Medicinal Mushrooms

Erinacins in the Hedgehog Soplum (Lion's Mane) - what are they?

Erinacins - what they are

Erinacins is a unique group of bioactive compounds naturally found in the mushroom Lion's Mane (Hedgehog soplolly, Hericium erinaceus). They are included in diterpenoids, which are organic compounds characterized by specific chemical structures and a variety of biological properties. Of greatest interest to researchers is their potential impact on the nervous system - particularly the ability to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which can promote neuronal regeneration and protection. In addition, they are credited with the properties of anti-inflammatory i antioxidant, making them the subject of numerous studies for their potential use in the prevention and alleviation of symptoms of various neurodegenerative conditions.

Erinacins - action

Erinacins are a group of biologically active diterpenoids present in Lion's Mane, Hericium erinaceus), which have attracted the attention of scientists mainly for their potential to support the nervous system. The most important feature of erinacins is their ability to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF - nerve growth factor), crucial for maintaining proper neuronal function and regenerative processes in the brain. As a result, they are attributed with neuroprotective properties, meaning that they can promote the protection of nerve cells from damage and slow down neurodegenerative changes.

In addition to their positive effects on the nervous system, erinacins are also attributed to other beneficial effects. These include anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation accompanying many diseases. In addition, erinacins exhibit antioxidant activity, so they can protect cells from free radicals, which are one of the causes of accelerated aging and the development of many diseases.

Research on erinacins is still ongoing, with results showing promising potential in the prevention and mitigation of symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. While further, more comprehensive studies are needed, the findings so far suggest that regular consumption of Eryinacin or its erinacin-rich extracts may support both brain health and overall body health.

How much Erinacyn is in Lion's Mane

W Lion's Mane (Hedgehog soplolly, Hericium erinaceus) more than a dozen different erinacins have been discovered so far, including erinacin A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J and K. Their concentration depends primarily on the growing conditions (temperature, humidity, substrate composition), as well as whether the analyzed mycelium or fruiting body. Studies indicate that the highest amounts of erinacins are usually found in the mycelium, which is important especially for the production of standardized extracts.

The exact content of erinacins in a given raw material can fluctuate within wide limits, as different culture and extraction methods (e.g., the use of various solvents) affect the concentrations obtained. In the scientific literature, one encounters information on concentrations ranging from several tens of micrograms up to several milligrams erinacins per gram of dry material, depending on the factors mentioned earlier. For this reason, dietary supplements based on Lion's Mane are often standardized to specific groups of compounds to ensure reproducibility of the composition.

In practice, this means that amount of erinacins in individual products can vary considerably, and the key to obtaining a high-quality formulation is both the right culture technology and extraction process. Therefore, in order to take advantage of the health-promoting potential of coneflower, it is worth paying attention to manufacturers that declare standardization for erinacins (or active compounds in general) and have transparent information about the methods of obtaining the raw material.

Erinacins and the nervous system

Nerve growth factor (NGF) stimulation
Erinacins, a group of diterpenoids found in the Lion's Mane fungus (Hedgehog soplolly, Hericium erinaceus), have gained great popularity mainly due to their ability to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is crucial for the proper functioning of neurons - it participates in their development, regeneration and maintenance of efficiency. The action of erinacins can translate into improved cognitive processes, such as memory and concentration, while also supporting the brain's natural defenses against damage.

Neuroprotective potential
Studies indicate that erinacins may play a role in protecting nerve cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, which underlie many neurodegenerative diseases (including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease). By modulating the activity of enzymes associated with inflammatory reactions and reducing the formation of free radicals, erinacins can promote repair processes in the nervous system. As a result, regular consumption of supplements containing Echinacea - especially those standardized for erinacins - may be a promising dietary supplement for those wishing to take care of brain health.

Effects on memory and overall cognitive performance
Through their multidirectional effects - which include NGF stimulation as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties - erinacins can support the performance of mental functions. Some studies indicate that supplementation with Lion's Mane extracts may improve memory, concentration and mood, especially in people with mild cognitive impairment. Although more clinical studies on larger groups of participants are needed, results so far suggest that erinacins offer promising support for the nervous system.

Lion's Mane - Properties of Sophora Hedgehog in a Nutshell

Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a mushroom famous for its remarkable health-promoting qualities, especially important for supporting the brain and the entire nervous system. Thanks to the presence of such compounds as erinacin and hericenons, can promote neuronal regeneration, protect against neurodegenerative diseases, and exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Regular consumption of this mushroom can benefit both physical and mental health - improving cognitive function, mood, while strengthening resistance.

If you're concerned about supporting your body with natural ingredients, it may be a good idea to introduce products with plant and mushroom origins into your diet. Ashwagandha promotes the maintenance of harmony in the body and aids in coping with stress, while the Cordyceps is known for its beneficial effects on endurance and exercise capacity. In turn Reishi i Coriolus are known for their positive effects on the immune system, which is why many people are increasingly choosing them as important elements of daily health-promoting prevention.

Natural brand supplements Encann, such as Encann Ashwagandha, Encann Cordyceps, Encann Reishi and Encann Coriolus, combine traditional, proven formulas with modern production methods. This guarantees the highest quality formulations based on carefully selected ingredients. Each of them contains active substances that have been used for hundreds of years in various parts of the world, gaining increasing recognition also in Poland. If you are looking for a way to strengthen immunity and vitality, it is worth paying attention not only to the previously mentioned mushrooms and plants, but also to other medicinal mushroom species. Their regular intake can be an important part of a holistic approach to health, and properly selected Encann products will allow you to enjoy the synergistic effect of natural ingredients.

 

Source: PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/); Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/); National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI); ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/)

The claims made refer to studies on the adaptogens Hericium Erinaceus, Ganoderma Lucidum, Cordyceps Militaris, Ashwagandha and Coriolus Versicolor not on Encann® brand products. These are not claims regarding the medicinal properties of the product offered. In accordance with the wording of EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT REGULATION 1924/2006, verifiable scientific evidence regarding studies on the use of the fungus Sophora Hedgehog- one of the ingredients of the offered product- is presented on this page.