If you’ve been on a quest to improve your memory and cognitive function naturally, you might have stumbled upon the mystical Lion’s Mane mushroom. The ultimate functional mushroom (So far . . . ).
Revered for centuries in Eastern medicine, recent scientific research backs its promising effects on brain health.
Here, I share a compelling testament of my journey over the past 2 months with Lion’s Mane Mushroom Extract by PlantVital.
Proof of Purchase
From Anxiety Aid to Memory Booster
Initially, my journey with Lion’s Mane was directed at managing anxiety. I tried it after hearing encouraging reviews about PlantVital’s Organic Lion’s Mane Mushroom Extract. Little did I know that this decision would lead to impressive improvements in my life, notably my memory, work organization, and overall workflow.
Within days, I started noticing my ability to recall details, especially client-related tasks, had remarkably improved. My short-term memory enhancements were undeniable.
I effortlessly remembered the intricate details of our conversations, making follow-ups more personalized and efficient.
It even helped me pass my CELPIP test (Suddenly feeling called to get my real estate license) by calming my nerves during the test and helping me follow my method of recalling information.
How Short-Term Memory Works
Short-term memory, also called working memory, is the ability to hold and manipulate a small amount of information in a readily accessible state for a short period. It functions as a “mental workspace” where information is kept temporarily for processing.
Information from our senses enters short-term memory, briefly held before either being forgotten or transferred to long-term memory. Short-term memory capacity is limited, often described as “7 plus or minus 2” items. This limit can be slightly increased with strategies such as chunking, where related items are grouped together to be remembered as a single unit.
Short-term memory relies heavily on the prefrontal cortex of the brain. This region orchestrates attention and working memory processes by managing inputs from multiple brain areas, including sensory and long-term memory inputs.
How Lion’s Mane Improves Short-Term Memory
While the exact mechanisms of how Lion’s Mane Mushroom improves short-term memory are still being studied, research indicates several potential pathways.
Neurogenesis: Lion’s Mane contains bioactive compounds known as hericenones and erinacines. These molecules stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Both are essential proteins for neurogenesis, forming new neurons in the brain. More neurons can lead to better connectivity and enhanced cognitive functions, including short-term memory.
Neuroprotection: Research suggests Lion’s Mane has neuroprotective properties, potentially slowing or reversing cell degeneration in the brain. Lion’s Mane may help maintain cognitive function, including short-term memory, by protecting neurons from damage.
Reducing Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: Inflammation and oxidative stress can negatively impact cognitive function. Lion’s Mane possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, potentially protecting the brain from such damage and indirectly supporting cognitive functions like short-term memory.
While these potential mechanisms are promising, it’s important to note that research is ongoing. More studies, particularly in humans, are needed to comprehensively understand how Lion’s Mane improves short-term memory. Just like more tests are needed to study the effects of Lion’s Mane on someone living with Neuropathy.
Beyond the Workplace
The benefits of Lion’s Mane were not confined to my professional life. At home, I was driven to declutter and organize my surroundings, a task I was never fond of. It felt as though the mushroom extract was enhancing my memory and encouraging a mental clarity that inspired physical order.
If you look around, you’ll see organization and order in nature everywhere.
Everything happens consistently, spontaneously, and in an organized fashion.
So why not in our own lives?
Organization = Growth.
My partner, too, intrigued by my positive transformation, began using Lion’s Mane and is now a firm believer, taking two tablets daily. So does my best friend.
We are also excited to share this with my in-laws, who recently suffered from strokes.
Overall, I noticed a striking improvement in my memory retention during daily activities.
For instance, I started recalling real estate signs’ details I casually glanced at during my commutes. The company name and phone number were as if my brain was effortlessly cataloging information.
It also gave me much-needed confidence at work. Since I can rely on my memory now and it’s proven accurate almost 100% of the time, I could stand up for myself and easily share facts about any incident, etc. This alone has been a life-altering experience for me.
It’s worth noting that I opted to use a bit more than the recommended dose.
Six pills daily vs. 2.
My reasoning is since it’s an all-natural supplement, it wouldn’t cause harm unless taken excessively.
So overall, I’m still under the daily average of 250g to 4000g.
I do what works for me, so yeah . . . do what works for you.
The Science Behind Lion’s Mane
While my experience alone is not evidence of Lion’s Mane efficacy, numerous scientific studies lend support. Research has found that Lion’s Mane contains compounds called hericenones and erinacines that stimulate the growth of brain cells1.
In a study involving older adults with mild cognitive impairment, consuming Lion’s Mane for 16 weeks was associated with higher cognitive function scores than a placebo.
In another study, Lion’s Mane was found to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in mice. While more research is needed, especially on humans, these findings indicate potential for mental health improvement.
Now I’m not a mouse, but I concur big time. I don’t talk about how Lion’s Mane improved my anxiety in this particular write-up, but man . . . it’s been a game changer for anxiety too.
Unforeseen Benefits: Deepened Meditation
Beyond improving my memory and cognitive function, the most profound outcome was an unexpected deepening of my meditation practices.
With the enhanced mental clarity, I found myself able to delve into a deeper state of consciousness and even face and release previously unacknowledged traumas.
This was an unforeseen but deeply appreciated bonus of my Lion’s Mane journey.
In conclusion, my 29-day experiment with Lion’s Mane has dramatically affected my memory and overall cognitive function. But remember, individual results can vary, and you should always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.