|
The lion’s mane mushroom, also known as the hericium erinaceus, is an edible and medicinal mushroom. Instead of the usual mushroom cap, the lion’s mane mushroom grows out long spines which release spores during reproduction. In the wild, these mushrooms grow on hardwoods like American Beech during the fall and late summer. When eaten, the lion’s tale mushroom is chewy, with a taste redolent of seafood. This uncommon white mushroom goes by many different names such as bearded tooth fungus, pom pom mushroom, bearded hedgehog mushroom, satyr’s beard and many more. Being part of the herecium family of mushrooms, the lion’s mane mushroom feed on dead matter. Also, it is a parasite, attacking and eventually killing trees. These mushrooms start out white when young but turn brown or yellow with age. Beyond the cool bleach-blond hairlike structure of this mushroom is something more interesting. In the past decade, more and more studies have been made about the medicinal properties of lion’s mane mushrooms. In traditional Chinese medicinal practices, it is administered to people with illnesses related to the digestive organs. On the other hand, according to modern research, the lion’s mane mushroom has anti-+inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties as well as immune-boosting properties which can support the body in its fight against certain cancer cells. But perhaps the most remarkable discovery about the lion's mane mushroom is its ability to regenerate nerve tissues. Lion’s mane mushrooms contain hericenones and erinacines, compounds that stimulate the nerve growth factor (NGF). This protein is vital for the survival, maintenance and growth of certain target neurons. Simply put, nerve growth factor helps the brain function properly. A severe lack of the nerve growth factor is known to trigger the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, due to the low molecular weight of the lion's mane mushroom, the nerve healing compounds are able to bust through the blood-brain barrier. As such, nerve cells are repaired and stimulated and cognitive actions amplified. Lion’s mane mushrooms not only treat dementia and Alzheimer’s, but also muscular dystrophy, Parkinson’s, senility as well as other neurological conditions. All the medical stuff aside, the lion's mane mushroom is said to be quite tasty. It is often likened to lobster and shrimp, which make it appealing to seafood lovers. Cook lion's mane mushrooms on medium to high heat with a little oil until the teeth are brown and crispy. These mushrooms are quite watery, so do not season them until near the end of cooking.
Related Articles -
lion's, mane, mushroom,
|
