What is Dual Extract Lion's Mane?
Lion's mane mushroom, also known by its scientific name Hericium erinaceus, is an edible mushroom that has been used for centuries in traditional Asian medicine. In recent years, lion's mane has grown in popularity in the Western world due to modern research indicating it may offer a variety of health benefits.
The Origins and Appearance of Lion's Mane
Lion's mane mushroom gets its name from its cascading white tendrils that resemble the mane of a male lion. It grows on hardwoods and is native to North America, Europe, and Asia, especially China and Japan.
In Asia, lion's mane mushroom is called “monkey head mushroom” due to its monkey head-like appearance. It's also referred to as bearded tooth mushroom, bearded hedgehog mushroom, and pom pom mushroom due to its long, icicle-shaped spines.
Lion's Mane Extracts
Lion's mane supplements typically contain extracts from the mushroom's fruiting body and mycelium. Extracts are concentrated preparations containing lion's mane's bioactive compounds.
There are two main types of lion's mane extract:
- Hot water extract: Made by boiling lion's mane fruiting bodies in hot water to extract water-soluble compounds.
- Dual extract: Contains both a hot water extract and an alcohol extract from lion's mane mycelia and fruiting bodies to provide a full spectrum of active ingredients.
Benefits of Dual Extract Lion's Mane
Dual extracts allow you to take advantage of both alcohol-soluble and water-soluble compounds in lion's mane for greater effects. Some science-backed benefits of dual lion's mane extracts include:
Supports Brain Health
The compounds hericenones and erinacines found in dual extracts of lion's mane mycelium may help stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is a protein involved in maintaining neuron health and growth in the brain and nervous system.
By boosting NGF, lion's mane can aid cognitive functions and potentially help with neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
Eases Anxiety and Depression
Some rodent studies indicate taking lion's mane dual extracts may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Researchers believe this effect comes from a boost in neurotrophic factors that regulate mood and emotional responses.
More human studies are still needed, but current research shows promise for lion's mane dual extracts to support mental health.
Reduces Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
The fruiting body and mycelia of lion's mane contain bioactive compounds like phenols, polysaccharides, and terpenoids that demonstrate anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities.
By reducing inflammatory markers and free radical damage at the cellular level, dual extracts may help prevent chronic disease and support whole body health.
Supports Immune Function
Some compounds in lion's mane mushroom have been shown to stimulate the activity of immune cells like macrophages, T cells, and natural killer cells. This immune-boosting ability could enhance the body's defense against pathogens.
More research is underway, but current findings are promising for protecting immune health with the help of lion's mane supplementation.
How to Take Dual Extract Lion's Mane
When buying a lion's mane supplement, check that the product uses a dual extract for maximal benefits. The label should clearly state it contains both a hot water and alcohol extract.
For general health, most research indicates benefits with dosages between 500-3000mg taken once or twice per day. Always follow the supplement dosage directions and consult your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions.
Dual extract lion's mane mushroom tends to come in capsule, tablet, liquid tincture or powder forms. Each allows for easy oral consumption and absorption.
Does Dual Extract Lion's Mane Have Side Effects?
Currently, there are no known severe side effects associated with consuming lion's mane mushroom or its extracts. Mild digestive upset may occur in some individuals.
There is not enough safety research to establish lion's mane supplementation guidelines for pregnant or breastfeeding women at this time. Always consult your doctor before taking any supplements while pregnant or nursing.
The Takeaway
With antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune-enhancing and neuroprotective properties, dual extract lion's mane mushroom shows promise in benefiting cognitive health, mental disorders, chronic diseases and more.
By providing concentrated amounts of both alcohol-soluble and water-soluble active compounds in lion's mane fruiting body and cultivated mycelia, dual extracts may offer superior effects for overall wellness and vitality.
FAQs
What are the key benefits of taking dual extract lion's mane?
The key scientifically-backed benefits of dual lion's mane extracts include improved cognitive function, reduced anxiety and depression, lower inflammation and oxidative stress, enhanced immune health, and neuroprotection against disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
What is the best way to take dual extract lion's mane?
Look for a supplement containing at least 500mg of dual lion's mane extract per serving from both the mushroom's fruiting body and cultivated mycelia. Capsule, tablet, liquid tincture and powder forms can all be effective. Follow the dosage on the label.
How long does it take to feel the effects of dual extract lion's mane?
Most research shows improvements in areas like cognition, anxiety, inflammation markers, etc. after around 4-8 weeks of consistent dual lion's mane extract supplementation.
Are there any side effects or precautions needed with dual lion's mane extracts?
There are no known severe side effects. Some people experience mild digestive upset. Safety has not been established for pregnant or nursing women yet - best to check with your doctor before supplementing if so.
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.
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