two human studies have found lions mane extract reduced self-reported neuropathic pain and intensity in patients with diabetic neuropathy or trigeminal neuralgia.

Its thought the anti-inflammatory effects may inhibit pain pathways. But currently, evidence for neuropathic pain relief is limited.

Supports Heart Health

While research is still emerging, some animal studies suggest lions mane extract may help improve cholesterol levels and reduce risk of atherosclerosis and blood clots. The anti-inflammatory effects may also benefit heart health.

Human studies have not examined lions mane's direct impact on heart health. Future clinical trials are warranted.

Boosts Immune Function

Early cell studies indicate lion's mane extract may stimulate the activity of the gut and immune system. The polysaccharides specifically may increase protective bacteria and enhance the function of intestinal cells.

This could have benefits for immune health and conditions like inflammatory bowel disease. But real-world studies are lacking so far.

Bioavailability of Lion's Mane Supplements

While lion's mane mushroom contains promising compounds, research suggests they may have low bioavailability when consumed. The mushroom's large molecular size and tough cell wall make it difficult for the body to fully access and absorb all the nutrients.

Different preparation methods to enhance bioavailability include:

• Fermenting - This process uses enzymes to pre-digest compounds and break down cell walls.
• Ethanol extraction - Using alcohol solvents can help extract beneficial compounds.
• Dual extraction - Combining hot water and alcohol extraction may remove a broader range of bioactives.

Quality supplements like Oriveda use scientifically validated techniques to try to maximize the absorption of beneficial lions mane compounds.

About Oriveda Lions Mane Products

Oriveda is a supplements company based in the Netherlands that focuses on organic medicinal mushrooms. Their lion's mane supplement undergoes a dual extraction process and fermentation using enzymes to enhance bioavailability.

Oriveda Lions Mane Capsules

Oriveda's lion's mane capsules provide 500 mg of organic dual-extracted, fermented mushroom powder per capsule. It is also enhanced with copper for antioxidant activity and vitamin B12 for brain health.

The capsules are vegan, non-GMO, and free from gluten, soy and nightshades. The company recommends 1-2 capsules per day, ideally taken with food.

Oriveda Lions Mane Liquid Extract

For those who prefer tinctures, Oriveda has a liquid lions mane extract. It is dual extracted using both hot water and ethanol solvents for a full spectrum of bioactives.

The concentrated extract is fermented with enzymes to enhance absorption. It provides 500mg of lion's mane extract per dropper. The company suggests taking 1 dropper 1-3 times per day.

Cognitive Support Stack

Oriveda also offers a cognitive support stack supplement that combines lions mane extract with other nootropic ingredients:

• Lion's Mane Extract - Provides 500mg
• Bacopa Monnieri Extract - An adaptogenic herb for memory
• Phosphatidylserine - Supports neuron membrane health
• Ashwagandha Root Extract - An adaptogen that reduces stress

Together, these four ingredients may support overall brain health and cognitive function better than lion's mane alone. The cognitive support stack comes in both capsules and liquid dropper bottles.

Potential Side Effects and Safety

Currently, lion's mane mushroom appears to have a strong safety profile and seems to be well tolerated by most people when taken orally at recommended doses. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of:

• Digestive issues - Abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, nausea and bloating have occurred in some users. This may be from the chitin in mushroom cell walls.
• Allergic reaction - Those allergic or sensitive to mushrooms may develop irritation or rash.
• Bleeding - Lions mane may have antiplatelet effects and could increase bleeding risk when combined with blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin.

Lions mane mushroom appears safe for most people to consume orally, but the long-term effects have not been established. Those taking any medications or with health conditions should first consult their doctor before taking lion's mane supplements.

Conclusion

Early research suggests lion's mane mushroom may offer cognitive, mood, heart and immune health benefits. However, larger scale human studies are still necessary to verify many of the potential effects. Oriveda utilizes patented extraction techniques to try to maximize the absorption of bioactive compounds from lion's mane in their supplements.

While considered generally safe, lions mane side effects can include digestive issues, allergic reactions and increased bleeding risk. As with any supplement, check with your healthcare provider before taking lions mane, especially if you are on other medications or have any medical conditions.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.