Hericium erinaceus and its effect on Parkinson's disease: scientific evidence
Hericium erinaceus is not just a mushroom with medicinal properties, but a powerful natural remedy for maintaining the health of the nervous system. Every day, scientists in different parts of the world continue to work on studying the mechanisms of action of Hericium erinaceus on neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease (PD).
Parkinson's disease is a slowly progressive neurological disease and is one of the most common motor disorders in adulthood around the world. Modern medicine does not have a clear answer how to stop the progression of the disease, and treatment is reduced to correction of endogenous dopamine deficiency
There are already many studies that confirm that Hericium erinaceus can have a positive effect on patients with Parkinson's disease. These studies show that active fungal compounds can help protect neurons, reduce oxidative stress and improve movement function.
So, let's consider in more detail the studies that were conducted on living organisms (in our case, on mice):
One study was conducted in collaboration with the Department of Pathology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan, and published in the journal Antioxidants 2020. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of erinacin A on neuroprotection.Erinacin A stimulates the synthesis of nerve growth factor (NGF) and activates signal pathways of neurons survival. Results showed a significant decrease in neurons' death and improvement of brain cells.
Another study was conducted on Taiwan by a team at the Institute of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Studies in collaboration with Jowin Biophorma Inc.
These studies have shown:
Stimulation of NGF synthesis: Erinacins contained in Hericium erinaceus significantly increase the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which promotes the repair and protection of neurons.
Increase in dopamine: in the course of animal experiments, it was found that the level of dopamine in the brain of mice increased by 20% at a minimum dose and by 70% at a maximum dose of fungus extract.
The number of tyrosine hydroxylase-positive neurons: Tyrosine hydroxylase is an enzyme responsible for the synthesis of dopamine. After taking Hericium erinaceus, the number of tyrosine hydroxylase-positive neurons increased from 18% to 100%, depending on the dose.
Reduction of dead neurons: as a result of treatment Hericium erinaceus was found that the number of dead neurons decreased by 14-22%.
The decrease in oxidative stress: the formation of reactive forms of oxygen (ROS), which cause cell damage, decreased by 30%, which indicates a strong antioxidant effect of the fungus.
Improvement of motor functions: subjects have a significant improvement of motor functions in experimental animals. Symptoms such as tremor, muscle rigidity and problems with coordination of movements have decreased significantly after taking fungus extracts.
The results of the studies have noted that Erinacin A activates the protective mechanisms of cells, protects neurons from death and stimulates their recovery, reduces the activity of toxic molecules that cause inflammation and damage to brain cells.These processes help stop the destruction of dopaminergic neurons responsible for movement control, and reduce the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
If you or your loved ones are facing problems related to Parkinson's disease, or are looking for a way to support the health of the nervous system, pay attention to Hericium erinaceus. This mushroom can become a powerful ally in the fight for brain health.
You can also buy them in our store.
1.lion's mane fruits
2.The lion's mane capsules
3.lion's mane extract
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