Are you seeking a natural and effective way tooptimize your fertility? Look no further than lion's mane mushrooms.
Often revered for their cognitive benefits,these mushrooms seem to optimize reproductive wellness as well.
Join us as we explore the lesser-known advantages of lion's mane mushrooms in supportinghormonal balance and increasing your chances of starting or expanding your family. And, to learn more about this amazing fungus, check out our detailed guide to lion’s mane.
Article Jumplinks:
What are Lion’s Mane mushrooms?
Lion’s Mane medicinal mushrooms
Is Lion’s mane safe during pregnancy?
Which mushrooms are also good for fertility?
Do you want to take lion’s mane for fertility?
How much lion’s mane should you take for fertility?
How much lion’s mane is in Forij granola?
What Are Lion’s Mane Mushrooms?
Lion's mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus) are adaptogenic mushrooms that have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine.
It is still one of the most popular and healthiest adaptogenic mushrooms due to its widespread availability and abundance of benefits. This fungus feeds on dead tree debris and prefers the temperate regions of Europe, northern Asia, andNorth America.
Take a look at our adaptogenic mushroom guide to learn more about how they function and the mechanics behind their therapeutic effects.
Health Benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
Aside from their shaggy, mane-like appearance, these fungi possess a beastly ferocity when it comes to bolstering human health. Lion's mane mushrooms pack a punch against a number of health issues.
- These puffy wonders ramp upimmune systems.
- In the context ofautoimmune conditions, they're like diplomatic negotiators, ensuring a peaceful truce between theimmune response and the body's own cells. Check out our article on lion’s mane and multiple sclerosis to learn more.
- Alzheimer's disease andmild cognitive impairment meet a worthy adversary in lion's mane. Thismushroom contains bioactive compounds that supportcognitive functioning and prevent dementia-related memory loss. Read more in our article on lion’s mane and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Highblood pressure? This mushroom helps regulate blood pressure levels, preserving your heart and blood vessels.
- By promotingnerve growth factors, these mushrooms aid in focus and prevent memory loss. Our blog post on lion’s mane and memory takes a deep-dive into this benefit.
- Their role inbrain health can be compared to a 24/7 security guard, always vigilant against threats and potential intrusions. We take an in-depth dive in our article on lion’s mane brain benefits. Check it out.
- Forcancer patients, lion's mane could boostimmune functions and resilience during treatment, as well as aiding in cancer cell destruction. Read more in our article on the benefits of lion’s mane for cancer patients.
If we were to list all the health benefits of lion’s mane, we’d be here all day. If you want to learn more, read our detailed lion’s mane benefits guide.
Side Effects of Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
There is no research or anecdotal evidence to show that eating lion's mane mushroom extract is harmful or dangerous.Hericium erinaceus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and remains popular today, with the only recorded side effects of lion’s mane being an upset stomach and diarrhea upon first taking the mushroom.
Although these side effects are uncommon, you should begin with a low dose of the mushroom to avoid stomach troubles, especially if you've never used medicinal mushrooms before. Lion's mane can also have certain contraindications, such as allergies, and may interact with some medications. Read about potential lion’s mane drug interactions here.
Lion’s ManeMedicinal Mushrooms for Fertility
While there isn't much direct research on lion's mane's effects on fertility, there is evidence that its beneficial effects on hormone production could extend to fertility as well. These results are promising and certainly warrant further research on this topic, especially in humans.
Is Lion’s Mane Good for Hormones?
Lion's mane mushrooms can stabilize the production of sex hormones by stimulating nerve cell growth, particularly in the hypothalamus.
According to research, Hericium erinaceus appears to stimulate neurogenesis. Arecent Japanese study on the neurogenetic potential of lion's mane found that it can prompt nerve cell formation.
Compounds in the lion's mane mushroom promote the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factors (BDNF) and nerve growth factors (NGF). In turn, BDNFs and NGFs influence hypothalamic hormone synthesis (growth hormone, vasopressin, adrenocorticotropic hormones, and sex hormones).
Sex hormones are “produced by the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis,” according to one study. The effects of lion’s mane on hypothalamic hormone production could extend to testosterone production in men and estrogen production in women.
Lion’s Mane Benefits for Female Fertility
The benefits oflion’s mane mushrooms for women’s health and fertility have not been widely researched in humans. Still, existing research suggests a close connection between NGF and estrogen production:
Differential and reciprocal regulation of estrogen and nerve growth factor (NGF) receptor gene expression by their ligands suggests thatestrogen and the neurotrophins may influence each other's actions by regulating receptor/ligand availability or by reciprocal regulation at the level of gene transcription or signal transduction. (Toran-Allerand,et al.)
Due to the previously mentioned benefits of lion’s mane for NGF production, we can hypothesize that its benefits extend to estrogen production and fertility as well. Still, more human research is needed to fully uncover these mechanisms.
Lion’s ManeMale Fertility Benefits
There is no research on lion’s mane and male fertility, but available research suggests that NGF production may be connected to testosterone production and spermatogenesis, at least in animals.
A 2015 animal study on the topic concluded that “the present data suggest thatthe NGF system is involved in the testicular development and spermatogenesis of rabbits.” This study also associates NGF production with ovulation in female rabbits and adds that “NGF may act as a potential ovulation-inducing factor being abundantly present in the seminal plasma.”
To learn more about the effects of lion’s mane on male hormone production, read our article on lion’s mane and testosterone, as well as the one on lion’s mane and DHT production.
Is Lion’s Mane Safe During Pregnancy?
Anecdotal evidence and centuries of use suggest that it is safe to takelion’s mane while pregnant, though somepregnant women may choose not to take Hericium erinaceus or other medicinal mushrooms during pregnancy due to the lack of scientific research on the topic.
According to research, lion’s mane mushrooms appear tolower blood sugar levels, which could be beneficial for people withgestational diabetes. A 2020 study examined the effects of compounds found in thelion’s mane’s fruiting body on blood sugar.
The researchers conclude that the study “demonstrated the beneficial effect of H. erinaceus by characterization of α-glucosidase inhibitory compounds, including four new compounds. This approach can be valuable support for the traditional use of H. erinaceus for the treatment of diabetes and metabolic diseases, which needs to be clarified by further in-vivo study.”
To learn more about how you can benefit from lion’s mane while pregnant, take a look at our article on Hericium erinaceus and pregnancy. Or, read our blog post on lion’s mane and breastfeeding to learn about the safety of Hericium erinaceus for newborns.
What Is the Best Mushroom for Fertility?
Many medicinal mushrooms may have a beneficial impact on fertility due to theirhealth and wellness benefits.
For example,reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum), shiitake mushrooms (Grifola frondosa), maitake mushrooms (Grifola frondose), and turkey tail (Coriolus versicolor) all have antiinflammatory properties and reduce stress levels in the body, which can be incredibly beneficial for fertility.
However,studies have shown that cordyceps mushrooms have the most impressive benefits for fertility, both for men and for women. Let’s dive into those benefits:
Cordyceps for Female Fertility
If you want to increase yourchances of getting pregnant, Cordyceps sinensis is one of the best mushrooms you can consume. A study published by theInternational Journal of Biology of Reproduction examined the underlying mechanisms of how Cordyceps sinensis (CS) affects female sex hormone production.
They conducted experiments using different types of cells, such as rat Leydig cells and human granulosa lutein cells (GLCs) and discovered that CS can enhance the production of female sex hormones, particularly estrogen (E2), in GLCs.
Cordyceps influenced the activity of various enzymes involved in the production of these hormones. One important protein called StAR plays a role in transporting cholesterol, which is a necessary component for hormone production, into the mitochondria (an important structure in cells). The researchers found that CS increased the expression of StAR protein, leading to an increase in estrogen production.
This finding supports the idea that CS could have potential benefits in improving reproductive function in women. However, further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms of action involved in cordyceps-induced estrogen production and the effects of cordyceps mushrooms on pregnancy.
Cordyceps for Male Fertility
In addition to its beneficial effects on female fertility, Cordyceps sinensis seems to increase testosterone levels, which aids in male fertility. A clinical trial examined the in vivo and in vitro effects of thecordyceps mushroom on testosterone levels in mice.
The study found that testosterone levels increased significantly after cordyceps consumption and concluded that “it is possible that CS might contribute to an alternative medicine for the treatment of some reproductive problems caused by insufficient testosterone levels in human males.”
Are You Interested inTaking Lion’s Mane to Boost Your Fertility?
If you want to take lion’s mane to boost your fertility, try our healthy mushroom granola. The granola is vegan, gluten-free, and made out of delicious, clean ingredients. Who knew your morning dose of lion’s mane could be this tasty?
Lion’s Mane Fertility Dosage
The ideal dosage of lion's mane mushroom for fertility has not been extensively studied, and specific recommendations are not well-established. Start with a lower dosage (about 500 mg) and gradually increase it while monitoring your body's response. If you have any concerns or specific health conditions, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your needs.
How Much Lion’s Mane Is in Forij Granola?
Forij granola uses a high-qualitylion's mane mushroom extract made from whole medicinal mushrooms. Our dual extraction method extracts both water-soluble beta-glucans as well as alcohol-soluble triterpenes. Our decoction process breaks down the indigestible chitin cell walls of the mushroom to get much more of these compounds out than ordinary processes do.
One serving of our granola provides 250 mg of hyperconcentrated lion's mane extract, which is eight times more concentrated than regularlion’s mane supplements. Therefore, you get as much lion's mane potency as you would if you were taking a 2000 mgmushroom supplement, all in one bowl of granola.
FAQ on Lion’s Mane and Fertility
Do mushrooms affect fertility?
When it comes to the impact of mushrooms on fertility, there's limited scientific evidence to draw definitive conclusions. While somehealing mushrooms, like cordyceps and lion’s mane, possess properties that may support your well-being, their direct influence on fertility in humans remains largely unexplored. Still, due to their many benefits for overall health, it certainly can’t hurt to add mushrooms to your diet if you want to increase your chances of getting pregnant.
What are themedicinal mushroom benefits for women with PCOS?
While scientific research on medicinal mushrooms for treatingpolycystic ovarian syndrome is limited, certain healing mushrooms like chaga or lion's mane boast properties that could support women with PCOS in various ways.
These mushrooms aid inbalancing hormones, supporting immune function, helping you excreteheavy metals from your body, and promoting overall well-being. However, it's important to consult with ahealth care professional for personalized advice tailored to your unique circumstances.
How can I super boost my fertility?
If you’re havingfertility issues, veggies such as broccoli, cabbage, kale, watercress, spinach, and rocket, as well as medicinal mushrooms like lion’s mane, cordyceps, and reishi, are great ways to boost your fertility with food. To super boost fertility, follow these key steps:
- maintain a balanced and nutritious diet
- engage in regular physical activity
- practice stress management techniques
- get sufficient sleep
- consider fertility-friendly supplements or herbs under professional guidance
- stay well-hydrated
- limit exposure to harmful substances
- seek regular medical check-ups and consultations with a fertility specialist
What herbs cure infertility in females?
No herb can guarantee a cure for infertility in females, but someherbal medicine is believed to have potential benefits for fertility. Herbs like chasteberry, maca root, and red clover may help regulatehormonal imbalances and support reproductive health. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to address the underlying causes of infertility.
Who should avoid lion’s mane?
Lion’s mane is generally safe for most people, but people prone to allergies should be cautious when taking it for the first time, especially those allergic to other fungi, mold, or yeast. Learn more about lion’s mane contraindications here.
How much lion’s mane is safe per day?
The recommended safe dosage of lion's mane supplements can vary depending on your individual tolerance and the concentration of the product. However, a common guideline is to take 500-3000 mg of lion's mane extract per day.
Start with a lower dosage and gradually increase it while monitoring your body's response. As always, consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it is appropriate for your specific needs and health condition. To learn more about how much lion’s mane you should take, read our lion’s mane dosage guide.
Which food is best for female fertility?
When it comes to female fertility, a well-balanced diet is crucial. While there isn't a single best food for fertility, focusing on nutrient-dense options is key. Incorporating foods rich in iron, folate, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids, such as leafy greens, legumes, dairy products, and fatty fish, can be beneficial.Prenatal vitamins can also help bridgenutritional deficiencies and provide essential nutrients needed for optimal fertility.
Can lion’s mane promotehair growth?
Yes, thisfunctional mushroom is one of the best mushrooms for healthy hair growth. Its beneficial effects onhormone health can aid in preventing male-pattern baldness, as well as improve the strength and quality of hair in both men and women. Read more about this benefit in our article on taking lion’s mane for hair growth.
Can I buy Forij granola from theUnited Kingdom?
Unfortunately, you can’t buy Forij granola in the United Kingdom yet. We will notify our international audience as soon as we start shipping internationally. Until then, try to find Forij in a store with our store locator or request a store near you.
Can lion’s mane help withmood swings?
Themedicinal properties of lion’s mane include its calming effects on thecentral nervous system, which can certainly help with mood swings. Read more about its calming properties in our article on lion’s mane and anxiety.
Does lion’s mane help withweight loss?
Yes, lion’s mane mushrooms can help youlose weight. They are low in calories and filled with protein, so they’ll keep you satiated for longer. Plus, a2013 study found that lion’s mane extract improves fat metabolism, at least in animals. Read our article on the benefits of lion’s mane for weight loss to learn more.
Resources
- Mori, K. (2009). Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytotherapy Research, 23(3), 367–372.https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.2634
- Heck, A. L. (2018). Sex differences in the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis’ response to stress: an important role for gonadal hormones. Neuropsychopharmacology, 44(1), 45–58.https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-018-0167-9
- Cd, T. (1996). The Estrogen/Neurotrophin Connection during Neural Development: Is Co-Localization of Estrogen Receptors with the Neurotrophins and Their Receptors Biologically Relevant? Developmental Neuroscience, 18, 36-48.https://doi.org/10.1159/000111393
- Maranesi, M. (2015). Gene Expression and Localization of NGF and Its Cognate Receptors NTRK1 and NGFR in the Sex Organs of Male Rabbits. Reproduction in Domestic Animals, 50(6), 918–925.https://doi.org/10.1111/rda.12609
- Lee, S. K. (2020). Characterization of α-glucosidase inhibitory constituents of the fruiting body of lion’s mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus). Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 262, 113197.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2020.113197
- Huang, B. M. (2004). Upregulation of Steroidogenic Enzymes and Ovarian 17β-Estradiol in Human Granulosa-Lutein Cells by Cordyceps sinensis Mycelium1. Biology of Reproduction, 70(5), 1358–1364.https://doi.org/10.1095/biolreprod.103.022855
- Hsu, C. C. (2003). In vivo and in vitro stimulatory effects of Cordyceps sinensis on testosterone production in mouse Leydig cells. Life Sciences, 73(16), 2127–2136.https://doi.org/10.1016/s0024-3205(03)00595-2
- Choi, W. S. (2013). Hypolipidaemic Effect ofHericium erinaceumGrown inArtemisia capillarison Obese Rats. Mycobiology, 41(2), 94–99.https://doi.org/10.5941/myco.2013.41.2.94
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