As a medicinal mushroom, lion’s mane has over a thousand-year history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Rare in nature, this mushroom is found growing on the wood of certain dead or decaying trees. According to Ballarat naturopathy, traditionally, lion’s mane was used for its ability to reduce inflammation and support the immune system. This saw it being used to treat chronic gastritis, ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract, stomach cancer, oesophagus cancer, and leukaemia.
Energetics & Folklore
In ancient China, the Shaolin monks used this mushroom daily to help support and improve their concentration. They also used it to help support their ‘Qi’. This is what they call our energetic life force. It was often used for the symptoms of ‘Qi’ deficiency: weakness, insomnia, and hypodynamia.
Lion’s Mane is linked to other metaphysical properties too, including focus, concentration, mental clarity, and supporting memory.
Modern Uses of Lion’s Mane
Lion’s Mane is used for a wide variety of purposes, including:
- As a support for the brain and nervous system.
- To help protect against neurodegenerative conditions.
- To help boost memory and focus when studying.
- To help heal damage to the nervous system.
- Supports and stimulates the immune system.
- Protects brain cells against damage while also stimulating the growth of new neurons.
- Helps to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor, which support neuroplasticity.
- Supporting the production of myelin sheathes.
Did you know that lion’s mane is really this useful as a healing herb? Check out our selection of healing herbs for your health and wellness.
