Seasons/Availability
Lion’s Mane mushrooms are available late summer through fall.
Current Facts
Lion’s Mane mushrooms, botanically classified as Hericium erinaceus, are a species of edible mushroom that is native to North America and Europe, but can also be found growing in other parts of the world. It is most commonly used medicinally for its healing properties and has been known to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and immunomodulatory effects. The Lion’s Mane mushroom is an excellent source of dietary fiber, protein, vitamins B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin) and D; minerals including selenium and zinc; polysaccharides; and essential fatty acids including omega 3 and 6.
Storage
Lion’s Mane mushrooms should be stored in a paper bag lined with parchment paper and placed in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 7 days.
Applications
Lion’s Mane mushrooms can be sliced, diced, or shredded and cooked into soups and stews, stir-fried dishes, omelets, and scrambled eggs. They are also excellent when battered and fried or grilled over an open flame. Lion’s Mane mushrooms pair well with garlic, parsley, thyme, shallots, onions, cream sauces, white wine vinegar, cheeses such as goat cheese and parmesan cheese; meats including beef steak and poultry; vegetables like carrots and celery; nuts such as walnuts; and grains such as wild rice.
Nutritional Value
Lion’s Mane mushrooms are a good source of dietary fiber, protein, vitamins B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin) and D; minerals including selenium and zinc; polysaccharides; and essential fatty acids including omega 3 and 6. They are also loaded with antioxidants that can help protect against cell damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, Lion’s Mane mushrooms contain more than 30 different types of beneficial compounds associated with anti-inflammatory activities. These include hericenone, erinacines, terpenoids, lignans, sterols, triterpenoids, polysaccharides, and more.
Health Benefits
The health benefits of Lion’s Mane mushrooms are many. These include:
• Improved cognitive function: Studies have found that consuming Lion’s Mane mushrooms can help improve memory, focus, and concentration.
• Reduced inflammation: The anti-inflammatory effects of the mushroom’s active compounds can help reduce inflammation in the body which is linked to a variety of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis.
• Boosted immune system: Lion’s Mane mushrooms contain compounds that may help boost immunity by increasing the activity of macrophages (white blood cells) which fight off harmful bacteria and viruses.
• Lower cholesterol levels: Lion’s Mane mushrooms have been found to help reduce cholesterol levels in the body, thus reducing risk of heart disease.
• Improved mental health: Consuming Lion’s Mane mushrooms has been linked with improved mood and better overall mental health.
• Digestive support: The fiber content of these mushrooms helps promote regular bowel movements and keep your digestive system healthy.
